Located in the Himalayan mountains, bordered by Nepal on the West, Tibet on the North-East, Bhutan on the East and West Bengal to its South, Sikkim is a hilly abode of the Hindus, the Buddhists and the Nepalese in northeast India. With so many different communities living together, life in Sikkim is a never ending festivity. These festivals are unlike what we celebrate in rest of the parts of India. Sikkimese life and culture is calm, unique, and blurs the line of socio-religious distinction.
It’s the last month of year 2015 and the month of Kanchenjunga Tourism Festival in Sikkim. It is a festival of adventures celebrated every year from 25th December to 31st in Pelling, Sikkim. The celebration rocks with adrenalin-driving activities such as water rafting, kayaking, trekking, mountain biking, etc. The festival is named after the guardian deity of Sikkim. The festival is an initiative by Sikkim Tourism to promote their region and the Sikkimese culture. The festival also includes flower exhibition, traditional craft and ethnic food and costume stalls.
Paragliding, Helicopter Ride, Hiking & Trekking, Marathon, Traditional Food Stalls, Traditional Folk Dance, Local Games for entertainment, Handy Craft & Hand loom Sale and Exhibition
About the Author: Keenjal Patel, a reader at mind, a writer at heart, a believer at soul and an achiever overall, is what she want to be. She loves to express through words. She’s a firm believer that imagination rules the world and the day this world absorbs the essence of her words, that would be a day of pride for her!
Reluctant as ever, my Grandpa refrained to eat noodles, until one day, we were both home alone, rest of the family was busy attending a family function, and how he hated outside food! So, to avoid going to bed with an empty stomach, he gave in to the pop culture and asked me to share my bowl of Maggi with him. Surprisingly, one spoon after the other, slurp..slurp..and slurp! He finished his first ever bowl of Maggi! This yellow colored packet had some magic I tell you, even my Grandpa couldn’t resist the 2 minutes miracle! Yes #WeMissYouToo Maggi, hoping for a comeback, or else you will only be heard of in our memories and be seen in our Maggi Selfie’s to our future generation. Below are the places across India where you can have unique encounters with Maggi.
#01 Matheran
Glide over the mesmerizing beauty of Matheran, while you hear the clippety cloc-cloc of horses. This is one among the very few pedestrian hill stations in India! Enjoy the view of forest from the top and munch on your Maggi meals.
Murud, a city in Raigad region is fast becoming a favorite tourist destination because the only sound that disturbs the peace is that of the sea waves crashing on the shores, barely 50 meters away. Because of the land across, the sea here is quiet and tranquil. Wouldn’t it be amazing to spend some time in isolation with your favorite dish i.e., Maggi?
Let the gentle breeze at Lonavala sooth you, enjoy the warm maggi, a cup of hot chocolate and some corn bhajiya’s at Tiger point. Cuddle up with your friends, gossip about your school days, or take your kids for a drive and share your good old days with them!
Kerala is blessed with a lot of beauty, water bodies, beaches, culture & art! So why not indulge into multiple elements and savor your taste buds with a bowl of Maggi which soothes your sense, mind, body & soul! Sip on the soupy noodles and let the waves wash away your stress.
After a long drive through the beautiful ghats, relax with your friends or family in the balcony and peep into the nature and come alive while you fight with your friends for the last spoon of Maggi in that bowl!
The old structures and monuments in Karnataka come alive to tell you tales from the past, hear them out on your visit, and on your way back to home, living amid the jungle, let the monsoon showers hinder outside while you enjoy with your delicious bowl of Maggi!
Remember your Mom waking you up by bribing you a bowl of hot Maggi? Imagine you are on a holiday and you get a home cooked delicious Maggi with added flavors from the hills, nothing like it, right?
Out of nowhere amid the magnificent Spiti Valley, when you finally take a sigh & want to fill in your stomach, a two minute Maggi would be a saviour, isn’t it? Settle yourselves under a tent, glance at the mountains right in front of you & let the breeze bring you a homely feeling!
