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Sikkim Places of Interest |
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East Sikkim |
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Enchey Monastery
An important seat of the Nyingmapa order, this 200
year old Enchey Monastery is built on the site
blessed by Lama Drupto Karpo, a tantric master known
for his power of flying.. Every year, around
January, ‘CHAM’ or religious masked dance is
performed with great fanfare for two days. |
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Flower Festival
Flower exhibitions are organized around the year at
the Flower Show Venue near the White Memorial Hall
Complex, Gangtok. during the spring |
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Dodrul Chorten
The Dodrul Chorten or stupa was built by the
Venerable Trullshi Rinpoche, head of the Nyimapa
order of Tibetan Buddhism, in 1945. inside the Stupa,
ther is a complete mandala set of Dorji Phurba (
Vajra Kilaya), a set of Kangur relics ( Holy Books
), Complete Zung ( mantras) and other religious
objects. Around the chorten, which is one of the
most important Stupas in Sikkim, are 108 Mani Lhakor
(Prayer wheels). |
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Handloom and Handicrafts
Centre
It is now known as the Directorate of Handicrafts
and Handlooms as well as the Government Institute of
Cottage Industries. Started during the time of the
Chogyals of Sikkim, as a venture to protect and
propagate the craft and skills of local and village
artisans, it has become on t of the major
attractions for people visiting Sikkim where
traditional handcrafts, furniture, handlooms carpets
and other products can be viewed and also purchased. |
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Namgyal Research Institute of
Tibetology (NRIT)
The Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, after the late
Chogyal of Sikkim, Palden Thondup Namgyal whose
brainchild it was has since become one of the most
prestigious depository of Tibetan literature, rare
manuscripts, paintings, thangkas, statues and
religious objects and other works of art and
history. Today, it is a renowned worldwide centre
for study of Buddhist philosophy and religion. |
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Saramsa Garden
About 14 kms from Gangtok is the Saramsa Garden, the
home of Sikkim's most exotic orchids and other rare
tropical and temperate plants. Established and
maintained by the Department of Forest, it is an
excellent recreation and picnic spot. |
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Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre
The Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre is the seat of the
Kagyu order, one of the 4 major Tibetan Buddhist
Sects. Since the late 1960’s , after the arrival of
His Holiness the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa, the centre
houses some of the world’s most unique religious
scriptures and religious rare objects. Traditional
in design, it is almost an replica of the original
Kagyu Monastery in Tshurpu, in eastern Tibet. It has
over 300 centres worldwide Tibet. It has over 300
centres worldwide. |
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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. |
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Water Garden
Water Garden at Martam Khola is on the 31-A National
Highway some 16 kms. south of Gangtok. It is an
ideal spot for picnic with a small swimming pool for
children. |
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Tsongo Lake
It literally means the “source of the Lake” in the
Bhutia language. Just about 40km away from Gangtok,
the capital of State. This serene lake is situated
at an altitude of 3,780 mtrs. The lake is about 1 km
long, oval in shape, 15mtrs deep and is considered
sacred by the local people. This placid lake remains
frozen during the winter months upto mid-May.Between
May and August, it is possible to see a variety of
flowers bloom, including the rhododendrons, various
species of primulas, blue and yellow poppies, iris,
etc. It is also an ideal habitat of the Red Panda
and various species of birds. Open for both the
foreign and Indian nationals. Foreign visitors have
to be in a group of 2 or more and have to apply for
the visitors permit through a registered Travel
agency. |
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Nathula
56 kms from Gangtok is a 'Nathula' Pass at an
altitude of 14,200 ft. bordering between India and
China in the Tibetan Plateau. It is one of the
highest motor able roads and richly covered by many
verities of alpine flora and fauna. A tranquil place
to visit. Nathula is open only for Indian nationals
on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays. The
visitors have to get the permit to visit the place
by applying to the Tourism Department through a
registered Travel Agency. |
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Tashi View Point
Situated along the Noth Sikkim Highway, it is only
8kms from Gangtok. From this point you get a
breathtaking view of Mt. Kang-chen-Dzongaand Mt.
