Geography and Climate
Sikkim’s dramatic landscapes include rugged mountains, roaring rivers, pristine lakes, and cascading waterfalls. These natural wonders, coupled with its lush forests and deep valleys, create a visual symphony that leaves visitors spellbound. The state is home to one of the world's steepest ascents, offering unparalleled views unique to this Himalayan haven. Spanning 7,096 sq. km, Sikkim experiences diverse climates ranging from subtropical to arctic. The inhabited areas enjoy a mild climate with summer temperatures reaching up to 28°C and an average annual temperature of 18°C, making it a year-round destination.
People and Culture
Sikkim’s population is a vibrant mosaic of ethnic communities, primarily Lepchas, Bhutias, and Nepalis. Renowned for their warmth, simplicity, and hospitality, the people of Sikkim live in harmony, celebrating their unique languages, traditions, and crafts. Music and dance are integral to Sikkimese culture, often showcased during festivals and celebrations. While Lepcha and Sikkimese are spoken in the northeast, Nepali serves as the official state language, reflecting the harmonious coexistence of its diverse communities.
Food and Cuisine
Sikkimese cuisine is a delightful blend of Nepali, Tibetan, and indigenous flavors, emphasizing simplicity and freshness. Dishes like momos, thukpa, and phagshapa are staples, often prepared using organic and locally sourced ingredients. The cuisine is less spicy than typical Indian fare, focusing on preserving natural flavors. Signature dishes like kinema, gundruk, dhido, and sel roti offer a unique taste of Sikkim's culinary heritage, making every meal a satisfying Himalayan experience.
Festivals
Sikkim’s festivals are vibrant celebrations deeply rooted in its spiritual and cultural heritage. Buddhist festivals such as Phang Lhabsol and Saga Dawa honor protective deities and mark significant spiritual events. Hindu festivals like Dashain and Tihar are also celebrated with a distinctive Sikkimese touch. These celebrations showcase a harmonious blend of traditions, spirituality, and a deep connection with nature. Notable festivals include:
- Maghe Sankranti
- Sonam Lochar
- Losar
- Sakewa
- Holi
- Saga Dawa
Trekking In Sikkim
Sikkim , the land of high mountains and monasteries. The land of mysticism evoked partly by grandeur of Kanchenjunga and its natural beauty. nside the 70 monasteries (approx) of this small country are fascinating murals, images of hundreds of deities from Tibetan Buddhist pantheon. Buddhism is an integral thread in the life of the Sikkimeses and you are constantly reminded of it during your travel. Lepchas were the first settlers to settle in Sikkim, then came Bhutias from Bhutan in the 15th century. In early 19th century Nepalese occupied the large part of the Sikkim. Thus you will be delighted to find cultures in this small land. Amongst the hill stations of India, Darjeeling has had a checkered and curious history of its own. Darjeeling, the home of the Everest hero, late Tenzing Norgay is a typical and picturesque hill town, cut into the steep sides of the mountains, its terraced slops providing stunning views of the mighty Kanchenjunga range. The region is lush and tropical and the drive up from the plains through soft green tea garden up into forested heights with their orchards and farms is a constant delights.
Trekking with Sikkim Peak Tours & Travels takes you to Gangtok-a bustling town with the blend of tradition and modernity & further to famous Rumtek Monastrey and finally to the windswept top of Gochala-La. Sikkim is interlaced with jungle-clad ridges and deep ravines created by the raising torrent of the mountain river's speed and emerald valleys alternating with terraced hillsides & dense forest.
Note: Special permission required for trekking in Sikkim. Prescribed application forms complete in triplicate with three copies of the passport size photographs must reach to the company, Minimum 2 Days prior to the arrival of the group in India.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Sikkim is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (October to December) seasons. Spring offers blooming rhododendrons and pleasant weather, while autumn brings clear skies and spectacular views of the snow-capped Himalayas. Winter (January to February) is perfect for snow lovers, while monsoon (June to September) adds lush greenery but may involve landslides and heavy rainfall.
