5 Places You Cannot Miss To Visit While In Sikkim

Among the seven North-Eastern states of India, perhaps none are as unforgettable as Sikkim. Bordered by China, Bhutan and Nepal with the incredible Kanchenjunga Ranges domineering over the state, it’s nothing less than culturally and aesthetically magnificent. If you plan on visiting North-East India, also read about the Best Places to Visit in North-East India.

Every district of the state is more beautiful than the former. It’s going to be a confusing list, but one thing is for sure, you can’t miss out on this state.

* Gangtok

Nowhere better to start than the capital itself. This place is rightfully given the title of the capital city with all the adventures and cultural exposure that it offers to tourists.Gangtok is overshadowed by the high Himalayan ranges which give this place a fantastical appeal. Moreover, there is so much to do in Gangtok that another list can be made out of it. Well, that’s exactly what we’ve done.

* Zuluk Village

Zuluk Village is a growing tourist destination, mainly because it is an important military base even today. But the sheer beauty of the place couldn’t stop people to swarm in here and experience ultimate tranquillity. It is heaven personified.Zuluk Village is approximately at a four-hour distance from Gangtok. This makes it easily accessible. The village has a significant history, and its importance exists even today. Zuluk Village is en route to the border that India shares with Tibet. In the earlier centuries, this was a crucial way through which all the major trade happened with Tibet and China, not only from India but other Mediterranean countries also. The majority of the purchased item was silk. Therefore, it came to be known as the silk route. It was later confiscated by China, thus the border.

* Teesta River

This is one beautiful river originating from Sikkim itself. Because of the terrain through which the river flows and because of its different speed at certain points of the terrain, Teesta River is famous for river rafting. In fact, people from around the world come here to have an adrenaline spiking adventure. The river flows down well to Darjeeling which is also crowded during favourable seasons for water sports.During the winter seasons, the river is frozen, and it’s a sight to behold. But during summers also, it looks brilliant with its emerald blue waters and gushing speed. The path surrounding the river is covered by dense forests. There are some plantations en route as well. Also, you can find some lovely white sand beaches here where the Tourism Department usually arranges camps for river rafting.

* Nathula Pass

This is the most famous place in Sikkim and one you should visit without fail.Located at the height of 14,140 ft, about 50 km from Gangtok, this magnanimous mountain range is a part of the silk route. You can see the fenced border of Indo-China from here. Soldiers are always present here despite the freezing temperature and hazardous conditions. They are quite friendly so don’t hesitate to interact with them.Apart from the border, there is a border market about 3 km from these fences. Actually, a little bit of trade of items still goes on through this border in both India and China but this is done by only 100 businessmen or less. Therefore, some amazing things from China can be found in the market. Oh, and if you forgot to bring money, don’t fret. The highest altitude ATM in the world is in Nathula Pass, and it’s always functioning.

* Namchi

Namchi is a beautiful town in South Sikkim which is quickly progressing, both regarding tourism and education. There are many private schools here providing quality education.Namchi is an important Buddhist pilgrimage site as there are many monasteries here. The city is also full of the fragrances of beautiful flowers. Fresh mountain air will detoxify your system, and the scent only adds to the luxury.Also, the only tea estate in Sikkim, Temi Tea Garden, is also here. Make sure you pay a visit there.