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Sikkim is a small but beautiful state in Northeast India. Nestled in the Himalayas, it is known for its abundant natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. But what exactly is Sikkim famous for? Well, if you have been asking this question for quite some time now to enjoy its beauty, you’re in the right place here. Now, we’ll move on to give you the answer to the question – what is Sikkim famous for?
Read more : Nathula pass tourism
The Nathu La pass, perched at a lofty height of 14,140 feet above sea level, is a renowned mountain pass situated in the Himalayan region of the tiny state of Sikkim in India. This historic pass acts as a strategic border crossing between India’s Sikkim state and China’s Tibet Autonomous Region connecting the two nations.
When it comes to the spectacular beauty, the best place to go in Sikkim is none other than Nathu La Pass. It is well known for the its snow covered peaks. There are beautiful valleys surrounding this pass making it even more breathtaking location.
Covered in snow for the better part of the year owing to its high altitude Himalayan location, Nathu La Pass has emerged over time as one of the most iconic and noteworthy attractions that have established Sikkim’s reputation as a premier tourist destination among mountain lovers and adventure seekers alike. The unparalleled views it offers of the Eastern Himalayas in a pristine environment definitely make it one of the things Sikkim is best known for.
Read more : Gurudongmar lake
What is Sikkim famous for? One of its claims to fame is Gurudongmar Lake. At an altitude of 17,100 feet in North Sikkim, it is considered one of the highest lakes in the world. The lake holds religious significance and is considered sacred. The still turquoise blue waters with majestic snow-capped mountains in the backdrop make it a must-visit destination in Sikkim. Don’t forget to sip a cup of hot tea to beat the cold!
Read more : Festivals in sikkim
Yumthang Valley is an interesting location where you can visit to know the true beauty of Sikkim. It has nature at its best and most probably, you are going to see some blossoms if you are visiting Yumthang Vally in spring season. Afterall, this is what makes the Yumthang valley a great tourist attraction.
Against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains, these flowers create a living carpet that will take your breath away. From the Valley’s healing hot springs to the halls of flowering giants in Shingba Sanctuary, Yumthang tempts travelers to wander its grassy slopes and discover its beauty. Let your soul be stirred by the valley’s blooms and vistas that stretch to the horizon. Yumthang Valley casts a spell of joy on all who tread through its high-altitude floral fantasy!
Read more : Museums in sikkim
What draws tourists to Sikkim year after year? The otherworldly beauty of Tsomgo Lake, nestled at an altitude of 12,400 feet. The glacial lake changes colors across seasons from crystal blue to turquoise green and even turns into a snow-covered frozen sheet during extreme winters. Its pristine beauty against the imposing backdrop of snow-clad mountains is almost surreal. Don’t forget to try a yak ride on the shores of Tsomgo to soak in its charm fully!
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Sikkim has a vibrant Buddhist heritage and culture, with monasteries dotting its landscape. Rumtek Monastery near Gangtok is one of the most famous ones, renowned for its architectural grandeur. Also known as the Dharmachakra Centre, its traditional Tibetan design and young monks make it a fascinating place to explore Buddhist philosophy and teachings. It is home to some unique religious Tibetan artifacts, too. The monastery provides a peek into Sikkim’s rich cultural heritage.
Read more : Cultural trip to sikkim
As we discuss what makes Sikkim so popular, we cannot leave out its many natural wonders, prime amongst them being the Seven Sister Waterfalls. True to its name, these are seven separate streams of water cascading down from steep hill slopes. Set amidst pristine nature with an unmatched beauty that captivates, Seven Sister Waterfalls is located 32 km from Gangtok. Don’t forget to bring your camera along!
Read more : Places to visit in yuksom
Showcasing Sikkim’s brave sons is the Baba Mandir, which continues to be a place of fascination. Better known as the Maharshi Laxman Jhoola Mandir, it is a memorial shrine built in honor of Harbhajan Singh, a soldier in the Indian army who lost his life nearby. He is fondly referred to as Baba Harbhajan Singh. The legend goes that Baba keeps guard over the area and warns of impending dangers through dreams. Globally, this is one of the only temples dedicated to any army person, making it unique. The shrine lies close to Nathu La Pass, attracting patriotic Indian travelers who want to pay homage.
