DISTRICT OF SIKKIM

NORTH SIKKIM is a district of the Indian state of Sikkim. Its district headquarter is Mangan. It is the largest of the districts of Sikkim. Mangan is also known as the Cardamom Capital of the world. The climate and terrain best suit the cultivation of the larger variety of Cardamom here. The people are mainly of Nepali descent. Other ethnic groups include the Lepcha and Bhutia communities. Nepali is the most widely spoken language in the district. It also has one of the lowest populated regions of the state. The region has many power projects and enjoys almost uninterrupted electricity. The steep gradient and the innumerable lakes on the higher reaches facilitate ideal conditions for generation of hydro electric power. The most prominent effect of the steepness of the valleys is the prevalence of landslides that at times drop to anything between 3000 to 5,000 ft (1,500 m) carrying devastation along their course. Most of them are caused either by the melting snow beds on top of the mountains or by erosive action of the rains. Roads, however are in a poor condition owing to the frequent landslides. The landscape is mountainous with dense vegetation all the way up to the alpine altitude before thinning out to desert scrub towards the Northern Tundra. Numerous waterfalls astride the main road make the trip to this district extremely picturesque. It is also home to the Himalayan Red Panda (Ailurus Fulgens), which is the pride of Sikkim. It is not a real Panda Bear as the name suggests but is considered an exotic animal. It belongs to the Raccoon family and is generally found between heights of 2000 m to 4000 m. It is as big as a domestic Siamese cat (approximately 2 ft long), has a triangular shaped face with a stripe on its cheek, with red fur and black eyes. It has a sprinkling of white on its back and chest. The tail is bushy, black or brown in color and long like that of a skunk. They generally live on treetops. Most of North Sikkim is restricted to travelers and permits are needed to visit these areas. The area, which shares a sensitive border with the People's Republic of China is heavily patrolled by the Indian army. Most of the people of the state reside near Mangan, the district headquarters which is about 2,000 feet (610 m) above sea level. Further north the elevation increases with the vegetation turning from temperate to alpine to tundra. Temperatures range from about 25° to below -40° in the extreme high reaches where the altitude is in excess of 6,000 metres. Kanchenjanga is the highest peak at over 8,000 m, straddling its eastern border with Nepal and can be seen clearly from the town of Singhik 

Kabi Lungchuk: This historical place is 17 km from Gangtok on the North Sikkim Highway. This is where the historic treaty of blood brotherhood between the Lepcha chief To-King-Tek and the Bhutia chief Khy-Bum-Sar was signd ritually. The spot where the ceremony took place is marked by a memorial stone pillar amidst the cover of dense forest.

Phensong monastery: Th place is situated on the gentle slope stretching from Kabi to Phodong with perhaps one of the best landscapes in the region. The Phensong monastery, under the Nyingmapa Buddhist Order, was built in 1721 during the time of Jigme Pawo. It was destroyed in fire in 1947 and rebuilt in 1948 through the efforts of the lamas. The annual festival of Chamm is performed on the 28th and 29th of the tenth month of lunar calendar (Tibetan).

Phodong monastery: One of the six major monasteries in Sikkim, Phodong monastery is located in the North, approximately 38 km from Gangtok. Four km beyond Phodong is the recently-renovated Labrang monastery, unique in its architectural design.

Singhik: The place offers one of the most spectacular views of Mt Khangchendzonga and its ranges. A well-located tourist lodge provides accommodation for visitors. The area also has a number of interesting short nature trails for 1 to 3 days along the higher ridges of the surrounding hills.

Chungthang: Chungthang, on the confluence of Lachen and Lachung Chu and the starting point of river Teesta, has emergd as a major subdivision settlement in North Sikkim. It is the nodal junction for the two passes, Lachen and Lachung. The valley is believed to have been bleassed by Guru Rimpoche and one can visit the holy Guru Lhedo to see the foot and palm prints left behind by the patron saint. The place, rich in biodiversity with a large variety of orchids, plants and wildlife, is 95 km from Gangtok, 23 km from Lachung, 29 km from Lachen, and is predominantly a Lepcha region. Lachung A Bhutia village with a unique local self-governing body called the Zumsa which substitutes the panchayat, Lachung has emerged as a tourist destination with the soaring popularity of yumthang valley which is just 25 km away frm Lachung. The village, spread out on either side of Lachung Chu, has managed to retain its unique culture and tradition. The Lachung monastery on the slope opposite the highway is a focal point of all religious functions of the local inhabitants. To get a glimpse of the religious functions performed on auspicious occasions a visit to the monastery should form part of the tour itinerary.

