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    charset="UTF-8"> "> Discover the beauty of Gangtok, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas, vibrant cultural sites, and thrilling adventure activities.

    Sikkim: A Himalayan Paradise

    The beauty of Gangtok, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas, vibrant cultural sites, and thrilling adventure activities. Explore monasteries, temples, and scenic landmarks in this serene hill stationSikkim, a serene paradise in Northeast India, is known for its stunning Himalayan views and vibrant culture.

    Gangtok town
    Gangtok town

    Sikkim offers hassle-free tourism packages. Visitors can hire vehicles to explore places within Gangtok, including:

    • Research Institute of Tibetology
    • Phurba Chorten
    • Government Institute of Cottage Industries
    • Deer Park
    • White Hall
    • Enchey Monastery
    • Ganesh Tok
    • Hanuman Tok
    • Tashi Viewpoint

    Outside Gangtok, you can visit:

    • Rumtek Monastery
    • The Ipecac Garden
    • The Nehru Botanical Garden
    • Changu Lake

    Must-Visit Attractions in Gangtok

    1. Tsomgo Lake: A glacial lake located 40 km from Gangtok, known for its stunning beauty and serene atmosphere.
    2. Nathula Pass: A mountain pass on the border between India and China, known for its snow-capped peaks and Himalayan views.
    3. Rumtek Monastery: A Tibetan Buddhist monastery 24 km from Gangtok, renowned for its architecture and cultural significance.
    4. Do Drul Chorten: A stupa in Gangtok, famous for its intricate architecture and religious significance.
    5. Hanuman Tok: A temple dedicated to the Hindu god Hanuman, located 7 km from Gangtok, known for its peaceful atmosphere and mountain views.
    6. Flower Exhibition Centre: A center showcasing a variety of flowers and plants from the region.
    7. MG Marg: A pedestrian-only street in the heart of Gangtok, popular for shopping and dining.
    8. Enchey Monastery: A Buddhist monastery located 3 km from Gangtok, known for its annual Cham dance festival.
    9. Banjhakri Falls: A waterfall located 7 km from Gangtok, famous for its picturesque setting.
    10. Tashi View Point: A viewpoint located 7 km from Gangtok, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas.

    Tourists can check the regular bus service schedule from this link.

    Follow the link to Sikkim Tourism for updates on tour packages and mandatory requirements for planning your visit to Sikkim.

    Permit Requirements (PAP) for Various Places in Sikkim

    East District

    • Tshongo – Baba Mandir: .
    • Nathula Pass:

    West District

    • Dzongri Trek:
    • Singalila Trek: .

    North District

    • Yumthang: Permit.
    • Yumesamdong: .
    • Thangu-Chopta Valley: .
    • Gurudongmar: .
    • Green Lake Trekking: .

    South District

    • Mainam Trekking: T
    • Alpine Mountaineering Expedition:
      • TinchenKhang (5603m) - West Sikkim
      • Jopuno (5935m) - West Sikkim
      • Freys Peak (5830m) - West Sikkim
      • Lama Angden (5868m) - North Sikkim
      • Brum Khangse (5433m) - North Sikkim

    National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary

    For more details, visit the official website: Sikkim Tourism - Traveller Essentials

    Travel Access - Gangtok

    Travel Access

    Road Connectivity

    The Sikkim National Transport Bus and other four-wheeler taxis provide transportation within the East District and connectivity to other districts and neighboring states like West Bengal. Gangtok is connected by road with Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Siliguri, and other district headquarters within Sikkim.

    Highway Distances:

    • National Highway in East District: 40 km
    • State Highway: 250 km
    • Major District Road: 40 km
    • Other District Roads: 845 km

    Distances from Gangtok:

    • To South District Headquarter (Namchi): 75.9 km, approximately 1 hour 33 minutes
    • To North District Headquarter (Mangan): 51.7 km, approximately 1 hour 36 minutes
    • To West District Headquarter (Gyalshing): 121.8 km, approximately 2 hours 10 minutes

    Taxis ply routes around the city, and there are standard charges within the main areas.

