North Sikkim: Nature At its Pristine Best

The unspoilt beauty of this state is a treat to the eyes and the soul. Anagh Pal gives a first-person account of a weekend trip to the ‘abode of the gods’

- Anagh Pal

I have a sweet and loving relationship with Sikkim, the pretty state nestled in the eastern Himalayas. Since I live in Kolkata, Sikkim’s capital Gangtok is an overnight journey by train – or a fifty-minute flight – and then a four-hour drive up the winding hilly roads. Sikkim has a unique kind of charm; the state is abundant in natural bounty, offers views of some of the most majestic peaks on the planet (including the mighty Kanchenjunga), and lets you indulge in a variety of local delicacies. But what I like most about Sikkim are the people, who are warm, friendly, and helpful.

Whenever I can find a few days off from work, or even a longish weekend, I stuff my backpack with the bare essentials – my camera and a set of warm clothes – and set off. Being a solo backpacker, I do not make any bookings beforehand; one can manage pretty well, even during the peak season, and when one is flexible with plans and keeps things open, it all works out in the end.

An Adventurous Weekend