Introduction

Interesting facts about Sikkim as the state in India that is known for its diverse culture and stunning scenery. It is home to many ethnic groups, languages, religions, and festivals that reflect its rich heritage. It also boasts some of the most beautiful landscapes in the country, with snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, serene lakes, and exotic flora and fauna.

In this blog post, we will explore some of the aspects that make Sikkim a unique and fascinating destination. We will learn about its history, culture, cuisine, wildlife, and attractions. We will also share some tips and recommendations for travelers who want to visit this amazing state.

Fact 1: Interesting facts about Sikkim the least populous and second smallest state in India

Sikkim is a state in northeastern India, located in the eastern Himalayas. It is bordered by China, Bhutan, Nepal, and West Bengal. Sikkim has a population of only around 6.5 lakhs, which accounts for 0.2% of the total population of India. It covers an area of 7,096 sq km, which is 0.2% of the total area of India. Sikkim is the least populous and second smallest state in India, both in terms of population and area.

To show the contrast, Sikkim can be compared with other states in India or countries in the world. For example, Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state in India, has a population of about 200 million, which is more than 300 times that of Sikkim. Rajasthan, the largest state in India by area, has an area of about 342,000 sq km, which is almost 50 times that of Sikkim.

On the other hand, Vatican City, the smallest country in the world by area, has an area of only 0.44 sq km, which is about 16,000 times smaller than Sikkim. Monaco, the most densely populated country in the world, has a population density of about 19,000 people per sq km, which is more than 200 times that of Sikkim (86 people per sq km).

Fact 2: Sikkim is home to the world’s third-highest mountain peak, Kanchenjunga

Kanchenjunga is a majestic mountain that stands at **8,586 m** above sea level, making it the third-highest peak in the world. It is located in the eastern Himalayas, on the border between Sikkim state in India and eastern Nepal.

The mountain has a cross-shaped massif with four main ridges and five summits. Kanchenjunga is revered by the locals as a sacred mountain and a guardian deity. They believe it holds five treasures of snow: gold, silver, gems, grain, and holy books.

Fact 3: Sikkim has 11 official languages and four major ethnic groups

Sikkim is a state in Northeastern India that has a rich linguistic and cultural diversity. According to Wikipedia, the official languages of the state are **English, Nepali, Sikkimese, 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. These languages belong to different language families, such as Indo-Aryan, Tibeto-Burman, and Sino-Tibetan.

The four major ethnic groups of Sikkim are **Bhutia, Lepcha, Nepali, and Limbu**. The Bhutia are the descendants of Tibetan immigrants who settled in Sikkim in the 14th century. They speak Sikkimese, a Tibetan language, and follow Tibetan Buddhism. The Lepcha are the indigenous people of Sikkim who speak Lepcha, a Tibeto-Burman language and practice a mix of Buddhism, animism, and Christianity.

The Nepali are the largest ethnic group in Sikkim who speak Nepali, an Indo-Aryan language, and follow Hinduism or Buddhism. The Limbu are another Tibeto-Burman-speaking group who migrated from Nepal and follow a form of Kirant religion. Despite their differences, these ethnic groups live in harmony and respect each other’s customs and traditions.

Fact 4: Sikkim is the first fully organic state in India and the world

Organic farming is a holistic production management system that promotes and enhances agro-ecosystem health, including biodiversity, biological cycles, and soil biological activity. It uses fertilizers of organic origin such as compost manure, green manure, and bone meal and places emphasis on techniques such as crop rotation and companion planting.

Organic farming has many benefits for the environment and health, such as reducing soil erosion, water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and pesticide residues in food. Sikkim achieved this feat by banning chemical fertilizers and pesticides in 2003 and implementing a comprehensive policy to support organic farming.

The state provided training, certification, subsidies, and marketing assistance to farmers who adopted organic practices. Sikkim also promoted organic tourism, education, and research to create awareness and demand for organic products. As a result, Sikkim became the first state in India and the world to be certified as fully organic by 2016.

Fact 5: Sikkim has more than 200 species of orchids and 600 species of butterflies

This makes it one of the most biodiverse regions in India, where the rich and varied flora and fauna attract many nature lovers and researchers. Some of the rare and exotic orchids found in Sikkim include the lady’s slipper orchid, the red panda orchid, and the blue vanda orchid. Some of the stunning and colorful butterflies found in Sikkim include the Kaiser-i-Hind, the Bhutan glory, and the golden birdwing.

Fact 6: Sikkim has the highest literacy rate among the northeastern states of India

According to the 2011 census, Sikkim had an overall literacy rate of 81.42%, which was higher than the national average of 74.04%. The male literacy rate was 86.55% and the female literacy rate was 75.61%. The urban literacy rate was 89.26% and the rural literacy rate was 79.82%. The literacy rate in Sikkim is projected to reach 82.2% by 2023.