    By Plane

    The distance from Bagdogra to Gangtok is 124.5 km, and it takes approximately 4 hours to reach Gangtok by road. Helicopter/Chopper services are also available from Bagdogra to Gangtok.

    By Train

    The nearest railway stations to Gangtok are Siliguri (113 km) and New Jalpaiguri (125 km), connecting to Kolkata, Delhi, and other major cities. A rail link is under construction between Rangpo in Sikkim and Siliguri in West Bengal.

    By Road

    From Bagdogra Airport, New Jalpaiguri, or Siliguri railway stations, travelers can hire a taxi to the Siliguri bus stand. From there, they can take a Sikkim Nationalized Transport Bus, a journey of roughly 5-6 hours. Luxury and regular taxis are also available and can be booked at the airport, railway stations, or through tour operators.

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    Darjeeling: The Queen of Hills

    Darjeeling was the British Raj's summer capital, and the toy train is one of the key attractions for tourists planning a vacation to Darjeeling.

    Mount Kanchenjunga and other snow-capped summits are the pendant necklaces of the queen of hills. Tiger Hill, at an elevation of 8,442 feet, is Darjeeling's highest point and attracts tourists with its breathtaking sunrise.

    Mt. Kanchenjunga from Darjeeling
    Mt. Kanchenjunga from Darjeeling

    The best time to see the sparkling snow-covered spectacular Kanchenjunga is during sunrise. The Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park, Botanical Garden, Batasia Loop, Darjeeling ropeway, Darjeeling Rock Garden, Ghoom Monastery, and Natural History Museum are among must-see attractions in Darjeeling.

    Darjeeling Panorama
    Darjeeling Panorama

    The Glenary's restaurant and bar in Darjeeling is one of the most beautiful eateries in India, offering mesmerizing natural beauty around it. It is known for its beautiful colonial-era architecture and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the famous Kanchenjunga. The restaurant is also famous for its traditional Darjeeling tea.

    Rhododendron is a common sight in these hills. Moreover, these hilly slopes are home to many medicinal plants such as Aconitum ferox, Adhatoda vasica, Artemisia vulgaris, Berginia ciliata, Hedychium spicatum, Sapindus mukorossi, Taxus baccata, and Zingiber cassumunar.

    Accommodation Options

    • Hotel Broadway
    • The Bellevue Hotel
    • Retreat Wind Horse
    • Hill Crown Retreat
    • Hotel Mohit

    Taxi Stands in Darjeeling

    1. Upper Clubside taxi stand just below Planter's Club
    2. Lower Clubside taxi stand on Laden La Road and next to Gandhi Road traffic point
    3. Motor Stand on Lebong Cart Road near Chowk Bazar

    Temporary Update

    Toy Train Service Resumption: Regular DHR toy train services between New Jalpaiguri (NJP) and Darjeeling are expected to resume on October 1, 2024, after a suspension of almost three months. For fare tariffs for the daily round trip from Darjeeling to Ghum, passenger train, and special coach bookings, please visit the DHR fare details page.

    For hotels, transportation & trekking, tourists can contact Amber Singh of D.B.S. Tours & Travels, ISKCON Mandir Road, near Sachitra Bhawan, Siliguri. You can reach him at 9475549877 or 8509505775, or email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

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    Yumthang Valley, the Valley of Flowers

    Yumthang Valley is situated in North Sikkim and is famous for its picturesque beauty. The valley is located kilometers north of the state capital, Gangtok.

    A view from Yumthang Valley

    Yumthang is located on a flat valley and is near the tree line; surrounding mountains seem to touch the heavens. The route to Yumthang from Lachung adjoins the Singba Forest Reserve.

    Tourists require an inner line permit to travel to North Sikkim, which can be obtained with the help of a travel agent. During the season, the tourism department organizes package tours to Yumthang.

    This area is landslide-prone from June to September.

    Yumthang Chu River
    Yumthang Chu River

    Best Time to Visit: March to June (spring/summer) when the valley is filled with blooming rhododendrons, and October to December (early winter) for snow. A typical tour from Gangtok to Yumthang takes 2 days and 1 night.

    Follow the link to Sikkim Tourism to get updates on tour packages and mandatory requirements for planning your visit to Sikkim.