The deep blue lake reflects the sky and the mountains around. With a falling temperature, this is the perfect location to be your share buddy for a bowl of Maggi! The clouds are just handful away, thin air, silence, you and your Maggi!
Do you like trekking in the Himalayan range? Often come back to the base camp with memories from the hills? Ever cooked your own food at the base camp? A two minute break would be such a relief from the long hour cooking procedure! Enjoy the hot Maggi dish with your trek mates and bring back home #MeriMaggi stories.
Uttarakhand, an originating point of significant Indian rivers, also known as a land of spirituality, offers breath taking views of mountains to the visitors. This region has multiple options and Marchula, is one among the many! It is a small yet beautiful and famous tourist place. Spend some time observing the running water from the banks of Ramganga and sip on your Maggi soup!
A reader at mind, a writer at heart, a believer at soul and an achiever overall, is what she want to be. She loves to express through words. She’s a firm believer that imagination rules the world and the day this world absorbs the essence of her words, that would be a day of pride for her!
Come summer and everyone is in a state of frenzy booking their way through the most coveted hill stations. How about you take the ‘road less taken’ and travel to one of the Seven Sisters of India? Sikkim is every mountain lover’s dream. Here, you’ll be welcomed by the sight of the Teesta and Rangit rivers, organic farms, terraced paddy fields, and rhododendron swept forests dotting the beautiful landscape. Visit this land of the red panda and unspoilt villages and above all, unmatched hospitality. Here is how you can make the most of your Sikkim trip.
#Destination 1: Gangtok
The capital city of Gangtok is indeed a charming destination to commence your journey from. It is easily accessible from the nearest airport of Bagdogra. A two hour drive along roads bordered with giant fern fronds interspersed with endless cups of steaming hot tea and locally prepared noodles await every passionate traveler.
View of Gangtok from Ganesh Tok. Credits: Google
Rest your tired body at this traditional Sikkimese homestay that cuts a very pretty picture with creepers framing the windows. The rooms are beautifully decorated with traditional wooden furniture and soothing colours. The balconies offer stunning views of the town and the restaurant is open for extreme food aficionados.
Gangtok has a lot to offer in terms of sight, site and bite. Try out the local cuisine of steamy hot and spicy Momos on MG Road. The best thing about this street is that there is a no-vehicle clause that lets the shoppers and tourists go about their business in peace. The other must-visit are Enchey Monastery, Rumtek Monastery, Flower Show Complex
Ganesh Tok: A pretty little temple of Lord Ganesh atop a small hill that offers a spectacular view of the city. You can relax and take in the Sikkimese atmosphere enjoying a cup of tea in one of the cafes down the hill.
Tashi View Point: The tower is the place from where you will absolutely fall in love with the undulating landscape and the snow covered peaks at the backdrop of the lush green forest. Since the weather here is unpredictable, make it a point to visit Tashi View Point in the part of the day that ensures clear visibility.
Waterfalls: The Seven Sisters Waterfalls and the Ban Jhakri Waterfalls are two must visits. Make it a point to spare at least two hours from the schedule to savor the beauty of the mighty falls. End your day with a cup of hot peppery tomato soup with your favourite people while soaking in the moment!
A Recommended Must-Visit Day Tour to Nathula
Nathula or the Nathu Pass leads to the Indo-China border that is one of the major attractions in Sikkim. The days for visiting the pass in a week are fixed so it is advisable to sync your dates accordingly. On the way to Nathula, enjoy the beautiful waters of Tsongmo Lake. Pay a visit to the coveted shrine of Baba Harbhajan Singh, a revered soldier in the history of the Indian Army and hear some urban legends about him. Stop by for a cup of butter tea and spicy noodles on your way back to the town to end a perfect day!
