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Time Business News
26-06-2025
- Time Business News
Sikkim Tourism Guide for Nature, Culture, and Peace Seekers
Sikkim, tucked in the northeast of India, offers a rare balance of nature, culture, and calm. With its high-altitude lakes, ancient monasteries, and green valleys, Sikkim Tourism has grown steadily among travelers who prefer raw beauty and depth over commercial hotspots. It's a region where every road leads to a story—be it of snow peaks, prayer flags, or age-old traditions. What makes Sikkim Tourism stand out is not just the place but the pace. Unlike crowded tourist zones, Sikkim still holds its identity. Whether you're a solo traveler seeking silence, a photographer chasing Himalayan sunrises, or a family looking to spend slow days in nature—Sikkim fits. The people are warm, the food is simple yet rich, and the environment breathes purity. You can reach Sikkim via Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri railway station in West Bengal, followed by a road journey. The new Pakyong Airport near Gangtok has also made access smoother. The best months to visit are from March to June and from late September to December. Winters turn the higher regions icy and magical, while spring dresses the land in blooms. Gangtok is the state's capital and the primary hub for Sikkim Tourism. It's not just a base for other destinations, but a blend of tradition and modernity. You can walk the MG Road without being chased by vendors, visit monasteries like Rumtek and Enchey, and sip butter tea in a quiet café—all in one day. Gangtok is clean, disciplined, and rich with charm that sticks. Lachung, Yumthang Valley, and Gurudongmar Lake form the soul of North Sikkim. These areas demand permits due to their proximity to international borders, but the extra steps are worth it. Gurudongmar, one of the world's highest lakes, remains frozen for most of the year and reflects a stillness that's hard to put into words. Lachung is a sleepy village with wooden homes and whispers of the past. The journey to these places is bumpy, slow, and often unpredictable—but that's what gives it value. Sikkim Tourism here is less about comfort and more about presence. South Sikkim attracts fewer tourists but holds some of the most important cultural sites. Namchi, the district headquarters, has the massive statue of Guru Padmasambhava on Samdruptse Hill. Temi Tea Garden, the state's only tea estate, offers walks among rolling hills and green rows that seem painted on the land. For those interested in religious history, Char Dham and the Siddheswar Dham complex in Namchi blend pilgrimage and architecture with quiet hill views. If Sikkim Tourism has a spiritual side, it resides in West Sikkim. Pelling, a small town, is home to Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest and most revered in the region. From here, the views of Kanchenjunga—India's second-highest peak—are breathtaking on clear mornings. Khecheopalri Lake, sacred to both Buddhists and Hindus, lies quietly in this region. The lake is never allowed to be disturbed; even leaves are said to be swept away by birds. This region teaches patience and rewards it with depth. The famous Tsomgo Lake (Changu Lake) and Nathu La Pass to the China border fall under East Sikkim. These spots are frequently visited under Sikkim Tourism due to their iconic status and easy reach from Gangtok. Tsomgo Lake changes color with seasons—sometimes blue, sometimes icy white. Nathu La, if open to tourists on specific days, is a reminder of Sikkim's location at the edge of India. The crisp air and waving flags make these spots more than just checkpoints—they are landmarks of pride. Sikkim's food is clean, local, and deeply influenced by its geography. You'll find dishes like Phagshapa (pork with radish), gundruk soup (fermented leafy greens), and the famous momo served at street corners and homestays alike. The food here tells a story—of highlands, resourcefulness, and community. The cultural blend of Lepchas, Bhutias, and Nepalese communities gives Sikkim Tourism its emotional tone. Festivals like Losar (Tibetan New Year), Pang Lhabsol (honoring the mountain guardian), and Tihar (like Diwali) are all celebrated with spirit. Due to its proximity to international borders, Sikkim requires permits for many regions, especially for non-Indian nationals. The Protected Area Permit (PAP) and Inner Line Permit (ILP) are handled easily by tour operators and government counters. What adds true value to Sikkim Tourism is the state's approach to conservation. Plastic is banned. Homestays are encouraged over large hotels. Locals participate in every aspect of tourism—from guiding to cooking. As a traveler, it's essential to match that respect. Avoid litter, stay with locals when possible, and engage rather than consume. No trip through Sikkim Tourism is complete without stopping at local