The most important district of Sikkim is famous for tourism as well as political activities. Gangtok is the district headquarter and also the capital city of Sikkim. It is also one of the most sought after hill resorts in India. Till 19th century, it was ruled by Bhutan but after Anglo –Bhutan war the territory was fully captured by British. After Indian independence in 1947, the area was handed to kingdom of Sikkim but under the protection of India. East Sikkim was under massive turmoil during the first Indo-Sino war in 1962 and finally it became a part of Indian Union as 22nd state in 1975.

East Sikkim is the major place of tourism in the state. The most salient feature of the region is people who are warm hearted and helpful. For majority tourism is main source of income and also some people are engaged in agriculture. Gangtok is the first and most important spot, which is crowded but the natural beauty mesmerize travelers. East district is not so vast and there are plenty of places to visit in and around Gangtok. There are also some good excursion trips from Gangtok and there are ample good transportation from the town.

Sights And Activities

Directorate Of Handicraft And Handloom
This institute is established to promote and keeping alive the state traditional arts and crafts. The place houses exquisite handwooven woolen carpets with traditional motifs, blankets, shawls and most exciting one is carved ‘choktse’ or table. The sales emporium remains open throughout the year.

Enchey Monastery
This ancient monasterry holds many mystical stories and renowned for tantric facets. It is established on a site, which is believed to be blessed by famous Lama Druptob Karpo, who was known for his power of flying. This 200 years old monastery has tantric images of god and goddess and religion objects. Popular festival is ‘chaam’ or masked dance celebrated every year in the month of January.

Flower Festival
Gangtok is particularly popular for its exotic flowers. Round the year flower exhibition are organised at the Flower Show Venue near the White Hall Complex. Orchid shows held during the spring tourist season is one of the most popular shows organised in the state.

Saramsa Garden
Saramsa Garden is located about 14km from Gangtok. It is a home to Sikkim’s many exotic orchids and othe rare tropical and temperate plants. It is an excellent recreation and picnic spot.

Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre
Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre is the seat of the Kagyu order, one of the four major Tibetan Buddhist sects. It is situated 24km from Gangtok. The center is the storehouse of some of the rarest unique tibetan scriptures and religious art objects.

Water Garden
Water Garden ar martam Khola is located about 16km south of Gangtok. It is an ideal spot for picnic with a small swimming pool for children.

Tsomgo Lake
Literally known as ‘ Source of the Lake’ in Bhutia language. It is located 40km fro Gangtok and set at a height of 3780m. The lake is about 1km long, oval in shape, 15m deep and is worshipped by the local people. During winters this lake remains frozen. The lake has an attractive surrounding. In the month of May and August you can observe variety of known and unknown flowers. Also an ideal habitat of Red Panda and diverse species of birds.

Tashi View Point
It is situated only 8km from Gangtok, along the North Sikkim Highway. From this point you can have a mesmerizing view of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Mt. Siniolchu.

Fambong La Wildlife Sanctuary
This small but fascinating wildlife sanctuary is located 25km from Gangtok. The prime flora in this sanctuary are Oak, Katus, Kimbu, ferns and thick bamboo forest. This richly forested area is home to number of wild species also. This area in recent times, is being developed as a short duration trekking trail.