Sikkim is a remote mountainous state bordering Tibet to the north and wedged between the Himalayan Kingdom of Nepal and Bhutan. It is a beautiful lush country with dense forests rich with flora and fauna, unspoiled lakes and has the world's third highest mountain Kanchenjunga (28168ft/8586M) which straddles the border with Nepal. After its annexation by India in 1975, Sikkim became one of the youngest Indian states and a restricted area, requiring special permits. As a result it has retained its original Buddhist charm. The monasteries in Sikkim are an ideal place to visit for serious Dharma practitioners.

Sikkim is considered a heaven for the lovers of exotic FLORA & FAUNA; there are several wildlife sanctuaries such as Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden, Himalyan Zological Park, Fambong Lho wildlife, Kyongnosia Alpine Sanctury, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctury, Menam Wildlife Sanctury, Khang-Cheng Dzongga National Park. Various species of birds, animals and wild flowers can be found. Famous Red panda, Orchids, Rhododendron of different colours are the major attraction of these sanctuaries.

NOTE:
BATE Organizes extensive pilgrimage tour for Dharma people. Please click on Pilgrimage Tour for more information on Dharma Centers in Sikkim. Price on pilgrimage tours is provided on request.

ENTRY:
Bagdogra is the nearest airport approx. 4 hrs. from Gangtok. And it is connected by international airports in Delhi and Calcutta. Sikkim can be entered from Nepal via southeast border of Kakarvitta. There is daily flight service to Bhadrapur, nearest domestic airport from border from capital Kathmandu.

VISA:
We advise you to obtain an Indian Visa in your home country. Sikkim requires special permit and desired names of the places as per the itinerary needs to be mentioned clearly in your Sikkim permit. Indian visa and Siikim permit can also be obtain from Kathmandu at the Indian Embassy, which takes minimum of one-week's working days.