markets. The Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom in Gangtok is a great place to understand and buy local crafts—thangkas (painted scrolls), wool carpets, carved wooden tables, and handmade paper products. Rural weekly markets in smaller towns are also treasure troves. Instead of souvenirs, you'll find hand-woven items, organic honey, and pickles passed through generations. Monasteries in Sikkim are more than religious structures—they're silent keepers of time. Rumtek Monastery, the largest, is colorful and calm. Enchey Monastery sits close to Gangtok but feels miles away from noise. Tashiding Monastery, in the west, requires a small trek but the quiet at the top is worth it. Each monastery has chants, murals, and incense that wrap you in a feeling both warm and humbling. Spiritual tourism is not a buzzword here—it's woven into daily life. Though it's often seen as a calm destination, Sikkim Tourism also includes rugged treks and river thrills. The Goechala Trek is popular among serious hikers—it takes you close to Kanchenjunga and through dense forests, rhododendron trails, and alpine lakes. White-water rafting on the Teesta River and paragliding near Gangtok are available for those looking for action. Mountain biking, especially in the South and West districts, is slowly growing. One of the strongest pillars of Sikkim Tourism is its village homestay movement. Places like Dzongu (a Lepcha reserve), Yuksom, and Kewzing offer stays with local families. These homes may not offer room service, but they give you priceless conversations, homemade food, and insight into real life in the hills. Waking up to wood-fired kitchens, stepping out to fields, and sitting on wooden porches under starry skies—that's what many find more memorable than hotel stays. Sikkim is India's first fully organic state. No chemical fertilizers, no pesticides. From cabbage to cardamom, what grows here is clean and cared for. The government has strict rules against deforestation and plastic use. Solar lights, composting toilets, and rainwater harvesting are becoming common, even in villages. These efforts make Sikkim Tourism sustainable—not just in brochures but in action. As a visitor, supporting this effort by traveling light and shopping local helps sustain what makes the place special. The real essence of Sikkim Tourism isn't captured in one destination or picture. It's felt when you walk slow, eat slow, and listen more than you speak. It's in the wind chimes at a monastery gate, in the eyes of a smiling yak herder, and in the silent snow that falls on a remote trail. This is not a place to tick off a list. It's a place to pause. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
23-06-2025
- Time Business News
Travel Smart in Sikkim, India: What Every First-Time Visitor Needs to Know!
Going on board with this magnificent adventure in Sikkim will require you to look at the exciting things for you to explore! Sikkim is an invitation for travellers to pause a little and experience the moments while the heart meets the soul, amidst soaring mountain peaks and whispering pines. Here you can feel and hear the timeless chants of the monks from the ancient monasteries, a gentle rhythm in the lives of the locals residing in the quaint villages, and the misty valleys wanting to tell numerous stories. So, whether you plan to explore Sikkim all on your own or join one of the finely curated Sikkim Tour Packages , you will be left with countless memories and multiple delightful snapshots of Sikkim. Let this detailed guide be the lantern for a soulful adventure and a memorable journey. Discover the most loved Sikkim tour packages—handpicked by locals, trusted by real travelers, and recommended by Sikkim is nestled in Northeastern India, nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayas, with the stunning beauty of the alpine forests and enriched with its cultures. It stands tall and fearless and boasts of its scenic landscapes, lush green forests, and cascading waterfalls, which will surely captivate the souls of nature lovers. This amazing state in India shares its borders with neighbouring countries like Bhutan to the north, Nepal to the west, and West Bengal to the south of Sikkim. Although this state is considered mong the smallest states in India, it stunns visitor with its exquisite diversity, reflected in their intricate handicrafts to dramatic natural landscapes. This draws tourists from all across the globe to cherish this beauty! Sikkim is predominantly mountainous, which is located at a height of 920 ft above sea level, surrounded by alpine forests and lush meadows, which pave the way towards a subtropical woodland. The seamless union of the highland greenery with rugged terrains at the peaks adds character to Sikkim's unique features. The journey to this visually stunning and serene land in the northern part of India is extremely scenic, just like the destination itself! Here is a little info about your