SIKKIM - A LITTLE STATE WITH A VIBRANT FACE

A Sikkimese sunrise in Pelling. A stellar start to a stunning journey. The Kanchenjunga says Good Morning!

If Goa as the tiniest state of India draws a zillion tourists to it, then Sikkim as the second smallest state of the world's seventh largest country is no less magnetic. A peaceful, incredibly scenic and serene land that boasts of sweeping views of India's highest mountain peak - Khanchandzonga -, one of the world's highest lakes - Gurudongmar, the curvy one-of-a-kind road better known as the Zuluk loops, the endless varieties of Rhododendrons and Orchids, the gateway to the Orient better known as the Old Silk Route, and the cute plump Red Pandas that live amidst and eco diversity that's hard to beat.....Yes, this is Sikkim, the land of the Lepchas, Bhutias, Limbus and followers of Buddha.

I was here two months ago in October, a month that promises clear skies and uninterrupted views of the Himalayan range. Be prepared for some light showers, but overall, the views of the Kanchenjunga from Gangtok and Pelling are simply droolworthy.
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The curvy roads in Sikkim are better known as Zuluk Loops.You just can't afford to miss these!

Gurudongmar Lake is India's second highest lake. At 17800 ft this one stands higher than Everest Base Camp. Blessed by Guru Nanak and Guru Rinpoche himself, this lake is considered very holy by the Buddists

 
​I began my trip in Darjeeling, having taking the route via Mirik and later Kurseong. The little toy train track that runs parallel to the road, the steam engine with 2 little locos that slowly chugs by....the road trip to Darjeeling from Bagdogra will reward you with sights of tea gardens, vales and the cool crispy air with its calming properties.

Onward to Pelling, Lachen, Lachung, Gangtok and finally Kalimpong, my self-designed trip of 13 days was nothing short of spectacular. North Sikkim will already plumment to single degree temperatures in October, so make sure you are clothed appropriately. And to have witnessed the season's first snowfall in Thangu, enroute to Lachen, with the colours of autumn for company, can't be described in words.

Spare a thought for our remarkable Indian Army that braves this harsh terrain and sub zero temperatures to constantly maintain a vigil at our strategic Indo-Chinese border.

Lachung, an unspoiled paradise in Northern Sikkim.

​So while I did cover all the usual "touristy" spots that Sikkim would offer, this was more about an experience from the Coastal West to the North East and back again. Through West, North, South and into the East districts, the politeness and hospitality of people living in the mountainous regions is unsurpassed. The beauty of the landscape and its dwellers has left me very impressed. From the humble room service boy to the respectful driver to the innocent happy faces that wave out to you as you drive past, our simple fellow countrymen will keep your hearts warm regardless of the cold terrain. Mr Modi, I think you have missed the point here. This country overall, and these regions in particular, are badly in need of tarred surface connections rather than E connections.

Along with travel comes discovery. Of lands and yourself. Along with fun comes gratitude and wisdom. To know how well placed you are compared to your countrymen in difficult terrains. Along with revelations comes a renewed vigour. Of finding beauty in unexpected places. And I close my eyes and recall the golden light on the snow clad range. Yes, the mountains beckoned. I obeyed. I followed. My travels have a purpose. And I know I am in a better place now with stronger resolves and calmer thoughts. To wander with wonder. This is my journey of discovery.
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- Zenobia Tamboli

Zenobia has been with the corporate world for the last 26 years, having diverse experience in banking, pharma, education, mining and media. A doting mother and a driven individual who believes in leading from the front, she is passionate about reading, traveling, exploring and writing about her experiences.

All photo credits belong to the author.