10 REAONS WHY SIKKIM SHOULD BE YOUR NEXT TRAVEL DESTINATION

10 Reasons Why Sikkim Should Be Your Next Travel Destination

In the north-eastern side of India, lies Sikkim, one of the smallest states, where mystique prevails. This state is the personifaction of the phrase, “good things come in small packages.” Sikkim’s lakes, waterfalls and lush green forests are sure to make any nature lover fall in love with the state. The mouthwatering cuisines further adds to its charm. It also has rich ancient culture and traditional heritage, which equally makes it a place of historical significance, and even a holy place for several religions. And now, since Sikkim has already got its new airport, making our way to the organic state, has become way more easier. Enveloped by the majestic Himalayas, this state happens to be the ideal spot for all kinds of people. Nature lovers, adventurers, spiritual thinkers, everyone.

Here are the reasons why Sikkim should be your next travel destination:-

1.] Make your way to the Divine Lake of Gurudongmar

One of the highest lakes in the world, and in India, Gurudongmar Lake is at an elevation of 5,430m i.e. 17,000 ft. The lake sits in close proximity to the Tibetan and Chinese border, in the north. The lake takes its name after the eminent Guru Padmasambhava, who is believed to have traversed the region during his visit to Tibet, which in turn makes the lake holy and a source of spiritual and religious authenticity.

The best time to visit Gurudongmar Lake is from March until June as the weather remains pleasant and with crystal clear blue skies, with all the greenery in the surroundings along with the beautiful Gurudongmar Lake, and to see the beauty in the frozen state, plan your vacation during winter.

2.] Delicious and Lipsmacking Sikkimese Delicacies To Dive Into

Many people love North East cuisines owing to their taste and unique flavour. Sikkim also being a north-eastern state, also presents a wide variety of savoury foods, that will surely appeal to your taste buds.

From dishes ranging from Momos {dumplings} or Syabhaleys { deep fried meat filled pie}, to steaming bowls of Thukpa { soupy noodles with vegetable or meat}, and last but not the least Piroo Aloo Dum {hot and spicy Dum Aloo} and Sel Roti, the cuisine of Sikkim caters to the palettes of every foodie and equally proves to be a paradise of flavours for them.

3.] Charming Valleys To Be Awestruck With

There are various valleys in Sikkim which have their own unique charm. The snow covered beautiful Lachen, is one such region, where the view is absolutely breathtaking, especially in winter. The other tourist destinations among these valleys are The Tashi View Point, Confluence of Lachen Chu and Lachung Chu. Home to the Bhutia and Tibetan people, the Lachung Valley is another such region, which is surrounded by huge rocks and enormously majestic snowy mountains. It is also known as the “Valley of flowers” also known as the Yumthang Valley, with the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary being a must visit there.

4.] The State Stores Botanical Richness

Sikkim posseses immense zoological richness, and you cannot help but stare at the treasure troves of exotic flora and fauna. The state is proud to boast about 4,000 species of plant and 30% of the bird species found in the Indian subcontinent.

The Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden and the Plant Conservatory, near the capital city of Gangtok, is a perfect place to appreciate the indigneous ecosystem ofd the region. The different species of orchids is a highlight, and the towering alpines and rhododendron trees that surround the garden are equally breathtaking.

5.] Best in the Country for Spirituality

All over the world, monasteries throughout the centuries, have been serving as the place for meditation, and Sikkim is no exception. Sikkim is also home to some of the famous and beautiful monasteries and the famous among them is the Rumtek Monastery.

Once you keep feet upon the premises, you will feel calm and rejuvenated , and your mind will get completely relaxed. The chanting of the prayers and the music of bells combined together, creates a beautiful and peaceful ambience.

If you want to witness the cultural festivals, visit this place during the month of July, and you would surely get a chance to take part in various culturally enriching festivals. The best time to visit Sikkim is the Annual Cham, which as per Tibetan Calendar, is celebrated on the 28th and 29th day of the 10th month. It is a lifetime experience that will stay with you forever. During that time, every lane in Sikkim looks blissful and there’s sacred vibes all over.

6.] India’s Cleanest State

In the streets of Sikkim, you will not find any traces of plastic bottles, bags or any other pollutants. The citizens of this state keep their home, entirely clean, as they believe, divinity will only prevail if cleanliness resides.

Things like plastic bags, bottles, and even smoking are completely banned here, as these items lead to several forms of pollution, hampering the beauty of Mother Nature.

Also, this state is completely organic, and thus, you would be able to enjoy all kinds of fruits, vegetables, and even foods of the organic variant, free from any adulteration or pesticides, which is yet another reason to visit Sikkim.

7.] For The Love Of Adventure

Sikkim is also the preferred travel destination for adventure lovers. Here, you can try your hands in trekking, mountain climbing, river rafting and para gliding. White water rafting is also very popular among adventure enthusiasts in Sikkim.

8.] Great Historical Importance

The Nathula Pass, which served as the Ancient Silk Route, through which traders and invaders entered the country. At an altitude of 4,310 metres above sea level, this pass is one of the border posts between India and China, although it is not open to the visitors. Only Indian citizens with prior permission are allowed to enter the entire length of the pass. It is definitely one of the places, you should visit on your trip to Sikkim, with the flowering junipers, and the woody rhododendrons and ground orchids all around the meadows.

This region is also home to various endangered species of wildlife, including the Tibetan gazelle, snow leopard, Tibetan raven and the golden eagle.

9.] International Flower Festival

Sikkm has around 600 species of orchids, 240 species of trees and ferns, 150 varieties of gladioli, 46 types of rhododendron along with several species of magnolia and many other foliage plants. Among the main displays at the flower show are orchids, gladioli, roses, cacti, alpine plants, creepers, climbers, ferns, herbs and many others. Seminar workshops are also held during this time. The Flower Festival is celebrated mainly from March to May.

10.] And Finally, The Friendly People Will Melt Your Heart

In Sikkim, the locals are shy, hospitable and very friendly. And surely, they will make you feel as if you are in your own home, even though you are far away from it.

So, after listing out the points, what are you waiting for? Go pack your bags and head out to the beautiful and peaceful state of Sikkim.