Rashid and Mehzabeen Khan went to Sikkim from Kolkata for an extended summer holiday. The idyllic state of Sikkim is a mix of Buddhist heritage, mountain landscapes, and thick forests full of exotic flora and fauna. The people are friendly and the roads and infrastructure is good, altogether making travel in the tiny state a pleasure.
The capital of Sikkim, Gangtok, lies atop a ridge, at an altitude of 5,800 ft. It affords great views of the world's third tallest peak, Kanchenjunga. In 1975 with the end of the monarchical rule, Sikkim was made an official state of India with its capital at Gangtok.
Enchey Monastery is the famous 200-year-old gompa, located in the middle of a forest, to the north of Gangtok. It was built in the early 20th and has become an important place of pilgrimage for Tibetan Buddhists.
Deorali Orchid Sanctuary is a haven for flower and bird lovers. It houses 200 different species of birds and also has an exhibition centre displaying varieties of orchids.
Namgyal Institute, built in 1958, is must visit in Gangtok. It has the worlds largest book and rare manuscript collection of Mahayana Buddhism, and is also home to a large number of fascinating artefacts.
Tsuk la Khang, located on the grounds of the palace of the erstwhile rulers or Chogyals, is a place where Buddhists assemble and pray and also has a vast anthology of scriptures.
Do-Drul Chorten is an important modern stupa of Sikkim built in 1945, by the head of the Nyingmapa order of Tibetan Buddhism.
Sikkim Portal - Everything about Sikkim, Tourism, Trekking, Maps, Guide, Hotels etc., With its pristine and un-spoilt natural beauty and peace loving people, Sikkim offers you a truly unique visitor experience.
Sikkim Tourism Promotes Its Monasteries - Sikkim has number of Monasteries which include Rumtek Dharma Chakra Center and old Rumtek monastery,Dodrul Chorten and Enchey Monastery in Gangtok etc.,
Official Websites
Government of Sikkim - Sikkim Government portal covering diverse topics including health, tourism, culture, climate, Tenders and e-Governance.
Sikkim Directory - Sikkim Government Web directory of Health, Sikkim Tourism, Education, Finance, Banking, Judiciary and Executive.
Other Useful Links
Flora & Fauna - Sikkim stretches from the low lands in the south to the mountainous regions in the north. The altitude varies right from sea level to mountain peaks covering a wide spectrum of flora and fauna.
Sikkim Guide - Know about Sikkim & its People, Culture, Traditions, Links, News, Articles, Tourism, Places etc.,
