10 Reasons To Visit Sikkim You Can’t Overlook!

Tucked in the Eastern Himalayas, Sikkim is undeniably a hidden gem waiting to captivate the hearts of wanderers. From its snow-crowned peaks to its lush valleys and vibrant monasteries, this Indian state flaunts the perfect marriage of natural splendor and cultural richness.

Join us on a journey to uncover the reasons to visit Sikkim that no traveler would want to overlook. Whether you’re an adventurer seeking thrilling trails, a spiritual seeker yearning for serenity, or a nature enthusiast craving breathtaking vistas, Sikkim’s magnetic charm offers a diverse tapestry of experiences. Embark on an exploration of landscapes, traditions, and flavours that promise to leave a mark on your soul you wouldn’t want to remove!

1. Reasons To Visit Sikkim : Sikkim Cuisine

Here, the food itself might become the prime reason to visit sikkim! In Sikkim, maize is one of the most common crops. Food is predominantly non-vegetarian, but vegetables are employed in the form of fermentation, which can be preserved for extended periods of time.

Sikkimese cuisine is a mash-up of three cultures (Nepalese, Tibetan, and Sikkimese), and as a result, it’s a flavour explosion that tickles the taste buds just perfectly! Momos, thupka, phagshapa (pork dish), sha phaley (deep fried bread loaded with beef and cabbage), gundruk (a typical Nepalese delicacy prepared with leafy vegetables), and sinki soup (made with radish tap roots) are some of the dishes on the menu.

These delicacies are something you must try if you enjoy trying new things in the kitchen. The flavours you’ll encounter in Sikkim will always remind you of your trip to this enchanted land.

2. Reasons To Visit Sikkim: Mountains

Sikkim is well-known for its sky-touching mountains that appear to have descended from heaven. The Himalayas encircle Sikkim’s northern, eastern, and western borders. Sikkim is separated from Tibet in the northeast and Bhutan in the southeast by the Chola range, while the Singelila range separates it from Nepal in the west and the Greater Himalayan range separates it from Tibet in the north.

After all, it is beautifully situated in the lap of the Himalayas. As a result, it has been the preferred option of many mountaineers throughout time. Sikkim is a fantastic place for those who want to enjoy the splendour of snow-capped mountains while also ascending their terrains. Sikkim is home to Kanchenjunga, the world’s third tallest peak.

It’s also a great area to practice your astrophotography techniques. Sikkim has some of the best trekking opportunities in the Himalayas. There is a variety of hiking routes and day treks ranging in difficulty from easy to difficult.

3. Reasons To Visit Sikkim: Adventure

With 28 mountain summits, 80+ glaciers, 227 high-altitude lakes, five major hot springs, and 100+ rivers and streams, adventurers don’t need another reason to visit sikkim. Sikkim’s lush environment and steep rocky terrain make it an ideal destination for thrill seekers.

Trekking and mountain biking, as well as mountaineering and jeep safaris, are just a few of the exciting activities available in Sikkim for adrenaline addicts. River rafting is available on the River Teesta for those interested. White water rafting is very popular among adventure enthusiasts that visit Sikkim. Mountain bikers riding across Sikkim’s mountainous terrain are a regular sight, and cycling tourism is becoming increasingly popular in the state.

In Sikkim, the possibilities for adventure are endless; in fact, it is a novel approach to see and discover the wonders of this strange Northeastern state. So, when you’re about to give up on Sikkim because there aren’t any more challenges for you to confront, an adventure novel is likely to emerge. You’ll also witness a number of tourists paragliding and hang gliding, which is another exhilarating adventure activity that can be enjoyed in Sikkim.

4. Reasons To Visit Sikkim: Landscape

When you enter Sikkim, the stunning panorama of the entire state reflected in front of your eyes will steal your breath away. If you’re looking for something more, sign up for the ropeway trip, which begins in Deorali and ends in Tashilling, the state’s highest point.

If you want a bird’s-eye perspective of the city unfolding before your eyes with the Himalayan peaks as a backdrop, purchase tickets for a 7-minute ropeway journey in which you will be riding cable car vehicles with uninterrupted views.

In a couple of hours, you may travel from the subtropical heat of the lower valleys to the cold of the steep mountain slopes that soar up to areas of constant snow. Because of the rapid ascent in altitude over such a short distance, the area is able to support a diverse natural heritage and wealth. Sikkim is shaped as a magnificent, mystical wonderland by snow-capped mountain ranges, lush thick forests, plunging mountain valleys teeming with rich flora and fauna, picture-perfect villages, groves of rhododendrons, hot springs, waterfalls, perennial streams, and grand rivers Teesta and Rangit

5. Reasons To Visit Sikkim: Flora and Fauna

Sikkim’s zoological wealth will sweep you off your feet, and you’ll find yourself staring at the treasure troves of unique flora and wildlife. The state is proud to have over 4000 plant species and 30 percent of the Indian subcontinent’s bird species.

The state’s greenery is breathtaking, due to the forest department, which manages around 81 percent of the state’s acreage. Sikkim can be basically divided into three zones. The tropical from almost sea level to about 5000 feet, the temperate from 5000 to 11,000 feet and the alpine above 11,000 feet.

