Foreigners must obtain Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit Sikkim. The permits can be obtained from all Indian missions, Tourism Office, New Delhi, Sikkim Tourism Office, Calcutta and Sikkim Tourism Office, Siliguri on the strength of an Indian visa. The 15 days duration permit is issued on the spot without any delay provided photo copies of passport and visa details along with two passport photos of the applicants are made available then & there.

For those interested in going for trekking in the interior regions of the State, the department of Tourism issues Protected Area Permit (PAP) at Gangtok which is available for certain specified areas for groups consisting of four or more foreigners subject to the conditions that the trekking programme is arranged through a Registered Travel Agency.

Nearest airport is Bagdogra in North Bengal which is 124 Kms. and approximately 4 hours drive from Gangtok. There are Indian Airlines and other Airline services operating from Bagdogra linking Calcutta, Guwahati and Delhi. Sikkim Tourism operates daily five seaters heIi service between Gangtok and Bagdogra connecting all Civil Flights to and from Bagdogra.

Gangtok is connected by road to Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Siliguri and also to all the District Headquarters and sub divisions within Sikkim. The Sikkim Nationalised Transport (SNT) plies regular bus services from Gangtok to all major cities and towns in North Bengal and within the State. Booking facilities are available at Siliguri and Gangtok. There is also a railway booking facility in Gangtok located at the SNT bus terminus.

Banks : State Bank of Sikkim, Gangtok; State Bank of India, Gangtok; Central Bank of India, Gangtok; United Com­mercial Bank, Gangtok; Canara Bank, Gangtok; Bank of Baroda, Gangtok; Vijaya Bank, Gangtok;UTI Bank, M G Marg, Gangtok, Oriental Bank of Commerce, P S Road, Gangtok

Instituted with the aim of promoting and keeping alive the State's traditional arts and craft, the Directorate of Handicrafts & Handloom lies a storehouse of hand woven woolen carpets with traditional motifs, blankets, shawls in Lepcha weaves and exquisitely carved 'choktse' or table and many other gift items.

Visiting hours: Monday to Saturday from 9.30 a.m. 12.30 and 1 p.m - 3 p.m. (Sales Emporium remains open throughout the year) Ph:223126/222928

An important seat of the Nyingma order, the Enchey Monastery is built on the site blessed by Lama Druptob Karpo, a tantric master known for his power of flying. This 200-year-old Monastery has in its premises images of Gods, Goddesses and other religious objects. Every year around January 'Chaam' or religious masked dance is performed with great fanfare for two days. It is situated adjoining the Siniolhu Tourist Lodge, 3 kms from Gangtok town.

Flower exhibitions are organised round the year at the FlowerShow Venue near the White Hall Complex, Gangtok. Orchid shows held during the spring tourist season is one of the most popular shows organized in the State.

Situated in the vicinity of the Sikkim Legislative Assembly, one can have very good walk from Nam Nam View Point to Sikkim Press. The visitors can also experience the breath taking view of a dense forest of Assam Lingey Area and lush green valley. A serene area to relish.

The Do-drul Chorten or Stupa was built by the venerable Trulshi Rimpoche, head of the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism, in 1945. Inside this Stupa, there are complete mandala sets of Dorjee Phurba (Bajra Kilaya), a set of kan-gyur relics (Holy Books), complete. 'Zung' (mantras) and other religious objects. Around this Chorten, which is one of the most important stupas in Sikkim, are 108 Mani Lhakor (Prayer wheels). These prayer wheels are turned by the devout Buddhist while chanting "Hail to the jewel in the Lotus", to invoke the Boddhisattva. The Chorten is surrounded by Chorten Lakhang and Guru Lhakhang, where there are two huge statues of Guru Rimpoche (Guru Padmasambhava).

