Spread below the Mount Khanchendzonga (8534 mts), the third highest mountain in the world, and revered by the Sikkimese as their protective deity. With an area of 7,300 sq kms and measuring approx. 114 kms from the north to south and 64 kms from east to west, the elevation ranges from 300 mts to over 8540 mts above sea level. Amidst the grandeur of the mountain peaks, lush valleys, fast flowing ri
vers, hills, Sikkim offers her visitors a rare and singular experience. Within a matter of hours one can move from the sub tropical heat of the lower valleys to the cold of the rugged mountain slopes that reach up to the area of perpetual snow . EAST SIKKIM :
East Sikkim DistrictThe East Sikkim District is undoubtedly the most important district, in terms of tourism as well as politics of Sikkim. Gangtok, being the headquarters of district, dominates the region with its administrative powers and also beauty. Once again, Gangtok becomes the center of attraction owing to its status of being capital of Sikkim. If you are scheduling to visit Sikkim, Gangtok in the east district would become your impeccable host and certainly engage you in its resplendent splendor. Tourism is the main source of income for these people; however some of them are affianced in agriculture. In the East Sikkim district, there are many attractions to visit on your tour. Gangtok is the first attraction, whose exquisiteness is really hard to mention in a few words. You can visit many destinations in and around Gangtok. East district is not very big that is why, for your convenience, we have given the distance and recommended transport from Gangtok. WHITE HALL
The White Hall is an edifice of historical value and boasts of classic British architecture. Situated on the Ridge, White Hall embraces two storeys in a distinctive manner. Built in 1932, White Hall got its name from Claude White (the first Political Officer of Sikkim). WATER GARDEN
Water Garden is a small attraction that serves as an ideal picnic spot for the residents of Gangtok. At a distance of 16 kms from the town, Water Garden is located at Martam Khola on the 31-A National Highway in the south. RIDGE GARDEN
Above the township of Gangtok, the Ridge is an extension of plain and smooth road. The spectacular Ridge Garden is accessible by a walk of 15 minutes from the main market of Gangtok. SA-NGOR-CHOTSHOG CENTRE
Established in 1961, Sa-Ngor-Chotshog Centre is a Tibetan refugee monastic institution. The significance about this institution lies in the fact that it is only monastery that belongs to the Sakya order of Tibetan Buddhism in Sikkim. MENMECHO LAKE
At a distance of 20 kms from Tsomgo Lake, Menmecho Lake is another beautiful lake that falls in the eastern part of Sikkim. Cuddled up amidst the mountains, Menmecho Lake is the groundwork of Rangpo-Chu (a tributary of Teesta River). HANUMAN TOK
Hanuman Tok is another temple, where the presiding deity is Lord Hanuman. Situated at a distance of 11 kms from Gangtok, Hanuman Tok is a tranquil place that also offers incredible view of the encircling mountains. ORCHID SANCTUARY
Orchid Sanctuary is simply a pleasurable delight for any nature-lover. Located right below the Institute of Tibetology in Gangtok, Orchid Sanctuary boasts of not less than 454 species of orchids that are found in Sikkim. TASHI VIEW POINT
Tashi View Point is a perfect destination, from where you can get a spectacular view of Mt Khangchendzonga and its ranges. Built by Tashi Namgyal (Late King of Sikkim), Tashi viewpoint is located at a distance of 4 kms from Gangtok. GANESH TOK
Ganesh Tok is a small temple that is dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Located at a distance of 7 kms from Gangtok, Ganesh Tok also offers a great spot from where the picturesque view of hills can be seen. At an elevation of 6,500 ft, temple is so small that it can barely adjust 1 person at a time. SARAMSA GARDEN
Saramasa Garden is a place resplendent with transcendent beauty. Located at a distance of 14 kms from Gangtok, Saramasa Garden sprawls in an area of 6 acres. Next to Rani Khola (a tributary of the Teesta), Saramasa Garden is to be found off the main road to Rangpo. WEST SIKKIM :
