#triptosikkim

Sikkim, the Land of Monasteries, is a getaway for those who are suffocated by the smog and hectic life of the plains. Visitors to this pristine pure land of majestic ranges of snow-capped mountains and glassy, transparent lakes interspersed with somber yet vibrantly colored monasteries and not to forget the breathtaking beauty of flower-clad valleys and lush green forests will take away with them the memories of a lifetime.

Day 1: Gangtok

Arrived to the hotel by shared taxi from NJP (New Jalpaiguri) Took some rest before treating ourselves to a hearty Sikkimese style (momos and thukpa) late morning breakfast. We had booked a jeep to take us around some of the sights in and around the city. Our first stop was MG Road, and we were simply blown away by the cleanliness of the cobbled street. Did a bit of shopping.  Then on to Rumtek Monastery. This is the largest monastery in Sikkim and is built in traditional Tibetan style architecture and the walls are decorated with vibrantly colored murals. The tranquility and the somber om-mani-padme-hun chant filling the entire place made us feel so peaceful and at one with ourselves. We roamed around a bit and then onto our last stop of the day, The Gangtok Ropeway. This cable car ride starts from Deorali Market and goes up to the highest point in Gangtok, Tashiling. An experience to beat all others was the panoramic view of the mountains and shadowy valleys and indeed the entire city of Gangtok with the vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. Evening came early, and before we knew it darkness had enveloped us on all sides.

Day 2: Lachung

We visited the Lachung Gompa one of the most beautiful monasteries of Sikkim, it lies under the watchful eyes of the towering Himalayan peaks and surrounded by apple and peach orchards. Here too the omnipresent chant took us to a place so full of peace and tranquility that we literally had to tear ourselves away, so we could visit our next destination. Yumthang Valley or popularly known as the Valley of Flowers is home to the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary and as far as our eyes could see were undulating waves of red.

Day 3: Pelling

Our first stop was at Khecheopalri Lake. The lake is so still and glass like that we all took turns looking into the lake to see if our faces reflected in the water. Locals were out and about praying for wish fulfillment; we did the same. Our next stop was the Rabadantse Ruins, the former capital of Sikkim. Surrounded by thick forest it affords spectacular views of the mesmerizing Kanchenjunga Range.

Day 4: Yuksom

We were here for the parks – Kanchenjunga National Park and Norbugang Park. At KNP, we saw a red panda and a snow leopard besides the mind boggling array of different varieties of flowers. At NP, we were told the story of how Norbugangwas considered to be the birthplace of Sikkim where 3 lamas met and spread Buddhism. We saw the Coronation Throne of Norbugang who is believed to be the first king of Sikkim.

Day 5: Return

We stopped the jeep at points along our way back to NJP. The Teesta River gurgled along the road and we clicked quite a few selfies.