The most prestigious of its king in India-this Buddhist Institute is a treasure trove of vast collection of rare Lepcha, Tibetan and Sanskrit manuscripts, Statues and rare Thankas (Tapestries used in Buddhist liturgy) and has over 200 Buddhist icons and other prized objects of art. Today, it is a renowned worldwide centre for study of Buddhist Philosophy and religion
Visiting hour: from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (opened throughout the week and Govt. Holidays). Ph: 222525

Situated at a distance of 1.5 kms from Gangtok town is one the first industrial units set up in Sikkim. The Sikkim Time Corporation Limited (SITCO) set up in 1977, has grown from strength to strength and now has 4 units which manufacture quality mechanical watches, semi-conductor devices, attractive Digital and Analog watches and top class watch crowns. In its 23 years of existence, besides attaining the distinction of producing over 8 million HMT mechanical watches, the unit is presently involved in marketing its own brand of fashionable digital watches having functional versatility and Analog Watches with exquisite dials and various colour options.These quality watches are reasonably priced and are available in all the leading outlets of the country. Located in the beautiful campus is a showroom in the factory premises from where the watches can be bought at ex-factory cost.
Visiting hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. except Sundays and National Holidays. phone: 223089 / 222338

About 14 kms from Gangtok is the Saramsa Garden, the home of Sikkim's many exotic orchids and other rare tropical and temperate plants. Established and maintained by the Department of Forest, it is an excellent recreation and picnic spot and a leisure spot.

About 45 minutes drive from Gangtok, 24 kms away, is the Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre, the seat of the Kagyu order, one of the 4 major Tibetan Buddhist sects. since the late 1960s, after the arrival of His' Holiness the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa, the Centre houses some of the world's most unique religious scriptures and religious art objects. Traditional in design, it is almost a replica of the original Kagyu headquarters in Tibet. Ph: 222663

About 40 mins drive from Gangtok is located the above monastry. This is another Kagyud linage monastry of 12th Zurmang Gharwang Rimpche.

24 kms away from Gangtok is the JN Botanical Garden Rumtek situated at an altitude ranging between 1800 mtrs. to 2200 mtrs. established in the year 1987. It comprises of virgin temperate forest of Oaks and as many as 50 different kinds of trees species.

Water Garden at Martam Khola is on 31-A National Highway some 16 kms South of Gangtok. It is an ideal spot for picnic with a small swimming pool for children.

It is literally known as the "Source Of The Lake" in Bhutia language. Just about 40 kms away from Gangtok, the capital of the State, this serene lake is situated at an altitude of 3780 metre. The lake is about1 km long, oval in shape, 15 metres deep and is considered scared by the local people. This placid lake remains frozen during the winter months upto mid-May. Between May and August it is possible to see a variety of flowers in blooms, including the rhododendrons, various species of primulas, blue and yellow poppies, irises etc. It is also an ideal habitat for the Red Panda and various species of birds.

56 Kms away from Gangtok is a Nathula Pass at an alt. of 14200 ft. bordering between India and China in the Tibetan Plateau. It is one of the highest motorable roads and richly covered by many varieties of Alpine Flora & Fauna.

Situated along the North Sikkim Highway, It is only 8 kms from Gangtok. From this point you get a breathtaking view of Mount Khangchendzonga and Mt. Siniolchu, one of the most graceful peaks in the world.

7 Kms away from Gangtok is the Himalayan Zoological Park which covers an area of 205 hectars. This area is also known as Bulbuley.There is a paved cement path that passes by fenced open air enclosure housing the Red Pandas, barking Deer, spotted deer, bears an many other animals in a semi natural habitat.

It is situated on a ridge and is only 7 kms from Gangtok. From this spot one gets bird's eye view of sprawling Gangtok town down below while across the hills Mt.Khangchendzonga and Mt. Siniolchu loom over the horizon. A cafeteria serves you hot tea/coffee and snacks.

It is 11 kms away from Gangtok town, above Ganesh Tok with a Hindu Temple where the devotees come and offer prayers. Because of its locational advantage the view of the mountains along the horizon is just magnificent, especially on a clear sunny morning.

It is a Tibetan refugee monastic institution established in 1961 by His Eminence Luding Khen Rimpoche, Head of Ngorpa, sub-sect of the Sakya Order, with the blessings of H.H.Sakya Trizin and H.H.the Dalai Lama. This is the only monastery of the Sakya Order of Tibetan Buddhism in Sikkim. It is located on a beautiful hill-top just 5 kms away from Gangtok town.

Fambong La Wildlife Sanctuary is located at distance of 25 kms from Gangtok and has an area of 51.76 sq.km. The main vegetation is Oak, Katus, Kimbu, Champa with thick bamboo forests and fems. The Sanctuary is also home to a large number of wild orchids, rhododendrons etc. The richly forested area is known to be home for various species of wild animals and birds. This area, located close to Gangtok, is being developed as a short duration trekking trial. The best season is October and April. A Log House with two rooms is available at Golitar and Tumin. Charges are Rs. 50/- per person per night and entry fee to the Sanctuary is Rs. 5/- per head. Apart from this Sanctuary there are others like Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, Shingbha Rhodo­dendrons Sanctuary, Menam Wildlife Sanctuary, and Khangchendzonga National Park. For permission please contact Chief Wild Life Warden (Wild Life), Forest Secretariat, Deorali, Gangtok.

