Climate & Geography

Located in the northeastern part of India, Sikkim is surrounded by the countries of Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet (China). The geography of Sikkim includes rugged mountain ranges, lush forests and, alpine valleys and meadows.

The lower regions have a subtropical climate, while the higher elevations feature alpine weather with heavy snowfall during winter. Summer temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C, while winter can dip to below freezing in the mountains.

History & Culture

Sikkim was an independent kingdom until it became a part of India in 1975. Historically, it was ruled by monarchs from the Chogyal dynasty. The state has strong Tibetan cultural influences, and its political history is marked by peaceful relationships with neighbouring countries.

The culture of Sikkim is a vibrant mix of Buddhist, Nepali, and indigenous traditions. The people primarily follow Buddhism, and monasteries like Rumtek and Pemayangtse are prominent landmarks. The state is also home to a variety of ethnic groups, including Lepchas, Bhutias and Nepali.

Festivals

The festival in Sikkim reflects the vibrant mix of traditions, cultures and ethnic groups. From Buddhist festivals like Losar to, celebrations popular in Nepali-speaking communities like Bhanu Jayanti, the state celebrates various festivals with equal zest. The state celebrates various religious festivals that are significant to the ethno-linguistic communities, such as Rai, Limbu, Gurung, Magars, etc.  Sikkim also organises the International Flower Festival, which takes place throughout May. Some of the other popular festivals celebrated are

Drukpa Tshechi: Celebrated on the 4th day (Tshechi) of Drukpa (July- August), this traditional festival celebrates Lord Buddha’s first preaching of the Four Nobel truths to his five disciples.

Maghe Sankranti: Observed annually on the first day of Magh (January - Feb), this festival marks the end of the paddy cultivation season and focuses on bringing communities together.

Sonam Losar: Falling on the 2nd new moon of Magh, Sonam Losar is celebrated by the Tamang and Hyolmo people as New Year.

Lhabab Dhuechen: Marked on the 22nd day of the Tibetan lunar month Taka (Nov-Dec), this celebration marks the descent of Lord Buddha from Heaven, back into Earth.

Kagyed Dance: Annually performed on the 28th or 29Th day of the 10th month according to the Tibetan Calendar, which usually falls in December, this celebration is done to ward off evil and bring good fortune for the coming year.

Tendong Lho Rum Faat: This festival is celebrated by the Lepchas to commemorate how Mt. Tendong has saved their ancestors from 40 days of flood. It is celebrated on the 3rd month of the Tibetan lunar calendar (August).

Cuisine

The cuisine of Sikkim is a vibrant fusion of Tibetan, Nepali, and Indigenous flavours, showcasing the state's rich cultural diversity and natural bounty. Signature dishes like momo (steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables) and thukpa (a hearty noodle soup) are beloved comfort foods. Another standout dish, phagshapa, is a flavorful pork preparation with radishes and spices, offering a unique taste of Sikkim's culinary heritage. Sikkim is also renowned for its traditional fermented dish Sinki, similar to Gundruk from Darjeeling. Sinki is made from fermented radish tap roots. These dishes are a must-try for anyone looking for an authentic experience. Other cuisines to try are

• Dhido - Dish made of flour that is gradually cooked in boiling water
• Thenthuk - Hand-pulled flat noodle soup, filled with meats and vegetables.
• Kinema Curry - Traditional curry made up of fermented soybean, often served with rice.
• Sisnu ko Jhol - Traditional soup made of stinging nettle plant, locally known as Sisnu.

Natula Pass

Located on the Indo-Tibetan border or the Old Silk Route, 164.6 km away from Gangtok, the Natula Pass is one of the most well-known among the Himalayan Peaks. It holds a special position among the three open Indo-China trading borders, with its snow-capped mountains and glistening white scenery.

Rumtek Monastery

Residing 102.3 km away from Gangtok, Rumtek is the largest Monastery in Sikkim. Exhibiting the grandeur of Tibetan architecture, the monastery is the perfect place to observe some of the rarest Buddhist art objects.

Pelling Glass Skywalk

The Pelling Glass Skywalk is located in the Sangachoeling Monastery area, about 54.5 km away from Gangtok. It offers a unique, thrilling experience that allows visitors to walk over a glass-floored bridge, while also offering panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range and the lush valleys below.

Tsomgo/ Changu Lake

One of the most stunning high-altitude glacial lakes, Tsomgo or Changu Lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush greenery, making it a popular tourist destination. It is approximately 40 km from the capital of Sikkim, Gangtok.

Yuksom

Known as the historic starting point for treks to Kanchenjunga, Yuksom is a peaceful retreat, which offers serene landscapes and ancient monasteries. Located around 118.7 km from Gangtok, Yuksom is known for being the gateway to Kangchenjunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Dzuluk

Dzuluk is a hidden gem nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, offering breathtaking views of icy-topped mountains and quaint landscapes. It is approximately 115 km from Pelling, which takes around 4 hours to reach by car.

By Air: To reach Sikkim, you can fly into Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal, which is about 124 km away from the state capital, Gangtok.

By Road: From Bagdogra, you can also get shared jeeps and private taxis which are the most common modes of transportation.

By Train: You can also reach Sikkim by train via New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, located 115 km away.