Cities of Sikkim
Gangtok: The city is substantiation of “Unity in
Diversity” with an admix of various cultures and religions existing in
this small and beautiful city at the backdrop of Ranipool River. Gangtok has
a ecumenical essence with primitive charm and hospitality allowing a pinch
of advancement and adoption of modernization. The major tourist attractions
in the city are Rumtek Dharma Chakra Center, Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical
Garden, Tsomgo/ Changu Lake, Menmecho Lake, Shri Nalanda Institute for
Higher Buddhist Studies, Mahatma Gandhi Marg (a shopper's delight), Labrang
Monastery, Enchey Monastery, Tsulakhang Royal, Deer Park / Rustomji Park,
Kechopari Lake (wishing lake) and Phurchachu Reshi Hot Springs.
Pelling: The city derives its name from Pemalingpa
monastery. The plush view of Mt. Kanchenjunga, clamorous waterfalls and
thick woods make the city a hot destination for tourism. Among the famous
waterfalls are Kanchenjunga Falls, Changay Falls (on Sing Shore Bridge),
Phamrong Falls and Rimbi Falls. The major tourist attractions in the city
are Pemayangtse Monastery, Sangacholing Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins,
Khecheopalri Lake, Tashiding Monastery and Singshore Suspension Bridge.
Yuksom: This exotic village has alluring mountain peaks and
is base for Khanchendzonga National Park trek, Dzongri or Goechala Pass. The
Heritage site, Coronation Throne, Dubdi Monastery, Tendong Hill, Ravangla,
Menam Hill, Borong, Versey, Namchi, Temi Tea Garden, Water Garden, Tsomgo
Lake and Tashi View Point is worth visiting here.
Gezing: Gyalshing or Gezing, as it is also called, is a
enjoyable town distinctive with its moderate temperature. The ancient town
of Yuksom is in close vicinity to the city. You can also enjoy Pemyangtse
monastery, Khecheopalri Lake and The Palace of the Chogyals.
Jorethang: A major business center in south Sikkim is also
famous for the festivals celebrated here with great fervor. This city is a
division between Sikkim and West Bengal. The town is manifestation of
diverse cultures and religions.
Mangan: The district headquarters of North Sikkim is a small
village with exquisite flora and fauna and miniature gardens. You will enjoy
seeing the spectacular view of mount Siniolchu (a range of mount
Kanchenjunga) and worth visit are Phensong and Phodong Monastery.
Namchi: The headquarters of the South Sikkim is an
embodiment of beauty and splendor. Tourists are attracted to this place for
the immense pleasure it offers. This “Sky High” place has many
places for enjoying like Tendong Hill, Temi Tea Garden, Samdrupste, Helipad,
Doling Gumpa, Rock Garden, Namchi Monastery.
Kalimpong: This beautiful hill station is ideal for relaxing
vacations. It has many places that attract hordes of tourists like Thongsha
Gompa, Zong Dog Palri Fo-Brang Monastery, Tharpa Choling Monastery, Nature
Interpretation Centre, Mangal Dhaam, Colonial Bungalows, Dr. Graham's Homes
Campus, Kalimpong Arts and Crafts centre, Dharmodaya Vihar, Kali Mandir,
Gauri Pur House. There are some panoramic snow views of Kanchenjunga,
Siniolchu, Paunhari, Lama Anden, Chola, Nathu La, Jalep La and Gymochen
peaks from Durpin Dara and Deolo View Point, Lava, Lolaygaon, Rikkisum
Pedong and Rishap are also equally beautiful.
Adventure Sports in Sikkim
Trekking in Sikkim
Trekking in Sikkim will a lifetime experience for the trekkers with so
enthralling and enchanting treks. The unstained enormous expanses entice the
trekkers for that amazing expedition. Steal a moment from the time on your
expedition, behold the pristine beauty of flora and fauna and experience the
awe of nature's craft. One such trek to the Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary
takes you through jungles of silver fir, hemlock, magnolia and rhododendron.
Adding to the charm is the view of Kanchenjunga. Enjoy your trekking on the
most popular trek of The Dzongri - Goecha La Trek encountering lavish
mountain vistas and floral carnival in summers, and exotic birds and dense
forests.
Some popular treks of Sikkim are Monastic Trek, Rhododendron Trek,
Khangchendzonga Trek, Coronation Trek, Khedi Trek, Singalila Trek, Kosturi
Orar Trek, Samartek Trek, Rinchenpong/Soreng Trek, Himalayan Trek, Tosha
Lake Trek, Chewabanjyang Trek, Meanam Hill Trek and Tendong Hill Trek.