Pemayangtse Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in the State, originally established by Lhatsun Chempo, one of the reverend Lamas to have performed the consecration ceremony of the first Chogyal (Religious Monarch) of Sikkim. This ancient Monastery belongs to the Nyingmapa sect of Tibetan Buddhism and has been considered as one of the premier monasteries in the State, having been entrusted with the task to perform all religious functions of the erstwhile Monarch.Originally, it was established as a high class monastery for "Pure Monks" (Ta-SaRg). Inside the Monastery there is a wooden structure depicting the MathaGuru's heavenly palace (Sang-tok-palri), which is considered a masterpiece created by Late Dungzin Rimpoche.The Monastery, located on a hill top at an altitude of 6840 ft. commands a magnificent panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges and the surrounding hills and countryside.A well-furnished Tourist Lodge is located just across the Monastery on a smaller hill top. For booking, please contact Deputy Director, Hotel Mt. Pandim, P.O. Pelling, Pemayangtse, West Sikkim. Tele No. 03595/250756

This was the second capital of the erstwhile Kingdom of Sikkim after Yuksom and till the year 1814 A.D., the King of Sikkim had ruled the State from this place. Today, the ruins lie hidden from the main road at a walking distance from the Tourist Lodge and the Pemayangtse Monastery. It can be approached by following footpath which branches off from the main road just below the pemayangtse monastery. The scenic view from the top of the ruins scanning across deep valley to the mystic heights of Kanchendzonga ranges is something to be cherished and etched in memory.

Pelling is fast growirig to be an urban settlement due to toursit influx. Situated at an altitude of 6,800 ft, it offers a good view of the entire mountain ranges and due to this locationai advantages, many hotels and lodges have mushroomed in and around Pelling offering various categories of accommodation facilities. There is a bus service which links Pelling to the West District Headquarter town of Gyalshing, situated at a distance of 10 kms from Pelling.

This Monastery is situated on a ridge above Pelling and the famous Pemayangtse Monastery. Built in 1697 A.D., it is considered to be one of the oldest monasteries in the State. In order to reach this Monastery one has to be prepared to spend at least 40 minutes walking up the steep hilly slope which leads through rich forest covers.

Khacheodpalri, the Wishing Lake is considered as one of the sacred lakes of this State both by the Buddhist and the Hindus. The lake remains hidden in the rich forest cover. It is believed that birds do not permit even a single leaf to float on the lake surface. There is a motorable road from Pemayangtse right up to the lake area. For those interested in spending a night or two in the peaceful environment a trekkers' hut has been provided by the Tourism Department. The hut is presently managed by a local person and provides comfortable stay providing a taste of local cuisine which may include "Chang' - brew made of fermented millet. There is also a pilgrim's hut, managed by the Tourism Department, which is meant to provide accommodations to the people who come on pilgrimage tours.

This was the first Capital of Sikkim, where according to the historical records, the first Chogyal of the kingdom of Sikkim was consecrated in 1641 A. D. by three learned lamas. The evidence of the consecration ceremony is still intact at Norbugang Chorten in the form of stone seats and a foot-print of the Head Lama on a stone. Since the history of the State began from this place, these areas are now considered sacred by the people of Sikkim. Yuksam is served by all weather road from Pemayangtse, which is at a distance of 32 kms. From Yuksam, the trek to Dzongri and to the base camp of the famous Mt. Khangchendzonga begins.Several categories of accommodations are available in Yuksam for those desiring to spend a few days there.

