SIKKIM

Gangtok and its surrounding regions are abundant in natural beauty and have various natural attractions such as the Tsomgo Lake, Ban Jhakri falls, Tashi viewpoint and more. Other places to visit include many famous religious sites such as the Enchey Monastery, Ganesh Tok, Do Drul Chorten Rumtek Monastery, etc. Also, river Teesta is one of the best spots for white water rafting in North East India.

Its name meaning hill-top, Gangtok can be safely said to be one of the most beautiful hill stations in the country. With everything in just the right amount from a blend of cultural identities to urbanisation, Gangtok is a breathing and dynamic bit of paradise of the northeast. Whether one is looking for a family vacation, a romantic getaway, adventure tourism, or simply a peaceful place to relax and unwind in the midst of nature, Gangtok, Sikkim has it all.

How to Obtain Nathula Pass Permit : A valid permit to visit Nathu La Pass is given to only Indian Nationals. The permit is obtained by applying to the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department. This can be done with the help of a registered travel agency. Valid identity proof and two photographs are necessary for the same.

MG Road is the heart of Gangtok and its most happening place. It is the central shopping hub of this beautiful state capital with various shops, restaurants, and hotels lined up along both sides. MG Road is an open mall or boulevard square which is widely regarded to be the town centre and is the best shopping destination for tourists. This is a great place to take a leisurely stroll or just sit on the benches and revel in the eclectic ambience.

The first thing one notices when on this approximately 1 km stretch of road is the cleanliness. There are boards everywhere which say "Welcome to M.G. Marg, Spit, and Litter Free Zone". The entire area is free of smoke, litter, and vehicular traffic. It's a pedestrian-only zone, and vehicles are not allowed. The buildings on both sides of MG Road in Gangtok are painted green in line with the government's green initiative. This place is also famous for the Gangtok Food and Culture Festival which is an extravaganza held in December every year and thronged by connoisseurs from all over.

The Statue of Unity overlooks MG Road which comprises of the figures of Bhutia Chieftain Khye Bumsa, the Lepcha leader Thetong Tek and his wife Ngo Kong ngol. This statue promotes peace, love, and harmony. About midway is an imposing statue of Mahatma Gandhi. Other eye-catching additions are the Victorian lamps and various benches along the path. Gangtok's MG Road looks stunning after dark when the lights are lit making it a much-thronged place in this quaint hill town.

Tsomgo Lake Permit : The Tsomgo lake is located in a restricted area and requires all visitors to obtain permits that allow them to enter the otherwise restricted area. Foreign nationals are required to obtain special permits. These permits cannot be obtained online, and you will need to go through officially certified travel agents and tour operators who will get the permit for you. There is no fee or cost associated with obtaining these permits, other than the agent's fee, and you will be required to submit an ID proof and two passport size photographs. Permits take a day or two to arrive.

Tips : 1. Make sure to wear/carry boots when travelling to the lake as it tends to be very slippery. Plastic boots are also available for rent near the lake for approximately INR 50. Also, carry an extra pair of socks.
2. Try to visit the lake during the early hours of the morning as there are some slide-prone areas on the way and you don't want to be stuck there during the late evening.

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The Scenic Beauty of Tsomgo Lake
The Tsomgo Lake's spectacular scenic beauty has charmed tourists from far and wide and keeps them yearning for more, especially during the winters and summers. As the spring sets in, rhododendrons, primulas, irises and multicoloured poppies create a colourful and vivacious outline along the borders of this oval-shaped glacier lake. There are also many exotic and medicinal plants that bloom here in the summer. A view of the Changu Lake during this time of the year is sure to make you fall in love with nature's enthralling and wondrous creations.

During the winters, the entire lake freezes into a giant tray of ice. The lustrous surface of this lake shines as the frost glistens under the soft sunshine. Witnessing this giant lake frozen solid at the base of the majestic snow-covered mountains is indeed a breathtaking feast for the eyes. Standing at the Tsomgo Lake, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Many rare migratory birds have made this beautiful lake their seasonal home, including the Brahmini duck. Hundreds of Brahimini ducks flock over here when the west gets unbearably cold and cosy up in these gentle waters.

Other than staring into the magnanimous beauty of the Tsomgo Lake and losing yourself in its hypnotic charm, there are quite a few things that draw the attention of the tourists. One can trek along the sides of the lake in the deep snow or enjoy a ride along the periphery of the lake on colourfully decorated yaks and mules. About 200 meters away is a small market that sells yak cheese, trinkets and local curios to the tourists. Few stalls also rent out jackets, boots and gloves to help you when it gets extremely cold. There are small kiosks here that sell tea, coffee and local cuisine snacks. The hot Tibetan noodle soup is sure to revitalise and refresh you from within and will help you combat the biting cold in the winters.

Yumthang Valley Highlights
1. Hot Springs

Adding to its allure, Yumthang is also home to the Yumthang Hot Springs, known for their medicinal properties. Surrounded by the snow-capped mountains, these natural hot springs provide a rejuvenating experience, making them a must-visit attraction within the valley.

