The state of Sikkim is divided into four districts with its capital being Gangtok. Its landscape is dominated by Mount Khangchendzonga, the highest peak in India and the third in the world. It is a land of two rivers - Teesta and Rangeet. The countryside has many ancient monasteries, beautiful temples, holy lakes, sparkling waterfalls, stunning trekking routes and lush hills. This place is also home to picturesque villages, hot springs of therapeutic value and valleys bedecked with orchid and rhododendron flowers. The population of this state comprises three ethnic groups - Bhutia, Lepcha and Nepali. Tourists who want to visit this state for a holiday trip can plan their travel itinerary for a Sikkim tour in advance. While staying here, they can enjoy the sumptuous local cuisine, which is dominated by momos that are steamed flour dumplings with fillings of vegetable, meat or cheese served hot with chilly sauce and soup.

Some of the top attractions in the state include the Kirateshwar Mahadev Temple, Khangchendzonga National Park, Khecheopalri Lake, Pemayangste Monastery, Solopok, Samdrupste, Buddha Park and Sai Mandir. This place is also known for its natural beauty as well as for adventure tourism. Adventure enthusiasts love coming to this place to indulge in trekking, river rafting, mountaineering, mountain biking, yak riding and birdwatching.

Adventure Tourism

The most popular trail in the state is the Dzongri-Goecha La Trek known for beautiful mountain, rich floral and forest views. Recommended trek routes in the countryside include Monastic, Rhododendron, Khangchendzonga, Coronation, Khedi, Singalila, Samartek, Himalayan and Tosar Lake treks. River rafting on the Teesta River offers a lot of excitement and adrenaline rush; however, tourists need to carry life jackets and helmets, accompanied by an expert guide to do so. Mountain biking is fast becoming a trend in the state as there are number of biking routes here that are ideal for an adventurous experience. Tourists can also go for mountaineering in Jopuno, Tinchenkhang and Frey Peak by obtaining special permits from concerned authorities. The ideal time for expeditions in these places is from May to October.

Tourists looking for indulging in yak rides can hire colourfully decorated yaks available at the lakeshore, ready to take people on rides up to the mountain or around the Tsomgo Lake. Yak rides are also organised in Dzongri, a popular trekking point in West Sikkim. This place is also apt for birdwatching due to its differing altitudinal zones. With a good population of avian bird species, Barsey, located in West Sikkim, is considered amongst the best bird watching areas of this region. Also areas around Pemayangste, Pelling village, Khecheopalri Lake, Dzongri as well as Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary are counted amongst bird watching sites.