East Sikkim Travel Informations - Connecting Northeast Travels

East Sikkim Overview

If you wish to experience the beauty of serene lakes, rich culture and exotic heritage amidst picturesque villages then East Sikkim would be the best place you wouldn't want to miss.

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The History

East Sikkim was part of the Kingdom of Sikkim for most of its history. In the 19th century, the district was under Bhutanese rule. After the Anglo-Bhutan war, the territory was de facto under the command of British forces. After independence from India in 1947, the area was part of the Kingdom of Sikkim under the Indian protectorate.

Places to visit in East Sikkim

We at connecting northeast travels try to provide our clients the best experiences. That is why under our Sikkim Tour Package, we have created a list of the best spots you can visit to provide you the fun of travelling.

Tsomgo Lake

Also known as Changgu Lake, is a glacial lake in the East Sikkim district of the Indian state of Sikkim is one of the stunning places to visit with a distance of mere 38 kms from the main town of capital Gangtok. The lake, which is located at an elevation of 3,753 metres, is frozen during the winter season. The lake's surface changes hues with the seasons, and the indigenous Sikkimese people cherish it. After analysing the changing colours of the lake, Buddhist monks predicted what would happen. The spring and summer seasons see the place bathed in a carpet of rioting floral colors, while a thick layer of snow awaits you during winters. Despite the stark differences in the lake's landscape between summer and winter, both seasons are equally beautiful! The Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, which is home to several rare species of mountain wildlife, is another highlight of the trip! Gangtok has a lot to offer every season, and Tsomgo can be visited any time of the year and there is always something new to discover.

Nathula Pass

Perched at 14,140 feet, Nathula Pass, winding through the eastern parts of Sikkim, was once part of the famous ancient Silk Road, the ancient trade route connecting India and the West Tibet. It is also one of the oldest passes in India and overlooks the Indochinese border, giving you a glimpse of the beautiful Chumbi Valley. On a clear day, the high peaks of the Chomolhari massif in Bhutan rise to greet you. Also, be sure to visit the world's tallest ATM at Thegu, which falls right on the way to the pass. As a precaution, carry a portable oxygen tank to combat the risk of altitude sickness, which can turn life-threatening at altitude if not treated immediately.

Rumtek Monastery

Rumtek Monastery is tucked away in the Rumtek district of Sikkim and is one of the most visited tourist attractions, almost 23 km from the main town of Gangtok. Rumtek is also one of the largest and most famous monasteries in Sikkim, belonging to the sect of Kargyu Buddhists. It also bears a striking resemblance to the famous Tsurphu Monastery in Tibet. The monastery also offers some of the most remarkable views of the nearby mountains and valleys. The half mile uphill from the monastery's front door was refreshing. It is the largest of the Buddhist monasteries in Sikkim. The main temple spans four floors and overlooks the sprawling city of Gangtok. It is also known as the Dharma Chakra Center. You can't miss out on the experience Roomtek provides.

Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple

Cherished by Nathula Pass and Jelep La Pass on either side, the Baba Harbhajan Singh temple, affectionately known as "Baba Mandir", is a legacy in memory of a brave soldier in the Indian Army. At a staggering 13,123 feet, the temple is popular among Baba devotees, who have confessed to seeing their "spirit" wandering in the nearby mountains. He is believed to be spying on Indian troops on the border, and warning them of any foreign threat. This memorial is frequented by many tourists and devotees, including military veterans. It is also one of the best and most interesting tourist attractions in East Sikkim.

Namgyal Institute of Tibetan Studies

One of the world's most renowned research centers for Tibetan history and culture, the Namgyal Institute of Tibetan Studies is cherished by lush beech and birch groves. Located just 2 km from Gangtok, the building houses a spacious museum, which displays many ancient artifacts, artworks, coins, statues from Sanskrit, Tibetan and Chinese manuscripts. There is also an extensive library that is part of the institute, containing a wealth of resources on Tibetan language, mountains, history and culture. The striking attributes of Tibetan architecture are also reflected in the vast exterior of the institute. A patron of history and culture, Namgyal Institute is one of the must-sees in East Sikkim.

Enchey Monastery

One of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Sikkim, Enchey Monastery dates back 200 years, when it was owned by Lama Dhrupthob Karpo. Just a 10-minute drive from Gangtok, the monastery is defined by a classical Chinese pagoda at the top, as well as a number of Chinese architectural style features adorning the walls. There is a huge prayer hall, containing numerous pictures and portraits of gods, goddesses and tantric murals. The building was reconstructed in 1909, by order of Sidkeong Tulku. One of the most popular tourist attractions in East Sikkim, this magnificent monastery is now home to around 90 monks!

Dro Drul Chorten

Perched on a beautiful hill, the stupa is one of the most popular tourist attractions in East Sikkim. Located near the Namgyal Institute of Tibetan Studies, the mound supporting the stupa is said to have been haunted by the natives several years ago, before the stupa was built. The deaths of some visitors are also attributed to "evil spirits" that have haunted the hill. The great Guru Rinpoche, or Padmasambhava, visited this place and cleansed all evil by banishing spirits forever. This is how the famous Stupa was born in 1945. Adorned by a splendid golden dome, the iconic Dro Drul Chorten Stupa can be seen from almost any place in Gangtok. A fascinating sight is that many Buddhists are spinning these prayer wheels and the synchronized chanting of "Om Mane Padme Hum" fills the atmosphere.

Zuluk

Zuluk is a small picturesque village located near the Lower Himalayas of East Sikkim. Despite the enormous beauty that adorns Zuluk, it is one of the most exotic places to visit in East Sikkim. A road less traveled, Zuluk offers a wonderful combination of solitude, adventure and serenity, drawing visitors and hikers to its kingdom every year. Perched at an elevation of 10,100 feet, Zuluk is widely known for its winding, winding roads including the magnificent Ancient Silk Road, an ancient trade route between Tibet and India. In fact, the first village on the Silk Road was Zuluk. If you enjoy mountain driving through mountainous terrain, the twists and turns of Zuluk Road will make your heart skip a beat. It is also home to a multitude of avian and wild species.