2. Natural Splendors

Yumthang Valley is a testament to nature's unrivaled beauty, with snow-capped peaks, lush greenery, and a gently flowing river creating a picturesque landscape. The valley blooms into a vibrant carpet of flowers during spring, painting the surroundings with hues of rhododendrons, primulas, and myriad other alpine blossoms. The vibrant display of colors against the backdrop of snow-clad mountains is a sight to behold.

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How to Reach Yumthang Valley
To reach Yumthang Valley, one can follow these general directions:

By Air
- The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in West Bengal.
- From Bagdogra, hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.

By Rail
- The nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP).
- From NJP, proceed to Gangtok by taxi or shared cab.

By Road
- Gangtok serves as a base for the journey to Yumthang Valley.
- Regular taxis, shared cabs, or private vehicles are available from Gangtok to reach Lachung, the nearest town to Yumthang.

Lachung to Yumthang
- Yumthang Valley is approximately 25 kilometers from Lachung.
- Hire a local taxi or arrange for transportation through your accommodation in Lachung to reach Yumthang Valley.

Note: The journey to Yumthang involves hilly terrain and may require permits, especially for foreigners. Ensure proper permits are obtained before the trip, and consider hiring a local guide or consulting with tour operators for a smoother experience. Road conditions may vary, so it's advisable to check for the latest information and plan accordingly.
Best Time to Visit
While Yumthang is a year-round destination, the prime time to witness its floral extravaganza is during late April to mid-June when the valley is in full bloom. The winter months, from November to March, transform Yumthang into a winter wonderland with pristine snow covering the landscape.

Ravangla also boasts a unique cultural charm. Its monasteries, including Ralang Monastery and Tashiding Monastery, are significant centers of Buddhist tradition and architecture. These spiritual hubs provide a serene escape and a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. The quaint town also serves as a gateway to nearby attractions like Borong and Namchi, enhancing its appeal as a base for exploring Sikkim.

The best time to visit Ravangla is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is pleasant and the vibrant blooms and clear skies accentuate its natural beauty. Local cuisine, featuring momos, thukpa, and other Tibetan-Sikkimese delicacies, adds a flavorful touch to the visit. Ravangla's tranquil ambiance, coupled with its rich cultural and natural attractions, makes it a must-visit destination in Sikkim.

The village is primarily inhabited by Lepchas and Bhutias, who are followers of Buddhism. Besides, the market of Lachung is brimming with handicrafts, including elegantly woven rugs & blankets, which makes it apt for a shopping expedition. Ideally, Lachung should be explored on foot. Visitors can stop by small eateries in huts to have some authentic Sikkimese food for a top-off experience. Lachung is an outlandish location, unpolluted by nuances of modernization. Here, most houses are built from wood, enveloped by small kitchen gardens around twisty roads with small shops and stepped grassy fields.

Guidelines to Follow: : Altitude Caution: At an elevation of 15,000 ft, be mindful of the oxygen levels. Avoid sudden movements; walk slowly. If any doubt arises, consult a paramedic promptly.
Age Restriction: The army restricts entry for children below 5 years old.
Permit Priority: Ensure all necessary permits are in order. If lacking proper documentation, contact agents or the hotel front desk for assistance.
Permit Procedures:
For Indians: Obtain permits at the Police Check Post.
For Foreigners: Acquire permits from the Sikkim Tourism Department, available only up to Thangu.
Tour Operators: Permits can also be facilitated through tour operators for added convenience.
Environmental Respect: Be a responsible citizen; refrain from littering in and around the lake. The lake holds sacred significance, and maintaining its sanctity is crucial.

One of the main attractions of Zuluk is its mesmerizing sunrise and sunset views. Additionally, Zuluk serves as a base for adventure enthusiasts looking to trek through the rugged terrain, go birdwatching, or explore nearby attractions like the Old Baba Mandir, Kupup Lake, and Nathang Valley. Zuluk proudly calls itself a virgin destination as it is almost never crowded by seasonal tourists. To have a better experience of the mesmerizing locales and ultra gorgeous landscape, it is advisable to stay in homestays offered by locals rather than commercial hotels. You can also spot Army jawans, jeeps and tents while wandering on some of these trails.

The best time to visit Zuluk is during the spring and summer months, from March to June, when the weather is pleasant, and the flora is in full bloom. It's important to note that Zuluk experiences heavy snowfall during the winter months, from December to February, which can make access difficult and roads impassable. Therefore, it's advisable to plan a visit during the warmer months for a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.

The splendid Rumtek Monastery has preserved a golden stupa and various other sculptures which belonged to the 16th Karmapa. Traditionally, it is also believed that the Golden Stupa was constructed with the motive of removing the obstacles of the reincarnation of His Highness The Sixteenth Gyalwa Karmapa Rangjung Rigpe Dorje.

It is one of the most sought after places in Sikkim and is a visual treat for every pilgrim who comes to Sikkim. It also serves as the storehouse for many uniques objects besides storing some of the world's unique religious scriptures. The massive prayer hall inside the stunning monastery is a place worth seeing that is decorated with splendid murals, statues and thangkhas.