TOURIST ATTRACTION
Having several years of experience as leading tourist operators in Sikkim, we know every inch of this lovely state like the back of our own hand. And that's what makes us reliable experts in recommending the best tourist attractions that you must visit during your stay here.
Sikkim is a land of several charms, be it in terms of divinity, spirituality, mysticism, exquisiteness or any other charisma. It is rich in culture, tradition and steeped in religion. One cannot help but marvel at the numerous stupas, monasteries and temples. It is the perfect destination, which provides enchantment, tranquility and adventure.
We unravel the charm of each unique destination in Sikkim for you here:
Gangtok:
The natural splendor of this beautiful capital city is ever enchanting and mesmerizing. Steep mountain slopes along with lush rice terraces, encircled by graceful, babbling, foaming rivers, add to the beauty of Gangtok. Creating a truly magical experience for anyone who visits the place.
Gyalshing:
Gyalshing is the district headquarters of West Sikkim with a population of around 900. This scenic spot is an ideal trekking spot and mountaineering expedition base. It is also renowned for its two old monasteries of Pemayangste and Tashiding. At an altitude of 6,500 feet (1,900 m), Gyalshing observes a temperate climate for most of the year. It is appx.117 kms from Gangtok.
Pelling:
Pelling is famous for its magnificent view of the snow-capped mountains of Khangchendzonga. Its natural beauty is unbelievably perfect and untouched. With beautiful cascades like Sangay waterfall and the Sanga-Choeling Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery and Khecheopalri Lake at a 10 km distance, Pelling is a paradise on earth. From here one can also view the spectacular Mt. Khangchendzonga, Pandim, Siniolchu and other ranges.
This serene village in West Sikkim is now rapidly turning into a bustling tourist destination and has come up with numerous hotels and lodges. It is about 133 km away from Siliguri and 125 km from Gangtok and well connected by bus and jeep services.
Nathu La Pass:
Famously known as the 'silk route', Nathu La is a pass on the Indo-Chinese border that serves as a trade link between the two countries. The terms 'Nathu' and 'La' literally mean 'listening ears' and 'pass' respectively in Tibetan language. Along with offering a spectacular view of nature's splendour, this pass offers an uncommon view of armed forces shielding the border. Just 56 kms away from Gangtok, the Nathula Pass once had been the main access for Sikkim -Tibet Trade. At an elevation of 14,450 feet, this Pass is renowned for its diverse alpine flora and fauna.
Rumtek Monastery
Rumtek Monastery is the most cherished religious site of almost every Buddhist. Situated at a distance of 24 kms from Gangtok in Rumtek, the Monastery exudes tranquility amidst the picturesque background of lofty hills and soothing waterfalls. It is regarded as one amongst the most important seats of Kagyu school of Buddhism outside Tibet. Originally, Rumtek Monastery was built in the 16th century under the supervision of Wangchuk Dorje, the 9th Karmapa with the financial aid of the fourth King of Sikkim.
Himalayan Zoological Park:
A place for wildlife lovers in Sikkim, this Park has been established to preserve the wildlife, without disturbing the creatures and keeping them in their natural habitat. Located in Bulbuley, Himalayan Zoological Park is at a distance of 3 kms from Gangtok. At an altitude of 5,840ft (1,780 mtrs), the Zoological Park also tenders a splendid view of Mt. Khangchendzonga. This Park sprawls in an area of 205 hectares in the mountainous terrain and has a variety or rare species of flora and fauna.
Phodong Monastery:
One amongst the six most important Buddhist monasteries in Sikkim, Phodong Monastery belongs to the Kargyupa sect (Karmapa). Perched on an altitude of 4500 ft, this is regarded as the first monastery related to the Kagyupa sect to be established in Sikkim. The Monastery a kilometer ahead of Phodong on a hill and can be reached easily by hiring private transport like taxis, jeeps, etc. from Magan in Sikkim.
Pemayangtse
Pemayangtse Monastery, the sublime lotus, is the premier monastery in Sikkim. It is the oldest monastery here and houses priceless thankas, icons, Buddhist texts, paintings and frescos. Built on the 18th century AD, this monastery follows the Nyingmapa sect of the Tibetan Buddhism. On the top floor of the temple, there lies the Architectural Design of Heaven called the Zangdoplari. It's a masterpiece art crafted single handedly out of wood by the late Dungzim Rimponche and its photography is prohibited. The walls of this area are hundreds of years old and are original.
Khecheopalri Lake
This lake is also known as the wishing lake. This unusually tranquil lake, surrounded by verdant forest is considered as one of the sacred lakes of Sikkim both by the Buddhist and the Hindus. No water sport or other activities besides prayers are allowed around it. It is believed that birds do not permit even a single leaf to float on the lake surface. The vicinity of the lake is an ideal place to find the Lepcha Houses and their communities.
