SIKKIM
- – A SPA FOR YOUR SENSES
Sikkim is a small state of India. It happens to be the second smallest and the least populated state in India which may make it look insignificant but do not go by the size of this state. This small state happens to be the most sorted vacation destination by the tourists from all over the world. This state has earned itself number of awards and titles, owing to its excellence in different fields some of which are, “Best Tourism Performing State in the North East", "Today’s Traveler Platinum Award", "Best Performing State", etc. This state is located in the northeast part of India, bordered by China, Bhutan, Nepal and West Bengal. The specialty about this state is that it is the host of the, the highest peak of India and the third highest in the world, the one and only Mt. Kanchenjunga. Another thing notable about this state is that it is a home of two fine, tall statues, one of the Lord Buddha, in the beautiful hills of Samdruptse and another one of the Shivji, in the serene hills of Solophok. These should be in your must visit places list as the feeling and the ambience is just incredible. Standing there on top of the hills with the great statues standing tall amidst the clouds, it almost looks like it is actually looking right into your eyes and saying something like, “I am here and I’m watching”. Another special thing about the state is that it is abundant with nature. The rich green hills will never leave your sight; it will be there everywhere you turn. Its opulent biodiversity will be a pleasure for your senses if you pick spring to visit this place. Actually you should visit this state at least once a year as its pollution free, eco friendly environment and organic foods will rejuvenate your senses. And all the adventurous activities that it has to offer to its visitors will jump start your organs to its full capacities resulting in improved and a healthier body. Some of the adrenalin jerker sports that Sikkim offers are, Mountaineering, Trekking, River Rafting, Yak Safari, Mountain Biking, Hang Gliding, Paragliding, White Water Rafting, Cycling, Caving, Helicopter Ride, etc.
History
The history of Sikkim began as early as 17th century with Buddhist kingdom or Chogyal. Sikkim initially was an independent country, until it merged with India in 1975. Many provisions of the Indian constitution were altered in the process of accommodation of the international treaties between Sikkim and India. Nothing much about Sikkim's history is known, except that the original inhabitants of the state were the Lepchas, Bhutias and the Nepalese. It is believed that in 9th century Guru Rinpoche blessed the land and introduced Buddhism in the state while passing through. Later when the British paid a visit to India, Sikkim warmed up with them because they had the same enemy, “the Gorkhas”. It was around the same time that the British and the Sikkimese came together and gave birth to the silk route as the trade link with Tibet. This stirred up some relations between Sikkim and Indian then later between Sikkim and British again. War broke out and British defeated Sikkim somehow Sikkim later managed to free itself from Britain. In 1947 Sikkim was free and Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru protected Sikkim’s Independence. But problems started appearing after Jawaharlal Nehru died in 1964. Then later in 1979 Mr. Nar Bahadur Bhandari was elected as the Chief Minister of Sikkim. Then in 1994 Mr.Pawan Kumar Chamling became the Chief Minister of Sikkim.
Culture & Tradition
The tranquil state of Sikkim is multiethnic and multilingual state with a population of 644660 people belonging to different caste, culture and tradition. Though most of the population is Nepalese there are many other ethnic groups living here in peace. The most common language here is Nepali, fact being that there are 10 other official languages that are spoken among different races of people which are Sikkimese, Lepcha, Tamang, Limbu, Newari, Rai, Gurung, Magar, Sunwar and English. The state remains lively and colorful throughout the year as all the religions are followed here so from Chirstmas to Holi all the festivals are celebrated with equal enthusiasm and grandness. There are churches, monasteries, gurdwaras, mosques and temples so Sikkim rigs with the bells of the church and temples and the prayers of Muslims usually early in the morning or in the evenings. Initially majority of Sikkimese used to be animist that is the reason why you will find plenty of natural places like lakes or hills or caves that are considered holy. In fact there still exist people who worship those places. Their folk songs and folk dances are deep rooted in the culture of Sikkim. They are often performed in schools and on special occasions wearing the complete traditional attire. But western music is also famous among Sikkimese. “Bhaat” (rice) forms their staple food accompanied with other items like dal, curry and achar. Different families follow different pattern of meal timings. Some eat rice at around 9 a.m. before going out to work then have snacks later in the evening with tea or coffee. Then again rice at night for dinner. But some follow the normal pattern of breakfast, lunch and dinner. So, we can conclude by saying that Sikkim has a fascinating culture and traditions worth indulging in.
Places to Visit
Lachung, Lachen and Yumthang Valley :
In North Sikkim these are small towns located which are well knownfor its scenic beauty. Lachung monastery, Yumesamdong (Zero Point), and the Gurudongmar Lakeare some of the other attractions here.
Pelling :
Three to four hours away from Gangtok lays this beauty. Its main attractions are monasteries. It is also well known for providing a spectacular view because of its location on a ridge.
Ravangla :
The main attraction of Ravangla is the 130 foot golden statue of Buddha in the Buddha Park. The well manicured gardens around the park give it an exceptional look.
Namchi :
Place famous for its huge statues, one of which is the statue of Guru Padmasambhava, located up on Samdruptse Hill and is around 140 feet tall and the other statue is of Lord Shiva located at Solophuk Hill which is 108 foot tall.
Zuluk :
This is a small village but has a very empowering history because of its some connections with the well known trade route, the Silk Route. Other than that it is a beauty worth a visit.