West Sikkim of the Indian state of Sikkim. Its capital is Geyzing, also known as Gyalshing. The district is a favourite with trekkers due to the high elevations. Other important towns include Pelling and Jorethang. The district has a wide variety of fauna and flora to offer. Since most of the district is hilly it enjoys a temperate climate. Above 3,800 m (12,000 feet) the slopes are full of rhododendron forests. West Sikkim also has the ancient capital of the state Yuksom. It served as the capital beginning in 1642 for almost 50 years till it was shifted to Rabtense. The district was under the occupation of the Nepalese for many decades in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. After the Gorkha War, the district was returned to Sikkim. Rabdentse Palace- West Sikkim The economy is mainly agrarian, despite most of the land being unfit for cultivation owing to the precipitous and rocky slopes. Attractions include the Khecheoperi lake which as legend has it, not a leaf is allowed to fall on the surface of the lake and the Pemyangtse monastery, the first monastery of the state. The people are mainly of Nepali descent. Other ethnic groups include the Lepcha and Bhutia communities. Nepali is the most widely spoken language in the district. The region has many power projects and enjoys almost uninterrupted electricity. Roads however, are in a poor condition owing to the frequent landslides. Go Top
PLACES OF INTEREST
PEMAYANGTSE MONASTERY:
It is one of the oldest monasteries of the State. Originally established by Latsun Chempo, one of the revered Lamas to have performed the consecration ceremony of the first Chogyal (Religious Monarch) of Sikkim. This ancient monastery belonging to the Nyingmapa Sect has been considered as one of the premier monasteries in the State. It had been entrusted with the task to perform all religious functions of the erstwhile monarch. Originally, it was established as a high class monastery for ‘Pure Monks’ (Ta-Sang). Inside the monastery there is a wooden structure depicting the Maha Guru’s heavenly palace (Sang-tok-palri), which is considered a masterpiece created by Late Dungzin Rimpoche. The Monastery, located on a hill at an altitude of 6300 ft. commands a magnificent panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges, the surrounding hill and the countryside. PELLING
Pelling is a fst growing urban settlement. Situated at an altitude of 6100 ft, it offers the closest view of Mt.Kanchendzonga range. Due to its locational advantages many hotels and lodges have mushroomed in and around pelling. Picturesque Darap Waterfalls and Sewaro Rock Garden, Rimbi located closeby should not be missed. Rabdentse Ruins
This was the second capital of the erstwhile Kingdom after Yuksom and till the year 1841 A.D., the King of Sikkim ruled from this place. Today, the ruins lie hidden from the main road at a walking distance from the Pemayangtse Monastery. The scenic view from the top of the ruins scanning across the valley to the mystic heights of Khangchendzonga range is something to be cherished and etched in memory SANGA-CHOELING MONASTERY
This monastery is situated on a ridge above Pelling facing the Pemayangtse Monastery. it is considered to be one of the oldest monasteries of the State. To reach the monastery a comfortable trek of forty minutes can be undertaken. KECHEOPALRI LAKE
Situated at a distance of 25 kms. From pelling, it is considered to be one of the sacred lakes of the state both by the Buddhist and the Hindus. The lake remains hidden under the rich forest cover. The birds do not permit even a single leaf to float on the lake surface. There is motorable road from Pemayangtse right up to the lake area. For those interested in spending a night or two in the peaceful environment, a trekker’s hut is available. There is also a Pilgrim Hut. KHANGCHENDZONGA WATER FALLS
After an hour and a half drive from Pelling, one comes across Kahangchendzong twin Water Falls. On way to Yuksom, it is a place not to be missed by the tourist for its breathtaking beauty and grandeur YUKSOM
