The tiny appendix of India, Sikkim, the mountain state, insinuates itself into the Eastern Himalayas between Nepal in the West, Tibet (People’s Republic of China) in the North and East, Bhutan in the South-East and West Bengal in the South.

Although only 112 kms length from north to south and 64 kms width from east to west, the elevation ranges from 244 meters to over 8540 meters above sea level. Sikkim has an area of 7096 sq.kms. On the world map it is just a speck with approximate latitude of 27 North and longitude of 88 East.

Sikkim encompasses the upper valley of the Tista river, a tributary of the Brahmaputra. The watershed forms the border with Tibet and Nepal. The Rangit and Rangpo rivers form the border with West Bengal. Tista and Rangit forms the main channel of drainage and their chief tributaries are generally not less than 5000 ft in depth, which is the main reason for all the monasteries and principal villages to be situated at an elevation ranging from 4000 to 6000 fts. The Singalila Range separates Sikkim from Nepal to the West and the Dongkya Range forms the border in the North and Northeast. In the East the Chumbi valley lies between Sikkim and Bhutan. On its Western side is the massive 31 km long Zemu glacier.

The most dominant feature of Sikkim is Mount Khangchendzonga – the Guardian deity of Sikkim – being the third highest mountain in the world, soaring to the height of 28,168 feet. Khangchendzonga means the ‘Five Treasures of the Great Snows’. According to Sikkimese belief it is the repository of minerals, grain, salt, weapons and Holy Scriptures. Khangchendzonga is considered to be the protective deity- the Mother Goddess. It’s blasphemous for climbers even to set foot on the summit. Some of the other important and venerable peaks are Tendong (8675 ft) Siniolchu, Mainam (10637 ft), Simvo, Goechala (16500 ft), Narsing, Donkiari (20250 ft), Kabru, Pandim (22020 ft), Pyramid Peak and Nepal Peak. Most of the peaks of Sikkim have remained unexplored as the Sikkimese consider them sacred and feel that they will lose their sanctity if climbed. Besides these peaks, there are various passes namely, Bhutanla (13000 ft), Jelepla (14390 ft) and Nathula (14400 ft) in the east, Chiwabhangjyang (10300 ft) and Kangla in the West, Kongrala in the north and Donkiala (18100 ft).

Prayer flags fly at lakes, springs, glaciers and waterfalls. They are deemed to be sacred. Notable lakes are Tsomgo, Khechopalri, Menmecho, Samiti, Lampokhari and green lake. Sikkim has many hot springs known for their medicinal value – important ones are located at Reshi, Ralang and Yumthang. Some glaciers in Sikkim are Zemu, Rathong and Lonak.

The theocratic view of the Sikkimese universe revolves around the landscape.

Sikkimese terrain range from tropical rain forest to alpine tundra. Along the high altitude routes, temperatures can dip below freezing at night – even during summer – while daytime can bring prolonged showers. Sikkim is basically divided into three zones, namely-Tropical (5000 ft above sea level), temperate (5000 to 1300 ft) and alpine, the perpetual snowline at 16000 ft. Flat land is a rarity.

Sikkim is one of the wettest regions of the Himalayas. It has the same seasonal rainfall pattern, dominated by the monsoon, as the rest of the Eastern Himalayas. Total rainfall is more than 3000 mm. Avoid monsoon season, late June through early August. Travellers will enjoy better weather and more consistent views in the fall.

Most of Sikkim does not experience high intensity winds. However, at many hilltops and passes, winds having high speeds blow and sometimes during winters, they blow up ice particles causing blizzards.

Altitudes have influenced vegetations; aspect and rainfall have influenced vegetation. In the lowest parts there is Wet sal (Shorea Robusta) forest with 660 species of orchids, and the well know ones are Cymbidium Vanda, Hookeriana, Cattaleya, Nobile, Farmeri and Dendrobium Amoenum. The Nobile is prized all over the world. Bamboos of 20 species are also found here. This gives way to tropical evergreen mountain and rain forests where 240 species of ferns . 35 species of Rhododendrons (the most popular ones are Rhododendron Grande, 40 feet tall, and Rhododendron Nivale, few inches above the ground), gladioli, epiphytes, bamboo, cherry, oak, alurel, birch, maple, beech, walnut, chestnut, giant magnolia, conifers and pines up to the tree line at 3600 – 4200 m are found. The alpine forests, 3900-5000 m are characterized by such beautiful flowering plants as primulas, gentians, blue poppies and wild strawberry, raspberry and rhubarb. Sikkim has a very dense forest with 4000 species of plants, being a botanist’s delight and a naturalist’s paradise.

