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Sikkim |
Area of Sikkim: 7,096 sq. Kms.
Population of Sikkim: 500, 000 ( approx.)
Commonly Spoken Languages: Sikkimese, Nepalese,
Hindi and English
The Land of Mountain Crests," Sikkim, lies
between the kingdoms of Bhutan in the east,
Nepal to its west and Tibet to the north. This
small stretch of rugged land is but a speck on
the world map but its size belies its richness
and diversity of culture flora and fauna. Sikkim
is one of the most beautiful and untouched areas
in the Himalayas offering visitors pristine
nature in all its grandeur. The worlds 3rd
highest mountain, Mt. Khangchendzongna (28,156
ft), and it's attendant peaks - Pandim, Narsing,
Kabru, Talung, Siniolchu, Pau-Hunri, Simvo, and
Jopuno present a surreal vista where local
legends depict this area as "the alter of the
Gods."The tiny Himalayan state of Sikkim coupled
with near by Darjeeling in West Bengal offers
some very different visions of the Himalayas.
Gangtok is ideally connected with all major
cities through Bagdogra Airport (124 kms). This
capital city provides a rare insight into the
Indo-Tibetan culture while proudly offering
traditional Himalayan hospitality as well as a
plethora of rich flora and fauna. There are many
beautiful and exclusive treks in West Sikkim
along with rafting opportunities on the river
Teesta for the nature and adventure
enthusiast.Trekking in Sikkim is in stark
contrast sweltering plains of the Ganges as you
travel through the orchid-laced subtropical
forests of the Himalayan foothills.Steep gorges
and verdant hillsides dotted with terraced rice
paddies that change from a brilliant emerald
green to a soft golden hue with the passing of
the seasons. High peaks with sacred natural
lakes worshipped by the people of Sikkim where
local legends abound.
Sikkim has many fabled centers of Buddhist
worship and learning, the monasteries at Rumtek,
Enchey and Pemayangtse to name but three. Awe
inspiring stupas and chortens are set amidst
fluttering prayer flags and numerous prayer
wheels spun by clear mountain streams reminding
you that you are somewhere extremely special.
Entry formalities (PERMITS)
Along with an Indian Visa, foreigners are
required to obtain Inner Line permits for
Sikkim, which are valid for 15 days which can be
extended for a further 15 days once in Sikkim.
However no special permits are required for
travelling to Darjeeling & Kalimpong. The
permits are available at all Indian Missions /
Consulates abroad and Sikkim Tourism Offices at
Delhi, Calcutta, Siliguri and Gangtok. |
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