    Restoration of Road to China Border and Tourist Sites:

    The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) completed the construction of a Bailey bridge over the Lachen Chu in north Sikkim’s Zema. This bridge has restored connectivity to the China border and Gurudongmar Lake, a key tourist destination, after nearly a year.

    Flood Destruction in October 2023: A glacial lake outburst flood in October 2023 from South Lhonak Lake swept away 16 bridges, including six essential ones in the Lachen valley, and breached a 25 km road network. The flood also damaged the 1200MW Sikkim Urja Teesta-Stage III dam beyond repair.

    Previous Restoration Efforts: BRO and the army had earlier constructed multiple Bailey bridges and restored connectivity by April 2024, but heavy rains from Cyclone Remal in May 2024 washed away the recently constructed bridge.

    Recent Reconstruction: Construction of the new Bailey bridge over Lachen Chu started on August 24, 2024, and was completed in September, restoring crucial access.

    Impact on Tourism: North Sikkim, known for its scenic destinations like Gurudongmar Lake, has remained cut off since the October flood, severely affecting the tourism industry. Tourist inflow has been almost nonexistent, especially due to further road disruptions along NH10, the main highway connecting Sikkim to Bengal.

    Concerns for Upcoming Tourist Season: With the Puja season approaching, the tourism industry is worried that ongoing road issues will deter visitors from booking trips to North Sikkim.

    For hotels, transportation & trekking, tourists can contact Amber Singh of D.B.S. Tours & Travels, ISKCON Mandir Road, near Sachitra Bhawan, Siliguri. You can reach him at 9475549877 or 8509505775, or email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

    Permit Requirements (PAP) for Various Places in Sikkim

    North District

    • Yumthang: Permit.
    • Yumesamdong: .
    • Thangu-Chopta Valley: .
    • Gurudongmar: .
    • Green Lake Trekking: .

    National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary

    For more details, visit the official website: Sikkim Tourism - Traveller Essentials

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    Pelling: A Splendid Destination

    Pelling is a beautiful town in West Sikkim, located 10 km from the district headquarters of Geyzing and 130 km from Gangtok.

    The most iconic feature is the panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga range, especially during sunrise and sunset, when the peaks glow golden. It’s one of the best places to witness this third-highest mountain in the world.

    Kanchenjunga
    Mt. Kanchenjunga from Pelling (Picture courtesy: Tusi Bhattacharya)

    The main attraction of Pelling is Pemayangtse Monastery, located only 3 km away at an altitude of 7000 ft. It is situated 6 km from Geyzing town and is the most important monastery of the Nyingmapa order, built as a small temple in the late seventeenth century by Latsun Chembo.

    Perched atop a hill, Pemayangtse Monastery offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range. The monastery’s ancient architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant murals, reflects the rich Tibetan Buddhist heritage.

    The peaceful ambiance, surrounded by lush greenery, creates a serene atmosphere, perfect for meditation and spiritual reflection. Inside, the sacred sculptures and the intricate wooden structure of the “Zangdok Palri” capture the essence of mystical beauty and cultural grandeur.

    Pemayangtse Monastery
    Pemayangtse Monastery

    Rabdentse ruins is located a couple of kilometers away from Geyzing, near the Pemayangtse monastery. Rabdentse was the second capital of Sikkim and was established in the late seventeenth century by the second Chogyal of Sikkim. It was abandoned towards the end of the eighteenth century due to threats posed by the Nepalese and was shifted to Tumlong.

    Rabdentse, the second capital of Sikkim
    Rabdentse ruins

    Khecheopari Lake, at an altitude of 6000 ft, is located on a bifurcation on the road between Geyzing and Yaksum. Khecheopari means "wishing lake." The water in this lake is placid and crystal clear, with a beautiful dense forest surrounding it.

    Khecheopalri Lake
    Khecheopari Lake

    The beautiful Kanchenjunga Waterfall cascades down from a height of 100 feet and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals.

    Kanchenjunga Waterfalls
    Kanchenjunga Waterfall

    Sanga Choeling Monastery: This is another Buddhist monastery located in Pelling, known for its beautiful frescoes and a popular destination for tourists interested in Tibetan Buddhism.