Siniolchu, one of the most graceful peaks in the
world. Ideal time to visit is early in the morning. |
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West Sikkim |
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Pemayangtse Monastery
The Monastery, located on a hill top at an altitude
of 6840 ft. commands a magnificent panoramic view of
the Himalayan ranges and the surrounding hills and
country- side. This is one of the oldest monastary
of the Nyngmapa sect of Mahanaya Buddhism, and was
but by Lhatsun Chenpo during the reign of the 3rd
Chogyal, Chagdor Namgyal in the 17th century. This
monastary is about 6 kms from Gyalsing, the West
district headquarters. |
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Rabdentse Ruins
This was the second capital of the erstwhile Kingdom
of Sikkim after Yuksom and till the year 1814 AD,
the Kings of Sikkim had ruled the State from this
place. Today, the ruins lie hidden from the main
road at a walking distance from the Pemayangtse
Monastery. The scenic view from the top of the ruins
scanning across the deep valley to the mystic
heights of Khangchendzonga ranges is something to be
cherished and etched in memory. |
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Sanga-Choling Monastery
This monastery is situated on a ridge above Pelling
and the famous Pemayangtse Monastery. Built in 1697
AD, it is considered to be one of the oldest
monasteries in the State. In order to reach this
Monastery one has to be prepared to spend at least
40 minutes walking up the steep hilly slope which
leads through rich forest covers. |
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Khecheopalri Lake
Khecheopalri Lake is considered to be one of the
sacred lakes of Sikkim both by the Buddhist and the
Hindus. The lake remains hidden in the rich forest
cover. It is believed that birds do not permit even
a single leaf to float on the lake surface. There is
a motorable road from Pemayangtse right up to the
lake area. |
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Pelling
Pelling is fast emerging as a most favorite tourist
destination in west Sikkim. Situated at an altitude
of 6,800 ft., it offers a good view of the entire
mountain ranges. Pelling is just 10 kms from
Gyalsing. |
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Yuksam
This was the first capital of Sikkim, where
according to the historical records, the first
Chogyal of the Kingdom of Sikkim was consecrated in
the 1641 AD by three learned lamas. The evidence of
the consecration ceremony is still intact in
Norbugang Chorten in the form of stone seats and a
foot print of the Head Lama on the stone. Since the
history of Sikkim began from this place, these areas
are now considered sacred by the people of Sikkim.
Yuksam is served by all weather road from
Pemayangtse, which is at a distance of 32 kms from
Yuksam. The trek to Dzongri and to the base camp of
the famous Mt. Khangchendzonga begins here. |
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Tashiding Monastery
This monastery is constructed on top of a heart
shaped hill with the back drop of the sacred Mt.
Khang-chen-Dzonga. According to Buddhist scriptures,
Guru Padma Sambhava (Guru Rimpoche) blessed the
sacred land of Sikkim in the 8th century AD from the
spot. The monastery, however, was built in the 18th
Century AD by Ngadak Sempa Chempo, one of the three
lamas who had performed the consecration ceremony of
the first Chogyal.
Tashiding is also famous for the most holy chorten
known as 'Thong-Wa-rang-Dol' which literally means 'Saviours
by mere sight'. It is believed that the mere act of
beholding it is supposed to wash away all he sins of
the devotee. Another important feature in Tashiding
is the sacred water festival popularly known as 'Bhumchu'.
It is a religious tradition unique to Tashiding
Monastery only. Every year, on 14th and 15th day of
the first Lunar Month, the Bhumchu Ceremony is
celebrated with devotees coming from far and near to
get the blessing of the holy water. |
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Varsey
It lies at an elevation of 10,000 ft. and has a
motor able road access up to Hilley. An easy 4 kms
trek from there takes one up to the Varsey
Rhododendron Sanctuary. One can also trek from
Soreng or Dentam in West Sikkim. The place provides
a magnificent view of the mountains. Visitors can
halt at 'Guras Kunj' trekkers' hut. |
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Soreng
Soreng is a picturesque village with beautiful
landscape which is about 3 hrs. drive from pelling
and 4 hrs. drive from Melli. A trek to Jhandi Danra
from Soreng is a must to see the various species of
flowers and birds. Hotels and lodges are available
for accommodation. |
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North Sikkim |
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Kabi Lungtsok
24 kms from Gangtok, where the treaty of brotherhood
was signed between the Lepcha chieftain Thekong Tek
and the Bhutia chief Khye Bumsa in the 13th century.
Stone markers were erected to keep the promise
alive. |
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Phodong Monastery
One of the six major monasteries in Sikkim, Phodong
monastery is located in the North approximately 38
kms from Gangtok, 4 kms beyond Phodong is the
recently renovated Labrang Monastery unique in it
architectural design. |
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Singhik
The place offers one of the most spectacular and
closest views of Mt. Khangchendzonga and its ranges.
A well located Tourist Lodge provides accommodation
for visitors. The area also has a number of
interesting short nature trails for 1 to 3 days
along the higher ridges of the higher ridges of the
surrounding hills. One can also savour the most
graceful peak in the world, Mt. Siniolchu. |
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Lachung
The village, spread out on either side of Lachung
Chu, has managed to retain its unique culture and
tradition. The Lachung Monastery on the slope
opposite to the highway is a focal point of all
religious function of the local inhabitants. To get
a glimpse of the religious functions performed on
auspicious occasions a visit to the Monastery should
form a part of the tour itinerary. Lachung lies on
the way to Yumthang Valley as we move from Gangtok.
