Actress Andrea mesmerized by Sikkim’s beauty amid travel challenges

Originally planning to travel from Gangtok to Lachung, Andrea’s itinerary was disrupted by landslides, prompting her to visit Pelling instead. She expressed her newfound admiration for Pelling, now her favorite place in Sikkim. Lachung Hill Station, situated at an altitude of 9,600 feet and about 125 km from Gangtok, remains a notable destination. Pelling, a hill station in Gyalshing district, boasts a rich Buddhist heritage and history, attracting many tourists.

Sikkim amazes with its cleanliness and beauty

Sikkim’s cleanliness and beauty are well-recognized. Known as one of the Seven Sisters of the northeastern States, Sikkim offers diverse travel experiences across its regions — North Sikkim, South Sikkim and West Sikkim. The State capital, Gangtok, and other areas feature numerous attractions, including Buddhist temples, mountains, valleys and lakes. Sikkim is also among the cleanest States in India with a complete ban on plastic bags.

Recently, Sikkim became the country’s first organic State, impressing the nation with its commitment to organic farming practices and sustainable lifestyles. The unique landscape and climate of the Himalayas make Sikkim an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

The capital of Sikkim is also the largest city in the State. It is located at an altitude of 1,676 meters above sea level on the Shivalik mountain range in the Eastern Himalayas. It is also a major Buddhist pilgrimage center. The main attractions in and around Gangtok include the Enchey Monastery, built in 1840, Nathula Pass, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Do Drul Chorten, Ganesh Tok, Hanuman Tok, White Hall, Ridge Garden, Himalayan Zoological Park, MG Marg, Lal Bazaar and Rumtek Monastery.

Pelling in West Sikkim is the second most visited place after Gangtok. It is situated at an altitude of 2,150 meters above sea level. This small village offers travelers a rich Buddhist heritage and history. Other attractions include the Pemayangtse and Sangachoeling Monasteries, Singshore Bridge, Changey Waterfall, and Khecheopalri Lake. The Kanchenjunga Festival, held annually, is the most significant celebration here.

3. Kanchenjunga National Park

Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world, is located in North Sikkim. The Kanchenjunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is situated here.

A serene and beautiful small town in North Sikkim, Lachen’s name means ‘big pass’. It is located 129 kilometers from Gangtok at an altitude of 2,750 meters above sea level. The Gurudongmar Lake and Chopta Valley add charm to this area.

This lake is situated at an altitude of 17,100 feet above sea level. From here, you can see the stunning views of the Kanchenjunga and Siniolchu peaks.

Known as the “Valley of Flowers”, Yumthang is breathtakingly beautiful in spring when it is filled with flowers. Primula and rhododendron flowers are predominant. The Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, home to twenty-four varieties of rhododendron flowers, is located here. These flowers bloom in April and May. The Yumthang Valley is located 148 kilometers from Gangtok in North Sikkim district.

Cholamu Lake, situated at an altitude of 18,000 feet above sea level, is the highest lake in India and the fourteenth highest in the world. It is only a few kilometers away from the Tibet border, making the journey to Cholamu quite adventurous.