The animal and bird life is correspondingly rich with 81 species of mammals, 6000 species of birds and 631 species of butterflies. Sikkim has a vast range of fauna, the important ones being Snow leopards, wild asses and Yaks in the North, Himalayan Black bears, Blue sheep, Red pandas, Silver foxes, Mongoose, Leopards, Musk, Barking deer, common langur, Flying squirrel, Civet and marbled cats in the tropical forests. A rare animal, the ‘Shapi’ inhabits the alpine region. The bird life is also rich with Pheasants, Teals, Partridges, Cuckoos, babblers, bearded vulture, Olive ground Wabler, emerald dove, fairly blue bird, Kingfisher, ashy wood pecker, Sultan tit, and thrushes among many others. The rivers have salmon, trout, carp and many others 45 varieties of fishes. There are 40 species of reptiles in Sikkim, which include various types of lizard and snakes like the grass snake, the krait and the cobra.

Amidst the grandeur of the mountain peaks, lush valleys, fast – flowing rivers, terraced hills, Sikkim offers her visitors a rare and singular experience.

Sikkimese are fond of their ‘Chhang’ – a preparation from fermented millet. The drink is served in bamboo container with a hollow bamboo pipe. It is the unofficial national drink.

Sikkim – the last Shangri-La – and the land of endless passion are wrapped in mists and clouds. Within a matter of hours one can move from the sub-tropical heat of the lower valley to the cold of the rugged mountain slopes that reach up to the areas of perpetual snow.

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SOCIAL INDIACTORS – SIKKIM

POPULATION	406457

COMMUNITIES	Nepalese, Bhutias, Lepchas, Christians, Muslims and few others

LANGUAGES SPOKEN	Nepali, Bhutia, Lepcha, English and Hindi

RELIGION	Hindu-67%, Buddhist-29%, Christian-2%, Muslim-1%, others-1%.

ANNUAL RAINFALL	325 cm per annum

CLIMATE	Summer – Max-20.7 C, Min – 13.1 C Winter – Max –14.9 C, Min – 7.7 C

CLOTHING	Summer – Light woollens and Cotton Winter – Heavy woollens.

BEST SEASON	From Mid-February to late May and from October to December

STATE ANIMAL	Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens)

STATE BIRD	Blood Pheasant (Ithanginis Cruentus)

STATE FLOWER	Nobile Orchid (Dendrobium Nobile)

STATE TREE	Rhododendron (Rhododendron Niveum)

CASH CROPS	Cardamom, Ginger, Potatoes

CERAEL CROPS	Rice, Maize, Millet, Barley, Wheat

FRUITS	Orange and Apple

MINERALS	Copper, Dolomite, Lead, Zinc, Coal, Iron Ore, Garnet, Graphite, Pyrites and Marble are mined. There are also high-grade reserves of gold and silver

CAPITAL	GANGTOK

NO OF ASSEMBLY	32 (For 32 Constituencies)

NO OF LOK SABHA SEATS	1 SEAT

NO OF RAJYA SABHA SEATS	1 SEAT

Districts	Headquarters	Altitude

East	Gangtok	5500 ft.
West	Gyalshing	5200 ft.
North	Mangan	4800 ft.
South	Namchi	4600 ft.

GANGTOK – Perched atop a ridge at a height of 1574 mts above sea level as a perfect symbol of the confluence of the past and present – Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, which today is a busy town bustling with hectic activity, overlooking the Ranipool river. It’s means ‘High Hill.’ Gangtok only became the capital in the mid 1800s (previous capitals were at Yuksom and Rabdentse).

Besides the captivating scenic beauty around the hills and dales of Gangtok , there are many places of interest for the tourist to savour.

Gangtok has delightful blends of turquoise roof tops in the shape of pagoda style, colourful parks, lively bazaar in the centre surrounded by hills harmoniously blended into the serenity of the distance and with the majestic Khangchendzonga looking into the horizon to provide it a magnificent view. Gangtok has its own charm, which serves as a perfect base for exploring Sikkim

BASICS OF GANGTOK

ALTITUDE : 1574 MTS.

STD CODE : 03592

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PEOPLE

The population of Sikkim comprises mainly of three ethnic communities, namely Lepchas, Bhutias and Nepalis, who intermingle freely to constitute a homogenous blend. Besides these there are other communities also who have come from the plains and are mainly involved in business and government services.

LEPCHAS They were pacifist forest foragers who worshipped mountains, river and nature spirits. They constitute only 13% of the total population of Sikkim.

BHUTIAS Religion forms the main thread in the fabric life of the Sikkimese. Nearly every Bhutia family has one family member who became monk. Traditionally the priesthood was regarded as the intellectual as well as spiritual elite. They constitute 16% of the total population of Sikkim.

NEPALESE They are a people with a natural gaiety; their culture and customs are as fascinating as the surroundings in which they live. They account for 67% of the total population of Sikkim.