The plant kingdom’s richness is matched by a similar diversity in the animal kingdom. The rare Snow Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear, Red Panda, Musk Deer, Blue Sheep, Shapi, Common Langur, Leopard Cat, and Flying Squirrel are among Sikkim’s mammals. If you have a free day during your trip, pay a visit to the zoo, which is home to the state animal, the red panda to see it easily.

6. Reasons To Visit Sikkim: Cleanest/Organic State

Yes, in the year 2012, Sikkim was named India’s cleanest state. Since then, it has become a global destination for tourists who want to spend their vacations in a dirt-free environment. It is one of the few states in the country that prohibits the use of plastic bags entirely.

Sikkim won the Gold Award over 50 other nominated policies for its State Policy on Organic Farming (2004) and Sikkim Organic Mission (2010), which helped it become the world’s first 100 percent organic state. That’s right, the entire farmland is organically certified. Over 66,000 agricultural families have profited from the move to 100% organic farming.

7. Reasons To Visit Sikkim: Rich Culture and Friendly People

Sikkim is claimed to be one of Northeast India’s oldest inhabited regions, with a history reaching back thousands of years. As a result, it has a rich culture and long-standing traditions. Sikkim has been occupied by three tribes since ancient times: the Lepchas, the Bhutias, and the Nepalese, knowing whom is a great reason to visit sikkim.

Even today, they continue to shape Sikkim’s people’s group and culture. Because the Nepalese community makes up such a large amount of Sikkim’s population, Nepali is also the most widely spoken language in the state. As a result, it has a rich culture and long-standing traditions. Another aspect of your journey to Sikkim that will leave an indelible impression is the pleasant character of the natives. As a result, with their assistance, you may explore its beauty in comfort and convenience.

8. Reasons To Visit Sikkim: Tea Plantation

Tea is well-known in India’s North Eastern states. There are many communities in this area that are ideal for sampling and drinking tea. Temi is a small town in Sikkim that is home to the state’s tea growing region. If you are visiting Temi for a holiday, you must try the Temi Tea, which is a globally recognized brand. Temi Tea Gardens should not be overlooked.

Sikkim Tea’s first flush, collected in the spring, has a distinct flavour and scent. The polished golden liquor has a subtle flowery finish and a lingering sense of sweetness. The second flush of Sikkim Tea is mellow and silky, with a powerful, robust yet pleasant brew. Sikkim Tea’s third flush, also known as the Monsoon Flush, produces a full-bodied cup with a mellow flavour. Sikkim Tea’s final flush, or Autumn Flush, has a well-rounded flavour with a subtle trace of toasty spices.

9. Reasons To Visit Sikkim: Glacial Lakes

Tsango Lake, also known as Changu Lake, is a glacier lake in Sikkim located north of the Nathu La Pass. The lake is located at a height of 3780 metres above sea level on average. The lake is around a kilometre long. The locals consider it sacred since it is long, oval in shape, and 15 metres deep.

Khecheopalri Lake, located in the Khecheopalri village in the west Sikkim district, is a sacred spot for both Buddhists and Hindus. It is located at an average elevation of 1,700 metres above sea level. The lake was formerly known as ‘Kha-chot-palri,’ which means Lord Padmasambhava’s heaven. An interesting fact is, Leaves are not permitted to float on the lake, which is ensured by the birds, who diligently pick them up as soon as they fall into the water’s surface.

If you believe in the power of nature, you must go to Sikkim’s Gurudongmar Lake. This lake, which stands at a towering height of 17,100 feet, is the perfect illustration of the calm one can find in a magnificent setting. It is immensely revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, as it is nestled among snow-capped mountains.

10. Reasons To Visit Sikkim: Spirituality

Sikkim is a paradise for individuals who value quiet, environment, and spirituality. The location, with its enchanted natural beauty and historic monasteries, begs for a party. The greatest time to visit Sikkim is during the annual Cham, which falls on the 28th and 29th days of the Tibetan calendar’s 10th month.

It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that you’ll never forget. Every lane in Sikkim appears to be washed during this time, and there are spiritual vibrations all around. So if you visit Sikkim during the Cham festival, you can make the most of it. Hanuman Tok, Dubdi Monastery, Solophok Chardham, Samdruptse Shiva Temple and Enchey Monastery are some of the iconic spiritual places.

11. Reasons To Visit Sikkim: Monastries

If Buddhism, monks, and monasteries attract you, Sikkim is the perfect place to be! Dubdi Monastery, Enchey Monastery, Phodong Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery, and Ralang Monastery are just a few of the best. Some of these are tried and true and have been around for a long time, which makes them even more unique.

Almost all of the small and large monasteries were erected on picturesque hilltops or in the midst of pure nature, surrounded by dense foliage and snow-capped mountains. The magnificent landscapes and sublime aura of the monasteries provide not only an ideal setting for meditation but also a fantastic location for sightseeing. When monasteries resound with sacred chants and bells, you feel blessed. That feeling and event will undoubtedly be with you for the rest of your life.

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