Yuksom was the first capital of Sikkim, where according to the historical records, the first Chogyal of the Kingdom of Sikkim was consecrated in 1642 A.D. by three learned lamas. The evidence of the consecration ceremony is still intact at Norbughang Chorten in the form of stone seats and a foot print of the Head Lama on a stone. Since the history of the state began form this place, these areas are now considered sacred by the people of Sikkim. Yuksom is connected by all weather road form Pemayangtse, a distance of about 40 kms. The trek to Dzongri and to the base camp of the famous Mt.Khanchen-dzonga begins here. Several categories of accommodations are available at Yuksom for those desiring to spend a few days in quiet and serene surroundings. DUBDI MONASTERY
This was the first monastery established soon after the consecration ceremony of the first Chogyal. The monastery is located on a hill top above Yuksom surrounding by veredant forest. It can be approached by trekking only, negotiating steep slope for about half an hour. It is an ideal place for lamas seeking mediation recluse. TASHIDING MONASTERY
This monastery is constructed on top to a heart shaped hill with the back drop of the sacred Mt.Khanchen-dzonga. According to Buddhist scripture, Guru Padmasambhava blessed the sacred land of Sikkim in the 8th century AD from this spot. The monastery, however was built in the 18th Century AD by Ngadak Sempa Chempo, one of the three lamas who had performed the consecration ceremony of the first Chogyal. Tashiding is also famous for the most holy Chorten Known as ‘Thog-Wa-Rang-Dol’ which literally means ‘Saviours by mere sight’. It is believed that the mere act of beholding it is supposed to wash away all the sins of the devotees. Another important feature is the sacred water festival unique to this monastery only. Every year, on 14th and 15th day of the first Lunar month, the Bhumchu Ceremony is organized with devotees coming from far and near to get the blessing of the holy water. The sacred holy water is officially sealed for safety by the lamas of the Monastery. It is taken out once a year on an auspicious occasion, only to be put back with some fresh additions. The sacred water is partly mixed with normal water for distribution among the devotees. KONGRI – LABDANG
There are other attractions around Tahiding like Sinon Monastery, Tso-Nim-Dawa (Pokhri Dara) Hungri Monastery and Pao-Hungri. The Paha Khola falls on the way to Kongri is worth visiting. The wild beehive on the side of the falls makes the visit more interesting. It is also an important point for the trekkers visiting Kastura Orar adjoining Khang-chen-dzonga (Dzongri) trail. One can also visit Jhang Lhari Nyinpo, one of the most sacred caves of Sikkim from Labdang VARSEY
It lies at and elevation of 10,000 ft. it has a road access from Hilley. An easy four kms trek from there takes one up to the Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary which is in bloom from March to April. One can also trek from Soreng and Dentam. The place provides a magnificent view of the mountains. Visitors can halt at ‘Guras Kunj’ trekkers hut. RINCHENPONG – KALUK
Situated at an altitude of 1700 mt, the drive from Gangtok to Rinchenpong takes about four hours via Zoom. It is also accessible from Siliguri and Darjeeling. It is a picturesque village with beautiful landscape and a panaoramic view of Khang-chen-dzong arrange. A visit to Resum Monastery is and interesting experience. One can also trek to Khandi Dara/ Melanpso, a rich forest area known to be the home to various species of wild animals and birds. Decent accommodation is available at Kaluk and Rinchenpong. A night spent in an old British Guest House or a newly built resort could be a memorable experience. NORTH SIKKIM:
A land - where haven touches the earth, the ambience creates mystery, landscape dominated by elements, silence can be heard, vision tends to travel beyond the horizon, soul starts meditating- unknowingly, mind gets rejuvenated; and a land that makes you bow. North Sikkim is the northern district of Sikkim. Mongan is the district headquarter of North Sikkim. At an altitude of 3950 ft the town is located at a distance of 65 km from Gangtok, the state capital. Tourists need special permits to visit North Sikkim beyond Mangan. North Sikkim can be visited only as part of an organized tour. The road from Mangan goes straight to Chungthang, another major town of North Sikkim. At 5,600 ft. Chungthang is 95 km from Gangtok. From