Yumthang: Yumthang, at an elevation of 11,800 ft, and 140 km from Gangtok, is a paradise for nature lovers with a fascinating blend of flora and fauna and breathtaking scenic grandeur. The valley is also the home for Shingbha Rhododendron sanctuary with 24 species of Rhododendrons. Yumthang “Tsa-Chu” or the hot spring on the left bank of Lachung Chu is immensely popular for its curative properties.

Guru Dongmar Lake: At a height of 17,800 ft, this is considered as a sacred lake by Buddhists and Hindus. Blessed by Guru Padmasambhava, it remains milky throughout the year. A part of the lake does not freeze in winter.

WEST SIKKIM  The highlight of West Sikkim is the amazing Himalayan treks in the foothills of Mt Kanchenjunga . The rolling mountains also offer some "low altitude" treks.

PLACE OF VISIT

Pemayangtse monastery: This is one the oldest monasteries in the State, originally established by Lhatsun Chempo, one of the revered Lamas to have performed the consecration ceremony of the first Chogyal (religious monarch) of Sikkim. This ancient monastery belongs to the Nyingmapa sect of Tibetan Buddhism and has been considered as one of the premier monasteries in the State, having been entrusted with the task to perform all religious functions of the erstwhile monarch. Originally, it was established as a high class monastery for “Pure Monks” (Ta-Sang). Inside the monastery there is a wooden structure depiciting the Maha Guru’s heavenly palace (Sang-tok-plan), which is considered a masterpiece created by the late Dungzin Rimpoche. The monastery, located on a hilltop at an altitude of 6840 ft. commands a magnificent panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges and the surrounding hills and countryside. A well-furnished tourist lodge is located just across the monastery on a smaller hill top.

Rabdentse Ruins: This was the second capital of the erstwhile kingdom of Sikkim after Yuksom and till the year 1814 AD, the King of Sikkim had ruled the State from this place. Today, the ruins lie hidden from the main road at a walking distance from the tourist lodge and the Pemayangtse monastery. It can be approached by following a footpath which branches off from the main road just below the Pemayangtse monastery. The scenic view from the top of the ruins scanning across deep valley to the mystic heights of Kanchendzonga ranges is something to be cherished in memory.

Pelling: Pelling is a fast growing urban settlement due to tourist influx. Situated at an altitude of 6,800 ft, it offers a good view of the entire mountain ranges and due to this locational advantage, many hotels and lodges have mushroomed in and around Pelling offering various categories of accommodation facilities. There is a bus service which links Pelling to the west district headquater town of Gyalshing, situated at a distance of 10 km from Pelling.

Sangacholing monastery: This monastery is situated on a ridge above Pelling and the famous Pemayangtse monastery. Built in 1697 AD, it is considered to be one of the oldest monasteries in the State. It takes at least 40 minutes to reach this monastery on foot up the steep hilly slope which leads through rich forest covers.

Singshore Bridge/Uttarey: It is the highest bridge in Sikkim, about 25 km from Pemayangtse. About 20 minutes drive is Uttarey, a base camp of adventure tourism for Singalila range trail. A place worth visiting.

Khangchendzonga Twin Waterfalls: About an hour's drive from Pelling are the Khangchendzonga waterfalls. A must visit site.

Khecheopalri lake: Khecheopalri lake is considered as one of the sacred lakes in the State both by the Buddhists and the Hindus. The lake remains hidden in the rich forest cover. It is believed that birds do not permit even a single leaf to float on the lake surface. There is a motorable road from Pemayangtse right up to the lake area. For those interested in spending a night or two in the peaceful environment, a trekkers’ hut has been provided by the tourism department. Local food and chang brew made of fermented millet are available. There is also a pilgirm’s hut, managed by the tourism department, which is meant to provide accommodation to pilgrims.

Yuksam: This was the first capital of Sikkim, where, according to historical records, the first Chogyal of the kingdom of Sikkim was consecrated in 1641AD by three lamas. The evidence of consecration ceremony is still intact at Norbugang Chorten in the form of stone seats and foot-print of the head lama on a stone. Since the history of the State began from this place, these areas are now considered sacred by the people of Sikkim. Yuksam is served by all-weather road from Pemayangtse, 32 km. From Yuksam, the trek to Dzongri and to the base camp of the famous Mt Khangchendzonga begins. Several categories of accommodation are available in Yuksam for those desiring to spend a few days there.

Khangchendzonga: The famous Khangchendzonga, on the Nepal border, can be reached from Yuksam. It takes 16 days trekking from Yuksam to the base camp at Khangchendzonga. From Gangtok to Yuksam it takes 5 hours by taxi costing about Rs 500 per person. There is a 4-person capacity chopper service from Gangtok to Khangchendzonga base costing Rs 90,000 . The Sikkim (Govt) Tourism Development Corporation also conducts mountain biking expedition to Khangchendzonga, with restrictions.