Sikkim has achieved remarkable progress in education due to various factors, such as free and compulsory education up to the age of 14, scholarships for meritorious students, incentives for girls’ education, and special provisions for students from disadvantaged groups. Sikkim also has a network of schools, colleges, and universities that offer quality education in various fields.

Fact 7: Sikkim hosts several festivals and fairs throughout the year

Sikkim is a state in northeastern India that is known for its rich cultural diversity and natural beauty. One of the ways to experience the vibrant culture of Sikkim is to witness its festivals and fairs that are celebrated throughout the year. Some of the most popular and colorful festivals and fairs of Sikkim are:

1. Losar: This is the Tibetan New Year that is celebrated in late January or early February. It marks the beginning of a new cycle of life and is a time to make offerings, prayers, and resolutions. People decorate their homes with colorful flags and lamps, wear new clothes and visit monasteries and temples. They also exchange gifts and greetings with their friends and relatives.
2. Saga Dawa: This is one of the most sacred festivals for Buddhists that is celebrated in May or June. It commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha. People observe fasting, charity, and meditation on this day. They also join processions that carry holy scriptures and images of Buddha around the town. They also light butter lamps and incense sticks at the monasteries and temples.
3. Bumchu: This is a unique festival that is celebrated at the Tashiding Monastery in January or February. It involves opening a sacred vase that contains holy water that is believed to have miraculous powers. The level of water in the vase indicates the fortune of the coming year. The water is then distributed among the devotees as a blessing.
4. Gangtok Winter Carnival: This is a week-long festival that is held in December in the capital city of Gangtok. It showcases the cultural and artistic diversity of Sikkim through various events such as music, dance, food, fashion, sports, exhibitions, and competitions. It attracts tourists from all over the country and abroad who enjoy the festive atmosphere and the scenic beauty of Gangtok.

Fact 8: Sikkim has a unique form of government called the Chogyal monarchy

Chogyal means “Dharma King” in Tibetan and it is the title given to the rulers of Sikkim who belonged to the Namgyal dynasty. The Namgyal dynasty was founded by Phuntsog Namgyal, a fifth-generation descendant of Guru Tashi, a prince from the Tibetan region of Kham who came to Sikkim in the 13th century. Phuntsog Namgyal was crowned as the first Chogyal of Sikkim in 1642 by three lamas who came from different directions. He established his capital at Yuksom in West Sikkim.

The Chogyal monarchy lasted for more than three centuries until 1975 when it was abolished by a referendum that resulted in Sikkim becoming the 22nd state of India. During this period, the Chogyals faced many challenges and conflicts from neighboring powers such as Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet, and British India.

They also had to deal with internal dissent and rebellion from their subjects. The Chogyals shifted their capital several times, from Yuksom to Rabdentse, from Rabdentse to Tumlong, and from Tumlong to Gangtok. They also signed treaties and agreements with British India that gave them some degree of autonomy and protection but also reduced their sovereignty and territory.

The last Chogyal of Sikkim was Palden Thondup Namgyal, who ascended the throne in 1965. He tried to modernize and democratize Sikkim but also faced opposition from pro-India political parties and activists who wanted to end the monarchy and join India. In 1973, a violent uprising broke out in Gangtok, which was suppressed by Indian troops.

In 1974, a new constitution was adopted that made Sikkim an “associate state” of India, with the Chogyal as a constitutional monarch. However, this arrangement did not satisfy either Chogyal or his opponents, and in 1975, a referendum was held that overwhelmingly voted for abolishing the monarchy and merging with India. The Chogyal was put under house arrest and later died in exile in New York in 1982.

Fact 9: Sikkim has several attractions for tourists and adventurers

Whether you are looking for scenic beauty, cultural heritage, or thrilling activities, Sikkim has something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Sikkim:

1. Gangtok: The capital city of Sikkim is a vibrant and modern place with a blend of traditional and contemporary influences. You can enjoy the panoramic views of the Himalayas, visit the famous MG Marg for shopping and dining, explore the Enchey Monastery and the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, or take a cable car ride to Tashi View Point.
2. Rumtek Monastery: One of the largest and most important Buddhist monasteries in Sikkim, Rumtek Monastery is located about 24 km from Gangtok. It is the seat of the Karmapa Lama, the head of the Karma Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery complex houses a shrine temple, a golden stupa, a college, and a museum. You can witness the colorful ceremonies and rituals of the monks, admire the exquisite architecture and art, and learn about the history and culture of Tibetan Buddhism.
3. Tsomgo Lake: Also known as Changu Lake, Tsomgo Lake is a glacial lake situated at an altitude of 3,780 m above sea level. It is about 40 km from Gangtok and can be reached by a scenic drive along the winding mountain roads. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush green meadows. You can enjoy the serene beauty of the lake, take a yak ride along the shore, or visit the nearby Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary to spot some rare flora and fauna.
4. Nathu La Pass: Nathu La Pass is a mountain pass that connects Sikkim with Tibet. It is one of the highest motorable roads in the world, at an elevation of 4,310 m above sea level. It is about 56 km from Gangtok and requires a special permit to visit. The pass offers stunning views of the Himalayas and the Tibetan plateau. You can also see the border gates and fences between India and China, and visit the Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple, dedicated to a martyred Indian soldier.
5. Yumthang Valley: Yumthang Valley is a picturesque valley in North Sikkim, about 150 km from Gangtok. It is also known as the Valley of Flowers, as it is home to a variety of wildflowers that bloom in different seasons. You can see rhododendrons, primulas, poppies, iris, and more. The valley also has hot springs, rivers, waterfalls, and grazing yaks. You can stay at the nearby Lachung village, which offers cozy homestays and local cuisine.
6. Trekking: Sikkim is a paradise for trekkers, as it has many trails that offer diverse landscapes and challenges. You can trek to the base camps of Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world, or to the alpine lakes of Goecha La and Green Lake. You can also trek to Dzongri, Sandakphu, Singalila Ridge, or Yuksom. You will encounter breathtaking views of the mountains, valleys, forests, meadows, and villages along the way.
7. Rafting: If you are looking for some adrenaline-pumping adventure, you can try rafting on the Teesta and Rangit rivers in Sikkim. These rivers have rapids ranging from grade 1 to 4, suitable for beginners as well as experts. You can enjoy the thrill of navigating through the turbulent waters while soaking in the scenic beauty of the surroundings. You can also camp on the river banks or stay at nearby resorts.

Some tips and information for planning a trip to Sikkim are:

1. The best time to visit Sikkim is from March to May or from October to December when the weather is pleasant and clear.
2. You need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter Sikkim if you are an Indian citizen. You can obtain it online or at various entry points such as Siliguri, Rangpo, or Melli.
3. You need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) to visit certain restricted areas such as Nathu La Pass or North Sikkim if you are an Indian citizen. You can obtain it through a registered travel agent or at Gangtok.
4. You need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to visit any part of Sikkim if you are a foreign national. You can obtain it through a registered travel agent or in Delhi, Kolkata, or Siliguri.

Fact 10: Sikkim is known for its delicious cuisine and beverages

Sikkim, a small hilly state in northeastern India, has a rich and diverse culinary heritage. Influenced by the neighboring countries of Nepal and Tibet, Sikkim’s food is a blend of spicy, savory, and fermented dishes that reflect the culture and lifestyle of its people. Some of the mouth-watering dishes and drinks of Sikkim are:

1. Momos: These are steamed dumplings filled with minced meat, cheese, vegetables, or tofu. They are served with spicy sauces and soups. Momos are a popular snack and street food in Sikkim.
2. Thukpa: This is a hearty noodle soup with vegetables, meat, or eggs. It is seasoned with garlic, ginger, chilies, and soy sauce. Thukpa is a warming and filling dish that originated in Tibet.
3. Phagshapa: This is a pork dish cooked with dried red chilies and radishes. It is prepared without oil and has a tangy and spicy flavor. Phagshapa is a protein-rich dish that is often eaten with rice.
4. Chhurpi: This is a fermented cheese made from cow’s or yak’s milk. It can be eaten fresh or dried. The fresh chhurpi has a soft and creamy texture, while the dried chhurpi is hard and chewy. Chhurpi is used to make soups, curries, and snacks.
5. Chaang: This is a fermented drink made from millet, barley or rice. It is served in bamboo mugs with bamboo straws. Chaang has a mild alcoholic content and a sour taste. It is a traditional drink of Sikkim that is enjoyed during festivals and celebrations.

Conclusion

In this blog post, we have explored some of the Interesting Facts About Sikkim, a small state in the northeastern part of India. We have learned about its history, culture, geography, biodiversity, and cuisine. We have also seen how Sikkim is a model of sustainable development and social harmony.

Sikkim is a state that has a lot to offer to anyone who is curious and adventurous. If you have visited Sikkim or want to visit it in the future, we would love to hear from you. Please share your thoughts or experiences about Sikkim in the comments section below or on our social media platforms. Thank you for reading and stay tuned for more posts about India’s amazing states.