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HOW TO GET THERE AND AWAY

>BY AIR - Nearest Airport is Bagdogra in North Bengal, which is 124 kms, and approximately 5 hours drive from Gangtok. Bagdogra has regular scheduled India Airlines Service from Calcutta and Delhi and also the north East. Private Airlines also operate in this sector. Indian Airlines has an agency at Tibet road, Gangtok which is open from Monday to Saturday during 10.00a.m to 4.30 p.m. Sunday closed.

>BY RAIL - The two closest railway stations to Gangtok are Siliguri junction, 114 kms away and New Jalpaiguri, 126 kms, away that have direct connections with Calcutta, Delhi and the North East states. Reservations: Sikkim Nationalized Transport for transport to stations. Is open form 10.00 AM to 2.30 PM from Monday to Saturday; Sunday closed.

>BY ROAD - Gangtok is connected by road with Darjeeling 139 km, Kalimpong 81 km, Siliguri and other centres, and also with all the District Headquarters within Sikkim. Sikkim nationalized Transport runs a special snow Lion bus services from Bagdogra to Gangtok 124 Kms. Private buses, jeep and taxis also operate from Bagdogra to Gangtok.

Sikkim Nationalized Transport provides buses while local jeeps and taxis are also available; they all do ply from Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Siliguri to and from Gangtok.

Entry Formalities:

All foreigners intending to visit Sikkim requires Inner Line Permit. They can avail 15 days Inner Line Permit from following office after furnishing requisite document.

(1) India Missions abroad along with Indian Visa.

(2) Sikkim Tourism offices at Delhi, Calcutta, Siliguri or Rangpo

(3) Darjeeling, from District Magistrate office, Govt of W.B.

Permits:

Domestic and foreign tourist requires permits to go to Tsomgo Lake, Yumthang and Dzongri as these fall into Restricted Area. For Domestic the Permit are issued by Superintendent of Police (Check Post Division) of Sikkim Police Department, Gangtok.

For the Foreigners additional Permit is given by Tourism Department, Govt of Sikkim for a group consisting of not less than 2 members. However these formalities are managed the Travel Agents with whom the clients have booked.

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TREKKING

Sikkim beckons adventurers, explorers and holidaymakers for a more encounter of its natural beauty. There are wild range of itineraries, tailored to suit your budget and time. The ideal time to go trekking is mid February to late May and between October and mid December. The monsoon period between June and September and the cold and harsh winter months are between Decembers to February.

No technical climbing experience is necessary as most of the treks are between 6000 & 14000 ft. All one needs is to be in fit shape before taking the journey.

Foreigners must make up a group of four persons at least before applying for a permit for trekking.

While trekking, added attraction are that “Dzos” (cross between cow and a yak) will carry your gear along with the porters.

RIVER RAFTING

River rafting tours are organized on the Tista and Rangit rivers. The Tista Experience takes you rafting from Makha down to Sirwani and Bardam to Rangpo. The Rangit Expedition is from Sikip to Jorethang, Naya Bazar and from Majhitar to Melli.

Beginners as well as experience adventurers can seek the assistance of our company “MARCOPOLO WORLD TRAVELS” for arranging rive rafting trips.

For foreign tourist only, passport details, Indian visa and a photocopy of the Sikkim in a line permit plus two passport size photograph are required 24 hours prior to your river trip to obtain a river permit.

Booking should be made one day prior to departure.

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DANCES OF SIKKIM

1. ZO MAL LOK - This is a popular folk dance of the Lepcha community depicting the sowing, reaping and harvesting of paddy. Farming folks, mostly relatives and friends of every family - the old and young folk alike – join hands in the process if singing and dancing - a merrymaking spree.

2 CHU FAAT - This age-old folk dance of Lepchas is performed in honour of the Mount Khangchendzonga and its four associate peaks, Mt.Pandim, Mt. Kabru, Mt. Simbrum and Mt. Narshing. These five snowy peaks are believed to be the repository of five hidden treasures such as Salt, Medicine, Minerals, Sacred books and Food grains. Carrying butter lamps and green bamboo leaves, the dancers perform this ritualistic dance with the devotional songs. It is performed on the fifteenth day of the devotional songs. It is performed on the fifteenth day of the seventh month of the Northern Buddhist calendar every year.

3. KAR GNOK LOK- or literally meaning “Dance of Swans” is a famous Lepcha folk dance which depicts the sojourn of a group of migratory swans who take a flight from the warm plains towards the cold Himalayan region in the month of February/March and from cold region to the warm plain in the month of October/November. The seasonal migratory flight of these swans guide the Lepchas top begins sowing and harvesting their crops.