Dubdi monastery: This was the first monastery established soon after the consecration ceremony of the first chogyal. The monastery is located on a hill top above Yuksam surrounded by verdant forest. It can be approachd by trekking only, negotiating steep slope for over half an hour. It is an ideal place for lamas seeking meditational recluse.

Tashiding monastery: This monastery is constructed on top of a heart-shaped hill with the backdrop of the sacred Mt Khangchendzonga. According to Buddhist scriptures, Guru Padma Sambhava (Guru Rimpoche) blessed the sacred land of Sikkim in 18th century AD form the spot. The monastery, however, was built in 18th century AD by one Nadak Sampa Chempo, one of the three lamas who had performed the consecration ceremony of the first Chogyal. Tashiding is also famous for the most holy chorten known as “Thong-Wa-Rang-To” which literally means “Saviours by mere sight”. It is believed that the mere act beholding it will wash away all the sins of the devotee. Another important feature of Tashiding is the sacred water festival popularly known as “Bhumchu”. It is a religious tradition unique to Tashiding monastery only. Every year, on the 15th day of the first Tibetan month, the Bhumchu ceremony is celebrated with devotees coming from far and near to get the blessings of the holy wter. The sacred holy water is officially sealed for safety by the Government and the lamas of the monastery and it is taken out once a year on the auspicious occasion, only to be put back with some fresh additions. The sacred water which is taken out partly is mixed with normal water to be distributed among thousands of devotees.

Versey: It lies at an elevation of 10,000 ft and has motorable road access upto Hilley. An easy 4 km trek from there takes one up to the Versey Rhododendron sanctuary. One can also trek from Soreng or Dentam in West Sikkim. The place provides a magnificent view of the mountains. Visitors can halt at “Guras Kunj”, a trekkers’ hut.

Shiva Mandir: Situated on the banks of Rangit river, it is also known as Kirateshwar Mahadev temple. It is believed that whoever worships here will be blessed with the virtues of two life-times.

SOUTH SIKKIM South District of Sikkim lies at an altitude of 400 mtr to 2000 mtr with unique and countryside escape of endless waves of  agricultural field  and the terraced slopes intercepted by spring patched forest and encompasses a total area of around 75000 hectares. Area wise it is the smallest district of Sikkim and population-wise second one. Its total population is 1,31,506 (as per 2001 census) among which 68,227 are male and 63279 female. Namchi or Namtse (meaning Sky High) is the headquarter of South Sikkim which is nestled among the hills having elevation of 5500 fts and which commands panoramic view of snowcapped mountains and vast stretches of vally.

PLACE OF VISITE

Temi Tea Garden

One and only renowned Temi Tea estate, produces one of the top qualities teas in the international market. The tea garden is spread out on a gently hill slope originating from the Tendong Hill and provides a magnificent view for the surrounding villages. The visit to the factory could be an eye opener for those wanting to know more about tea processing methods. Visitors can spend their night in a old British built bungalow just below tea garden.

Namchi Town

Namchi, in English means "Sky High", as name suggest, Namchi is nestled cuddled among the hills at an altitude of 5,500ft. About 79 kilometers from Gangtok and 98 kilometers from Siliguri, is the home many government headquarters of the South District, the area is fast developing into tourism destination with is immense potential.

Tendong Hill

Above Damthang, overlooking South District headquarter town Namchi, there's a small stretch land at an altitude of 8,530 ft, surrounded by the lush green ancient forest which is popularly known as the Tendong Hill. Historically this has been a place of recluse of Buddhist Lamas who spend years in meditation amidst the silence scenic grandeur. Legends have it that Tendong Hill saves the Lepcha tribe from the ravages of deluge when the whole world was flooded – similar to Noah's Ark of the Bible. Even today, the Lepchas perform rituals to pay reverence to the Tandong Hill. The view from the top of Tendong Hill is something to be cherished and enjoyed as it spans across the plains of Bengal and the majestic heights of the Himalayan Ranges . One can proceed to Namchi by trekking via Tendong Hill.

