About Sikkim | Facts | Best Places To Visit
In this article, we provide comprehensive information about the geography, history, population, and top tourist destinations of Sikkim. Sikkim is a northeastern state in India, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse biodiversity. It is the second smallest state in India, bordered by Nepal to the west, Bhutan to the east, and China (Tibet) to the north.
| About: | Sikkim is a state in India, situated in the northeastern part of the country within the eastern Himalayas. It ranks as one of the smallest states in India. Sikkim shares its borders with the Tibet Autonomous Region of China to the north and northeast, Bhutan to the southeast, the Indian state of West Bengal to the south, and Nepal to the west. The capital city is Gangtok, located in the southeastern region of the state. As part of the Eastern Himalayas, Sikkim is renowned for its rich biodiversity, featuring both alpine and subtropical climates. It is also home to Kangchenjunga, which is the highest peak in India and the third highest in the world. Gangtok serves as the capital and the largest city of Sikkim, with nearly 35% of the state designated as Khangchendzonga National Park. Modern Sikkim is a multiethnic and multilingual Indian state. The official languages of the state are English, Nepali, Bhutia, and Lepcha. Additional official languages include Gurung, Limbu, Magar, Mukhia, Newari, Rai, Sherpa and Tamang for the purpose of preservation of culture and tradition in the state. English is taught in schools and used in government documents. The predominant religion is Hinduism, with a significant Vajrayana Buddhist minority. Sikkim’s economy is largely dependent on agriculture and tourism. As of 2019, the state had the fifth-smallest GDP among Indian states, although it is also among the fastest-growing. |
| Geography: | Situated in the Himalayan mountains, the state of Sikkim is characterised by mountainous terrain. The state is predominantly hilly, with elevations ranging from 280 meters (920 ft) in the southern region bordering West Bengal to 8,586 meters (28,169 ft) at the northern peaks near Nepal and Tibet. The highest point in Sikkim is the summit of Kangchenjunga, which is the third-highest peak in the world and lies on the border with Nepal. Much of the land is unsuitable for agriculture due to its rocky and steep slopes, but some areas have been transformed into terrace farms. |
| Country : | India |
| Region: | Northeast India |
| Capital and largest city: | Gangtok |
| Language: | Nepali, Bhutia, Lepcha, English |
| Population: | 610,577 (2011) |
| Literacy rate: | 81.42% |
| Major Attractions to Visit: | Gangtok Tsomgo Lake (Changu Lake) Nathula Pass Yumthang Valley Gurudongmar Lake Lachen Lachung Pelling Kanchenjunga National Park Rumtek Monastery Zuluk (Silk Route) Ravangla Buddha Park (Tathagata Tsal) Namchi Teesta River (rafting and viewpoints) Khecheopalri Lake Singalila National Park Yuksom Tashi Viewpoint Phodong Monastery |