Sikkim is a landlocked Indian state nestled in the Himalayas. It is the least populous state in India,and the Second-smallest in area after Goa. The thumb-shaped state borders Nepal in the west, Tibet Autonomous Region of China to the north and east, and Bhutan in the southeast. The Indian state of West Bengal borders Sikkim to its south. The official Language of the state is English, but there is a sizable population that converses in Nepali (the lingua franca of the state), Lepcha, Bhutia, and Limbu. It is the only state in India with an ethnic Nepalese majority. It is an ancient land also Known as Indrakil, the garden of Indra, the king-god of heaven in Hindu religious texts. The predominant religions are Hinduism and Vajrayana Buddhism. Gangtok is the capital and largest town.

Despite its tiny size, with an area of 2,745 sq mi (7,110 km²), Sikkim is geographically diverse, owing to its location on the Himalaya.

The climate ranges from subtropical to high alpine. Kangchenjunga, the world's third highest peak, is located in the northwestern part of the state on the boundary with Nepal, and can be seen from most parts of the state.Sikkim is a popular tourist destination for its culture, scenic beauty and biodiversity.

SIKKIM, a small Himalayan State lying between 27 to 28 degrees North latitude and 88 to 89 degrees East longitude is the second smallest state in India. It is barely 7,096 sq. kms in size yet has an elevation ranging from 300 mtrs. to 8585 mtrs. above sea level. It's Geography is dominated by the most majestic mountain chain in the world which includes the Khangchendzonga, The most widely accepted origin of the name Sikkim is that it is a combination of two words in the Limbu Su, which means "new", and Khyim, which means "palace" or house, in reference to the palace built by the state's first ruler, Phuntsog Namgyal. The Tibetan name for Sikkim is Denjong, which means the "valley of rice". The Lepchas, original inhabitants of Sikkim called it Nye-mae-el or paradise and the Bhutias call it Beymul Demazong, which means the hidden valley of rice.

However, before one goes into the ethnic composition of Sikkim, it needs to be said that the Sikkimese, irrespective of the tribe, class or community they belong to , are essentially simple folk. Like most hill-tribes, the Sikkimese are thus far relatively untouched by consumerism. Cliched though it may sound, the Sikkimese truly exemplify how different communities can exemplify how different communities can coexist in peace and mutual

The Sikkimese can be broadly classified into the Lephcas, the Bhutias, the Nepalese and the plainsmen (mostly businessmen from elsewhere in India). Communities, cultures, religions and Customs of different hues intermingle freely here in Sikkim to constitute a homogeneous blend. Hindu temples co- exist with Buddhist monasteries and there are even a few Christian churches, Muslim mosques and Sikh "Gurdwara". Although the Buddhists with monasteries all over the state are the most conspicuous religious group, they are in fact a minority constituting only 28% of the population. The majority, 68% profess Hinduism. The predominant communities are the Lepchas, Bhutias and the Nepalis. In urban areas many plainsmen- Marwaris, Biharis, Bengalis, South Indians, Punjabis- have also settled and they are mostly engaged in business and government service. Because of development and construction activities in the state, a small part of the population consists of migrant labourers from the plains and from Nepal: plumbers, masons and carpenters from Orissa, Bihar and West Bengal and Sherpas who are hired by the army to maintain the roads at high altitudes. There are also a few thousand Tibetan Refugees settled in Sikkim. Cultural and economic forces are reshaping the way of life of the Sikkimese. This can be seen by taking a walk down the M.G. Marg of Gangtok, boys and girls sporting the latest fashions probably picked up from a new Hindi movie or BBC s Clothes Show gaily tromp up and down. An open Jeep carrying jubilant footballers who have won a match passes by -they are singing Daler Mehndi's popular Punjabi song "Bol Ta Ra Ra" at the top of their voices. The cable TV is definitely attempting to remould the cultural landscape of Sikkim. You should not be Surprised if you come across a village girl some- where in the wilderness dressed in a Punjabi Kurta Pajama singing a Hindi number "Didi tera dewar diwana " while tending to her herd of cattle. Inspite of such powerful external influences, Sikkimese have proved to be resilient accepting the benefits of progress while retaining their ethnic identity.

Truly a naturalist's delight. The hillsides and mountain slopes of Sikkim are strewn with bright patches of myriad colours. The lower mountain slopes are abundant with lush green bamboos and ferns. And the northern valleys are draped with wild cherry, oaks, chestnuts, pines and white magnolia. The higher altitudes are abloom with a carpet of rhododendrons with a splendour of their own. Sikkim's 600 varieties of orchids are a feast for the eye.

More than 4000 species of plant have been recorded in Sikkim. Over 600 species of orchids grow in Sikkim, Epiphytal and terrestrial types, in the tropical and temperate zones. 35 species of rhododendrons grow in temperate and alpine regions, their flowering from May to August covering the hillsides in a riot of colours.

Among the more commonly found animals in the alpine zone are yaks. They are domesticated and reared in North Sikkim mainly for their economic productiveness. Yak milk is used to make butter `churpi', the wool comes in handy as raw material for carpets and blankets. The musk deer, found in the upper temperate regions, is today a species in the endangered list. A common denizen of Sikkim is the muntjac, or the Barking Deer.

