Sikkim

¶ Introduction

Sikkim is one of the primeval lands unlike other Himalayan lands, and remains pristine and well-preserved. The land offers the magical feel of a Himalayan fairytale. Where one dreamy day blends into next. It is an amazing place of hidden valleys, mystical monasteries, snow clad lakes and landscape covered with flowers and forests and snow capped mountains. Khanchenjunga (8586m), the jewel in Sikkim 's crown is the word's third highest Peak, which overlooks the state from the western side. This majestic 5 summited mountain forms the spectacular backdrop. Sikkim was previously an independent kingdom, ruled by a dynasty, which descended from the Tibetan Royal family. Until the end of nineteenth century, when Sikkim came under the protection of Britain , very little was known about the country, which was completely closed to outsiders. India took over as the protector of the independent state of Sikkim in 1950 and in 1975 Sikkim became the 22nd state of India . Bordered by Tibet , Bhutan , Nepal and West Bengal, Sikkim's jagged and spectacular terrains has elevation variations ranging from 284m to 8540m. A great variety of landscapes, ranging from intensively farmed lowland valleys in the south, to a higher alpine environment in the center of the country and unto the Himalayan peaks on the northern and western margin. This mystic land casts an enthralling spell that captivates a visitor in utmost thrill..