Read more : Baba mandir sikkim
Sikkim has several places of worship revered by locals and tourists alike. Hanuman Tok near Gangtok allows visitors a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the city nestled against hill slopes. The temple devoted to Lord Hanuman stands at an altitude of 7200 feet and offers peace and panoramas. The place is especially atmospheric in the mornings with chanting of prayers and lighting of lamps. No wonder it is counted amongst Gangtok’s famous places that Sikkim is known for.
Read more : 33 things to do in sikkim
The Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Gangtok is a high-altitude wildlife park that helps promote conservation. Home to endangered Himalayan animals like the red panda and snow leopard, it aims at breeding programs to protect vulnerable species from extinction. Sprawled across a slope, the zoo gives tourists a chance for an up-close rendezvous with high-altitude flora and fauna. Interactive information on conservation adds to making it an informative visit for kids and adults alike to Sikkim’s delicate ecosystems making it an answer to the question – what is Sikkim famous for?
Read more : Gangtok Zoo
Banjhakri waterfalls near Gangtok showcase Sikkim’s natural bounty at its best. Surrounded by verdant nature, the lively cascading falls make for a refreshing picnic spot for locals and tourists. The energetic descent of the water is said to resemble the dancing Shaman priest or Banjhakri, hence the name. Do make it a point to check out the sculptures of Sikkimese legends around the park housing the falls, offering a glimpse into local myths and beliefs.
Read more : Things to do in sikkim
Continuing our list of Sikkim’s pride possessions is the high altitude Tsangu Lake, nestled at 13,200 feet. With crystal clear waters reflecting a hue of colors from deep blue to green, it is considered sacred. Fluttering colorful prayer flags around the lake add to its serene charm. The surrounding snow-kissed peaks and exotic resident birds make it picture postcard-perfect. Taking an unhurried stroll along its banks is the best way to admire its ethereal beauty that draws tourists by the dozens.
Read more : Lakes in sikkim
For those who want insights into Sikkim’s culture beyond monasteries, the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology offers a treasure trove of information. As a leading research center on the religion, language, and traditions related to Mahayana Buddhism, the museum has interesting exhibits. Intricate thangka paintings, exquisite statues, and rare manuscripts give visitors a glimpse into Tibetan influence on Sikkimese heritage, history, and beliefs. The Institute provides valuable perspectives on the special niche that Sikkim enjoys as a peaceful abode of various communities and faiths.
Read more : Hidden gems in sikkim
Flowing right through the state is the iconic Teesta River, the lifeline nurturing Sikkim’s landscape. Passing along hill slopes and valleys, the sights by the banks of the Teesta range from frothy rapids to fishing hotspots to lush green terrain. For rafting enthusiasts, the varying grades of rapids on the Teesta offer a thrilling adrenaline rush. For anglers, it has rich rewards in the form of Himalayan trout. Take in the riverside calm or adrenaline, depending on what your heart seeks when holidaying in Sikkim.
Read more : Waterfalls in sikkim
Showcasing the incredible biodiversity of Sikkim’s various ecozones is the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, with over 40 species of rhododendrons. Every year in spring, the sanctuary bursts into fiery red blooms covering slopes, contrasted with emerald green hillsides. Located at 13,200 feet in North Sikkim, the sea of rhododendron flowers framing snow-clad mountains make it picture-perfect. The sanctuary has walking trails for visitors to soak in the floral beauty that has made Sikkim synonymous with prismatic colors. This is one of the most interesting places that makes a perfect answer to the question – what is Sikkim famous for?
Read more : Saramsa garden
When thinking about what defines Sikkim as a tourist destination, we look towards Gangtok. In recent times, the Gangtok Ropeway has emerged as a major attraction for stunning views of the capital city. One of the highest ropeways in India, it connects Deorali Market to Tashiling. The cable car ride offers a sweeping vista of Gangtok hillscapes that leave visitors wide-eyed. On a clear day, one can even see Kanchenjunga peaks from the ropeway, which makes it a huge tourist magnet.
So there you have it – our round-up of the 15 top things that Sikkim has become renowned for over the years. From high mountain passes steeped in Silk Route history to sparkling lakes reflecting hillsides and rhododendron sanctuaries to monasteries redolent with culture, Sikkim’s natural beauty and warm hospitality keep travelers mesmerized. Plan that trip to explore “what is Sikkim famous for” at the earliest!
