Sikkim

Nestled in the eastern Himalayas, Sikkim is one of India’s most scenic and peaceful states — a place of lofty mountains, pristine lakes, rich biodiversity, and a deep-rooted spiritual atmosphere. Sharing borders with Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet, it offers a harmonious blend of cultures and a strong Buddhist influence that reflects in its monasteries, festivals, and daily life. Dominated by the snow-capped Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak, Sikkim’s landscapes range from alpine meadows to dense forests and flowering valleys. Destinations like the sacred Gurudongmar Lake, the glacial Tsomgo Lake, and Yumthang Valley, famous for its springtime rhododendrons, are simply breathtaking. The capital Gangtok is a lively yet serene city with bustling markets, cafés, and cultural spots. Visitors can explore grand monasteries like Rumtek, Pemayangtse, and Tashiding, or seek adventure through trekking along the Dzongri-Goecha La trail, paragliding, yak rides, or river rafting in the Teesta. Sikkim’s cuisine is influenced by Nepali, Tibetan, and Bhutia traditions. Popular dishes include phagshapa (pork with radish), gundruk, kinema, thukpa, and momos, often paired with the local millet-based drink, tongba. The state’s cultural heartbeat lies in festivals like Losar, Saga Dawa, and Tihar, celebrated with prayer, colour, and dance. The best time to explore Sikkim is between March to June and September to December, when skies are clear, flowers bloom, and the mountains are at their most photogenic. With its peaceful rhythm, natural beauty, and commitment to sustainability, Sikkim leaves visitors refreshed, inspired, and deeply moved.