Sikkim has a reputation of being the most attractive beauty spot of the East Himalayan region. Kanchenjungha Peak, the third highest in the world, floods the state all around east, west, north and south. The mountainous state, with its sylvan surroundings, stands unrivalled in the lap of nature. It has the beauty that dazzles the eyes of even the most avid traveler. It is one of the most enthralling regions in Himalayas. This hidden valley of rice or "Bayul Demojong" as called by the local people, is a tiny Union Territory in India. It is inhabited by Nepalese, Lepchas, Bhutias, Tibetans and surrounded by the Tibetan Plateau in the North, Nepal in the West, Bhutan in the East and West Bengal along its Southern border.
The breathtaking Kanchenjungha peaks guards its valley, turquoise lakes, steams and gorges. Its Capital is Gangtok with its mysterious mist, fluttering prayer flags, rich culture heritage and its friendly smiling people. Sikkim offers a rare and singular experience of a life time. Since the major portion of the state has opened to both the domestic and foreign visitors in recent time, one can experience the most fascinating scenic beauty, breathtaking experience and chilling white river water for a rewarding river rafting experience.
Small but beautiful. Sikkim is situated in the eastern Himalayas, in the lap of Mount Kanchenjungha (8534 mts), the third highest mountain in the world. It is revered by the Sikkimese as their protective deity. With an area of 7,300 sq kms and measuring approx. 114 kms from the north to south and 64 kms from east to west, the elevation ranges from 300 mts to over 8540 mts above sea level.
Nature
There is more to sikkim than just natural beauty. The perenially snow capped mountains, lush green forests, gurling streams and the rich flora & fauna are all there for the tourists to savour. Besides the natural beauty that one continuously beholds while in sikkim, there are many places that deserve more than just a brief visit.
Sikkim - An adventure odyssey
Sikkim is the perfect destination for vacationers in quest of enchantment, tranquility or adventure. It is a jewel embedded in snow clad mountains, where one dreamy day blends into the next. A land rich in culture, tradition and steeped in religion offers you enough to cherish for the rest of your life.
Sikkim Calling...
You can wander up lush green mountain trails, acquaint yourself with a culture that is at once bizarre and fascinating. With its endless intriguing rituals, festivals and festivities, Sikkim offers you a holiday that is more than a dream - a voyage of adventure and discovery.
A History Of Mountaineering in Sikkim
The first European to explore the Kanchenjungha area was Douglas W. Fresfield who reached its base in 1899 from the Green Lake Basin area. A German expedition led by Paul Bauer made the first attempt to reach the summit in 1929 followed by another attempt in 1931 and reached an altitude of 26,000 ft. In 1955 Charles Evans conquered Kanchenjungha a few feet below the summit from the Nepal side.
In 1977 an expedition led by Major Prem Chand reached a few feets below the summit. In 1987, an Assam Rifles expedition attempted the peak. In 1991 an Indo Japanese expedition led by Hukam Singh and Yoshio Ogata conquered the peak. The Kabru was first climbed in 1935 by a British C. R. Cooke. The Pyramid Peak was first conquered in 1949 by a Swiss R. Dittert. A British A. M. Kallas, climbed the Paunhri in 1911.
The summit of Siniolchu was first reached by a German in 1936. It was later again climbed by the famous Sikkimese Everester Sonam Gyatso. Pandim was climbed in 1993 by a team from the Sonam Gyatso Mountaineering Institute. Rathong was conquered by an Indian expedition in 1964.
Suggested Trekking Itinerary
The following iteneraries have been drawn up with Yuksum as base. You can also draw up your own detailed trek itinerary with the help of the Adventure Division of Sikkim Tourism or any other recognized travel agent in Sikkim. Trekkers hut along trek routes are at Pemayangtse, Khechopalri, Yuksum, Tsokha, Dzongri, Thangshing, Zemathang, Chaurigang, Tashiding, Varsey, Yangang, Rabongla, Sang & Sikip.
MONASTIC TREK
March - May / October - December
Pemayangtse - Sangacholing - Khecheopalri - Dubdi - Sinon - Tashiding - Ralang.
RHODODENDRON TREK
March - May
Naya bazar - Hilley / Soreng - Varsey - Dentam - Pemayangtse.
KHANGCHENDZONGA
Mid March - Mid June / October - December
Yuksum - Bakhim - Tsokha - Dzongri - Thanghing / Bikbari - Zemathang / Chaurigang - Goecha la / Rathong glacier and back.
CORONATION TREK
October - December
Rumtek - Sang - Yangang - Rabongla - Tashiding - Yuksum
River Rafting Tours in Sikkim
River rafting enthusiasts have two rivers - the Teesta and Rangit gushing through this paradise country. Beginners as well as experienced adventurers can seek the assistance of the Department of Tourism and travel agents for arranging river rafting trips.
Teesta Experience : Makha - Sirwani - Bardang - Rongpo
Rangeet Experience : Sikip - Jorethang - Majitar - Melli
Kayaking is undertaken on the Teesta and is arranged for special groups. Some experience in Kayaking is required. Kayaks are available with Sikkim Tourism.
Mountain Biking in Sikkim
Mountain Biking is another adventure that has been recently introduced in Sikkim. Most of the roads in Sikkim are negotiable by mountain bikes. This sport is definitely poised to become popular in Sikkim in the near future. This sport is being promoted in most parts of North Sikkim & West Sikkim and is attracting travelers from across the world.
|