travel to this mountain paradise: You can reach Sikkim by train, road, or flight. All the major cities across India are directly connected to Siliguri, either by rail to NJP or Bagdogra airport. By Air There is limited availability of flights to Pakyong Airport, which is the nearest airport to Sikkim. So, you can always consider the best alternative, which is Bagdogra Airport, just about 140 km away from Sikkim and takes about 5 hours to reach via NH 10. By Rail The closest railway station to Sikkim is NJP, which connects all major Indian states. It is nearly 137 km from NJP to Sikkim via NH 10 and takes about 5 hours to reach the destination. By Road You can travel to Sikkim from Siliguri, Kalimpong and Darjeeling by accessing it by road. The distance between Siliguri and Sikkim is 130.7 km, which takes nearly 4 hours and 35 minutes, via NH 10. From Darjeeling, the distance covered to reach Sikkim is approx. 75 km, via Nayabazaar-Legship-Rishi Rd, which takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes to reach. You can either hire readily available private cabs, state-run vehicles or get on a shared vehicle to reach Sikkim. Are you still wondering when to pack your bags for a perfect visit to Sikkim? Come, let us help you pick the best time to visit this dreamy destination! Sikkim wears a different charm in each season, as experienced while wandering through the winding trails and quaint yet vibrant villages of Sikkim. But if you are someone who is chasing a magnificent sight of crimson rhododendron blossoms in Yumthang Valley, with stunning views of the mountain peaks on a clear cobalt-blue sky, March to May, which is the Spring season, is best for you. The autumn season, from September to November, is also another great time for you to plan a trip to Sikkim if you wish to capture the vibrant autumn foliage, and feel the crisp autumn wind against your skin, with splendid verdant mountain views with specks of now dust on them. However, winter months from December to February turn very cold in this region, and so is the Monsoon season from July to August, causing roadblocks and threatening tourist safety. So, it is advised to avoid any travel plans during these 2 seasons. From iconic monasteries to hidden valleys, this Northeastern state of India is filled with a treasure trove of wonderful places, waiting to be explored. Sikkim also gifts its tourists with another very fascinating experience, the 'ultimate end of the road' experience, with soul-stirring panoramic views. The soul of the majestic Himalayas gets unveiled while you explore these top places around Sikkim, which are simply scintillating and indeed carry a unique charm of their own! Let's explore the best places in Sikkim: North Sikkim North Sikkim is filled with rugged landscapes which meet the heavenly heights. This side of Sikkim is a soul-stirring escape into the beauty of the Himalayas and will mesmerise you with its dramatic and vast landscapes, with mountainous and rugged terrain. The climate here is unpredictable due to its varying altitude. The entire North Sikkim is filled with alpine meadows. The experience of a unique culture and raw natural beauty quenches the thirst of travellers. The major attractions of North Sikkim are- Gurudongmar Lake, Lachen, Lachung, Yumthang Valley, and Zero Point. South Sikkim South Sikkim is indeed a paradise with its tranquil monasteries, lush tea gardens and gentle hills, with its serenity whispering through nature for all nature and cultural enthusiasts, welcoming visitors with its utmost serenity and lush greenery. This region of Sikkim is more inclined towards spirituality, besides unveiling the beauty of nature. South Sikkim has diversity to offer, from the serenity of the monasteries to the thrills of the adventurous activities and uncovers the stories buried in history. The major attractions of South Sikkim are Ravangla, Namchi, Samdruptse, Maenam Hill and Temi Tea Garden. East Sikkim The Eastern region of Sikkim is a getaway to the charm of Sikkim's capital, with a right mix of chaos, culture and calm and welcomes you with a unique blend of natural beauty with modernity, making it stand out from the rest due to its versatility and blend of natural beauty, like the stunning high-altitude spots on the one side, with, great shopping spots and gorgeous monasteries on the other. The major attractions of East Sikkim are Nathula Pass, Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake, Zuluk, Yumthang Valley, Rumtek Monastery and Baba Mandir. West Sikkim West of Sikkim is tucked in its heritage and wrapped in the magic of the mountains, with stories from the past meet the panoramic views and boasts of its majestic landscapes, prominent historical places and elegant cultural significance and heritage, alongside the quaint villages. The west of Sikkim is also a great region for trek bases for Goechala. The major attractions of West Sikkim