4. DHARMA JO - This is a popular folk dance of Lepcha community depicting the harvesting season.

5. MON DRYAK LOK - It is a Lepcha hunting dance who are supposed to be skilled hunters. They never kill the wild animals and birds for pleasure. Their hunting approach is highly ritualistic. This dance depicts Lepcha’s hunting approach style carrying bows and arrows as their weapons.

6. TENDONG HLO FAAT- It is a Lepcha folklore, which is often retold to the new generation in lyrical poetry. This folklore corresponds to the divine occurrences as described in the Indian Vedas ‘Matsya Purana’ and in Bible as the ‘Great Flood’.

7. MUN HAIT LOK- It is a ritualistic Lepcha folk dance performed by both male and female to the accompaniment of devotional hymns. This dance depicts the’ Mun’ or the Witch doctor performing the age-old ritualistic dance.

8. TASHI SHABDO- This age-old dance depicts the custom of offering scarves on auspicious occasions. Young boys and girls perform this dance carrying snow-white scarves in their hands, which is a symbol of purity, peace and prosperity.

9. YAK CHAAM- This dance depicts the yak and projects the simple life style of the herdsman in the mountains.

10. SINGHI CHAAM-The associate five peaks of the scared Mount Khangchendzonga looks like the legendary snow lion, which is considered an important cultural symbol of the State and is elaborately depicted in the Singhi Chaam or the Snow Lion Dance.

11. TALACHI - It is fabled that a king once lost his favourite horse. A search party was sent to look for the royal steed. As they proceed along the solitary path amidst hills and forests, the searchers sang lively songs and danced ending the monotony of their long sojourn.

12 LU KHANGTHAMO- It is dedicated to this day – a day of thanks giving to all Gods and deities of the three worlds, Heaven, Earth and Hell. This age old folk dance is performed regularly by the young and old folk alike in their traditional customs and ornaments accompanied by the pleasing song and music on the occasion like warming and New Year celebrations. It is a Bhutia folk dance.

13. GHA TO KITO- It is a song cum dance which describes all about the treasures of Sikkim like Mount Khangchendzonga and the snow covered Himalayan ranges, rhododendrons and primulas, holy places, caves ad minerals. It is a Bhutia folk dance.

14. BE YUL MISTA-It is a popular Bhutia fold dance. Performed in praise of Sikkim by group of males and females with pleasing songs and prayers.

15. CHI RIMU-It is a popular Bhutia fold dance, performed in praise of Sikkim by young and old folks. This dance is a regular feature in every happy occasion, when Bhutias express reverence to great to great teachers and sacred places of worship.

16. RECHUNGMA-It is typical Sikkimese dance performed during the happy occasions like childbirth, marriage and other social gatherings, offer paying their sincere thanks to the god for his blessings.

17. GNUNGMALA GNUNGSHEY- It is a typical Bhutia fold dance performed in praise, by both male and female to the accompaniment of devotional hymns and song of the multi purpose majestic bamboos, describing its use.

18. TASHI ZALDHA-It is a dance depicting the Bhutia custom of offering scarves, performed by boys and girls.

19. TAMANG SELO-This dance popularly known, as ‘Damphoo Dance’ is a Nepali folk dance patronized by the Tamangs. Dampoo is the traditional musical instrument of the Tamangs. It is always full of fun and vigour and the brisk movement and rhythmic beat of the Dampoo depicts a style peculiar to the Tamangs. It is performed on occasions like marriage ceremony, childbirth and village fairs etc.

20. SEBRU NAACH- This dance depicts the life – style of the Sherpas, who are very fond of songs and dances. Their songs include praises for the colourful flora and fauna and the breath taking scenic beauty of the Himalayan ranges.

21. MARUNI-It is one of the oldest and most popular dances of the Nepalese, always performed by young girls embellished with colourful costumes and rich ornaments. It is performed on the occasion of ‘Dewali’ or ‘Tyohar’ which is celebrated as the ‘Festival of lights’. The maruni dancers play a musical visit from house to house singing and dancing, invoking the blessing of Gods and Goddesses on the houses they visit. There is also a presence of man called ‘Dhatu – Waray’ who acts as a court jester wearing funny masks and awkward clothes. The movement of traditional flavour, elegance and expression till today.

22. SORATHI- This dance is an exclusive possession of the Gurungs. In the olden times it is said that one of the Gurung Kings had 1600 queens, but had no heir. In despair, he then started snatching valuable ornaments from his queens and sold them for his earthly pleasure. This dance depicts how the poor queens express their grievances.

23. CHYAP BRUNG-It is Limboo’s traditional musical instrument. The dancers hang the ‘Chyap-brungs’ around their necks and beat the drum with an open palm on one side and with a stick on the other side. This manoeuvres produces two different sounds. In this fashion, groups of Limboos or Subba men dance executing delicate and complicated footwork son the hypnotic beats of the Chyap-Brung. It is song less dance, which is only rhythmic music. In this age-old fold dance the Limboo dancers depict graceful movements of wild animals and birds.

