The
perfect destination for vacationers in quest of enchantment, tranquility
or adventure; a jewel embedded in snow clad mountains, Sikkim is a
primeval land that is unlike anywhere else. Where one dreamy day blends
into the next, a land so rich in culture, tradition and steeped in
religion.
Adventure Bound!
One can wander up lush green mountain trails, in the very footsteps of
those early travellers marvel at the Stupas, monasteries and temples.
Acquaint yourself with a culture that is at once bizarre and fascinating.
With its endless intriguing rituals and festivals and festivities. Sikkim
offers a holiday that is more than a dream - it's a voyage of adventure
and discovery.
DISCOVER SIKKIM
MOUNTAINEERING
The first European to explore the Kanchendzonga
area was Douglas W. Fresfield who reached its base in 1899 from the Green
Lake Basin area. A German expedition led by Paul Bauer made the first
attempt to reach the summit in 1929 followed by another attempt in 1931
and reached an altitude of 26,000 ft.
In 1955 Charles Evans conquered Kanchendzonga a few feet below the summit
from the Nepal side. In 1977 an expedition led by Major Prem Chand reached
a few feet below the summit. In 1987 an Assam Rifles expedition attempted
the peak. In 1991 an Indo Japanese expedition led by Hukam Singh and
Yoshio Ogata conquered the peak.
A British C. R. Cooke first climbed the Kabru in 1935. A Swiss R. Dittert
first conquered the Pyramid Peak in 1949. A British A. M. Kallas, climbed
the Paunhri in 1911. A German first reached the summit of Siniolchu in
1936. It was later again climbed by the famous Sikkimese Everester Sonam
Gyatso. Pandim was climbed in 1993 by a team from the Sonam Gyatso
Mountaineering Institute. Rathong was conquered by an Indian expedition in
1964.
RIVER RAFTING
River
rafting enthusiasts have two rivers the Teesta and Rangit gushing through
paradise country. The Teesta (also spelt as Tista) experience takes one
rafting from Makha down to Sirwani and Sirwani to Rangpo. The Rangit (also
spelt as Rangeet) expedition is from Sikip to Nayabazar to Melli.
Beginners as well as experienced adventurers can seek the assistance of
the Department of Tourism and travel agents for arranging river-rafting
trips.
Teesta Experience
Makha - Sirwani - Bardang - Rongpo
This is an amateur level ride. Put in point at Makha, and roll down to
Rangpo via Sirwani and Mamring.
Rangeet Experience
Sikip - Jorethang - Majitar - Melli
Put in point at Sikip, and ride the waters till Melli via Jorethang and
Majitar.
KAYAKING
Kayaking is undertaken on the Teesta and is arranged for special groups.
Kayaking is for the more experienced and requires some expertise.
Fibreglass kayaks of international standards are available on hire. Please
inquire at Sikkim Tourism Office.
YAK SAFARI
A
Safari With A Difference
Yak Safari is organized from Dzongri onwards by Sikkim Tourism or
organized Sikkim Travel agencies on prior booking. An unforgettable
experience!
MOUNTAIN BIKING
Mountain Biking is another adventure that has been recently introduced in
Sikkim. Most of the roads in Sikkim are negotiable by mountain bikes. This
sport is definitely poised to become popular in Sikkim in the near future.
The sport is being promoted in most parts of North Sikkim & West
Sikkim. For further details please contact - Sikkim Tourism.
Facilities are also available for Mountain Biking and Rock Climbing with
instructors from the Sonam Gyatso Mountaineering Institute in Gangtok.
HANG GLIDING
The department is shortly introducing hang gliding in North Sikkim and
Jorethang in West Sikkim. For further details please contact - Sikkim
Tourism.