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Though
small, the mountain state of Sikkim occupies an important niche of its
own, in the Indian Union. The grandeur of its mountain peaks, lush valleys,
fast flowing rivers, terraced hills and incredible floral wealth,
make a visit to Sikkim a truly unique and unforgettable experience.
Situated on the eastern
Himalayas, in the shadow of the towering Mount Kanchenjunga, which
is worshipped as the principal deity, Sikkim measures approximately
100 kms from north to south and 60 kms from east to west. The language
widely spoken hereare Lepcha, Bhutia, Nepali and Limbu.
Surrounded by Tibet, Nepal
and Bhutan on three sides and with West Bengal on the fourth, Sikkim
is a strategically significant state. It is entirely mountainous, with
one - third of the land covered with dense forests of sal, sambal and bamboo,
which are mostly inaccessible and unexploited. However the unhurried
pace of life, calm and serene environs and fresh, unpolluted air
makes a welcome change for a jaded
city dweller.
The inhabitants of Sikkim
are beautiful people, who radiate a lot of charm, life and colour. The
population of Sikkim comprises three main groups of people, the Lepchas,
Bhutias and the Nepalese. The Sikkimese, are by nature, a simple, polite
and non - aggressive people. Being devout Buddhists, they celebrate their
festivals with a characteristic mixture of abandon and reserve.
Knotted woollen carpets
with the dominating dragon emblem, and eight auspicious signs; wood
carvings, Lepcha handlooms in traditional designs and rich colours for
clothes, bags, linen and accessories; leather jackets and handbags, articles
of homemade paper, Thanka (religious scroll paintings) and Sikkimese Dragon
Jewellery make a fascinating collection of handicrafts, inspired by an
age old culture.
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Climate: |
Summer(March to June) - Cool and Pleasant
Winter(November to February) -Chilly to Very Cold
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Clothing: |
Summer - Light Woolens
Winter - Heavy Woollens
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Capital: |
Gangtok
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