Atop the Indo-china border at Nathula
#Destination 2: Lachung
Lachung, known as ‘Small Pass’ traditionally, is an interesting place. Situated at the confluence of rivers Lachung and Lachen, the sleepy town comprises vast stretches of pasture land and is a perfect place to set base to travel further to the Yumthang valley. It is also the place to commence the ‘Rhododendron Trek’ that ends further in Lachen.
Things to do:
Yumthang valley: Also known as the Valley of Flowers, the Yumthang Valley is at a distance of mere two hours from Lachung. The drive up to the ‘Zero point’ is a breathtaking experience even for a seasoned traveler. Brace yourselves for few of the most stunning landscape views and myriad blooms of rhododendrons as you wind your way up the hills.
River Teesta from Yumthang Valley. Credits: Google
#Destination 3: Lachen
Known as the ‘Big Pass’, Lachen is accessible by road from Gangtok or by a two day long trek starting from the Yumthang Valley. The place is known for its annual yak race called Thangu which is held in the summer. The village cuts an extremely inviting picture with snow clad mountains at the backdrop and a dark green forest fencing the settlement.
Things to do:
Gurudongmar Lake: Gurudongmar Lake is considered to be a sacred water body in the Himalayas. The freshwater lake looks breathtakingly blue in the months of summer. It is one place that will remind you of the lakes in Ladakh and Tibet.
Gurudongmar Lake, Lachen. Credits: Google
#Destination 4: Ravangla-Kewzing
Ravangla is en-route to Pelling from Gangtok. This town is close to Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary and is great for birding. The peaks of Kanchenjunga, Pandim, Sinialchu and Kabru are clearly visible from here. Buddha Park and Temi Tea Garden are other must-visits, while in Ravangla.
Temi Tea Garden. Credits: Google
In Ravangla, stay at this cottage, a secluded log cabin deep into the forest. The rooms are fully furnished, complete with TV set, wardrobes and a dresser. Enjoy uninterrupted views of the mountains from the balconies. The host can arrange sightseeing and trekking tours for you upon prior request along with pick ups and drops at the places of your choice.
Stay at this lovely cottage by the woods at the outskirts of Ravangla
As an alternative, you can also stay in Kewzing, a place merely 10 km away from Ravangla. The guesthouse is a snug and a comfortable cottage complete with indoor games and a traditional deck. The forest is rich in cardamom cover and is an interesting place for birding. It is one place where you can enjoy solitude at its best along with a delicious breakfast.
Traditional Sikkimese farmshouse in Kewzing. One can go birding with the expert host
Pelling is a town located in West Sikkim, best known for its close quarters to the Himalayan peak of Kanchenjunga. It is also the base for many arduous treks undertaken by mountain enthusiasts. Apart from viewing the peak in its full glory, there are very many places to visit and foods to taste. Like Gangtok, Pelling is a bustling little town, flourishing with tourist activity.
Kanchenjunga, as seen from Pelling. Credits: Google
Stay at Darap, 8 kms from bustling town of Pelling. The village is a picturesque little place with rich culture. The Limboo community (a tribe in Nepalese community), is the largest community of the village and has led to its identity of being a culturally rich location. The rooms of this homestay are charming and the property is adorned with spacious courtyards and indoor games.
Khecheopalri Lake: Said to be a wish fulfilling lake, this lake is considered holy by Buddhist monks. An interesting feature of the lake is that leaves are not allowed to float on the surface of the water and this is ensured painstakingly by the birds. So travelers, next time you have a wish, do not miss visiting the lake.
Rabadantse Fort: Not very many tourists are aware of the existence of this historical monument and hence tend to give it a pass. Ensure to take an advantage of this scenario and spend an hour of solitude in the ruins that overlook an enchantingly green forest.
The Kanchenjunga Waterfalls, Pemayangtse Monastery, the Rock Garden and the Rimbi Falls are few of the exotic destinations in Pelling you must not skip.