This was the first Monastery established soon after the consecration ceremony of the first chogyal. The Monastery is located on a hill top above Yuksam surrounded by verdant forest. It can be approached by trekking only, negotiating steep slope for something like 32 to 35 minutes. It is an ideal place for lamas seeking meditational recluse

This Monastery is constructed on top of a heart-shaped hill with the backdrop of the sacred Mt. Khangchendzonga. According to Buddhist scriptures, Guru Padma Sambhava (Guru Rimpoche) blessed the sacred land of Sikkim in 8th Century A. D. form the spot. The Monastery, however, was built in 18th Century A.D. by one Nadak Sempa Chempo, one of the three lamas who had performed the consecration ceremony of the first Chogyal. Tashiding is also famous for the most holy chorten known as "Thong-Wa-Hang-To" which literally means "Saviours by mere sight". It is believed that the mere act beholding it is supposed to wash away all the sins of the devotee. Another important feature of Tashiding is the sacred water festival popularly known as "Bhumchu". It is a religious tradition unique to Tashiding Monastery only. Every year, on the 15th day of the first Tibetan month, the Bhumchu Ceremony is celebrated with devotees coming from far and near to get the blessing of the holy water. The sacred holy water is officially sealed for safety by the Government and the lamas of the Monastery and it is taken out once a year on the auspicious occasion, only to be put back with some fresh additions. The sacred water which is taken out partly is mixed with normal water to be distributed among thousands of devotees.

It lies at an elevation of 10,000 ft and has motorable road access upto Hilley. An easy 4 kms trek from there takes one up to the Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary. One can also trek from soreng or Dentam in West Sikkim. The place provides a magnificent view of the mountains. Visitors can halt at "Guras Kunj" trekkers' hut.

This historical place is 17 kms from Gangtok on the North Sikkim Highway. This is where the historic treaty of blood brotherhood between the Lepcha Chief Te-Kung-Tek and the Bhutia Chief Khey­Bum-Sa was signed ritually. The spot where the ceremony took place is marked by a memorial stone pillar amidst the cover of dense forest.

The place is situated on the gentle slope stretching from Kabi to Phodong with perhaps one of the best landscapes in the region. The Phensong Monastery, under the Nyingmapa Buddhist Order, was built in 1721 during the time of Jigme Pawo. It was gutted by fire in 1947 and rebuilt in 1948 through the efforts of the lamas. The annual festival of Chamm is performed on the 29th and 28th days of the tenth. month of Lunar calendar (Tibetan Calendar).

Phodong Monastery One of the six major manasteries in Sikkim, Phodong monastery is located in the North approximately 38 kms from Gangtok. 4 kms beyond Phodong is the recently-renovated Labrang Monastery, unique in its architectural design.

The place offers one of the most spectacular views of Mt. Khangchendzonga and its ranges. A well-located Tourist Lodge provides accommodation for visitors. The area also has a number of interesting short nature trails for 1 to 3 days along the higher ridges of the surrounding hills.

Chungthang, on the confluence of Lachen and Lachung Chu and the starting point of River Teesta, has emerged as a major sub­ division settlament in North Sikkim. It is the nodal junction for the two passes, Lachen and Lachung. The valley is believed to have been blessed by Guru Rimpoche and one can visit the Holy Guru Lhedo to see the foot and palm prints left behind by the Patron Saint. The place, rich in biodiversity with a large variety of orchids, plants & wild life, is 95 kms from Gangtok, 23 kms from Lachung, 29 kms from Lachen, and is predominantly a Lepcha region

Bhutia village with a unique local self-governing body called the Zumsa which substitutes the Panchayat. Lachung has emerged as a tourist destination with the soaring popularity of Yumthang valley which is just 25 km away from Lachung. The village, spread out on either side of Lachung Chu, has managed to retain its unique culture and tradition. The Lachung Monastery on the slope opposite to the highway is a focal point of all religious functions of the local inhabitants. To get a glimpse of the religious functions performed on auspicious occasions a visit to the Monastery should form part of the tour itinerary.

Yumthang, at an elevation of 11,800 ft, and 140 kms from Gangtok, is a paradise for nature lovers with a fascinating blend of flora and fauna and breathtaking scenic grandeur. The valley is also the home for Shingbha Rhododendron Sanctuary with 24 species of Rhododendrons. Yumthang "Tsa-Chu" or the hot spring on the left bank of Lachung Chu is immensely popular for its curative properties and healing power.

Namchi, meaning Sky High, nestled among the hills at an eleva­tion of 5500 ft, commands panoramic view of the snow-capped mountains and vast stretches of valley. It is also the HQ of the South district. The area is fast developing into a tourist destination with its immense potential for all round tourist activities. It is about 78 kms form Gangtok and 100 kms from Siliguri.8 kms away from Namchi is Samdruptse where 135 ft tall statue of Guru Padmasambhava ( Guru Rimpoche) has been installed.

