Sikkim

Sikkim exhibits tremendous biodiversity (temperate to alpine to tundra) within a small area. Just like Sikkim, our camp offers a tremendous variety- enjoy a combination of sight-seeing, exploring monasteries, observing the unique flora, trekking, river rafting, among other activities.

We will start our camp in this erstwhile Himalayan kingdom with half a day’s rafting down the Teesta, Sikkim’s lifeline. The Teesta flows through the state from north to south, before joining the Brahmaputra.

Then we will visit the oval shaped Changu lake (also known as Tsomgo) at 12,000 ft. This would be followed by a sojourn into the Yumthang region of North Sikkim. Situated at 11,800 feet, this area is known as the “Valley of Flowers.” March-April is also the season of rhododendrons. One can view a riot of colours here- white, pink and blood red. If you wish to experience the wild beauty of the Himalayas, this is the place. Visit the Zero point at 15,000 ft, for a mesmerizing view of the glacier. This area has recently opened up to tourists. It, however, remains dominated by shepherds and the Indian army.

Once back in Gangtok, a visit to the nearby Rumtek monastery is a must. Rumtek is the seat of the Karmapa, the spiritual head of the Karma Kagyu tradition of Tibetan Buddhism.

The next part of our journey takes us to West Sikkim. The Pemayangtse monastery is the oldest in Sikkim. Yuksom is the site of Sikkim’s first capital. Legend has it that three holy monks arrived from Tibet and consecrated Phuntsok Namgyal here as the first Chogyal of Sikkim in 1642. Yuksom also offers a close view of Kanchanjunga, the third highest peak in the world. It is considered the last frontier and serves as the starting point for treks into the Kanchanjunga region. The ruins of the second capital of Sikkim, Rabdentse Palace, are also close by. Khecheopakri lake is known as the “Wishing Lake,” and is considered sacred by many. Local legend believes that birds do not allow even a single leaf to float on the lake. From Khecheoplari lake, we will trek to Yuksom through dense evergreen forest, punctuated by waterfalls. 

Our arrival day in Kolkatta will be spent at the Science city, visiting the planetarium and various science museums. On the return, we will spend the entire day at the Waterpark.

Sikkim facts :

• It is the least populous state in India, and the second-smallest in area after Goa.

• The official language of the state is English, but there is a sizable population that converses in Nepali, Lepcha, Bhutia, and Limbu.

• The rhododendron is the state tree of Sikkim while the orchid is the state flower.

• The economy is mainly agrarian, although tourism is fast catching up. Breweries, distilleries, tanning and watchmaking are the main industries.