Sikkim
Sikkim, the 22nd State of India has few
peers as far as its scenic beauty, lush-vegetation and continuous
stretch of fascination forest are concerned. It has mountains,
7,300 meters and more in height and afar greater in number per
sq. km. than anywhere else on the globe. This small Himalayan
State of India Union is bounded in the north by China and Tibet.
in the east by Bhutan, in the north by West Bengal and in the
west by Nepal. Once, a remote mountain Kingdom Sikkim is now
open to tourist and proving an enchanting new world with its
varied and fantastic flaura and fauna, ancient Buddhist monasteries,
colorful simple hill-folk and breath taking vistas in a cool
salubrious surroundings. Gangatok is its capital, at the altitude
of 1 ,800 meters is perched on the southern side of the hill.
The spots worth visiting are the following in Gangtok.
TusLakhang
This royal Chapel of Sikkim is the main
shrine of worship and has very interesting architectural style,
wonderful wood carvings and its interior decorated with line
mural.
Institute of Tibetology
The principal object of this institute
is to promote Mahayan Buddhism and Tibetan traditions through
research and study. it is open to visitors from Monday through
Saturday and closed on Sunday.
Orchid Sanctuary
The sanctuary offers rich feast of colors,
variety and beauty for the eyes of the beholder as almost all
the species including the rare ones, found in Sikkim, are cultured
here.
Deer Park
This deer park was founded in memory of
the famous Deer Park at Sarnath near Varanasi. There is an image
of sitting Buddha under a beautiful canopy.
Cottage Industries
Emporium
This State run Emporium offers sale of
hand woven rugs, blankets, shawls, carpets, wood carvings, decoration
paper, thankas, painting and bamboo wares.
Sikkims has good hotels (one 4 star: Hotel Tashi Delek) and
many other staying places. To reach Sikkim, Bagdogra is the
nearest airport and Siliguri on the main line and Choom on famous
Mini Train are the nearest railheads. From Siliguri there are
regular buses to Gangtok (distance 114 km). Excursions include
visit to nearby Rumtek Monastery (37 km), Phodank Monastery
(3 hours journey by car). Trekking is also possible is Sikkim
and the ideal take off point is Yuksam. The trek to Bapkhim
is an unforgettable experience.