Yumthang is just 25 kms away. |
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Yumthang
Yumthang, at an elevation of 11,800 ft and 140 kms
from Gangtok is a paradise for nature lovers with a
fascinating blend of flora and fauna and
breathtaking scenic grandeur. The valley boasts a
large variety of Rhododendrons and other alpine
flowers. Yumthang 'Tsa-Chu'or the hot spring of the
left bank of Lachung Chu is immensely popular for
its curative properties and heal- ing power. |
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Lachen
Lachen is situated at an altitude of 2750 mtrs. and
about 6 hrs. drive from Gangtok. The Lachen
Monastery Located on top of the village commands a
panoramic view of the surrounding hills and country
side. Resorts, hotels and lodges are available for
accommodation. |
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Guru-Dongmar Lake
Guru-dongmar lake is considered as one of the sacred
lakes of this State both by the Buddhist and the
Hindus. The lake remains milky in color throughout
and it is believed the Guru Padmasambhava had
touched the lake whilst he visited Tibet from this
area. |
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South Sikkim |
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Namchi
Namchi, meaning 'Sky High', nestled among the hills
at an elevation of 5,500 ft commands panoramic view
of the snow-capped mountains and vast stretches of
valley. Atop Samdruptse hilltop near Namchi,
recently erected is the worlds tallest statue of
Guru Padmasambhava, the patron saint of both Hindus
and the Buddhist. |
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Samdruptse
Samdruptse literally means ‘wish fulfilling hill’ in
the Bhutia language. Situated near Namchi in south
Sikkim it is at a distance of 75 kms from Gangtok. A
unique, awe inspiring gigantic 135 ft. tall statue
of Guru Padmasambhava is one of the tallest statue
of its kind in the world. This statue designed &
constructed under the supervision of Kyabje
Dodrupchen Rimpochee, conceptualized by Shri Pawan
Chamling, the Chief Minister of Sikkim is a glowing
tribute to the patron saint who blessed Sikkim in
the 8th Century & whose teachings permeate the very
ethos of the State. His Holiness the Dalai Lama laid
the foundation stone of the statue on 22nd October
1997.
What started off, as a logistic nightmare is today
the world’s tallest testament of faith. |
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Solophuk
The place is regarded highly sacred by the Hindus &
a gigantic statue of Lord Shiva as equally big as
Guru Padmasambhava’ s statue is coming up. This
place is soon going to be one of the most ideal
points which is a must visit tourist destination as
well as a famous pilgrimage place for the Hindus. |
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Temi Tea Garden
The one and only tea estate existing in the State
produces one of the top quality teas in the
international market. The tea garden is spread out
on a gentle hill slope originating from the Tendong
Hill and provides a magnificent view for the
surrounding villages. The visit to the fact" could
be an eye opener for those wanting to know more
about the tea processing methods.
A night spent in a old British built bungalow
located just below the tea garden could be an
enthralling experience of linking the past to the
present. A visit to the garden, enroute to the
Tendong Hill, could be a rewarding experience for
those who want to combine nature and culture as they
keep trekking.
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Ravangla
At the base of Menam Hill is Ravangla, a small
township and transit to various tourist destinations
in South and West Sikkim. It is also an upcoming
tourist spot, and transit point for trekkers to
Menam Hill and Borong. There are accommodation
facilities and numerous short nature trails. A trek
down to the sacred cave 'Shar Chok Bephu', one of
the four holiest caves in Sikkim, would be a
memorable experience. |
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Menam Hill
Menam Hill towers above Tendong Hill on the other
side over looking the Ravangla Bazar settlement.
Situated at an altitude of 10,300 ft the scenic view
from this height is, perhaps, unmatched in this part
of the world. Mt. Khangchendzonga and its
surrounding ranges looms above the dwarf the richly
forested and rugged hill. On a clear sunny day, it
is possible to see the plains of Bengal spanning
across Kalimpong and Darjeeling Hills in the South,
right across the Indo-China border towards the
North. A short distance away is the legendary Bhaley
Bhunga, a kind of rocky spur which juts out from the
ridge top and remains suspended in the air above
Yangang village. |
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Borong
Facing the snow-capped mountains is Borong, motor
able from Ravangla or a trek via Menam. A
picturesque village, its beautiful landscape and
magnificent view is also host to the hot spring,
Borong TsaChu'. The trek trail, originating from
Namchi or Damthang to Tendong - Ravangla - Menam -
Borong (5-6 days) is one of the most interesting
trails scaling all the hill tops along the route.
The trek can continue to Tashiding or terminate at
Borong and drive back to Ravangla. |
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