Sikkim was the independent kingdom until the seventies. Now it is one of the state of India tucked in the Himalayas across Nepal's eastern frontier. It is crammed in between Tibet (China) to the north, Bhutan to the east and the Darjeeling Gorkha Hill Council to the south. Sikkim a Land of mystic splendor offers the magical feel of a Himalayan fairytale land. It is an amazing place of hidden valleys, mystical monasteries, snow-fed lakes and a mountain setting covered with flowers and forests. This former kingdom is home to three major population groups  (Lepcha, Bhutia and Nepalese) providing a colorful composite of cultures. Mr. Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world at 8,586 m, dominates the landscape and is revered as Sikkim's guardian deity. Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim and it population 50,000 and elevation 1,780 m. It is a charming, laid-back town straddling a ridge with houses spilling down the hillside.

The places to visit in Gangtok are Enchey Monaster, a Tibetan Buddhist lamasery; Rumtek Monastery, a 24 km from Gangtok, is the seat of the Gyalwa Karmapa Lama, Pemayangtse Monastery is a 112 km from Gangtok, Tashiding Monastery built in 1717, Tsomgo Lake (3,780 m) - 38 km to the east of Gantok amidst picturesque mountains and many other places of interest.

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DARJEELING

Darjeeling the queen of hills is in northeast of India provides the perfect ambiance of a hill resort with its mild climate and laid back charm. Its verdant hills and valleys are steeped in color and are interspersed with vast stretches of lush green tea gardens. Presiding over all these is the 8568 m Mt. Kanchenjunga looming over the northern horizon, giving a magical aura to the land that entices thousands to its environs and leaves all the senses intoxicated. Darjeeling is heavily influenced by British India, the toy train is one of the most striking examples of Darjeeling's British Raj influence. Darjeeling town (population 83,000 and elevation 2,134m) is located on a spur with houses hugging the hillside.

Places to visit in Darjeeling are; Tiger Hill (2438 m.): is synonymous with spectacular sunrise and the play of different hues of colors over Mt. Kanchenjunga. Mount Everest is also visible from here at a great distance. Yiga Choling Monastery: a famous Buddhist monastery, founded in 1875 is atop a hill at Ghoom, 8 km away. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park: which has many exotic animals and birds of the Eastern Himalayas. The pride of the zoo is Red panda Project, and a Snow Leopard breeding center, aimed at saving these endangered species. Tea Gardens was introduced by the British in 1840 as an experiment, Darjeeling's "Orthodox" tea is now famous the world over. Museum of natural History: has on display birds, animals, butterflies etc. of the eastern Himalayan region. Peace Pagoda: a huge Pagoda, built by Japanese Buddhist monks dedicated to world peace, amidst serene surroundings, it is one of the landmarks of Darjeeling. Toy Train is small but sturdy steam engine train, introduced by the British over a hundred years ago, is as much a part of Darjeeling as the Tea Gardens and Kanchenjunga. Running on a track measuring a mere 2 ft. and running from the plains of Siliguri to Darjeeling is considered a marvel of engineering. The joy ride to Ghoom takes about an hours passing through the famous Batasia Loop. 

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KALIMPONG

A former headquarters of a Bhutanese governor, the name Kalimpong is said to have originated from the Bhutanese word. Kalimpong has long been in the shadow of its more famous neighbor Darjeeling, but with its immense natural beauty, ideal location and moderate climate, it is now gradually beginning to come into its own. A quite little town, Kalimpong is perfect for those who wish to get away from the painful drudgery of big city life. Kalimpong once was an important center of trade, being the terminal on the India-Tibet caravan route, and merchants from Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet flocked here in order to trade their wares. Kalimpong saw a significant influx of missionaries and a large number of its local inhabitants converted to Christianity. Kalimpong also has a rich Buddhist influence. Kalimpong situated at a height of 1,250 m, enjoys the best climate in the region. A walk along its picturesque pathways surrounded by thick growth of moss and lichens is a must.

Places to visit in Kalimpong are:- Durpin Dara: is an observatory point, 3 km away from the main town from where one can relish the wonderful view of the town, rivers, mountains and the plains of Siliguri.  Zong Dog Parli Fo-Brang Monastery: A fairly new monastery located at Durpin Dara and belonging to the Ningmapa Sect of Tibetan Buddhism, it is on the verge of being completed and commands a panoramic view of Kalimpong town and it's surrounding. Raja Dorjee Market: A visit to this local market in the heart of the town on the market days is a unique experience.

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Suggested Combined Tour Program and Visa Information for Sikkim, Darjeeling & Kalimpong