Sikkim is a minor state in India that is known for its beautiful scenery due to its location in the eastern Himalayas. Sikkim is home to the world-famous Mount Kanchendzonga, which also happens to be the third highest mountain in the whole globe. In addition, Sikkim is home to a large number of glaciers, such as the Zemu, Rathong, and Lona. The people of Sikkim have developed their own own culture and set of ceremonies, which are deeply rooted in history. Bhutias, Nepalese, and Lepchas make up the majority of this area’s population, and each of these groups has its own distinct culture.
Gangtok, the state capital of Sikkim, is a bustling place that never seems to stop moving. The pagoda-like architectural style of the little wooden cottages that dot the landscape is another factor that contributes to the city’s allure and attractiveness. The bulk of Sikkim’s business and commercial activity takes place along the winding roads and in the teeny-tiny bazaars that dot the landscape. In addition, the state is an excellent location to shop for hand-woven carpets and thankas. Besides woven bags, wallets, and jewellery, the state also produces a variety of other handcrafted goods.
Main Tourist Attractions of Sikkim, India
Government Institute of Cottage Industries (GICI)
During the reign of the Chogyals of Sikkim, the GICI was created with the goal of conserving the ancient arts of the region. Additionally, it is referred to as the Directorate of Handicrafts and Handlooms in certain circles. The institution is located on the main road just above the town, and it educates its guests on ancient art forms like as painting, mask making, weaving, and woodcarving. In addition, tourists get the opportunity to see traditional methods of manufacturing items like as shawls, blankets, carpets, lepcha weave objects, and customised hand created papers.
Enchey Monastery
The Enchey Monastery, also known as the Solitary Temple, can be found approximately 3 kilometres outside of the main city. It is also known by this name. It is said to have been sanctified by Lama Druptob Karpo, who erected it on a spot that still bears his name. The lama was a well-known saint who was recognised for his heavenly skills of flight. He was also known as the “flying saint.” It was first constructed in the year 1840 under the reign of Thutob Namguyal, but in the year 1910 it was reconstructed into its current form. One may discover representations of a variety of gods and goddesses when exploring the inside of the temple.
Flower Show Complex
The Flower Show Complex in Gangtok, which is often referred to as the Flower Exhibition Center, can be found in close proximity to the White Hall Complex of the city. One may see many different kinds of flowers here, such as bonsai trees, orchids in a range of colours, and seasonal flowers. Between the months of April and June, as well as September and November, the centre hosts flower displays.
Rumtek Monastery
The 16th Gyalwa Karmapa oversaw the construction of Rumtek Monastery, which was completed in the year 1960. It is stated that this monastery is an identical copy of the Monastery in Kagyurpa, Tibet, which is regarded as the most important seat of the Karmapa order of Tibetan Buddhism. One may visit the inside of the monastery to see the memorial stupa that was built in honour of the 16th Karmapa. It is lined with gold and embellished with semi precious stones. Additionally, Buddhist texts and other important documents may be seen at this location.
Maenam Sanctuary
The Maenam Sanctuary is situated in the southern region of Sikkim. It has a total land area of around 36 square kilometres and an altitude of 3,200 metres. Forests of a temperate kind dominate the landscape in this region. The sanctuary is home to a diverse collection of plant and animal life, allowing visitors to experience nature in its purest form while also helping to preserve it. Animals such as red pandas, gorals, serows, marbled cats, leopards, and civet cats are some of the most well-known draws to the area. The refuge is home to a diverse array of fauna, including blood pheasants, black eagles, and a great deal more.
Pelling
Pelling is a picturesque town that is located at an altitude of 2,085 metres above sea level and provides a wonderful view of the peaks of Kanchenjunga. Visitors to the town may marvel at the world’s third-highest peak from a variety of pleasant walkways while taking in the view of the mountain. The Sanga Choling Monastery and Khecheopalri Lake are two of the most fascinating places to see in Pelling and the surrounding area.
Pemayangtse Monastery
Pemayangtse Monastery is the second oldest monastery in Sikkim and is one of the most well-known monasteries in the state. It can be found to the west of Gangtok. It was built in 1705, which was a very long time ago. This monastery was formerly the seat of power for the Nyingmapa Buddhist sect that was located in Sikkim. One may see statues depicting at least one thousand different Tibetan Buddhist deities when they are inside the monastery. In addition, there is a sculpture made of wood known as Zandog-Palri. It is said that this sculpture depicts the magnificent home where Guru Padmasambhava inhabited.
Khecheoplari Lake
A distance of around 140 kilometres separates the city of Gangtok with the Khecheoplari Lake, which is located in the western areas of Sikkim. It is sometimes dubbed the wishing lake. It is encircled on all sides by stunningly verdant trees. Both Buddhists and Hindus in the area attach spiritual significance to the lake because of its proximity to important holy sites. It is said that the holiness of the lake is so high that even the birds would not let a leaf float on its surface. This belief is based on the fact that the lake is surrounded by trees. A calm and pleasant ambiance may be found in its purest form for everyone who visit this place.
