About Sikkim
- Welcome to Sikkim, a jewel nestled amidst the towering Himalayas, where nature's grandeur meets vibrant cultural tapestry.
- Located in the northeastern part of India, Sikkim beckons with its breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and captivating socio-cultural heritage.
- Sikkim, bordered by Bhutan, Tibet, and Nepal, boasts of a unique geographical setting. Its terrain ranges from lush subtropical forests in the south to alpine meadows and snow-capped peaks in the north.
- The mighty Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world, proudly stands sentinel over this picturesque state.
- Gangtok, our university's home, is the capital city, nestled amidst the Eastern Himalayas, offering panoramic vistas of majestic mountains and verdant valleys.
- Sikkim's cultural mosaic is a testament to its diverse ethnic communities, including the Lepchas, Bhutias, and Nepalis, each contributing to the rich tapestry of traditions and customs.
- Festivals such as Losar (Tibetan New Year), Dashain, and Tihar (Nepali festivals), and Pang Lhabsol (Sikkimese festival) showcase the vibrant spirit and unity of its people.
- The state's cultural heritage is also evident in its architecture, with monasteries like Rumtek, Pemayangtse, and Enchey exuding a serene ambiance, adorned with intricate murals, statues, and prayer wheels.
- These monastic institutions not only serve as spiritual centers but also as repositories of ancient wisdom and art.
- Sikkim reveres nature, as evidenced by its commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
- The state is home to numerous protected areas, including Khangchendzonga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, harboring diverse flora and fauna, including the elusive snow leopard.
- The practice of organic farming has gained prominence in Sikkim, with the state being declared the first organic farming state in India.
- This eco-conscious approach not only preserves the pristine environment but also promotes the well-being of its inhabitants.
- Moreover, Sikkim embraces a harmonious blend of traditional healing practices such as Sowa-Rigpa (Tibetan medicine), Ayurveda, and Naturopathy, alongside modern healthcare systems, ensuring holistic wellness for its residents.
- Sikkim, with its awe-inspiring landscapes, vibrant cultural heritage, and sustainable ethos, offers a transformative experience for anyone fortunate enough to traverse its enchanting terrain.
- As a university situated in the heart of Gangtok, we invite you to immerse yourself in the beauty and warmth of Sikkim, where every corner unveils a new story and every encounter leaves an indelible mark on the soul.
- Come, embark on a journey of discovery in this Himalayan paradise.
How to Reach Sikkim
By Air
The nearest airport is Bagdogra in West Bengal and is 124 kms (about 4 hrs drive) from Gangtok, which is connected, with all the major cities in India. You can also avail the helicopter service operated by the Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation daily from Bagdogra to Gangtok, which takes about 20 mins. Moreover, a new airport is about to be inaugurated at Pakyong which about 32 kms from Gangtok.
By Road
Gangtok is connected by road with Siliguri, Darjeeling and Kalimpong by the National Highway 10 (NH10). There are regular Sikkim state transport buses between Gangtok and Siliguri.Private buses, jeeps and taxis can also be hired from Siliguri and Bagdogra.
By Rail
The nearest railway station is at New Jalpaiguri, which is about 125 kms from Gangtok(about 4 hrs). New Jalpaiguri is well connected with all the cities in India.
Important Places to Visit
Khangchendzonga Mountain peak
Shrouded in heavy mist, the guardian deity Khangchendzonga or Kanchenjunga both protects and intimidates the inhabitants of the magical kingdom of Sikkim. An awe-inspiring mass of rock clothed in dazzling white snow, this Himalayan giant is the world's third highest peak at 8,585 m (28,169 ft). The name itself means 'House of Five Treasures' represented by its five soaring summits.
Sikkim Research Institute of Tibetology (SRIT)
This internationally acclaimed centre of Tibetan Studies & Research houses a vast collection of rare Buddhist books, manuscripts and over 200 Buddhist icons. About a kilometer downhill from the main market of Gangtok, amidst a small forest of oak, magnolia and birch trees stands the Institute of Tibetology. The building accommodating the Institute is an example of Tibetan architecture. It is world renowned and is one of the few of its kind. It has one of the world's largest collection of books and rare manuscripts on the subject of Mahayana Buddhism plus many religious works of art and incredibly finely executed silk embroidered thangkas. There is an entry fee.
Palace of The Chogyal
If you happen to be in Gangtok during the last week of December, do not miss going to the Palace of the Chogyal (Monarch), as it is open to public only during the week of the Pang Lhabsol festival. The festival is celebrated only in Sikkim and commemorates the consecration of Mount Kanchendzonga as the guardian deity of the region.
Permanent Flower Show
White Hall, close by the White Memorial Hall and just below the Palace Ridge park is the more recent Flower Show Hall. In recent years this show has become quite popular and famous as there are flower exhibitions throughout the year in accordance with the seasons and the flowers in bloom. There is entry fee.
Enchey Monastery
Located on a hilltop above Gangtok this monastery rebuilt in 1910 belongs to the Nyingmapa order and was once the hermitage site of Lama Drupthob Karpo renowned for his power of flying. An important seat of the Nyingma order.
White Hall
The White Hall has historical value and is situated on the Ridge. It is a two storied structure and has typical British architecture and was built in 1932. It is so called not because it is painted white but because it was built in memory of the first Political Officer of Sikkim, Claude White. There is an Officers' Club and a badminton court in the White Hall.
Ridge Park
The Ridge is a small stretch of plain and flat road above the town of Gangtok. It is just about fifteen minutes walk from the main market. The Ridge has the White Hall and the Chief Minister's official residence, known as the Mintokgang.
Tashi View Point
It was built by the late King of Sikkim, Tashi Namgyal, and is situated 6 km from Gangtok town on the North Sikkim Highway, from where one can have a clear view of opposite hills, besides Mt. Khangchendzonga. This site offers a breathtaking panorama of the majestic Mt..