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Places of Interest- North
Sikkim |
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Phodong
Monastery
One of the six major monasteries in Sikkim, Phodong
monastery is located in the North approximately
38 kms from Gangtok, 4 kms beyond Phodong is the
recently renovated Labrang Monastery unique in
it architectural design. |
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Phensang
Monastery
This monastery is situated on the gentle slope
stretching from Kabi to Phodong with perhaps one
of the best landscapes in the region. The Phensang
Monastery, under the Nyingmapa Buddhist Order,
was built in 1721 during the time of Jigme Pawo.
It was gutted by fire in 1947 and rebuilt in 1948
through the efforts of the lamas. The annual festival
of Chaam is performed on the 29th and 29th days
of the tenth month of the Lunar calendar (Tibetan
Calendar). |
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Singhik
The place offers one of the most spectacular and
closest views of Mt. Khangchendzonga and its ranges.
A well located Tourist Lodge provides accommodation
for visitors. The area also has a number of interesting
short nature trails for 1 to 3 days along the
higher ridges of the higher ridges of the surrounding
hills. One can also savour the most graceful peak
in the world, Mt. Siniolchu. |
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Chungthang
Chungthang, on the confluence of Lachen and Lachung
Chu and the starting point of River Teesta, has
emerged as a major sub-division settlement in
North Sikkim. It is the nodal junction for the
two passes, Lachen and Lachung. The valley is
believed to have been blessed by Guru Rimpoche
and one can visit the Holy Guru Lhedo to see the
foot and palm prints left behind by the Patron
Saint. The place is rich in bio diversity with
a large variety of orchids, plants and wildlife,
is 95 kms from Gangtok, 23 kms from Lachung, 29
kms from Lachen and is predominantly a Lepcha
region. |
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Lachung
A Bhutia village with a unique local self-governing
body called the Zumsa which substitutes the Panchayat.
Lachung has emerged as a tourist destination with
the soaring popularity of Yumthang Valley which
is just 25 kms from Lachung. The village, spreads
out on either side of Lachung Chu, has managed
to retain its unique culture and tradition. The
Lachung Monastery on the slope opposite to the
highway is a focal point of all religious function
of the local inhabitants. To get a glimpse of
the religious functions performed on auspicious
occasion a visit to the Monastery should form
part of the tour itinerary. |
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Yumthang
Yumthang, at an elevation of 11,800 ft and 140
kms from gangtok is a paradise for nature lovers
with a fascinating blend of flora and fauna and
breathtaking scenic grandeur. The valley is also
the home of Singbha Rhododendron Sanctuary with
24 species of Rhododendrons. Yumthang 'Tsa-Chu'
or the hot spring of the left bank of Lachung
Chu is immensely popular for its curative properties
and healing power. |
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Lachen
Lachen is situated at an altitude of 2750 mtrs.
and about 6 hrs. drive from Gangtok. The Lachen
Monastery Located on top of the village commands
a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and
country side. Resorts, hotels and lodges are available
for accommodation. |
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Guru-Dongmar
Lake
Guru-dongmar lake is considered as one of the
sacred lakes of this State both by the Buddhist
and the Hindus. The lake remains milky in color
throughout and it is believed the Guru Padmasambhava
had touched the lake whilst he visited Tibet from
this area. |
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