Sikkim Overview:

Sikkim, a small but culturally rich state nestled in the northeastern part of

India, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich heritage, and vibrant

culture. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayas, Sikkim is renowned for its

breathtaking landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and

gushing rivers. Sikkim's capital and largest city, Gangtok, serves as a bustling

hub of activity, boasting colourful markets, ancient monasteries, and

panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

One of the state's main attractions is its well-preserved Buddhist monasteries,

such as Rumtek and Pemayangtse, which are not only architectural marvels but

also spiritual sanctuaries attracting visitors from around the world.

Sikkim's commitment to environmental conservation is evident in its status as

India's first fully organic state, showcasing its dedication to sustainable

practices and ecological preservation.

Adventure enthusiasts flock to Sikkim for trekking, mountaineering, and river

rafting, while nature lovers revel in its biodiversity, with numerous wildlife

sanctuaries and national parks offering glimpses of rare flora and fauna.

In essence, Sikkim is a captivating destination that enchants visitors with its

natural splendor, cultural heritage, and spirit of preservation.

Climate:

January: 4°C to 7°C July: 18°C to 25°C

February: 4°C to 8°C August: 18°C to 25°C

March: 7°C to 15°C

September: 17°C to 24°C

April: 10°C to 16°C October: 14°C to 22°C

May: 15°C to 22°C November: 9°C to 17°C

June: 17°C to 24°C December: 5°C to 9°C

Languages:

Sikkim is a multilingual state with several languages spoken by its diverse

population. The primary languages spoken in Sikkim, along with their

approximate percentages of speakers.

• Nepali (Gorkha): 70-75%

• Bhutia (Sikkimese): 15-20%

• Lepcha: 3-5%

• Limbu: 2-3%

• Newari: 1-2%

People Of Sikkim:

Nepali (Gorkha): The Nepali community forms the majority of the

population in Sikkim. They are primarily of Nepali ethnicity and have a

significant influence on the state's culture, language (Nepali being the lingua

franca), and traditions.

Bhutia: The Bhutia community is one of the indigenous groups of Sikkim, with

roots tracing back to Tibet. They have their distinct cultural practices, language

(Bhutia/Sikkimese), and traditional attire.

Lepcha:The Lepcha people are another indigenous group of Sikkim, with a

unique cultural heritage and language (Lepcha). They have traditionally

inhabited the northern parts of Sikkim and are known for their close

connection to nature.

Limbu: The Limbu community has a presence in Sikkim, primarily in the

eastern regions. They have their language (Limbu) and cultural traditions,

which they maintain alongside their integration into the broader Sikkimese

society.

Newar: The Newar community, originally from the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal,

has a smaller presence in Sikkim, particularly in urban areas. They bring their

distinct cultural practices, including festivals, cuisine, and architecture.

Tibetan and Sherpa: There are also Tibetan and Sherpa communities in

Sikkim, who have migrated from Tibet and other Himalayan regions. They

contribute to the cultural diversity of the state, especially in areas near the

border with Tibet.

Must Visit Sightseeings Of Sikkim:

• Gangtok

• Tsomgo Lake (Changu Lake)

• Nathula Pass

• Pelling

• Yuksom

• Ravangla

• Gurudongmar Lake

• Yumthang Valley & Zero Point

How to reach Sikkim:

By Air:

The nearest airport to Sikkim is Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in West Bengal, located

approximately 124 kilometers from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.

From Bagdogra Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-arranged cab to reach

Gangtok. The journey takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on road conditions.

By Train:

The nearest major railway station to Sikkim is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station

(NJP), also located in West Bengal, approximately 148 kilometers from Gangtok.

From New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to

reach Gangtok. The journey takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on road

conditions.

By Road:

Sikkim is well-connected by road to neighboring states like West Bengal and

Bihar.

National Highway 10 (NH10) connects Sikkim to the rest of India. You can drive

to Sikkim or hire a taxi from nearby cities like Siliguri, Darjeeling, or Kalimpong.

Regular bus services operate between Siliguri and Gangtok, covering a distance

of approximately 114 kilometers. Private taxis and shared jeeps are also

available for hire.

By Helicopter:

Sikkim also has helicopter services available for those looking for a quicker and

more scenic mode of transport. The Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation

(STDC) operates helicopter services from Bagdogra Airport to Gangtok and

other destinations within the state.

Documents To Carry On Trip:

Valid Identification:

Government-issued photo identification such as Aadhar Card, Voter ID,

Passport, or Driving License is essential for all travelers, both Indian and foreign

nationals.

Inner Line Permit (ILP):

For Indian citizens from states other than Sikkim, an Inner Line Permit (ILP) is

required to enter Sikkim. This permit can be obtained online or at various entry

points such as Rangpo, Melli, or the Sikkim Tourism Office in Gangtok. Make

sure to carry a printed copy of the ILP along with your identification

documents.

Protected Area Permit (PAP):

Certain areas in Sikkim, such as North Sikkim and parts of East Sikkim, require a

Protected Area Permit (PAP) for both Indian and foreign nationals. This permit

is usually arranged by tour operators or travel agents and must be carried

during your visit to these restricted areas.

Travel Itinerary:

Carry a copy of your travel itinerary, including hotel reservations, tour

bookings, and transportation details. This will help in case of any queries during

your trip.

Medical Insurance:

Vehicle Documents (if applicable):

It's advisable to carry your medical insurance card or details in case of any

medical emergencies during your trip.

If you're traveling by your vehicle or hiring a private vehicle, ensure that you

have all the necessary vehicle documents such as registration certificate,

insurance papers, pollution certificate, and driver's license.

Emergency Contact Information:

Carry a list of emergency contact numbers, including local authorities, your

hotel or accommodation, and family or friends back home.

Cash and Payment Cards:

Carry sufficient cash in Indian Rupees as ATMs may not be readily available in

remote areas. Also, carry debit/credit cards for emergencies or larger

transactions.

Photocopies:

Make photocopies of all your important documents, including identification,

permits, and travel itinerary. Keep these copies separately from the originals in

case of loss or theft.

Fun Activities:

• Trekking

• River Rafting

• Mountain Biking

• Paragliding

• Cable Car Ride

• Hot Springs

• Cultural Experiences