Among the more exotic mammals is the Red Panda which lives mostly on treetops. It is found at altitudes ranging from 6,000 to 12,000 feet. The snow leopard is an almost mythical animal. It has rarely been sighted and to date, only two field zoologists have succeeded in photographing this elusive animal in its habitat which can vary from 5,000 feet to as high as 18,000 feet. Blue sheep, flying squirrels, binturong, tahrs, marmots and musk deer are at home in this cool blanket of green.

Most of this beautiful and virgin area comes under the Khangchendzonga National Park.

Sikkim also has large cardamom, orange and tea plantations. The rivers of Sikkim have trout, salmon and carp. Fishing is allowed with a permit.

Major categories are orchids, gladioli, annuals, roses, alpine plants, pot plants, cacti, succulents, creepers, climbers, ferns, herbs and even wild flowers.

Lectures and seminars are held by the experts in each field. A food festival is also organised.

Sikkim, offers a vacation that is more like a voyage of adventure and discovery. When the misty rain wraps the slopes in lacy wisps of clouds, you will find yourself trekking at 14,000 ft or more. If you are more enthusiastic about the thrills of untamed waters, then go for some Rafting or Kayaking experience in Teesta River. And as the mountain scopes of Eastern Himalayas are so luring, how about having a mountaineering expedition and conquering those virgin peaks, which are yet to be explored! The ones looking for safari trips check out the Yak Safari's that is an unforgettable experience in itself.

You can wander up lush green mountain trails, in the very footsteps of those early travelers. Test your endurance trekking the unknown paths each leading to a paradise. Acquaint yourself with a land that is bizarre at the same time fascinating. With its endless intriguing trails, mountains, flora and fauna, Sikkim offers you a dream - a voyage of adventure and discovery.

Pheuntsholing(1) - Thimphu(2)- Paro(1) -Jaldapara(1) Kalimpong (1)Gangtok(4) - Lachung(1)Pelling (2)- Darjeeling(2)

Day 01: Bagdogra/NJP railway station – Phuentsholing
Our representative will meet you on arrival at either NJP railway station or Bagdogra airport in the Indian state of West Bengal. After a drive of about three hours along a road lined with lush green tea gardens you will reach Phuentsholing, the gateway to Bhutan, which lies directly at the base of the Himalayan foothills. This rapidly growing town is Bhutan’s commercial center, with most commercial organizations headquartered here. Dinner and overnight at the hotel in Phuentsholing.

Day 02 : Phuentsholing to Thimphu
After breakfast, proceed to Thimphu, making our first stop about 5 km. up the road to visit Kharbandi Gompa. This beautiful monastery situated in a garden of tropical plants and flowers, was built by Royal Grandmother, Ashi Phuntsho Choedron in 1967. There is a splendid view of Phuentsholing and the Indian plains from the monastery garden. From this point the road climbs steeply up into the hills, winding in innumerable bends, to an altitude of approximately 2,000m/6,560ft. We will make stops along the way from time to time, so as not to miss the magnificent view of the Indian plains and the Toorsa river below. After a two hour drive through light mountain jungle, displaying lianas and orchids, we pass over the first ridge and begin a long and gradual descent to the river which is the source of energy for the massive Chukha Hydel hydroelectric power project. We cross the river, and rise up the mountainside ever further into the hills, leaving Chukha and the small town of Chimakothi behind us. Lunch is served en route.
After passing through Chapcha the road reaches its highest point of about 2,800m/9,185ft, then descends steeply and runs along the banks of the Wang Chu (river) to Chuzom (meaning confluence), where the Paro Chu runs into the Wang Chu. From here it is only about 2 hours’ drive up the valley to Thimphu. Shortly before reaching our destination, we will stop to visit Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress in the kingdom, built by Shabdrung Ngawang Namgyal in 1627.
On arrival in Thimphu, check into the hotel. Dinner and overnight at the hotel in Thimphu.

Day 03: Thimphu
Thimphu, perhaps the most unusual capital city in the world, is the seat of government. This bustling town is home to Bhutan’s royal family, the civil service, and foreign missions with representation in Bhutan. It is also the headquarters for a number of internationally funded development projects.
Morning visit to Tashichhodzong, the main secretariat building which houses the throne room of His Majesty, the King. Tashichhodzong is also the summer residence of the Je Khenpo (Chief Abbot) and the central monk body. Proceed to the National Library, which houses an extensive collection of Buddhist literature, with some works dating back several hundred years. Visit the nearby Institute for Zorig Chusum (commonly known as the Painting School), where a six year training course is given in the 13 traditional arts and crafts of Bhutan. Also visit (outside only) the National Institute of Traditional Medicine, where the medicinal herbs abundant in the kingdom are compounded and dispensed.
After lunch, visit the National Memorial Chorten. The building of this landmark was originally envisaged by Bhutan’s third king, His Majesty Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, who had wanted to erect a monument to world peace and prosperity. Completed in 1974 after his untimely death, it is both a memorial to the Late King (“the father of modern Bhutan”), and a monument to peace. Visit the government-run Handicrafts Emporium and privately owned crafts shops, which offer a wide range of handcrafted products, including the splendid thangkha paintings and exquisitely woven textiles for which Bhutan is famous. Also visit the Folk Heritage and National Textile Museums, opened in 2001. Overnight at Thimphu.