here the road bifurcates. The road to the left goes to Lachen and the road to the right reaches Lachung. Lachen is the base from where tours to Gurudongmar lake and Chopta valley is organised. Lachung on the other hand is the base for your tours to Yumthang valley. Thangu North SikkimYour journey to North Sikkim - a land full of unfamiliar experiences - starts from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Landscape changes rapidly on every curve, as your road winds upwards. With thick smell of wild flowers, mossy trees, streams rushing down, mists coiling up from the deep gorges, sudden flashy flight of colourful birds, huge snow range embossed in the horizon, wide spread valley, deep blue sky, lonely prayer flag waving leisurely at the distant top - you are on your way to a different destination. naturebeyond`s special package to North Sikkim includes all these places and gives you a much-desired break from the madding city life. A dream-come-true and never-before opportunity to explore the pristine and virgin landscape of a remote high altitude plateau now comes right to your desktop. Just click your mouse and set out for an unforgettable experience with naturebeyond. note: Almost the entire zone of North Sikkim comes under the restricted territory, foreigner's visit beyond Thangu is prohibited. Tourism in the region is at a nascent stage and guests may not get the same level of service in north-sikkim as they would in other parts of the region. PLACES OF INTEREST:
DISTANCE FROM GANGTOK
KABI LANGCHUK (18 Km)
PHODONG (36 Km)
SINGHIK (65 Km)
CHUNGTHANG (95 km)
LACHUNG (120 Km)
LACHEN (130 Km)
YUMTHANG (140Km)
YUMESAMDONG (15Kms from Yumthang)
THANGU (160 Km)
CHOPTA VALLEY (163 km)
SOUTH SIKKIM:
NAMTSE
Namtse, meaning sky high, nestled among the hills at an elevation of 5500 ft., commands panoramic view of the snow capped mountains and vast stretches of valley. it is also the HQ of the south district. The area is fast developing into a tourist destination with its immense potential for all round tourist activities. It is about 78 kms. from Gangtok and 100 kms. from Siliguri. TENDONG HILL
Above Damthang, overlooking South District Headquarter town Namtse, there is a small flat stretch of land at an altitude of 8530 ft.,surrounded by lush green ancient forest which is popularly known as the Tendong Hill. Historically, this has been a place of recluse for Buddhist Lamas who spend years in meditation amidst the silent scenic grandeur. The view from the top of the Tendong Hill is something to be cherished and enjoyed as it spans across plains of Bengal to the majestic heights of the Himalayan Ranges. One can also proceed to Namtse by trekking via Tendong Hill following the traditional route used in the old days. Such trekking is also possible throughout the year except during monsoons, that is if one is scared of ubiquitous leaches. RAVANGLA
At the base of Maenam Hill is Ravangla, a small township and transit to various tourist destinations in South Sikkim and West Sikkim . It is also an upcoming tourist spot, and transit point for trekkers to Maenam Hill and Borong. There are accommodation facilities and numerous short nature trails. A trek down to the sacred cave "Shar Chok Bephu", one of the holiest caves in Sikkim.. MAENAM HILL
Maenam towers above Tendong Hill on the other side overlooking the Ravangla Bazar settlement. situated at an altitude of 10,300 ft., the scenic view from this height is, perhaps, unmatched in this part of the world. The trek from Maenam from Ravangla takes about 4 hrs. and from Maenam Hill-Top one has the option to take the gentle trek to Borong village . BORONG
Facing the snow-capped mountains is Borong motorable from Ravangla or a trek via Maenam. A picturesque village with beautiful landscape and magnificent view is also host to the hot spring "Borong Tsa-Chu". The trek trail, originating from Namchi or Damthang to Tendong-Ravangla-Maenam-Borong (5 to 6 days) is one of the most interesting trials scaling the hill tops along the route VARSEY
It lies at an elevation of 10,000 ft. and has motorable roads access up to Hilley. An easy 4 kms. trek from there takes one up to the Varsey rhododendron sanctuary. One can also trek from Soreng or Dentam in West Sikkim .