#Destination 6: Richenpong
Head next to Richenpong, in West Sikkim, situated amidst a heavy forest cover. The village is accessible by road but to get around the sleepy town, you will have to be on foot. A historical lake called the Bhik Pokhri, which literally translates to poisoned lake is an interesting place to know about India’s desperate efforts towards freedom.
The Himalayas from Richenpong. Credits: Google
Discover its significance while you stay put up at the Heritage Farmstay destination located close to the Richenpong village. The house boasts, and means it too, of a traditional deck overlooking a lush green valley and the Kanchenjunga mountain range where the guests can just sit back and relax. The windows overlook orchards of Mandarin Oranges while the mountains loom at a beckoning distance. While at the stay, you can trek up to the Lheuntse Monastery, enjoy angling & picnic by the riverside and go for birding trips. The hosts can arrange for these activities, cultural programmes, transportation for sight seeing as well as pick up and drop on prior request.
Last stop in your Sikkim tour, Namchi is a major developing tourist centre in South Sikkim. The town is best known for its project that replicated the four Dhams of India. It is a great opportunity for the football lovers to see the stadium named after the country’s famous player, Baichung Bhutia. Then there is the Temi tea garden which is the only tea garden in Sikkim and one of the best in the country. Enjoy the flavour of the most acclaimed tea while you stay at the comfort best at our homestay destination.
About the Author: For her, sitting at one place is a challenge. Always in search of new quests, she doesn’t believe in bucket lists, even though she has quite an extensive one. Currently suffers from the ‘Unfinished Book Syndrome’ and is searching for books she can actually finish. A travel enthusiast as she is, she is also a no fuss traveler, counting on experience rather than on comfort. Loves the sea to its core and is fascinated by the fact that she gets to see one new face every single day of her life.
This was the first homestay I visited in Lingee Payong and I was immediately captivated by how simple yet beautiful it was. Surrounded by terraced farms on all sides, its location is stunning and the host, Mr. Kuber, is extremely friendly and chatty too. His little kids were very inquisitive and kept me company even when I hiked further. This is a great place for backpackers who are looking to explore rural Sikkim and learn about the local culture.
It’s a very homely place and perfect for trekkers. Mr. Pemba is an expert when it comes to trekking and will be happy to help you plan treks. While here, he went out of his way to show me around the village and introduce me to his friendly neighbours. We also spent a lot of time watching videos of various local cultural programmes organised by him and the local committees in the past. He also prepared delicious pork curry with his wife which is a must try.
The home stay limits its accessibility owing to its location. However, it’s definitely a climb that’s worth the effort. It’s a very homely place and Mrs. Gawri loves talking to guests and cooking for them. Her chicken is a must try. The view from both the garden and the balcony is always stunning.
It was really surprising to stumble upon such an old yet beautifully maintained house by the woods. The room is small and cosy, yet there’s plenty of space outside for guests to relax in. The best part is the location, where one has the option of taking long guided walks or simply spending some quiet time in the monastery close by. The host, Mrs. Sangay, loves taking care of guests and makes some delicious food.
The home stay is located in the beautiful village of Darap and is very homely. The host, Radha, goes out of her way to ensure that the guests enjoy their stay. Their two kids and little pup, Suzy, make for excellent company. The rooms are minimalist and yet very thoughtfully done to suit a backpacker or a family’s needs. While here, you can enjoy long walks in the village which is extremely scenic.
If you’re travelling with family and looking to put up somewhere hospitable, this is just the place for you. The apartments are fitted with all modern amenities. The host family is very warm and went out of their way to make sure that I was comfortable. I really enjoyed the delicious food there.
The home stay is so beautiful, it’s hard to not stay there once you’ve set eyes on it. I was pleasantly surprised by the attention given to details here. Done in Sikkimese art, the rooms have a local feel to them, yet are extremely modern, comfortable and spacious. There are balconies with large seating areas throughout the property, and there are plenty of places where you can sit down with a hot cup of tea and enjoy the great view.
