Sikkim
The land of mighty Kanchenjunga. A holiday land with few equals
anywhere. This jewel -like mountain state of ethereal beauty
with an area of 7299 Sq. kilometres, nestles in the heart of
the Himalayas.Wrapped in mists and clouds. A garden state with
an incredible variety of orchids, rhododendrons, gladioli and
a host of other flowers. Rustling, tumbling streams and torrents.
Mountain monasteries and quaint shopping plazas
India's
22nd State lies in one of the most enthralling regions of
the Himalayas. This hidden peaceful land of rice cultivation,
called "Bayul Demojong" by the local people, is
inhabited by Nepalis, Lepchas, Bhutias, Tibetans and Marwaris
Fact File:
Area : 7290 sq Km
Capital : Gangtok
Language : Nepali
Best time to visit : March to August
Major Cities: Gangtok
Tourist Attractions:
Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden:
Very close by to Rumtek Monastery, and maintained by the parks
and Gardens unit of the Forest Department of the Government
of Sikkim, the Garden is an enchanting and soothing experience
among the lush green vegetation, rare plants and trees and
certain species of Himalayan flowers and Orchids.
Gangtok:
Gangtok its captivating architectural beauty radiates with
pagoda-like wooden houses, painted turquoise roofs and gay
bazaars. Undoubtedly modern times have wound their way into
this picturesque town, but the gently swaying and elegant
costumes of the Sikkimese people, their smiling faces, the
unhurried pace of their life-style and the towering beauty
of Kanchenjunga ..... all cast a magic spell on this delightful
location in the foothills of the grand Himalayas.
Tsuklakhang (The Palace Monastery) :
Located in the grounds of the palace of the former rulers,
the Chogyals of Sikkim. Built in traditionally Sikkimese style,
it is capital’s most accessible monastery and has interesting
murals and images of the Buddhist pantheon.
Shri Nalanda Institute for Higher Buddhist
Studies
Initiated by the late 16th Karmapa, the institute in housed
in the adjoining building of the Rumtek Monastery. The Jamyang
Khang Primary School meant for 5 years of primary monastic
studies is also located here.
Permanent Flower Show
White Hall, Close by the White Memorial Hall and just below
the Palace Ridge park is the more recent Flower Show Hall.
In recent years this show has become quite popular and famous
as there are flower exhibitions throughout the year in accordance
with the seasons and the flowers in bloom.
Enchey Monastery
An important seat of the Nyingma order, the Enchey Monastery
meaning the Solitary temple, was originally built with the
solace that no other construction would be allowed near it
is built on the site blessed by Lama Druptob Karpo, a tantric
master known for his flying powers. This 200-year-old Monastery
has in its premises images of god, goddesses and other religious
objects. Every year around January 'Chaam' or religious masked
dance is performed with great fanfare for two days. it is
situated adjoining the Sinolchu Tourist Lodge, 3 kms from
Gangtok Town.
Orchid Sanctuary :
Just below the Institute of Tibetology, it is a very specialized
garden. According to Government Department, there are over
200 species of temperate and intermediate type orchids. Such
orchids are best seen during the blooming season of April-May,
July-August and October-November.
Orchidarium :
In spite of its name, this is essentially a botanical garden
in a green and landscaped fold in the hills. Paths wind down
past streams, tree ferns and flower beds. At the bottom are
enormous conservatories where masses of orchid plants thrive
in their preferred environment. |