For Nepalese it was Sukhim – The New Place, for the Bhutias it was Demazong, The Valley of Rice and for Lepchas, its original inhabitants, Sikkim was simply Nye-mae-el lang – abode of the Gods. Call it by any of the above mentioned name, since time immemorial the magical lure of Sikkim has always attracted people from all over the world.

One of the smallest Indian states, Sikkim spread over an area of 7,096 kms, with variable altitudes ranging from 270 mts above sea level in the south to over 8,589 mts in the north and north-western region. Sikkim enfolds the upper valley of the Teesta River, the major tributary of the massive Brahmaputra River. Its southern part has West Bengal along with Rangpo and Rangit Rivers. The Singhalila Range acts as a natural barrier with Nepal in the west while the Dongkhya Range runs along the borders from the north to the north-east.

Usually, people think that Buddhism is the predominant religion in Sikkim, but Hinduism is also followed by a large number of people. The Tibetans and Sikkimese Bhutias follow Buddhism, while the Nepalese follow Hinduism. Apart from these, some Sikkimese follow Christianity, Sikhism and Islam as well.

With its wonderful profusion of mighty snow-capped peaks, holy lakes, ancient monasteries, orchid nurseries, a range of flora and fauna and thrilling trekking routes, Sikkim offers a multidimensional holiday destination to tourists.