Ravangla

Ravangla town is located at 7000 ft, the base of Maenam and Tendong Hill . Ravangla is emerging as the hot destination for the travelers. From Ravangla one can see the clear view of the snow ranges of Mt. Kanchenjunga , Mt. Pandim , Mt. Sinialchu , Mt. Kabru . Upper parts of Ravangla experiences snowfall during winter. Hundreds of flowers are in full bloom during April-May. The beauty of it's landscape and its location as a transit point to rearby destinations had made Ravangla a must-visit place. Ravangla stages Pang Lhabsol festival in a grand manner every year around August-September. The festivals last for three days, culminating in the traditional dances knowns as "Chaam" on the last day. One can also visit Ralong monastery as well as the Tibetan Carpet Center, the traditionally designed and woven carpets are said to be the best one can get here. 8 km from Ravangla is a Rayong sunrise viewpoint that offers spectacular views of the first rays of the sun falling on the snow peaks. In April Ravangla stages its own Tourism, Culture and Craft Festival.

Maenam Hill

Meanam Hill Situated at an altitude of 10,300ft rises higher above Tendong Hill on the other side over looking the Ravangla Bazar. Trek to Maenam from Ravangla is about 12 km trek through thick forest of oak, chestnut, mangolia and rhododendron trees. On the clear day once can see the plains of Bengal spanning across Kalimpong and Darjeeling Hills. Further from Maenam hill one can trek to Borong village, or follow the trails taken by the famous British botanist, Sir Joseph Hooker down to Yangang Village .

Borong

There is a motor-able road from Ravangla to Borong via Menam. One can also trek to Borong from Namchi or Demthang, takes atleast 5 to 6 days. It's a beautiful village with magnificent landscape and is the home to a hot spring called "Borong TsaChu".

Singchu-Thang

45 Kms from Gangtok at an altitude of 3,500ft on the banks of River Teesta. And Singchuthang in English means “the plain of plenty with dwarf fish, plants and shrubs”. Singchuthang is ideal for water sports and picnics.

Sikip

Sikip is on the shore of River Rangeet in the South District. 5 hours drive from Gangtok to Sikip via Legship and is also reachable from Siliguri and Darjeeling via Jorthang. This place is Anglers paradise, and also has charming natural surrounding. One can also opt for rafting on the river.

Phur Tsa Chu

This hot spring "Phur Tsa Ch" is located on the Rangeet's riverbank, one hour drive from Jorthang and half hour drive from Legship. All walks of life come here to take a dip in this hot spring during month of January to March.

Statue of Guru Padmasambhava

135 ft tall statue of Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rempoche) is located at samdruptse, Namchi Town .The statue is the tallest of its kind in the world, even taller than the famous bronze Buddha at Kamakura in Japan.

Kewzing

8 km from Ravangla is Kewzing village which offers an opportunity to experience the rural life of Sikkim. Once can stay here with a local family village home stays and experience the warmth of Sikkimese hospitality. The Bon monastery here is the only one of its kind in Sikkim and is a symbol of the determination of a community to preserve their religious traditions. Located 2 km from Kewzing bazaar is the Mangbrue Gompa, which follows the Nyingmapa sect of Buddhism. The invading Bhutanese army used this strategic location in the 19th century and the ruins of their bunkers and outpost can still be seen.

Borong and Ralang Hot Springs

Borong and Ralong hot water springs are located within a distance of 7 kms from each other. Popular with visitors from all over the region, these natural spas are said to have curative powers. Ralang Cha-chu can be reached after and hour long walk from Ralong monastery while Borang Cha-chu is reached after 7 km drive to Ralong and then a 40 min walk downhill. For overnight stay temporary huts are available.

East Sikkim is one of the four administrative districts of the Indian state of Sikkim. Geographically, East Sikkim occupies the south-east corner of the state. The capital of East Sikkim is Gangtok, which is also the state capital. It is the hub of all administrative activity in the state.
The district occupies an area of 964 km² with a population of 244, 790 (2001) individuals. The civilian region is administered by a district collector, appointed by the Union Government and the military area by a Major General.
Military wise, the district is a very sensitive area with the Indian army having control over most areas east of Gangtok and near its borders with People's Republic of China and Bhutan. Visitors to this region are restricted and just a few areas are open to tourists in the areas east of Gangtok. Popular tourist locales are the TsomgoLake, Baba Mandir and the Nathula Pass. The Nathula Pass formed the offshoot of the ancient Silk Road which connected Lhasa to India. The pass and the famous Baba Mandir are open to Indian nationals only. To enter this region a special pass — The Inner Line Permit has to be obtained one day prior to departure. This pass is made through local tourist offices. Other tourist areas include Gangtok and the famous Phodong Monastery north of Gangtok and the internationally famous Rumtek Monastery.
People in East Sikkim are mostly of Nepali ethnicity, arriving in search of jobs after the British appropriated the state in the 19th century. Other ethnicities include the Bhutias, the Tibetans and the Lepchas. Nepali is the predominant language in the region. 
 

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