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Sikkim is a beautiful state that boasts of its captivating natural beauty. Get facts & figures of this second smallest state of India.

Sikkim

SikkimSnuggled cozily in the Himalayas, Sikkim is the second smallest and the least populated state of India. This thumb-shaped state is landlocked by Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, and the Indian state of West Bengal from all the four sides. Also called ‘Indrakil’ or the Garden of Indra, Sikkim is an ancient land that has been mentioned in the religious scriptures of the Hindus. Its glorious history utters that this state has been influenced by the neighboring countries and their cultures. The ‘Lepchas’ who were the very first inhabitants of Sikkim fashioned the customs and traditions of this state, while keeping their own distinctiveness alive.

The seeds of Buddhism were sown by Guru Rinpoche, who happened to pass through this lovely state in the 9th century. Gone is the history, but the impact that this beautiful has made on the minds of people would certainly be remembered for the ages to come. As the economy of Sikkim is growing at a fast pace, it has been found, tourism prospects are contributing to the major part of state’s revenue. Gangtok, the picturesque hill-station in the north-east, serves as the state’s administrative capital.

Sikkim also holds the distinction of embracing the world’s third highest peak, Kanchenjunga, in its periphery. It doesn’t only enjoy temperate, salubrious climate but also a superb location, accompanied by lakes, rivers, springs, flora & fauna, snow-clad mountains, etc. Though people of different origins have settled here, their harmonious approach perks up with the grand celebration of fairs and festivals. Sikkim, undoubtedly, is a peaceful, serene state that is increasingly getting popular due to its scenic beauty and biodiversity.

Facts & Figures

Capital Gangtok
Area 7,096 km²
Latitude 27° 5' N to 20° 9' N
Longitude 87° 59' E to 88° 56' E
Number of Districts 4
Population 5,40,493
Major Religions Buddhism & Hinduism

Climate

Summers (March to May): Warm
Monsoons (June to September): Humid
Winters (October to February): Chilly
Spoken Languages Nepali, Bhutia, Lepcha, Limbu, Hindi and English

Clothing Required

Heavy Woolens in Winters, Light Woolens or Cottons in Summers
Best Time to Visit March-June, September-December

Major Festivals

Saga Dawa, Lhabab Dhuechen, Drukpa Tsheshi Phang Lhabsol, Losar

Tourist Attractions

Monasteries, Lakes, Adventure Sports, Hot Springs, Wildlife Sanctuaries