Sikkim, a gorgeous state in north eastern India, is that the least populated state, but the foremost populated and popular when it involves tourists. Flanked by Nepal, China and Bhutan on three sides and Bengal on the Indian side, the culture here is of course influenced by many civilizations and hence, the cultural diversity here is worth exploring. Geyzing or locally called as Gyalshing, is that the capital and therefore the headquarters of western a part of the state. The town is densely populated by Nepali population. It is situated 6500 feet above sea level. It is a beautiful place to visit during the winter season.
The second oldest monastery of Sikkim, Pemayangtse means ‘lotus’. It is over 300 years old and still houses around 100 Buddhist monks. They belong to the Bhutia clan of Sikkim. It was originally built by Lama Lhatsun Chempoway within the 17th century. Monks learning and living here are called ‘Ta-Tshang’. Guru Rimpoche is worshipped here and lots of paintings, murals and ancient scrolls are often seen here. During the dance festival of Cham, monks rejoice and dress in colorful traditional attire to bop. This place also is the commencement point of a 46 kms trail of trekking, called Dzongri trail. It passes through Khangchendzonga National Park.
Built in the year 1697, Sanga Choeling monastery is named because the place of ‘Secret Spells.’ it had been established by Lama Lhatsun Chempo and may be a very renowned sanctum in Sikkim. In ancient times, Guhyamantra i.e. secret mantras were taught here. The monastery only houses male monks and belongs to the Nyingma sector. It is said that only people belonging to Lepcha and Bhutia clan are allowed to travel to the inner shrine. You can reach the monastery by hiking for around 40 minutes.
Between the years 1670 and 1814, Rabdentse served because the second capital of Sikkim. The ruins of the royal palace and city still lie here. The city was invaded by and destroyed by the military of Gurkhas. A notifying check in the highway towards Rabdentse reads ‘Follow the trail and you’ll reach the palace.’ the foremost interesting thing to ascertain here is that the still standing stone throne; it stands between 2 other stone structures. The palace was constructed by the second Chogyal of Tensung Namgyal. The other chambers which you can see here are the king’s chambers, the queen’s rooms, courtyard, hallways, royal kitchen and also the public assembly. The Archeological Survey of India has undertaken the task of restoring and preservative measures of the palace and surrounding ruins.
Vershey is an enchanting, but abandoned sanctuary. It is well known for its rhododendron trees. Trekking trails start from here, browsing age old oak and pine trees, prickly shrubs, rare sorts of flowers, moss etc. the flora and fauna bloom completely during the months of April and May. The flower valley is very famous among tourists. Many local species of animals also can be spotted. A small settlement named Hilley is usually the top point of the trail. From here, the unreal snow covered ranges of Khangchendzonga are often seen.