Sikkim is a small state in northeast India having diverse flora, fauna, and climate. Sikkim majorly attracts tourists because of its geographical, religious, cultural, and social features, which are quite a few. Here are 5 things out of the many that are unique to Sikkim:
1. Organic State
Sikkim is considered an organic state, and it’s the only state in India to attain this title. The mission to convert Sikkim into an organic state was initiated back in 2003 by the chief minister of Sikkim, Shri Pawan Kumar Chamling. For this mission, large numbers of lands in Sikkim were converted into certified organic farms. While mentioning about organic cultivation, it would be unfair to not mention about the crops that Sikkim majorly produces; these are cardamom, ginger, turmeric, wheat, millet, and paddy maize. Sikkim being an organic state has inspired other states to also go organic.
A terrace field in Sikkim
2. The Singshore Bridge
The suspension bridge is situated a few kilometers away from Uttarey. It is one of the most popular tourist spots in West Sikkim. The bridge is the highest bridge in Sikkim and the second-highest bridge in Asia. The bridge is 650 ft long, 12 ft wide, and its cable height is 700 ft. The Singshore Bridge was built by connecting two hills. Fun and adventurous activities like bungee jumping are also arranged on this bridge. The view from the bridge is breathtaking, surrounded by hills and waterfalls.
Singshore Bridge
3. Maghey Mela
The month of January is all about the festive feels because of Maghe Sankranti, which is celebrated in a glorious manner. It is one of the important festivals celebrated by the Nepali community. The Maghe Mela in Jorethang is without a doubt the biggest fete (mela) in Sikkim. People from all over the region come to enjoy the carnival. Some of them participate in pujas and take a ritual bath. They believe that after taking this holy bath, all their sins are washed away. The "Van Tarul" tika is smeared on the foreheads and eaten also raw.
Maghe Mela
The mela has evolved through the years and is now not only seen as a religious event but also as an opportunity to promote and showcase Sikkim's culture, tradition, food, crafts, etc.
4. Khecheopalri Lake
Sikkim is endowed with beauty, flora and fauna, and rich cultures. The number of lakes with religious significance is quite a few, and one of them is Khecheopalri Lake. It is situated to the northwest of Pelling town. The lake is sacred, and people believe that if one wishes something with a pure heart at this lake then it gets fulfilled. The land is blessed by Guru Padmasambhava. It is a Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage destination. A mysterious and interesting feature about this lake is that no leaves can float in this lake, and even if by chance the leaves fall then birds automatically pick them up and leave them beside the shore. It is said that this place was used by Guru Padmasambhava to preach. It is also the residing place of the Goddess Tara Jetsun Dolma, and the lake is believed to be her footprint. The lake is surrounded by dense forest having a monsoonal climate.
Khecheopalri Lake
5. Pang Lhabsol
Sikkim is a place of diversity. Its people celebrate festivals with full enthusiasm. Pang Lhabsol is one of the festivals celebrated in Sikkim. It is a Buddhist festival where the deity of the mountain is worshipped for guarding, securing, and maintaining peace over the state. The festival is celebrated around August and September annually. The festival signifies the devotion and respect the people have for the mountain deity. During this festival, dances are also performed. Dancers wear colourful costumes, colourful masks, and the dance in itself is an example of perfection. Pang Lhabsol also signifies the ceremony that is held to honour the brotherhood sworn between Lepchas and Bhutias at Kami.
Thus, all the mentioned places and festivals of Sikkim add up to the uniqueness of this state. From small handicrafts to huge lakes, things in Sikkim are all unique on their own.
The celebration of Pang Lhabsol in full swing