Trekking on one or all treks will a memeorable experience for the trekkers.
River Rafting in Sikkim
For the adventure junkies there are placid and gentle water bodies and
those torrential and tumultuous ones also. A river rafting expedition,
wavering through the rough and rugged mountain regions, in the amazing
Teesta will be an awesome experience. The wood land around the riverbanks,
the harvests in bloom, the scattered villages are all expecting your visit.
Kayaking in Sikkim
If you are a bit experienced then this adventure is just for you. Take a
kayak and challenge the currents of turbulent river. Enjoy a kayaking
expedition in a group on Teesta river.
Mountain Biking in Sikkim
There are multiple alternatives for you to start your Mountain Biking
Expedition in the state. Take the bike and get going to either a technical
mountain biking experience or on other routes that offer great landscape to
ride through. Some biking routes of the state are as:
- Gangtok – Rumtek – Sang – Sirwani – Temi –
Damthang – Rabong – Kewzing – Tashiding – Yoksum –
Geyzing – Dentam – Rinchenpong – Soreng – Sombaria -
Jorthang – Namchi - Rangpo.
- Gangtok – Phodong – Rangrang – Dikchu – Makha –
Sirwani - Temi
- Gangtok – Rumtek – Sang – Sirwani – Temi –
Namchi – Jorthang – Melli
- Gangtok – Rumtek – Sang – Sirwani – Temi –
Namchi – Namthang - Rangpo
Mountaineering in Sikkim
The land of Sikkim is bestowed with mighty Himalayas. The adventurers try
to challenge the towering cliffs of the mountains. Jopuno, Tinchenkhang,
Frey’s Peak, Lamo Angden and Byrmkhangse are the popular peaks of
Sikkim attract many adventure freaks. Obtain a permit for mountaineering on
these peaks and experience that high ecstasy. May to October is the best
time for mountaineering in Sikkim.
Yak Riding in Sikkim
You can enjoy a yak safari in the state which is sure to make you
experience utter excitement. The vibrant colored yaks clad in woolen
knitwear on the horns and forehead, the bells hung round the neck, are all
set to take to you to mountains or a lake. Dzongiri and Tsomgo Lake trek are
the most popular trek for yak safari. Behold the beauty of Sikkim during
your yak safari.
Hang Gliding in Sikkim
For every human there has been a fascinating temptation to fly high like a
liberal bird. This is possible. Yes ! Hang Gliding will make you soar high
in the blue celestial. Without any obstacle in your way you can just have
fun flying and trying to touch the sky apparently at a hand stretch.
Bird Watching in Sikkim
For those who love watching and admiring birds in their natural environs
Sikkim would be a great place. As the state is rich in flora and fauna, it
is an eden for naturalists and tourists. The avian population is upto 550
species. With varying temperature zones, from tropical hot valleys to snowy
cold regions, the place shelters many rare and exquisite birds like Silver
Fir, hemlocks, magnolia, Rhododendrons, Maroon-Backed Accentor, Red-faced
Liocichla, migrant ducks, Black-necked Crane, Black-tailed Crane, Blood
Pheasant, Himalayan Monal, Brown Parotbill, Fire-tailed Myzornis, Cutia,
Sapphire flycatcher, White browned Bush Robin, Grandala, Rufous - breasted
Accentors, White winged and collared Grosbeaks and Spot-winged Rosefinch.
Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks in Sikkim
As the state has moderate temperature it furnishes natural habitat for the
wilds, the untamed and the docile. There are many National Parks and
Sanctuaries that provide a dwelling for these animals. Some of the Parks and
Sanctuaries are as Khangchendzonga National Park, Fambong Lho Wildlife
Sanctuary, Singba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary,
Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary and Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary.
Monasteries in Sikkim
Guru Padmasambhava, the great Buddhist saint who visited Sikkim in the 8th
century had blessed the state to extract all the negativities from the
place. Ever Since then Buddhism is all predominant in the state. Many
Monasteries stand a witness to the Buddhist cult of society. The gompas in
the state preserve the ancient Tibetan manuscripts, exquisitely carved wood
work and icons of silver and gold. Among the famous monasteries in Sikkim
some are:
Rumtek Monastery: This is the most enshrined monastery
located in East Sikkim. The monastery is a reservoir for the relics (the
possessions of the 16th Karmapa), Retreat Center, 'Shedra' (monastic
college), Nunnery, Stupas (protector's shrine).
