Sikkim & Darjeeling Information

 

Sikkim

Sikkim is one of the small former Himalayan kingdoms now integrated into India. Sikkim is probably one of the best known, which is due to the famous tea of the same name. Tucked away in the foothills of the Himalayas, Sikkim is a Himalayan wonderland with its lovely views, exotic orchids and its forest-trails. A virtual Shangrila overlooked by Mt. Kanchenjunga, the world’s third highest peak, Sikkim is attractive equally for the sightseer, the adventure sports enthusiast and those interested in Buddhism and Tibetology.

Buddhism is the predominant religion here, with many fine old monasteries rich with frescoes, religious paintings on silk and statues of the Buddha’s various incarnations. In Gangtok, the delightfully quaint capital, are pagoda like roofs of many buildings and the presence of crimson robed monks in the bazaars. The Institute of Tibetology, the only one of its kind in the world, was set up by the erstwhile ruler to promote research on Mahayana Buddhism, and on the language and traditions of Tibet. Lower down the hill is the famous orchid sanctuary where 500 species of orchids indigenous to Sikkim are cultivated.

Sikkim offers several treks that lead through pine forests, through picturesque valleys, monasteries and to mountain lakes. It is also the base for mountaineering expeditions and the rivers Teesta and Rangeet offer excellent river rafting. For those who wish to experience the lovely surroundings but don't have time to go on an extended trek, the "Local Trek" takes in four villages in four days of moderate walking. Walks to Kechopari lake are also possible.

Prior permission must be sought from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, by all foreigners wishing to visit Sikkim – though travel formalities are being relaxed gradually. Permission may, therefore, be sought from Indian Missions overseas, or from offices of Sikkim Tourism, A number of good hotels and lodging houses exist in Gangtok.

Darjeeling

Darjeeling is famous for its tea. It's a hill resort in West-Bengal, and for those who are a bit tired of the hustle and bustle of Calcutta it is the ideal place to go. Old colonial style mansions and lush green hills are waiting for you.

Darjeeling is one of the most beautiful Hill Stations in India coming under the state of West Bengal.  The view of Kanchenjunga, and other ranges of the Himalayas is the attraction of this little city. Darjeeling can be reached either by Air and the nearest Airport is Bagdogra. By train, you will have to travel overnight from Kolkatta at alight at New Jalpaiguri, then take the famous Toy Train which is running for more than a Century. Winding itself into the hills there is a fantastic history behind the laying of tracks for this rail route. Darjeeling can also be reached on road by jeep, van or car. But the rail route is the most enjoyable.

We were told by the Railway authorities that during the British period in India, Darjeeling was their attraction to spend in summers and they decided to lay the railway track from the plains to the hill top. The distance was less and the height disproportionate. The Engineer behind the construction and planning the rail route lost all hopes of laying the track and frustrated, he sent a telegram to his wife in England.  She replied him saying "GO BACK" meaning dont give up.

In Darjeeling, you have many places to visit. The famous Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Zoo, Foot Ball Playground, Buddhist temples, Japanese Styled Buddhist Temple, The Rock Garden, innumerable Tea Estates, a park in memory of the Soldiers, and the Tiger Hills a spot where people go to watch the sunrise from below the mountains and before it actually rises, there is a ray of golden shine on the snow covered Himalayas giving a feast to the eyes of the nature lover. One cannot also, miss to visit the House of Tenzing Sherpa, the first man to conquer Mount Everest. There is a famous lake called the MIRIK, almost on the border of India-NEPAL, one can go boating too in the calm atmosphere.

The native of this place are called the Ghurkhas. They are mongoloid like, very affectionate and loving. We could see small little children attired from head to toe from the freezing cold walking along the ups and downs of the city to reach their school in the morning. They look like toys in motion. Jeeps are available for local sight seeing at a very reasonable rate. Though this Station is also getting crowded during the seasons, it is a beautiful Hill Station to be visited for relaxing and enjoying nature. Obviously, it is one of the precious jewels of India, with a touch of the British influence.

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