Flower exhibitions are organised as an annual feature at Namchi during the month of April. The venue is at Children Park, Namchi (South Sikkim). One can see the rare species of Orchids in a riot of Colours. Indeed an event to witness.

Above Damthang, overlooking South District Headquarter town Namchi, there is small flat stretch of land at an altitude of 8530 ft. surrounded by lush green ancient forest which is popularly known as the Tendong Hill. Historically, this has been a place of recluse for the Buddhist Lamas who spend years in meditation amidst the silent scenic grandeur. Legend says that the Tendong Hill saved the Lepcha Tribe from the ravages of deluge when the whole world was flooded -legend similar to Noah's Ark of the Bible. Even today, the Lepchas perform pujas to pay reverence to the Tendong Hill. The view from the top of the Tendong Hill is something to be cherished and enjoyed as it spans across the plains of Bengal to the majestic heights of the Himalayan Ranges. Trek to Tendong from Damthang Bazar. the nearest road head, is just about two hours of casual walk. But one can also proceed to Namchi by trekking via Tendong Hill following the traditional route used in the old days.

The one and the only Tea Estate existing in the State produces one of the top quality teas in the International Market. The Tea Garden is spread out on a gentle hill slope originating from the Tendong Hill and provides a magnificent view for the surrounding villages. The visit to the factory could be eye opener for those wanting to know more about the tea processing methods. A night spent in an old British-built bungalow located just below the tea garden could be an enthralling experience of linking the past to the present A visit to the garden, en route to the Tendong Hill, could be a rewarding experience for those who want to combine nature and culture as they keep trekking.

At the base of Menam Hill is Ravangla, a small township and transit to various tourist destinations in South and West Sikkim. It is also an up-coming tourist spot, and transit point for trekkers to Menam Hill and Borong. There are accommodation and facilities and numerous short nature trials. A trek down to the sacred cave "Shar Chok Bephu", one of the four holiest caves in Sikkim, would be a memorable experience.

Menam Hill towers above Tendong Hill on the other side over­looking the Ravangla bazar settlement. Situtated at an altitude of 10,300ft, the scenic view from this height is, perhaps, unmatched in this part of the world. Mt Khangchendzonga and its surrounding ranges loom above to dwarf the richly forested and rugged hills. On a clear sunny day, it is possible to see the plains of Bengal across Kalimpong and Darjeeling hills in the South, right across to the Indo-China border towards the North. A short distance away is the legendary Bhaley Dunga, a kind of rocky spur which juts out from the ridge top and remains suspended in the air above Yangang village. The trek to Menam from Ravangla takes about 4 hours and from Menam hill-top one has the option to take the gentle trek to Borong village or follow the more treacherous trails taken by the famous British Botanist, Sir Joseph Hooker, down to Yangang village.

Facing the snow - capped mountains is Borong, motorable from Ravangla or a trek via Menam. A picturesque village with beautiful landscape and magnificient view is also host to the hot-spring "Borong Tsa-Chu". The Trek trial, originating from Namchi or Damthang to Tendong-Ravangla-Menam Borong (5 to 6 days) is one of the most interesting trials scaling all the hill tops along the route. The trek can continue to Tashiding or terminate at Borong and drive back to Ravangla.

45 Kms. from Gangtok at an altitude of 3,500 ft. on the banks of River TISTA, SHINGCHU-THANG is ideal for White Water Sports and picturesque Picnic spot. It literelly means 'The plain over grown with dwarfish plants and shrubs'.

Sikip is located on the banks of the river Rangeet in the South District. The drive from Gangtok to Sikip takes about five hours via Legship and it is also accessible from Siliguri and Darjeeling via Jorethang. This place is an Anglers Paradise and also has a charming natural surrounding. Together with one can also avail the facility of rafting down the Rangeet.

Situated on the bank of River Rangeet is the hot spring "Phur Tsa-chu" half an hour drive from Legship and one hour drive from Jorethang. Pilgrimes of all walk of life come to dip in this hot spring during month of January to March.

Sikkim Mountain Flights give you a never-to-forget opportunity to feast your eyes on the majesty and grandeur of the third highest mountain Khangchen.Dzonga and the world's most beautiful peak Mt. Siniolochu

Special flights on five seater helicopter. Discover Sikkim's mystique charm and rugged beauty Enjoy aerial photography as never before Get a certificate of having availed off the Mountaing Flight, Soveneir  For further details contact: STDC, Tel. 222634. RNC-228653.