Pemayangtse Monastery: This monastery of Nyingma sect of
Buddhists is located in West Sikkim and provides a magnificent view of Mt.
Kanchenjunga. The main attraction here is the Sculpted painting of
'Sangthopalri'.
Enchey Monastery: This religious site of Nyingma sect of
Buddhists is located in East Sikkim.The name of the monastery literally
means “Solitary Temple” . This monastery also nestles prehistoric
idols and images of Gods, Goddesses and other religious things. Buddha, Loki
Sharia and Guru Padmasambhava are worshiped here.
Tsuk La Khang Monastery:It is the sovereign gompa of the
erstwhile Royal family of Sikkim. A major place of worship and assembly for
the Buddhists. The two-storeyed monastery is the storekeep of collected
works of Buddhist scriptures.
Labrang Monastery: This leading monastery of the state is
located in North Sikkim. Gyalshe Rigzing Chempa made this monastery built to
to commemorate Latsun Chembo of Kongpu who initiated and propagated
Nyingmapa School of Tibetan Buddhism. The name of the monastery literally
means “The Lamas Dwelling”.
Phensang Monastery: This monastery of Nyingmapa sect of
Buddhism is located in North Sikkim and is famous for the annual festival
held in December. People are amused by the 'Chaam' (mask dance) dance
performances of the Lamas. People come to this monastery to pay homage year
after year.
Phodong Monastery: Deemed as the first monastery of Kagyupa
sect in Sikkim, this is situated in North Sikkim on a hill top. This most
monastery of Sikkim was built by Chogyal Gyurmed Namgyal. Here also a annual
festival is celebrated where Chaam is performed.
Ralang Monastery: This
legendary monastery of Sikkim is the most significant and most revered one.
Located in South Sikkim the prime attraction of this monastery is the
wonderful agglomeration of paintings and 'Pang Lhabsol' festival.
Tashiding Monastery: This monastery located in the West
Sikkim was erected by Ngadak Sempa Chembo. The main attraction of the
monastery is the sacred chorten (stupa) known by the name of
'Thong-Wa-rang-Dol' which literally means 'Saviors by mere sight'. As per
beliefs, the very sight of the stupa purges away the sins. The monastery has
Buddhist Mantras, old edifices, stupas and stone plates. Celebration of
'Bumchu' adds to the charm of this monastery.
Tourist Spots in Sikkim
Tourists are attracted to Sikkim for the cherished beauty and serenity of
the place. There are many spots for tourists in North, South , East and West
Sikkim.
North Sikkim
In North Sikkim tourists can enjoy seeing Mangan (the capital of North
Sikkim famous for the Phensong and Phodong Monastery), Kabi Longtsok (the
place where Sikkimese history incepted), Phodong Monastery, Singhik
(offering a picturesque view of Mt. Kanchenjunga and its adjoining peaks),
Chungthang Monastery, Lachen (base for mountaineering and trekking
expeditions), Yumthang Valley, Chungthang, Lachung, Shingba Rhododendron
Sanctuary, Thangu, Gurudongmar and Chopta Valley.
South Sikkim
In South Sikkim you can enjoy Namchi (the capital of South Sikkim),
Ravangla (an ideal destination for village tourism, tea gardens,
monasteries, flora and fauna, mountains picturesque view, waterfalls, quaint
villages, culture), Temi Tea Garden, Tendong Hill and Maenam Hill.
East Sikkim
If you are in East Sikkim do not miss out Government Institute of Cottage
Industry, Do-Drul Chorten (Stupa), Deer Park (Rustomji Park), White Hall,
Enchey Monastery, Tashi View Point, Ganesh Tok (temple dedicated to Lord
Ganesha), Hanuman Tok (temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman).
West Sikkim
In West Sikkim do check out Gyalshing (Geyzing the headquarter of West
Sikkim), Pemayangtse Monastery, Yuksom (the ancient capital of Sikkim),
Tashiding Monastery, Pelling, Khecheopalri Lake, Uttaray, Versay, Barshey ,
Biksthang, Legship, Rinchenpong, Reshi Hot Springs, Rabdentse and
Norbhugang.
Shopping in Sikkim
Sikkim is a good spot for shopping freaks. Just know where and what to get
hold of, and your shopping will be complete fun. The land is proud of its
traditional arts and crafts that may allures you to posses them at random.
