Sikkim is a state in northeastern India that shares its border with Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan. It is a beautiful landscape of glaciers, alpine meadows and mountains. Sikkim is also home to the highest Indian mountain, the magnanimous 8,586 meter long Kangchenjunga. The state has a diverse spread of over five hundred species of flora, the fauna includes snow leopards, musk deers , red pandas, leopard cats, tibetan wolves etc. Hinduism and Buddhism are the predominant religions in the state. If you are looking for a break from the hectic city life, book a Sikkim tour package. But, before you go galavanting here are a few things you must know.
Permits
Some parts of Sikkim share sensitive borders with China. For security reasons, any foreigners visiting the state of Sikkim are not allowed to visit certain places unless they have the ‘Inner Line Permit’ or ILP. The ILP can be collected from Sikkim House in Kolkata or Delhi or it can be obtained at the entry point in Sikkim called Rangpo. To get the ILP you’d need around ten photos and other ID proofs such as Aadhar Card, PAN Card etc. You could also talk to your Sikkim tour package operator to help with the ILPs.
Hot Springs
The temperature in Sikkim can range from a max of 28 degree celsius to a bone chilling minus 40 degree celsius. Sikkim is known for its snow capped mountains and glaciers. The hot springs of Sikkim are lesser known to most tourists as they lie well hidden on a mountain top in Lachung, near the Chumathang valley. This is a public spring and is free of cost. Now that you know of it, do visit the hot springs.
Working Hours
Most of Sikkim’s market shut down by 8 PM. Few shops remain open after that time. The bars have a closing time of 11:00 PM. Sikkim has a simple, slow and peaceful lifestyle. Gambling and betting in the bars is banned by the government to maintain the peace and sanctity of the place.
Shared Taxis
There are very few state roadways buses that ply between tourist destinations. To compensate for the lack of buses there are plenty of shared taxis. The fare in these shared taxis is very nominal. There are fixed fares for taxis and over charging is prohibited by the state government. More than ten people per jeep , Sumo or commander are not allowed.
Festivals
Sikkim has a mixed culture of Hinduism and Buddhism. It’s home to many Indian, Nepali, Bhutanese and Tibetan people. It’s a little known fact that people of all these nationalities celebrate their festivals and everyone, regardless of their religion or nationality, partakes with enthusiasm and vigor.
Wrap up
Sikkim is a beautiful place to get lost in. The local terrain , landscape and climate will make you stop and stare at the wonders of our world. The local food and festivals are a spout of colors, smells and sounds you’ve never heard before. If you are planning to go on a trip to Sikkim, book your Sikkim Tour package through a reputable tour package so that you don’t have to worry about your hotel stay, train bookings, food and similar other such things.
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