    Raft of white cloud under the blue sky
    Raft of white cloud under the blue sky (Picture courtesy: Tusi Bhattacharjee)

    Pelling, a picturesque town in Western Sikkim, is known for its stunning natural beauty and awe-inspiring landscape. The town offers panoramic views of the majestic Kanchenjunga range, especially during sunrise and sunset, where the snow-capped peaks shimmer with golden hues.

    Beauty of lush green at Pelling
    Beauty of lush green at Pelling (Picture courtesy: Tusi Bhattacharjee)

    Surrounded by lush green forests, terraced hills, and cascading waterfalls like the Kanchenjunga Falls, Pelling is a serene retreat for nature lovers. The tranquil Khecheopalri Lake and vibrant valleys add to the region's charm, making it a perfect destination for those seeking peace and scenic beauty.

    How to reach Pelling

    1. By air: The nearest airport to Pelling is Bagdogra, located in West Bengal. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Pelling. The journey by road takes around 6-7 hours.
    2. By train: The nearest railway station to Pelling is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, located in West Bengal. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Pelling. The journey by road takes around 6-7 hours.
    3. By bus: Several buses operate between Pelling and major cities in West Bengal and Sikkim. You can check the regular bus service schedule from this link.
    4. By car: If you are traveling by car, you can reach Pelling by taking National Highway 31. The journey from Siliguri, which is the nearest major city, takes around 6-7 hours by road.

    PELLING WEATHER

    © 2024 Turjo Bhattacharjee. All rights reserved.

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    ZULUK WEATHER

    Journey to Zuluk: A Mesmerizing Tour of East Sikkim

    Zuluk is a small village located in the eastern Indian state of Sikkim. It is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty and panoramic views of the Himalayas.

    Climate:

    The climate in Zuluk is generally cool and pleasant throughout the year. However, during the winter months, the temperature can drop below freezing point, and the area is covered in snow.

    Attractions:

    Zuluk is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Major attractions include:

    • Thambi View Point
    • Lungthung
    • Nathang Valley
    • Kupup Lake

    Visitors can also enjoy trekking, camping, and bird watching in the area. The scenic views of Zuluk are breathtaking.

    Road to Zuluk
    Road to Zuluk

    Accommodation:

    There are several hotels and guesthouses in Zuluk offering comfortable accommodation. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season. Some recommended homestays include:

    • Phadamchen Homestay
    • Gnathang Valley Homestay
    • Angel Homestay
    Angel Homestay
    Angel Homestay

    Accessibility:

    Zuluk is well-connected by road to major cities in Sikkim and West Bengal. The nearest airport is Bagdogra, about 150 km away, and the nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri, around 170 km away.

    Best Time to Visit Zuluk:

    Zuluk, at an altitude of about 10,000 feet, offers pleasant weather throughout most of the year:

    • October to February: Winter, cold, and snow.
    • March to May: Cold.
    • June to September: Monsoon season.

    How to Get a Permit for Zuluk:

    As Zuluk is in a restricted area, a special Inner Line Permit is required. All tourists must carry:

    • Passport or Voter ID card for adults
    • Passport or Birth Certificate for children (below 18) along with one Photo ID card (School ID, Aadhar, etc.)
    • 4 Copies of Passport-Size Photos
    • 4 Photocopies of the above documents.

    Do's:

    • Clothing & Luggage: Travel light with warm woollen clothes, mittens, gloves, and a cap. Heavy garments are advisable during winter.
    • Food and Drink: Drink only bottled water and carry dry foods as there are no shops available.
    • Health Precautions: Carry a first aid kit as there are no pharmacy shops in Zuluk.
    • Card Payment & ATM: Carry cash; credit/debit cards and ATMs are not available.
    • Mobile Phones: Mobile coverage is limited; consider carrying phones from two different service providers.
    • Be cautious of leeches in pine forests.

    Don'ts:

    • Do not expect modern facilities; accommodations are basic.
    • If you have breathing issues, avoid staying at Gnathang Valley.
    • Enjoy your holiday and take precautions as necessary.
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