Sikkim, located in North-East India is a beautiful state in the lap of mighty Himalayas. The name Sikkim originates from the word sukhism meaning 'new house'. This state is located between Nepal and Tibet and shares its borders with Bhutan. This is the land of several picturesque hill top monasteries and winding valleys. This state is second smallest in area after Goa and less populous. Gangtok is the capital and largest town of Sikkim. The world's third highest peak, Kangchenjunga is located in the northwestern part of the state. Sikkim is a popular tourist destination for its culture, scenic beauty and biodiversity. The best sightseeing places in Sikkim are Pelling, Rabdentse Monastery, Rumtek Monastery, Gangtok, Saramsa Garden, Tashi View Point and Yuksom.

Tourist Attractions in Sikkim

Pelling - Pelling in Sikkim is the best place to visit as this place offers a breathtaking view of world's third highest peak, Kangchenjunga. Pelling is located at a distance of 112 kms from Gangtok. While driving to Pelling, you will have a resplendent view of Sikkim's vain peaks vying in silence.

Rabdentse Monastery - Rabdentse Monastery is very near to Pemayangste Monastery at the walking distance of 25 minutes. The ruins of the palace, which once existed here, sit on the top of a hill. From the top of the palace, one can enjoy watching panoramic views of the surroundings.

Yuksom - Yuksom is more than just a one-street village. Yuksom is located 42 kms north of Sikkim's Pemayangste Monastery. There are few shops, restaurants and lodging, where tourists prefer to stay. It forms an ideal base for Dzongri and Gochela. There is a beautiful and old monastery to watch, Tashiding Monastery, built in 1716. This place is nestled in a pine forested area.

Rumtek Monastery - Rumtek Monastery is 24 kms from Gangtok. 2 kms away from Dharma Chakra Centre is the recently rebuilt 300 year old Rumtek Monastery. This monastery was originally built by the fourth chogyal. His Holiness late Gyalwa Karmapa lived in this monastery till the completion of the Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre.

Gangtok - Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim and the town which has lots of things to offer to visitors. This city houses pagoda-roofed houses and colorful and old monasteries. Gangtok is a beautiful hill-station located in the lower Himalayas. Gangtok is a perfect destination to spend holiday in solitude.

Tsomgo Lake - Tsomgo Lake is a beautiful lake surrounded by frozen hillsides. This place is 40kms away from Gangtok. A drive further uphill would take you to the Nathula Pass. This pass provides you a bird's eye view of Indo-China frontier. Entry for foreign nationals is restricted.

Himalayan Zoological Park - This wildlife park is the perfect place to visit for wildlife lovers in Sikkim. The Park has been established to preserve the wildlife. This park is only 3 kms from Gangtok and situated at an altitude of 5,840ft. From here one can also enjoy watching a splendid view of Mt. Kangchenjunga.

Major Cities of Sikkim

Cities of Sikkim are well known for their cultural values. These cities offer the world the famous, old and ancient Buddhist monasteries. Some cities are famous for their beautiful valleys and hills and some are famous for their cascading waterfalls and picnic spots. In other words, this state and its cities are really the best place for those visitors who want to spend their holidays in nature lap. Among all cities of Sikkim, Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim most visited city because of its natural wealth, beauty and ancient Buddhist monasteries. Some more major cities of Sikkim are Pelling, Yuksom, Gezing, Jorethang, Mangan and Singtam.

Adventure Holidays in Sikkim

As Sikkim is situated in the lower Himalayas, this region offers several adventure activities to its visitors. Dense forests of this region offer several types of Safaris and adventure activities. Sikkim also offers some more other adventure activities to indulge in like river rafting, trekking, hand gliding, yak safari, mountain biking, mountaineering and archery. Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim offers interesting treks to the Pemayangtse, Yuksam, Khechopalri, Dzongri, Tsokha, Thangshing, Chaurigang, Zemathang, Tashiding, Yangang, Varsey, Rabongla, Sikip and Sang.

Hotels in Sikkim

Several famous and luxurious hotels are available in Sikkim to cater all the needs of guests. One can easily find the hotels from deluxe category to budget category at reasonable prices. All types of modern amenities are available in these hotels. Most of the hotels are situated in the heart of main cities from where one can get every type of other services like shopping malls, major tourist attractions and transportation services. Some of the most important hotels of this state are below mentioned:
» Orange Village, Gangtok
» Norkhill, Gangtok
» Teentaley Village Resort, Rumtek
» Tashi Ghang Hotel, Yuksom
» The Bliss Resort, Mangalbari
» Yangsum Farm, Rinchenpong
» Hotel Rabdentse Residency, Pelling
» Sonam Palgey, Lachen
» Sonam Palgey, Lachung