Exploring the state for the local assets will be pleasurable thing to do.
Gangtok has The Old Market, Lall Market, M.G. Road, Gangtok Market, Gramin
Vikas Agency and New Market which are the main shopping places, where you
can shop the aristocratic articles of Sikkim. While treasuring a memento on
your trip to Sikkim, do not forget to bargain with the shopkeepers, who
generally quote higher price tags. Else go to the Tibetan Handicrafts Centre
which is a trusted name to shop in Sikkim. The not-so-good bargainers can go
to Government Emporiums, where they will get right price as well as quality
assurance.
In the local markets check out for Woven
Woolen Carpets and Blankets, Thangkas – traditional paintings on cotton
canvas and often framed with silk, Choksee or small wooden tables, Sweaters
and Jackets, Wall Hanging and Antiques with Buddhist motifs, Wooden and
Bamboo Artifacts, Jewelery, Sikkim Tea ('Solja' and Khangchendzonga')
Cardamom or Elachi, Yak's cheese (chhurpi), Lepcha Weave bags, in addition
to the Tibetan and Sikkemese Garments.
Culture of Sikkim
People
The three ethnic groups of people represent a synthesis of three diverse
cultures, traditions, religions in Sikkim. These communities of Lepchas,
Bhutias and Nepalese are a analogous interfusion with their distinct
identity. If there is a temple, there is also a mosque, if there is a
monastery there is also a church.
Lepchas are deemed as the primitive inhabitants of Sikkim much before even
the existence of Bhutias and Nepalese. The earlier Lepchas believed in bone
faith or mune faith based on good and bad spirits of mountains, rivers and
forests but later adopted Buddhism and Christianity. The Lepcha folklore
abounds in stories with a simple lifestyle. They speak Lepcha language and
are basically limited to the central Sikkim. The Lepcha men wear “Pagi”
a stripped dress made of cotton whereas Lepcha women wear two piece dress.
Lepchas allow polyandry marriages. A house of a Lepcha is nothing more than
a bamboo hut elevated about five feet above the ground on stilts. The rooms
are less in number with a few essentials. Their main occupation is fishing
and hunting. Lepchas are good archers.
Bhutias are the people originally from Kham area in the Eastern Tibet who
follow Lamanism and their lingua franca is Sikkimese language, a dialect of
the Tibetan Language. They are called Lachenpas and Lachungpas in the North
Sikkim. Bhutia villages are large in size as comapred to the those of
Lepchas. “Khin”, a Bhutia house, is rectangular in shape. The
Bhutia men wear “Bakhu”, a traditional loose cloak style dress
with full sleeves. And the Bhutia women dote on pure gold jewelery and are
clad in a silken “Honju”, a full sleeve blouse and a loose gown in
style fastened with a belt near the waist. “Pangdin” a loose sheet
of vibrant woolen cloth with special motifs denotes the marital status of
the lady. A Bhutia marriage is settled through negotiations. The boy's uncle
goes to the girl's house to ask for her hand for marriage of his nephew.
Nepalese are the main residents of the state who migrated after Lepchas and
Bhutias. The terrace farming style of cultivation and production of cardamom
was introduced by these people. Except Sherpas and Tamangs who are
Buddhists, other people are basically Hindu. Newars is that sect of people
of people whose occupation is business. Nepali, which is akin to Hindi and
uses Devanagri script, is spoken and understood by people over the state.
Nepali men wear “Daura Suruwal”, a long double breast traditional
dress flowing below the waist with a trouser. The Nepali women wear "Chow
Bandi Choli", a double breasted outfit and a shawl “Majetro”.
Several tribes, like the Gurungs, Limbus, Tamangs and Rais, comprise the
Nepali community.
Festivals Of Sikkim
The state celebrates many festivals because of admix of various religion
and cultures. These Festivals are classified as :
Buddhist Festivals:The famous Buddhist festivals are Saga
Dawa (the Triple Blessed Festival and is considered as the holiest of the
holy Buddhist Festivals), Lhabab Dhuechen (symbolizing the Descent of Buddha
from the heaven), Drukpa Tsheshi (o mark the event when Buddha first turned
the Wheel of Dharma ), Phang Lhabsol (popularised by the third Chogyal of
Sikkim, Chakdor Namgyal and celebrated on the 15th day of the 7th month
around the end of August), Losoong (marks the culmination of harvest
season), Losar (the advent of New Year), Bumchu (celebrated at the monastery
at Tashiding in the month of January or February), Guru Rimpoche's Trungkar
Tshechu, Kagyed Dance (performed on the 28th and 29th day of the 10th month
of the Tibetan Calendar, around December) and KalChakra Puja.
