History:
Sikkim, once the independent Kingdom, was ruled by Namgyal
dynasty, Chogyal, for more than three hundreds years. The
last ruler of the Sikkim was Palden Thundop Namgyal and the
monarchy was ended in 1975. The Kingdom became 22nd state
of republic of India on 26th April 1975.
Natural: The state is heavily forested
and abounds with the wildlife, rhododendrons and greater
verities of orchids and wild flowers. About one third of
the total area is covered with forest and is traversed by
the main range of the Himalaya. The bio-diversity of the
area ranges 250m above sea level to 8586m, summit of Mt
Kanchenjunga, third highest mountain in the world.
Geography: Sikkim is located in the north-eastern
part of the India. The area of this land is 7096 sq. Km
and is bounded by Tibet Autonomous region of China in the
north and north-east, Bhutan in the north-south, West Bangal
in South and Nepal in the west.
People: The total population of state
is approx 420000 and main inhabitants are Nepalese, Bhutia
and Lepcha. Sikkimis and Nepali are principal local language
where English is thenational language. Buddhisum and Hinduism
are the principal religion. Agriculture is the main source
of income for Sikkimis people where Tourism is also a growing
industry.
Entry procedure: Indian Visa is required
to enter Sikkim, and it can be obtained from the any Indian
Embassy and consulate office around the world. A two copies
passport sized photograph is required to proceed the application
form and visa is normally valid for 6 months.
Access: Indian airline has a greater linkage
to reach Sikkim, Baghdora airport is the only nearest airport
and is 124 KM far from Gangtok. Domestic airport in Bhadrapur,
Nepal is second nearest airport to reach Sikkim and is 146
KM far from Gangtok. Well road connection made easier to
reach Sikkim.