24. MAJHI NAACH-It is folk dance of the majhis or the fishermen of Nepalese origin. It portrays his hope, inspiration, love and a desire of sharing his joy with others. This dance depicts the life style of the Majhis.

25. DHAAN NANCH-It is a folk dance performed by the Nepali community which projects cultural heritage of them. It has become since time immemorial. It is a ritualistic dance performed by young and old folks alike in their traditional costumes.

26. DAU RA JANE-This typical Nepali dance is performed during the happy occasion by the young girls in their traditional and colourful costumes.

MASK DANCE S AND FESTIVALS OF SIKKIM

Sikkim’s famous mask dances provide a spectacle, perhaps nowhere to be experienced in the entire world. Performed by lamas in the ‘Gompa’ courtyard to celebrate religious festivals, dances demonstrate perfect footwork and grace. Costumed lamas with gaily painted masks, ceremonial swords and sparkling jewels leap and swing to the rhythm of resounding drums, trumpeting of horns and chanting of monks.

>1. ENCHEY CHAAMS- It is the annual puja celebrated with religious masked dances on the 18^th and 19^th days of the 11^th month of the Tibetian Buddhist Calendar corresponding to the month of December – January.

>2. RUMTEK CHAAMS - It is the most important chaam (religious masked dance) performed on the 10^th day of the 5^th month of the Tibetan calendar, corresponding to the month of June. It presents eight manifestations of the Guru Rimpoche. This is highly colourful and spectacular and draws many pilgrim and visitors.

>3. WINTER (GOUTHOR) CHAAM- It is performed on the month of February – 2 days prior to Losar.

>4. MANGHE SANKRANTI-It is an important festival of Nepalese celebrated during the month of Magh, around January.

>5. LOSAR-It is the Tibetan New Year Day, which falls around February.

>6. SAGA DAWA -also known as the Triple blessed Festival, it is a very auspicious day for the Mahayana Buddhist. It is celebrated in memory of Lord Buddha attaining Nirvana. It falls on the full moon day of the 4^th not of lunar calendar around end of May and early June. On this day people go to monasteries to offer butter lamps and worship. A huge religious procession of monks goes around Gangtok with Holy Scriptures.

>7. DRUKPA TSESHI- This festival commemorates the first teaching of Lord Buddha. It is celebrated on the 4^th day of the 6^th month, around July-August. On this day devotees throng to their respective places of worship to offer prayers.

>8. PANG LHABSOL- This festival is unique to Sikkim and it is celebrated to offer thanks to Mount Khangchendzonga, the ‘Guardian Deity’ of Sikkim and to Yabdu, the supreme commander of Mt. Khangchendzonga. It is celebration on the 15^th day of the 7^th month around end of August or early September. The masked warrior dance is especially spectacular. Khangchendzonga is represented by a red mask and her commander Yabdu a black one. The warriors who accompany wear traditional Armour of helmets, swords and shields. The dramatic entry of Mahakala (Protector of the Dharma) is one of the highlights of the festivals.

>9. DASAIN- It is the most important festival of the Nepalese Hindu. It begins on the first day of the lunar month of Ashwin around September – October. It symbolises the victory of good over evil.

>10. TYOHAR- This is a three-day festival of lights celebrated 18 days after Dasain.

>11. LOSOONG-It is the Sikkimese New Year Celebrated during the last week of the 11th month- December- January.

>12. NAMBUN-it is the Lepcha New Year Day, which falls around last week of December.

>13. KAGYED DANCE- It is performed on the 28^th and 29^th day of the 10^th month of the Tibetan Calendar, around December. This dance is performed symbolizing the destruction of the evil forces and hoping for peace and prosperity to flourish in every Sikkimese home. The dancers of this is extremely popular Chaam are always monks who are accompanied liturgical music and chanting. The solemn nature of the dance is interspersed with comic relief provided by the jesters. Kagyed dances enact various themes from the Buddhist mythology and culminate with the burning of effigies made of flour, wood and paper.

THANKA

Thankas are the embroidered religious scroll, which are found in multitudes in monasteries and private houses. They are always carried in religious processions and often serve to illustrate a religious sermon. This art is considered a powerful vehicle to propagate Lord Buddha's doctrines, serving the lamas in their preaching.

This painting is usually done on silk or some other thin cloth. After the silk has been stretched on a frame, it is thickly covered with a mixture of glue and chalk, which is then well polished, with the smooth surface of a conch. When this is over, the outlines of the figures are drawn with red or black ink. The work is carried on very slowly for even minute details of the ornamentation must be attended to before coloration is done. To make a mistake in the measurements of a body given in the iconographical manuals is considered to be a great sin.

