Sikkim - the most beautiful nook in the Himalaya offers visitors nature in all its grandeur. The world's 3rd highest mountain - Khangchendzongna at 28,156 ft. dwarfs its surrounding peaks Pandim, Narsing, Kabru, Talung, Siniolchu, Pau-Hunri, Simvo, Jopuno, in a surreal vista unmatched in the world and which locals' believe, resembles an alter of the Gods. Come, look for yourself.

Leaving behind the sweltering plains of Bengal, you will quickly travel up through orchid laced subtropical jungles of the Himalayan foothills. The four hour drive follows the river Teesta through some of the most picturesque terrain in the world where clear mountain streams tinkle melodiously to remind you that you are in the abode of the Gods.. The verdant hillsides and steep gorges are dotted with terraced rice paddies that turn from a brilliant emerald green to a soft golden hue with the passing of the seasons. Amidst the high peaks nestle fabulous natural lakes worshipped by the people of Sikkim and about which legends abound. Relax in one of Sikkim's many natural hot water springs among vistas of snow clad mountains - our antidote to civilization. Come, discover the Himalaya at its best.

Crowning many hill tops are fabled centers of Buddhist worship and learning, such as the monasteries at Rumtek, Lingdum, Enchhey and Pemayangtse, to mention only a few. Awe inspiring Stupas and Chortens are set amidst fluttering prayer flags and numerous prayer wheels. Come, explore the wonder that is Sikkim.

Sikkim tourism is now opening up and providing an enchanting world full of friendly people, beautiful flora and fauna and fabulous vistas in serene surroundings. The re-emergence of trade through the erst-while "Silk Route" (Nathu-la Pass) has enhanced development making travel easier for the vacationer.

GETTING TO SIKKIM
By Air : You can fly into Bagdogra airport and take the helicopter to Gangtok. Tickets for this beautiful helicopter ride sell fast so should be booked in advance. Alternatively you can drive up to Gangtok from Bagdogra which is 124 km. or about 4 hours away from Hotel Tashi Delek. The international airports at New Delhi & Calcutta are well connected to Bagdogra with daily flights. You could also fly in from Kathmandu to Biratnagar or Bhadrapur, hire a taxi and proceed via Siliguri to Gangtok. Bagdogra Airport will very shortly be granted International status hence you should check up on the current status before buying tickets.

By Train : Trains from any part of India going to the North Eastern States must pass through New Jalpaiguri (NJP) which is a major Rail Station on this route. ( New Jalpaiguri is 114 Km. and about 4 hours. from Hotel Tashi Delek ) If your train arrives at an odd hour take a retiring room at the station itself and await day break. Soon adequate transport becomes available for Gangtok and all upcountry destinations.

By Road : Travelling by road is essential in this Himalayan state. Your first experience with the hill roads will be when you travel up either from the station or airport to Gangtok. Buses & Taxies are readily available; though there are no metered taxies. However, the rates for all routes are fixed and drivers carry rate cards. Both Government and private bus services connect all major towns within Sikkim besides Siliguri, Darjeeling and Kalimpong. From Siliguri (NJP) you can also get bus services to Calcutta, Patna, Guwahati, Kakarvitha/Kathmandu and Phuentsholing/Bhutan.

GENERALLY SPEAKING

PERMITS
Foreigners are required to obtain permits which are valid for 15 days at a time and can be extended for a further 15 days once in Sikkim. These are available at all Indian Missions / Consulates abroad and Sikkim Tourism Offices at Delhi, Calcutta, Siligur, Rangpo and Gangtok. While applying you must provide 2 passport size photographs and copies of the passport pages showing photograph and personal data and the page showing the Indian Visa. Domestic tourists should carry identification papers for obtaining permits to visit, Nathu La, Tsomgo Lake and North Sikkim.