“O dear Himalaya…why are you so amazing, can I kiss your peak or can I just let your silence speak…O dear Himalaya…”
A road trip from Gangtok to Lachen in North Sikkim offers breathtaking views of nature, charming villages, and significant historical sites. Traveling with family, the experience blends scenic beauty, local culture, and challenges, such as navigating winding roads and managing travel sickness. Important stops included Kabi Lungchok and Seven Sisters Waterfall. Lachen, known for its warmth and simplicity, serves as a serene gateway to Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes globally.
The Teesta River, originating from the Pahunri glacier, is a 309 km long lifeline flowing through Sikkim and West Bengal in India, and into Bangladesh. Known for its turquoise splendour, the river runs parallel to the National Highway 10, providing a scenic journey amidst green forests. The river's greenish hue is attributed to the presence of blue-green algae and rock flour. It is rich in folklore, considered a creation of the Mother Creator, Itbu-moo, in Lepcha legends, and a symbol of a never-ending desire in Kalika Purana.
Rumtek Monastery, a significant Buddhist religious site laced with rich history and culture, is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas in Sikkim, India. Built in the 16th century and rebuilt in the mid-20th century, it is a stunning representation of Tibetan architecture and holds numerous religious artifacts. It serves as the seat of Karma Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism, has a special prayer hall, murals, and an impressive library. The monastery continues to attract global visitors due to its spiritual, cultural, and historical significance.
Malana, nestled in the serene Parvati Valley, is a must-visit for its unique culture, stunning beauty, and ancient history. The village, known for its isolation and cannabis production, is said to have ties to Alexander the Great's descendants. Its democratic system and traditional festivals are intriguing, but outsiders are met with strict rules and customs. Visiting Malana offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
The Buddha Park of Ravangla, also known as Tathagata Tsal, in South Sikkim, India, is a sanctuary of peace and spiritual reverence. It features a towering 128-foot statue of Lord Buddha, artistic reliefs depicting Jataka tales, and offers opportunities for meditation in a serene ambiance. The park is a must-visit for anyone seeking spiritual solace and a glimpse into Buddhist teachings.
Perched above Namchi, Samdruptse Hill rises as a quiet guardian of faith and legend. Crowned by the towering statue of Guru Padmasambhava, this wish-fulfilling hill blends Himalayan grandeur with deep spiritual calm. Prayer flags, myths of a sleeping volcano, and panoramic vistas make Samdruptse a place where belief, history, and silence meet.
A trip to Sikkim included a visit to Temi Tea Garden, the state's only tea estate, renowned for its high-quality organic tea and sustainable practices. Established in 1969, the garden spans 435 acres at high altitude, offering breathtaking scenic views and a rich variety of flora, fauna, and bird species. Enjoyable walks across lush forests, the unique taste of their tea accompanied by local dishes like momos and fale, make it an ultimate retreat from city life.
On a crisp March morning, we set out from Gangtok toward Tsomgo Lake, a shimmering jewel at 12,400 feet. The winding roads revealed forests, waterfalls, and grazing yaks. When we finally reached the serene, mirror-like lake, its calm beauty was both humbling and magical. Between yak rides, steaming momos, and whispered legends, Tsomgo offered pure Himalayan enchantment.
Perched at 13,123 feet in the Himalayas, Baba Mandir honors Baba Harbhajan Singh, the soldier who guards the Indo-China border even in legend. Amid prayer flags, misty valleys, and mountain winds, we experienced faith, devotion, and awe. From the life-size statue to sacred rituals, the shrine offers a profound journey into courage, spirituality, and the indomitable spirit of the Himalayas.
Hari means “Lord Vishnu”. So, Haridwar stands for “The Gateway to Lord Vishnu”. In order to reach Badrinath, one of the Char Dhams, with a temple of Lord Vishnu, Haridwar is a typical place to start a pilgrim’s journey. Therefore, the name Haridwar. Hrishikesh (हृषीकेश) is a name of Lord Vishnu composed of hrishika meaning ‘senses’ and Isha meaning ‘lord’, thus ‘Lord of the Senses’. The name commemorates an apparition of Vishnu to Raibhya Rishi, as a result of his Tapasya (austerities), as Lord Hrishikesha.