Hindu Festivals: The popular festivals of Hindus are Dasain/
Dusshera/ Durga Puja (usually celebrated in October symbolizing the victory
of good over evil), Tihar or Tyohar/ Diwali (celebrated to mark the return
of Lord Rama, his consort Sita and brother Lakshmana, to their kingdom after
14 years of exile), Saraswati Puja (celebrated in January to honor the
Goddess of Knowledge Saraswati), Janamashtami (celebrated in August or
September to commemorate the birth of Lord Krishna), Vishwakarma Puja
(observed on 17th September every year to honour Vishwa Karma - the God of
Machines), Maghe Sankranti (Makar Sankranti celebrated in January), Holi
(marks the advent of spring season) and Ramnavami /Chaite Dasain (to
commemorate birth of Lord Ram).
Other Festivals: Namsoong
(an Indigenous festival of Lepchas to welcome the new year which begins from
the first day of first month), Sakewa ( festival of the Rai community for
Kubera, the God of wealth), Bhanu Jayanti, Tendong Lho-Rum-Faat (a Lepcha
thanks giving festival to Tendong Hill), Teyongsi Srijunga Sawan Tognam,
Christmas, Tamu Lochar and Nyempa Guzom.
Dance And Music Of Sikkim
The communities have their own traditional folk dance forms. The Nepalese,
the Lepchas and the Sikkimese have unique folk dances, each different and
each amusingly groovy.
Folk Dances of Nepali:
Maruni: One of the oldest and most popular dances of the
Nepalese associated with the festival of Tihar(Tyohar) or Diwali and various
ceremonies and occasions.
Tamang Selo: Performed on occasions like marriage
ceremony, childbirth and village fairs with the rhythmic sound of the "Damphoo",
a musical instrument.
Dhaan Naach: A projection of rich Nepali cultural
heritage.
Dau Ra JaneZo-Mal-Lok: It is performed during the happy
ceremonies by the young girls in their traditional and vibrant outfits.
Sebru Naach: It is a narration of the lifestyle of the
Sherpas who are very fond of performing arts like dance and songs.
Folk Dances of Lepcha
Zo-Mal-Lok: A depiction of sowing, reaping and
harvesting of paddy.
Chu Faat: It is is performed in honour of the Mount
Khangchendzonga and its four associate peaks, Mt.Pandim, Mt. Kabru, Mt.
Simbrum and Mt. Narshing.
Kar Gnok Lok: This “Dance of Swans” is a
depiction of tarriance of a group of migratory swans.
Dharma Jo: It depicts the harvest season among Lepchas.
Mon Dryak Loks: A hunting dance for the supposedly adept
hunters.
Tendong Lho Faat: A folklore retold to the new
generation corresponding the divine events in Vedas.
Mun Hait Lok: A traditional dance by both Lepcha men and
women.
Folk Dances of Sikkimese
Talachi: The dance is accompanied with a folklore
related to a king.
Lu Khangthamo: This dance is a day of thanks giving to
all Gods and deities of the three worlds, Heaven, Earth and Hell.
Gha To Kito: This is a song cum dance which describes
all about the treasures of Sikkim.
Be Yu Mista: Males and females perform to applaud Sikkim
in this dance form.
Chi Rimu: A much popular dance for happy events and
ceremonies performed by old and young.
Rechungma: It is performed on the happy occasions like
childbirth, marriage and other social gatherings.
Gnungmala Gnunghey: It is a typical Bhutia fold dance
performed in praise, by both male and female
Tashi Zaldha: This dance depicts the Bhutia custom of
offering scarves, performed by boys and girls.
Mask Dances
Enchey Chaam: A famous mask dance performed by lamas in
the 'Gompa' courtyard to celebrate religious festivals, dances demonstrate
perfect footwork and grace.
Rumtek Chaam: The most important dance performed on the
10th day of the 5th month of the Tibetan calendar, corresponding to the
month of June.
Kagyed Dance: A symbolism of the destruction of the evil
forces and hoping for peace and prosperity to flourish in every Sikkimese
home, it is performed on the 28th and 29th day of the 10th month of the
Tibetan Calendar, around December.
Gouthor(Winter) Chaam: This is performed in the month of February
usually two days prior to Losar.
