influence of Buddhism is all-prevasive. Even in the remote mountain regions, near wind-s-swept summits, fringing monasteries or private houses, flutter the ubiquitous prayer flags.

The main monasteries are Pemayangtse and Tashiding in West Sikkim; Enchey in Gangtok and Rumtek near Gangtok, Ralong in South and Phodong and Tolung in North Sikkim.

Influencing the lifestyle and cultural heritage of the people each monastery is host to a number of festivals which are a singular experience in pomp and pageantry. The lama dances complete with fierce masks, gorgeous brocade costumes, music and chants is at once evocative and out of this world.

The Sikkimese Nepali is the inheritor of the legacy of Hindu traditions. The visitor to Sikkim is spellbound by the colourful festivals of Dassain/Tihar celebrated by the Hindu Nepali population.

Innovations are made to Goddess Durga and barely seeds are planted in prayer rooms. Their other important festival is Depavali, a rare treat.

There are around 171 temples all over Sikkim.

TRANSPORT AND COMMUNICATION

AIR

Nearest Airport is Bagdogra in North Bengal which is 124 km. and approximately 5 hrs. drive from Gangtok. Bagdogra has regular Indian Airlines services from Calcutta, Delhi and also the North East.

RAIL

The two closest railway stations are Siliguri (114 km) and New Jalapaiguri (125 km) connecting Calcutta, Delhi, Guwahati, Lucknow & other important cities in India.

ROAD

Gangtok is connected by road with Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Siliguri and other entries and also with all the District Headquarters with Sikkim.

SIJU CAVE

The famous limestone caves of Siju are located close of Naphak Lake and the Simsang Game Reserve. The formation of stalagmites & stalactites in these caves resemble those of the Blue Grotto in the Isle of Carpis.

PLACE OF TOURIST INTEREST

DIRECTORATE OF HANDICRAFTS & HANDLOOM

Centre for promoting & keeping alive the traditional Arts & Crafts, a veritable store house of exquisite Carpets, Blankets & Shawls in 'Lepcha' weaves.

DEER PARK

A haven for nature lover, where the Red Panda & fleet footed deer can be observed in their natural habitat. An imposing statue of the Buddha is situated here.

DO-DRUL CHORTEN (STUPA)

One of the most important Stupas of Sikkim, built by Trulsi Rinpoche, head of the Nyingma order, containing rare mandals, of Dorji Phurpa (Bajra Kilaya). Holi Books, Mantras and encircled by 108 prayer wheels.

RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF TIBETOLOGY

Renowned worldwide centre for study of Buddhist philosophy & religion, treasure house of rare Thankas, Statues, over 200 Buddhist icons and prized objects of art.

ORCHID SANCTUARY

An exotic sight of over 200 species of orchids set amidst beautiful landscape. Situated just below the Institute of Tibetology.

RUMTEK MANASTERY

A must for every visitor. Situated 24 km away the seat of the 'Kagyu Order' a close replica of the original Kagyu in Tibet. Here one can find some of the most unique art objects of the world.

TASHI VIEW POINT

Situated 8 km from Gangtok, this site offers a breathtaking view of the majestic Mount Kanchendzonga and Mount Siniolchu.

PHODONG MONASTERY 

38 km from Gangtok, one of the six major monasteries of Sikkim. About 4 km from Phodong is the uniquely architectured Labrang Monastery.