Exploring the landlocked state: Sikkim
General description of state
Sikkim surprises many with the variety of experiences it has to offer to the travellers and its inhabitants. In a small area of 7096 km (2740 sq mi), Sikkim adorns the colourful Buddhist monasteries in the West, the lush green valleys in the North, the religious stupas in the South and the urban hustle in its East. Gangtok is the state capital.
The state shares its boundaries with Nepal in its West, China to its North and East and Bhutan to the East. With a population of just close to 6 lakh, Sikkim is the country’s second lowest populous state.
Geographically, Sikkim has 28 mountain peaks, 227 high altitude lakes, 21 glaciers and five hot springs. The ‘Teesta’ river commonly …show more content…
Guru Rimpoche is considered the master who brought Buddhism in Sikkim. He introduced 'tantric' Buddhism to the Himalayas, after conquering 'demons' that were hindering the growth of religion in Tibet. People in the city believe that reciting mantras bring two- fold benefits to the speaker.
Tihar/ Festival of Lights- Diwali is called Tihar in Sikkim and symbolises the return of Lord Ram to his kingdom after the victory over Ravana. It is celebrated in a span of five years. During Tihar, traditional carols called Bailo or Deusi are sung.
Kagyeg dance festival- This local dance is enjoyed on the 28th and the 29th day of the 10th month of the Tibetan calendar around December. The dance performed by the important Chaams (monks) is important to ward off the evil forces and wishing for peace and prosperity for the people. The Kagyeg dance depicts various phases from the Buddhist mythology in a comical strip. Effigies made of flour, paper and wood are burnt during the dance.
Tendong Lho Rum Faat- Lepchas, one of the ethnic groups of Sikkim offer their prayers to Mount Tendong. They believe that this geographical landform has saved their clan from the great