Day 04: Thimphu to Paro
Proceed to Paro after breakfast. Check in at hotel. The valley of Paro contains a wealth of attractions. After lunch, visit Ta Dzong. Once a watchtower, built to defend Rinpung Dzong during inter-valley wars of the 17th century, Ta Dzong was inaugurated as Bhutan’s National Museum in 1968. In the afternoon, visit a traditional farmhouse for an opportunity to interact with a local family and learn something of their lifestyle. Later on take an evening stroll along the main street, and perhaps visit a few handicrafts shops, or take refreshments at a local café or bar. Night at Paro.

Day 05: Paro to Jaldapara Via Phuentsholing.
The valley of Paro contains a wealth of attractions. In the morning, visit Ta Dzong. Once a watchtower, built to defend Rinpung Dzong during inter-valley wars of the 17th century, Ta Dzong was inaugurated as Bhutan’s National Museum in 1968.
After breakfast, drive up the valley to view the ruins of Drukgyel Dzong, 18 km. from Paro town on the north side of the valley. It was from here that the Bhutanese repelled several invading Tibetan armies during the 17th century. Also visit Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of the kingdom.
After early Breakfast drive to Jaldapara in India. Jaldapara is a famous wild life sanctuary for one horned rhino and Indian elephant. We check in at the tourist lodge at Jaldapara.

[Please Note:Depending your Arrival at Jaldapara you can do Afternoon Jeep safari 3 :00pm - 5:00 Pm.Safari to inside the grassland of Jaldapara to watch the great Indian Rhino in their natural habitat (This Safari is depending on the availability of time)]

Day 06: Jaldapara to Kalimpong
[Please Note:Elephant Safari- Subject to the availability- can be arranged in early morning elephant ride
After breakfast proceed to Kalimpong.Visit Kalimpong city tour covering Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery, Durpin Dara View Point, Orchid Nurseries, Delo View point, Dr. Graham's Homes, Ecological Museum and Mangaldham Temple. Free afternoon for visiting Market. Overnight at Kalimpong

Day 07: Kalimpong-Gangtok
Check out and drive to Gangtok (Alt 5500Ft /1650M) - 95kms in 3hrs. Free evening. Overnight at Gangtok

Day 08: Gangtok
Full Day Gangtok City tour. Visit Government Institute of Cottage Industry (Closed on Sunday, 2nd Saturday), Orchid House, Sikkim Research Institute of Tibetology, Dodurl Chorten, Rumtek Monastery, Botanical Garden, and Santi View Point. Afternoon Visit to Tashi View Point, Ganesh Tok and Hanuman Tok. Return hotel and free evening. Overnight at Gangtok

Day 09: Gangtok
Today you will be going for one day excursion to Tsongo Lake – (Alt 12000ft/3600M) - excursion to enjoy snow at alpine lake and Baba Mandir and return back to Hotel. 42kms in 2.5hrs (One way). Afternoon free. Overnight at Gangtok

Day 10: Lachung
After breakfast you will be proceeding to Lachung in North Sikkim (Alt 8600ft /2580M), 124kms in 6hrs. On the way visit Water Falls, Chungthang Confluence. Check in at Hotel in the late afternoon. Overnight at Lachung

Day 11 : Lachung to Gangtok
Morning excursion to Yumthang Flower Valley (Alt 12000ft/3300M) and Back to Lachung - 25kms in 1hrs (One way). After lunch at Lachung return to Gangtok reaching late in the evening at Gangtok. Overnight at Gangtok.

Day 12: Gangtok-Pelling
After breakfast drive to Pelling (Alt 6100ft/1830M) – 130kms in 4hrs. Check in at Hotel and free evening. Overnight at Pelling

Day 13: Pelling
Pelling local tour covering Pemayangtse Monastery,Khichepalri Lake,Rimbi Falls, Dentham Valley, Tsangey falls, Sinsore Bridge, Rabdentse Ruins. Free evening at Pelling. Overnight at Pelling

Day 14: Darjeeling
Today you will proceeding towards Darjeeling Check in at Hotel. Overnight at Darjeeling.

Day 15: Darjeeling
Today you will be visiting full Local tour in Darjeeling covering morning 3 points – Tiger Hill Sunrise Point, Batasia Loop and Ghoom Monastery. Afternoon visit 7 points covering Darjeeling Zoo and Mountaineering Institute (Closed on Thursday), Tea garden, Tenzing rock and Gombu Rock, Tibetan Refugee center (Closed on Sunday) and Ava Art Gallery. Free evening at Mall for Shopping. Overnight at Darjeeling

Day 16: Darjeeling
After breakfast Depart from Darjeeling to Bagdogra airport/NJP Railway Station. Tour Ends