The artist is quite conversant with the sacred scriptures. While he is at work, he is accompanied by a continuous reciting of prayers. The religious atmosphere, which surrounds the creation of a painting, is very intense. The artist must be a saintly man of good behaviour and reserved in his manners.

The name SANGAY ZEBA CHUNI; itself signifies with what this thanka is related to. This thanka picturises the life history of Lord Buddha. Its length is 20 feet and breadth being 15 feet. The cost price of this thanka is Rs.6 lakh. 15 people working together make it within a span of 8 months, day and night.

This Thanka is unfurled once in a year during the auspicious occasion for 3 hours only, from 6.00 a.m. to 9.00 a.m. for the devotees and pilgrims to pay their homage.

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PLACES OF TOURIST INTEREST

1. Directorate of Handicrafts and Handlooms or Government Institute of Cottage Industries – Established by Government to promote the manufacturing and selling of authentic and traditional arts and handicraft, handlooms and exquisite carpets, blankets and shawls in “Lepcha” weaves, furniture (Choksies), thankas, paintings, wooden decoration and bamboo products in authentic Sikkimese designs. Visiting Hours - Monday to Saturday from 9.30 Am. to 12.30 Pm. And 1.00Pm to 3.00 PM. Closed on Sundays, Second Saturdays and Government holidays.

>2. Enchey Monastery - About 3 Km. From the centre of town, a small hermitage was built by lama Druptob Karpo (renowned for his power of flying) at this spot after he flew here from Mainam Hill in South Sikkim about more than 200 years ago. During the reign of Sidkeong Tulku, 1909-1910. The present monastery was built in the form of Chinese Pagoda. It follows Nyingmapa order. The annual puja is celebrated with religious masked dances on the 18^th and 19^th days of the 11-month of the Tibetan Buddhist calendar corresponding to the month of December.

>3. Do-drul Chorten (Stupa) - Situated on a hillock, it is a five minutes drive from Gangtok town. Built by late Trulshik Rimpoche in 1946, head of the Nyingmapa order and the late Chogyal Tashi Namgyal in 1957 to invoke the Gods for the peace and tranquillity in the State. Set of Kagyur holy books, relics, complete mantras, rare mandalas of Dorjee Phurba (Bajra Kilaya) and other religious objects are found inside the Chorten. A small Chorten known as Jhang Chub is built beside the Phurba Chorten in memory of Trulshik Rimpoche who passed away in 1962. Few yards below the Chorten is the rock known as “DO-TA-PU” or “Stone Horse”. There is a monastery close by called “Guru Lakhang” with the state of Guru Padmasambhava and Guru Snong Zisil Gnen, the incarnated one of the first. Around the Chorten is installed the ‘180’ Mani-Lhakor or prayer wheels. The Chorten has the sacred topped stupa.

>4. Research Institute of Tibetology - The Namgyal Research Institute of Tibetology is a world-renowned research centre for Tibetan Buddhism and is well stocked with rare books and manuscripts on Buddhism. Contains rare collection of antique like coins, statues, rosaries, antic documents, brass bells, dorjis, and thankas. Ti has a collection of almost 30,000 volumes on diverse subjects like astrology, philosophy, magic and religion. It conducts research in the fields of language and culture of Tibet. The foundation was laid in 1957 by His Holiness the Dalai Lama and was inaugurated by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru in October 1958. It also has a number of religious art and craftwork as well as books for sale. It’s vast wealth of Lepcha, Tibetan and Sanskrit manuscripts attracts scholars from all corners of the world. The institute is open from 10.00 AM to 4.00 PM, Monday to Saturday and is closed on Sunday, Second Saturdays and on Government holidays.

>5. Orchid Sanctuary - It is near Research Institute of Tibetology, where you can see many of the 454 species of orchid found in Sikkim. The best time to visit is April-May, July-August and October-November.

>6. Saramsa or Ipecac Garden - About 14 Kn. From Gangtok besides Ranikhola is this garden the home of Sikkim’s many exotic orchids and other rare tropical and temperate plants. Formed and maintained by the Department of Forest, it is an excellent recreational and beautiful picnic spot.

>7. Rumtek Monastery - It is about 24 Kms. From Gangtok nested in a lovely landscape. The first monastery was built in 1717 At Rumtek by the then Chogyal Gyurmed Namgyal, but was destroyed by the earthquake and aging. His Holiness the late 16th Gyalwa Karmapa constructed the second monastery in 1960. It is the headquarters of the Kagyu-pa (Red Hat) sect of the Tibetan lamaistic Buddhism. It is an excellent replica of the original Kagyu headquarters at Tsurpu in Tibet. It houses some of the world’s most unique art objects, ancient manuscripts and icons. Above the Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre is a hermitage where the monks go into complete seclusion for meditation for a period of three years.

