SIKKIM
DARJEELING TOUR
The
saying 'Small is beautiful', is amply
demonstrated by the tiny mountain state
of Sikkim. With the grandeur of her mountain
peaks, verdant valleys, fast flowing rivers,
terraced hills and floral wealth, a visit
to Sikkim is a rare and unique experience.
Situated on the eastern Himalayas, in
the shadow of the towering Mount Kanchenjunga,
which is worshipped as the principal deity,
Sikkim measures approximately 100 kms
from north to south, and 60 kms from east
to west.
The inhabitants of Sikkim
are beautiful people who radiate with
life, and a simplicity which is truly
endearing. The population of Sikkim comprises
of three main groups of people, the Lepchas,
Bhutias and the Nepalese. The Sikkimese,
are by nature, polite and non - aggressive
people. Being devout Buddhists, they celebrate
their festivals, with a distinct mixture
of abandon and reserve. One of the most
colourful performances in the world, are
Sikkim's mask dances performed by Lamas
in the 'gompa' (monastery) courtyards.
The colourful dances of Kagyat, and the
masked Rumtek and Enchey 'Chaams' (ritual
dance of the lamas), are the popular dances,
that recreate legends and myths connected
with Buddhism, and the eternal triumph
of good over evil.
Sikkim has an estimated
4,000 varieties of flowering plants and
shrubs, that include Orchids and the rare
Rhododendrons, that cover the slopes and
mountains. Ornithologists have catalogued
550 species and sub species of birds,
along with 600 varieties of butterflies.
Its dense forests abound with endangered
species of Himalayan Bear, Musk and Barking
Deer, Red Panda and Blue Sheep, among
other fauna. The capital city of Gangtok,
monastries of Sikkim, the trekker's paradise
at Dzongri, and the overall raw natural
magnificence, leave a visitor to this
mountain state with memories to last a
lifetime. Other places of tourist interest
include the Deer Park, Enchey Monastery,
Orchidarium Tashi View Point, Rumtek Monastery
and Phodong Monastery.