The land of mystic beauty. The northernmost and the second smallest state of India, Sikkim is perched amidst the massive Himalayas. Mother Nature has showered her best on this tiny state guarded by the third largest mountain in the world, the Kanchandzonga. Sikkim is abundant in natural and cultural beauty. The people and their culture, the flora, the fauna and their habitat are totally different from the rest of the country. The dominance of Buddhism in evident in this cute little state where many fine old monasteries rich with frescoes, religiou s paintings on silk and statues of the Buddha's various incarnations are found. At an elevation ranging from 300 meters to 8585 meters above the sea level, Sikkim is a Himalayan wonderland with its lovely views and exotic orchids, and its forest-trails. A visitor to this land is fascinated by the beauty it holds, and returns with memories galore, only to come again and again to this splendid land, the land of mystic beauty... Sikkim.

The physical presence of this charming little town is aptly described in the local language form where the city derives its name from. It means on the hill top, and that's what the city is, Gangtok is perched high on a mountain which was supposedly flattened to build a monastery and eventually the city around it. The charming city carries an aura of mysticism with prayer flags fluttering with the wind and the sound of Buddhist prayers and bells echoing within the mountains. Adding to the charm are the flowers those bloom on the roadside and the locals of this place, naïve and smiling, both give a sense of a grand welcome to this small city. Abundant in natural beauty, Gangtok seems to have all the shades in green peeping through every leaf and forest. The tea gardens and the snow-capped mountains add to the beauty. Gangtok is famous for its exotic and colorful flowers particularly Rhododendron, Orchids and Blue Poppies. Gangtok has a very spectacular setting and offers excellent views of the entire Kanchandzonga range from various points in its vicinity. The third largest mountain of the world, the Kanchandzonga, is considered as the guarding deity by the people of Sikkim and Gangtok. They worship and offer prayers to their deity who not only guards their borders but also provides the life like water apart from the picturesque scenario. The Capital of Sikkim emerges through the clouds in the shadow of the mighty Kanchandzonga and offers a lot to see and enjoy for a travel enthusiast. It was ruled by the Chongyals till the 1975, until it merged with the Indian sub-continent as the 22nd state of India. The footmarks of the regality are still evident in the capital where they reside and normal public does not have access to it.Lamas with their play wheels, colorful festivals, Tsechu dance, the Monasteries, the flowers and the natural beauty; all draw visitors to this place. But the view of the majestic Kanchandzonga takes the cake and memories of which calls you back and again to visit the small town.
Gangtok is connected by road to Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Siliguri and also to all the district headquarters within Sikkim.

Pelling situated 120Kms to the west of Gangtok, is fast coming up as the second tourist destination of Sikkim, owing to its proximity to many good monasteries and of course the great views that it offers.Situated at an altitude of 6,890 feet, it offers a fantastic view of the entire Kanchandzonga mountain range. The Pemyangtse monastery and the Kanchandzonga waterfall are the prime attractions of this place. The Khecheopalri Lake is another attraction. This lake hidden in the deep woods is equally sacred for Hindus and Buddhists and pilgrims throng to this place quite often.

Yumthang, at an elevation of 11800 feet and around 140 kms from Gangtok is a paradise on earth! Sikkim overall has surprises for one at every nook and corner. But at Yumthang, the breathtaking scenic grandeur is something unforgettable. The variety of Flora and Fauna scattered all over Sikkim seem to come and assemble at Yumthang. Yumthang is famous for its Sanctuary of Rhododendrons. At least 25 species of these flowers are found here. The Yumthang Tsa Chu is the natural hot spring famous for its curative powers. The unique Bhutia village Lachung, some 25 km from Yumthang, is another major attraction. This village has a local self governing body called the Zumsa. They have their own rules and live accordingly, keeping their age -old traditions and values alive. To watch the different religious rituals of this village is an opportunity not to be missed. 23 kms from Lachung is the Chungthang Valley. Based on the confluence of Lachen and Lachung Chu and the starting point of river Teesta, this valley opens up the nature's treasure cove. It is said to have had blessings from the revered Guru Rimpuche. The blanket of various types of Orchids flashing the most vibrant colours on blanket of various shades of green is what this valley made of. Not only the breathtaking sight soothes your eyes but this riot of colours also rejuvenates one's mind and soul.

Namchi located in southern Sikkim is 78 km from the state capital of Gangtok. Nestled among he hills of Sikkim at an elevation of 5,500 feet, the word Namchi itself means sky high. It is getting a lot of attention of the tourists due to many tourist places to be visited nearby. The one and only existing tea estate in the state that produces the top quality in the international market, the Temi tea estate is situated near Namchi. A visit to the tea garden along with the factory visit is quite educating experience. The Menam hill is situated at the altitude of 10,300 feet. Not only has the famous mountain ranged of the Kanchandzonga, but on a bright sunny day even the plains of Bengal are visible from this place. Indeed the scenic view from this place is unmatched from any other view in Sikkim. The base of the Menam hill is the small township of Ravangala. It is a transit spot for trekkers going south and those who venture to the north of Sikkim. One of the holiest caves of Sikkim, the sacred cave of Shar Chok Bepchu is near to Ravangala and a trek to this place is a memorable experience. The annual flower festival of Namchi is a major attraction during the summers.

Yuksam is s upposed to be the first capital of the people of Sikkim. It was here that the first Chogyal, the king was consecrated by three learned lamas. The evidence of the ceremony is still intact in the form of stone seats where the coronation took place. Due to this incident that took place here, the people of Sikkim attach a great importance to this place and worship it like a pilgrimage. Yuksam also has the foot print of the head lama on a stone who was present for the coronation. Yuksam is just 32 km from Pemyangtse monastery and the road leading to it is not different from the other Sikkim roads, extremely picturesque and beautiful!