> The important chaam (religious masked dance) is performed on the 10^th day of the 5^th month of the Tibetan Calendar, and presence eight manifestations of the Guru Rimpoche. This is highly colourful and spectacular and draws many pilgrims and visitors. Prayers at about 0400 and 1800 hours.

>8. Botanical Garden of Orchidarium - It is day outing about 14 Kms. Away from Gangtok with colourful flowerbeds. Lush green trees and narrow winding paths near tinkling stream. Orchids thrive here in huge conservation that forms a part of garden.

>9. Tsuklakhang - The palace monastery or Royal Chapel of the Chogyals opens only once a year for the civilians in the last week of December for the Lossong festival when the famous Black Hat dance portrays the triumph of good over evil. This was once the most important monastery where all the important national and religious festival was celebrated here. It was the site of the coronation ceremonies of the kings of Sikkim, of royal marriages and of celebration ceremonies of the kings of Sikkim, of royal marriages and of celebrations to mark victories. Tsuklakhang, standing on the high ridge has a large and impressive collection of scriptures. Tsuklakhang is a very elegant structure in typical Sikkimese style with carved and painted woodworks, murals, wall hangings and priceless Buddhist treasures. Lavishly decorated altars hold images of the Buddha, Bodhisattvas and Tantric deities. Among the important festivals still celebrate at Tsuklakhang are Panglabsol held in mid September in honour of Mount Khangchendzonga the guardian deity of Sikkim, Kagyed in early December, which features a dance – drama enacted by Buddhist monks, and losar is strictly prohibited.

>10. Deer Park - Embbraced by gardens f flowers lies a beautiful Deer Park – an ideal place to be solitude, beside the Secretariat. Built to commemorate the Buddha’s reincarnation as a musk deer, it has a large fielded statue of Buddha under a beautiful canopy in preaching posture, a replica of the statue at Sarnath in Uttar Pradesh, where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. It is a popular viewpoint on the edge of the ridge.

11. White Hall- Built in 1932 in memory of the first Political Officer of Sikkim, Sir Claude White. Situated on a ridge, it has historical value only. There is an officer’s club.

>12. Ganesh Tok - It is at an altitude of 6500 ft. above Gangtok and 7 Kms. Where a small temple of God Ganesha is nested. Panoramic view of Gangtok, magnificent and breathtaking view of Khangchendzonga and Siniolchu can be observed and enjoyed from this spot on a ridge. A cafeteria serves hot tea, coffee and snacks.

>13. Hanuman Tok-It is at an altitude of 7200 ft., about 5 Kms. From Gangtok where there is a temple of God Hanuman. Panoramic view of Gangtok and adjoining hills and valleys with Khangchendzonga on the background can be seen from here. Sunrise can be observed from here. Night view of the Gangtok city lights is mood elevating.

>14. Tashi View Point-About 8 Kms. From Gangtok. It is a resting shed. Astounding view of Khangchendzonga and the Siniolchu Range is the main attractive of this point. The distant north Sikkim monasteries are also visible from this point along the North Sikkim highway.

15. Kabi Longtsok-It is 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 13^th Century.

>16. Phodong Monastery - It is about 38 Kms. From Gangtok, which belongs to the Kargupa sect, built by the late Chogyal Gyurmed Namgyal in the first quarter of the 18^th Century. The original monastery has been rebuilt. The main annual puja is performed here on the 28^th and 29^th days of the 10^th month of the Lunar calendar with religious dances being the main attraction. Beautiful mural paintings and frescoes adorn the walls of this monastery. Executed largely in black, the murals depict various demonic deities dismembering miscreants in the bowels of hell.

>17. Labrang Monastery - It is some 2 Kms. Further up hill from Phodong Monastery and is a much older structure. The Labrang Gompa retains the original structure and the old mural paintings and frescoes are fascinating. It belongs to the Nyingmapa sect. This uniquely architectured Labrang Monastery is one of the major monasteries of Sikkim.

>18. Yumthang Valley - It is situated at an altitude of about 11800 ft. and is 149 Kms. From Gangtok. It is covered with rhododendron, shrubs and trees of various species. The valley is well known for its hot springs, which is slightly saline in taste, it is colourless, emits bubbles of sulphated hydrogen gas and the temperature is 106 degrees. It is surrounded by mountains and seems to touch the heaven, as one has to face vertically upwards to see the mountaintop. The scenic view is breath taking.

>19. Tsomgo Lake-A natural lake of Sikkim, which is regarded extremely sacred. It is approximately 36 Kms. From Gangtok and is at an altitude of 12,400 ft. Presently

>20. Menmecho Lake- This is another beautiful lake located near the Tsomgo Lake. It is rich in fish, especially trout, salmon and carp.