are: Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, Skywalk in Pelling, Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary and Khecheopalri Lake. Sikkim is a perfect mix of natural beauty, amazing thrills and rich cultural heritage, besides the action-packed activities, making it one of the most-visited tourist places, where you will feel tranquillity blending seamlessly with adrenaline! Take a quick look at this list of Things to do, for a wonderful experience at this gorgeous destination! Trek through the Scenic Trails To experience and witness the resplendent view of the entire Himalayan range, you can embark on the Goechala or Dzongri trek, experiencing the scenic trails. Explore Monasteries You must visit the Tashiding, Rumtek and Pemayangsta monasteries to soak in their tranquillity and acknowledge the architectural geniuses of these iconic spots, besides the splendid view of nature. Relax amidst serenity in Yumthang Valley Yumthang Valley is a great and must-visit place for tourists, especially during the spring season, when the rhododendron blossoms in this 'Valley of Flowers' fill the valley with a burst of vibrant crimson hue Soak in the Hot Spring You cannot miss out on visiting the hot spring in Yumthang or Reshi to gain a natural wellness experience, amidst the tranquillity of nature. Witness the scintillating beauty of Gurudongmar Lake This Gurudongmar Lake is situated close to the Indo-China border, at a high altitude, which is considered sacred by both the locals and tourists, and exudes scintillating beauty. Experience the thrilling Cable Car Ride Enjoy the thrills while gliding over the bustling local markets and capturing the sweeping panoramic views of the entire Kanchenjunga range, which unfolds gradually like an artist's masterpiece. This feeling of soaring high above the vibrant cityscape of Gangtok is indeed unmissable! Shopping Haul around Sikkim The enchanting beauty and serenity come alive not just by exploring the scenic beauty, but also with a great shopping haul, which cannot be missed out when in Sikkim. Here is a short list of all the popular marketplaces to get your hands on some of the most unique items or souvenirs from Sikkim The local cuisine of Sikkim is a great blend of Nepali, Tibetan and Indigenous flavours- they are simple, delicious, heart, and above all, unforgettable! Steamy Momo This is almost like a national dish, popular across India. Tourists flock to local stores to taste these steamy dumplings, with veggies or meat fillings and served with hot and spicy chutney. Thukpa When exploring Sikkim on chilly evenings, you can get your hands on a comforting bowl of steaming noodle soup with minced veggies or meat. Gundruk This dish is popular for its tangy flavour, where the leafy greens are fermented and often served with rice. Phagshapa This is a spicy delight of Sikkim and a favourite among the non-vegetarians, where the pork is cooked with dried chillies and radish. Sel Roti This is a deep-fried, crispy rice flour ring, which is at times sweetened and paired with tea. This is made on special occasions. Chhurpi This is a traditional Himalayan cheese, which is hardened into chewable snacks. This is a great snack to carry back home! Sikkim cannot be just understood as a destination, and exploring it is not just on the checklist; it is a whole new experience and a feeling, an experience that stays with you for a lifetime! This trip allows your heart to wander through its elegance and beauty, and carry the essence of the majestic Himalayas like a gem with you in your heart. So, breathe deep and go slow to enjoy every moment spent in Sikkim, while you listen to the humming of the cascading waterfalls, whispering of the mountains and the warmth in the hospitality of the locals. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
New Indian Express
03-06-2025
- Climate
- New Indian Express
NDRF team evacuates 34 people from landslide hit Chhaten by helicopters
Thirty-four people were evacuated from landslide hit Chhaten in North Sikkim on Tuesday, officials said. Two MI-17 V5 helicopters completed the evacuation mission landing safely at Pakyong Airport near here with 34 people on board, officials said. A team of 23 NDRF personnel has joined the operation to rescue six soldiers missing after a landslide hit an Army camp in North Sikkim. The NDRF team is equipped with satellite phones and essential emergency equipment. A landslide, triggered by heavy rainfall struck the Army camp at Chaten in Sikkim's Lachen area on Sunday at around 7 PM. Three personnel were killed, and four others were rescued with minor injuries. Six other soldiers have been reported missing, officials added. The NDRF team will aid in evacuation, rescue and the establishment of temporary communication lines. The authorities have issued directives to explore alternate foot-access routes and assess the feasibility of helipad operations, depending on prevailing weather conditions.
