Sikkim

Come & unfold the wonder that is Sikkim. Sikkim is a state of INDIA situated in the Eastern Himalayas. This Himalayan State is spread below mount KANCHANDZONGA (8586 m.), the third highest mountain in the world and revered by the Sikkimese as their guardian deity. Amidst the grandeur of the mountain peaks, lush green valleys, swift flowing rivers, terraced 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 upto areas of perpetual snow.


To the adventure lovers trekking in the Western Sikkim is an experience of many dimensions. The Yumthang Valley in North Sikkim situated at an altitude of 3,598 meters is about 149 Kms. to the north from Gangtok, the State Capital. This Paradise for nature lovers has a fascinating blend of breathtaking scenic view with hot spring and alpine environment. In May the entire Valley is covered with rhododendron and primal as these flowers erupt in riot of colours. Tsomgo Lake situated in the Eastern Sikkim at an altitude of 3723 meters is about 40 Kms. away from Gangtok. Between May to August one can see a variety of flowers – rhododendrons, primulas, poppies and irises in full bloom. One can also enjoy yak and pony ride around the serene lake. Sikkim is a natural paradise for nature lovers, conservationists, botanists, zoologists and environmentalists.


VISA AND PERMITS : In addition to an Indian visa, foreigners must obtain inner line permit (ILP) to visit Sikkim, the permits can be obtained from all Indian missions, Tourism Office, New Delhi, Sikkim Tourism office, Calcutta and Sikkim Tourism Office, Siliguri on the strength of an Indian Visa.


Foreigners are issued a permit for initial period of 15 days duration on the spot without any delay provided photocopies of Passport and Visa details along with two passport photos of applicants are made available then and there. It can be extended for further 30 days of 15 days each. The extension of permits can be obtained from FRO at Gangtok, Superintendent of Police of North, South and West Districts.


If you are visiting the interior regions, you also require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) OR Protected Area Permit (PAP) which is obtainable in Gangtok from the Police Check Post and Department of Tourism.


LANGUAGE SPOKEN : English, Nepali, Hindi and their cultural languages (Lepcha, Rai, Tamang, Limbu, Bhutia, etc)


PLACES OF INTEREST IN SIKKIM