| The Nepalese called it Sikkim
- 'The New Place'; for the Tibetans seeing those endless tracts
of paddy fields it was Denzong,
'The Land of Rice'. But it's original inhabitants-the Lepchas
understood this land best - For them it was simply Nye-mae-el'-
Heaven.
Spread over 7,096 sq km, it enfolds the upper valley of
the Teesta River, the major
tributary of the mighty Bramhaputra
River. Its' southern borders with West Bengal are
shared with the Rangit and
Rangpo rivers; the Singhalila
Range acts as a natural barrier with Nepal in the
west and the Dongkya Range
runs along the borders from the north to the northeast.
Elevations range from 240m above sea level in the south
to over 1,100m in the north and northwestern region.
This land of intense natural beauty, imbued with a mystic
aura, is steeped in legends and history. The profusion of
lofty peaks, holy lakes, ancient monasteries, orchid nurseries,
heli-tours and stunning trekking routes make Sikkim a multi-dimensional
holiday destination.
Gangtok (2,500 mt), the capital
city in the east district is the seat of governance and
a primary hub of commercial activity. The drive up the Teesta
gorge to this prettily located First City of Sikkim is spectacular.
The pile of white water rafting equipment near the river
bank, at one point, reminds you how popular this tumultuous
waterway is becoming for adventure sports enthusiasts. Situated
a short distance from it is the ancient Rumtek
Monastery the city is a convenient base for trips
to the ethereal environs of the mystical Tsongo
Lake and Nathu La.
Flower- filled meadows and hot springs, splendid vistas
and tribal culture lure travellers to the north district-Just
perfect for culture tours and tribal village visits.
The stunning environs of the west district are adventure
sports country. There's white water rafting down the Teesta
and Rangit rivers and trekking
through rhododendron forests amongst the mountainous tracts.
The misty, fairytale-like village of Pelling,
the great tourist attraction, has sensational views of Mt
Kanchendzonga. Close by is the sacred, prayer-flag encircled
Khecheoperi (wishing)
Lake.
Some of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim are located in
its south district, which is the starting point for treks
to Maenam and Tendong
Hill. This is mountain biking country and a haven
for naturalists.
|