>21. Khechopalri Lake- It is located at a distance of 33 Km away from Pemayangtse. The name Khechopalri mean' Wishing Lake’ and is considered to be one of the sacred lakes in Sikkim. The Sikkimese calls it Tsho-Sho-Tsho. The water is placid and crystal clear. Not a single leaf can be seen floating and there is an ancient belief that if a leaf drops on the surface of the water it is picked by a bird. Khechopalri lake (1780m) lies in a depression surrounded by prayer flags and forested hills. The tranquillity of the lake is mood elevating.

>22. Pemayangtse Monarchy- The premier monastery of Sikkim, Pemayangtse (Perfect Sublime Lotus) is about 118 Kms. From Gangtok and is situated at a height of 2085 mtrs. It is the second oldest monastery of Sikkim and it is of Tantric Nyingmapa order. It was founded furring the reign of 3^rd Chogyal, Chahdor Namgyal in 1705. The ministry contains numerous antique idols and objects of worship. The monastery is a three storied structure filled with wall paintings and sculptures including seven tiered painted wooden sculpture on the top floor portraying the Mahaguru’s Heavenly palace ‘Sangthokpalri’ which was completed in a span of five years, single handily by the late Dungzin Rimpoche. The Chortens around t he place have however stood the elements of nature. The ruins are now being preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India and have been declared as monuments. Annual Chaam dance is held o n the 28^th and 29^th day of the 12^th month of the Tibetan lunar calendar. Dressed in costumes of rare magnificence the lamas represent Mahakala and Guru Drag-dmar. The dance ends on the third day with the unfurling of the Ghyo-ku – a gigantic embroidered Buddhist scroll as the devotees bend down.

>23. Tashiding Monastery- It is about 40Kms. From Gyalshing. It is of Nyingmapa order at a hilltop that looms up between Rathong River and Rangit River. It is surrounded by flags and stone plates skilfully carved with holy Buddhist mantras was ‘ Om Mani Padme Hum” by Yanchong-Lodil. The main monastery was built in 1717 by Pedi Wangmo (Ngadak Sempa Chenpo) during the reign of 3^rd Chogyal Chahdor Namgyal, on a spot consecrated by Guru Rimpoche. Tashiding Monastery (1469m) is considered to be the most sacred and holiest shrine or Chorten in Sikkim. It is believed that to merely view the sacred Chorten Thongwa Rangdol and Bumcho (holy water) is enough to cleanse one of all sins. Lhatsun Chenpo built the chorten. Bumchu is one of the sacred objects of worship to the Sikkimese. It is a sacred pot-containing holy, blessed by a Buddhist saint in the 17th Century, which does not dry up nor spoil. Today, even after 300 years the water remains as fresh as before. The sacred ceremony of Bumchu is held on the 15th day of the first Tibetan month, when the Bumchu containing the holy water is opened for public 'darshan' once a year. Pilgrims come each spring for the Bumchu or water-pot festival in February to drink water from the sacred pot to the gold-topped monastery - Tashiding.

>24. Phensang - Build in 1721, during the time of Jigme Pawo, it was gutted by a fire in 1947, and rebuilt in 1948 through the efforts of the lamas. The main annual function is held here on the 28th and 29th days of the tenth month of the lunar calendar.

>25. Ralong- Belonging to the karma kagyu order, it was built after the return of the 4th Chogyal from his Pilgrimage to Tibet. H.H. the Gyalwa Karmapa performed the 'Rabney' (blessing) on it's completion from Tsurpu itself, and grains from this ceremony fell on the ground at Ralong. Between 1975-81 the Government rebuilt the monastery. The main ceremony falls on the 28th and 29th day of the tenth month of the lunar calendar. When the 'chaams' are performed.

>26. Yuksom- The historical hamlet of Yuksom (1781m) is situated 42 Km. from Pemayangtse, where the coronation of the first Chogyal (king), Phuntsog Namgyal was consecrated in 1641 by the three learned lamas. The wooden altar, throne and a stupa marks this spot. It is a pine-forested area with crystal clear mountain lakes.

>27. Rabdenste Palace Ruins- Rabdenste was the second capital of Sikkim shifted from Yuksom. The second Chogyal of Sikkim, Tensung Namgyal, established it in the late seventeenth century. Presently the Rabdentse Palace in West Sikkim is in ruins, now being preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India and have been declared as a monument.

28. Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary - It is located about 20 Kms. from Gangtok and covers an area of about 5200 hectares above the road between Singtam and Dikchu.

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SOCIAL INDIACTORS – SIKKIM

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Gangtok

BASICS OF GANGTOK

STD CODE : 03592

PEOPLE

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TREKKING

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DANCES OF SIKKIM