SIKKIM & DARJEELING

Wedged between Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet, this picturesque Himalayan region is renowned for its glorious mountain scenery, its luxuriant pine, birch, rhododendron and magnolia forests. Kanchenjunga, the world's third highest mountain, stands guardian over western Sikkim, while to the north the great Himalaya are studded with sacred peaks. The gorges of the Teesta and Rangeet rivers offer white-water adventure and superb fishing. There are easy treks to hilltop monasteries and forests of wild rhododendron; and longer routes deep into the highland home of the Lachungpas, who still preserve and maintain their unique, separate culture and self-governing society.

Darjeeling, a town with many imprints of the British era in India is a short drive from sikkim towards south. For the steam engine buff, there is no greater pleasure and sense of nostalgia than a ride in one of the world famous "Toy Trains".

Climate

Summer (Monsoon): June to September. (18 °C Days, 13 °C Nights, Wet & Humid)

Autumn: October & November (14 °C Days, 8 °C Nights, mainly Dry).

Winter: December to February (9 °C Days, 3°C Nights, Dry).

Spring: March to May. (16 °C Days, 10 °C Nights, mainly Dry).

Spring is the best time to visit, definitely so for trekking.

Geography

Small but beautiful, Sikkim is situated in the Eastern Himalayas. Spread below the Mount Kanchanjunga (8,534m) the third highest mountain in the world and reverted by the Sikkimese as their protective deity. Sikkim shares her borders with Tibet in the North and Bhutan in the East, Nepal in the West and State of West Bengal (India) in the South. With an area of 7,300 Sq km. and measuring approximately 100 kms. from North to South and 60 km. from East to West, the elevation ranges from 244 mts to over 8540 mt. above sea level. Amidst the grandeur of mountain peaks, lush valleys, fast flowing rivers, terraced hills, Sikkim offers her visitors a rare and singular experience. Within hours one can move from the subtropical heat of the lower valleys to the cold of the rugged mountain slope that reach up to the areas of perpetual snow. It is world renowned for its Orchids and outstanding views of the eastern Himalaya.

Entry Formalities

All foreigners intending to visit Sikkim has to avail of an Indian Visa which can be obtained at any Indian Embassy or Mission abroad. The inner line permit can also be obtained alongwith the Indian Visa or by your agent in SIKKIM.