Why Sikkim is an Amazing Holiday Destination in India
Sikkim- the land of mystique. One of the smallest states in India, Sikkim is a personification of the phrase ‘good things come in small packages’. Enveloped by the Himalayas, this state happens to be the ideal spot for all kinds of people. Nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, spiritual buffs, everyone.
Here are the reasons why Sikkim should be your next vacation destination.
The picturesque landscape and scenery.
It doesnt require much to say about the tranquillity that this part of the country has to offer, because when you see it, you are to be spellbound for sure. The mountains reach to towering altitudes and are a beautiful combination of shades of green and blue. Apart from the conventional sightseeing, ask your cabbie to take you through the road that connects Rumtek Monastery to Ranka Monastery and be sure to be dumbstruck by the beauty of this stretch, lush green maize fields, the unrivalled art of terrace farming which adds a landscaping definition to the hills otherwise plain and green.
Cuisine
The cuisine of North-East is always tad different than the rest of the country. You must try the delectable palette of flavours that Sikkim has to offer, and brownie points to your taste buds if you are a non-vegetarian. From dishes ranging from momos (dumplings)or Syabhaleys(deep fried meat filled pie) to steaming bowls of Thukpa (soupy noodles with vegetables or meat), or Piro Aloo Dum(Hot and spicy Dum Aloo) and Sel Roti, the cuisine of Sikkim caters to the taste buds of any adventurous foodie and would prove to be a paradise of flavours for him.
Adventure Sports
Though relatively at a nascent stage in Sikkim, for the ones who require a trigger for the adrenaline rush, Sikkim has a host of adventure sports to offer that will leave you hungry for more thrill. Trekking, Mountain Biking, River Rafting, Kayaking, Paragliding, you name it and we have it served for you. The official website of tourism and civil aviation provides an insight into the various options available here.
History and Demographics
Not many people know that Sikkim was originally a separate country, a monarchy, ruled by the Namgyal Dynasty, and then a British protectorate and finally the 22nd Indian state in the year 1975. With the history, the ethnicity may also intrigue the travellers who are inquisitive. There are a total of 11 languages spoken in this state apart from Hindi and English. Nepali is the official language and the sight of such varied culture that are immensely colourful and diverse is a treat to the eyes in itself.
Temi Tea Estate
Nathu la
Gurundongmar Lake
This fresh water lake situated at the northern part of the state is one of the highest in the world. Though relatively new to travellers, it is a marvel in itself. It is the source of the river Teesta that flows through the state of Sikkim. It remains frozen over a period of 5 months from Dec-May every year. If you are of the adventurous and enduring kind, plan a trek to this part of the state.