Apart from the Ladakh region of Jammu and
Kashmir, it is the only Indian state which shoes
the glimpses of rich Buddhism culture.
Hinduism and Buddhism are the main
religions of the state. About 61% of the
population is of Hindus and 28% follow
Buddhism.
Rumtek and Phodong monasteries are the
most famous religious spots depicting
Buddhist culture of Sikkim. Other famous
monasteries include - Enchey monastery,
Pemayangtse monastery, Phensang monastery
and Tashiding monastery.
Sikkim is known for Gumpa dance which is
performed by Buddhists during the Losar (New
year) festival.
In Lebanese language, Sikkim is called as
Drenjong which means valley of rice.
In Bhutan, the Sikkim was also called as
Indrakil which means garden of Lord Indra.
Sikkim has third highest per capita alcohol
consumption rate (just behind Punjab and
Haryana) among all Indian states.
Momos, Wonton and Thukpa are the most
popular cuisine of the state.
Buddha park of Ravangla containing 130 feet
high statue of Buddha is famous tourist spot of
Sikkim.
Gurudongmar lake & Tsomgo lake which are
situated at a height of 5180 meters and 3700
meters respectively are sacred lakes as per
Buddhist beliefs.
Statue of Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) in
the south district is considered as the patron of
Sikkim as per Buddhist beliefs.
PLA C ES TO VISIT
GANGTOK
Believe it or not, but resisting the alluring
charm and appeal of Gangtok is almost
impossible for anyone! The capital city of
Sikkim. Gangtok is nested in the Eastern
Himalayas and is one of the kaleidoscopic
tourist destination in the state.
YUKSOM
Located in the Western parts of Sikkim, Yuksom
is the origin of several enthralling treks into the
Himalayas or the magical Kangchenjunga. The
once a capital of Sikkim, this hamlet is more
known for its pristine beauty and rustic appeal.
Also known as the 'Meeting place of Three
Lamas', this Sikkimese village has recently
started gaining tourism attention.
TSOMGO LAKE
On a visit to Gangtok, do not miss the chance to
visit the Tsomgo Lake or the Changu Lake!
Located on 38 Kms from Sikkim's capital, it lies
at an altitude of 12,400 ft and is one of the
highest lakes in India. While the lake remains
frozen during the winters, summer brings in a
magical charm and appeal to Tsomgo. It is
dut=ring this time of the year, the turquoise
water of the lake reflects the amazing views of
the nearby peaks and the azure sky above!