Friday, April 09, 2010

Elevated calm

With its colourful rhododendrons, snow-capped peaks and tranquil monasteries, sikkim takes next to no time to cast a spell on visitors

Gangtok was swathed in the colours of spring and the mountain was snow-capped. As we made our way into town, nature and culture seemed to be in perfect harmony in the capital of Sikkim. This north-eastern state has all the trappings of a sought-after summer vacation destination. Nature has showered its benison on Gangtok and its environs with great generosity. For us, the luxurious tranquility of the Royal Plaza Hotel was as good a starting as any.

As we checked into this fine hotel, walked up to our room and lifted the curtains on the gigantic window, the snow-covered peaks of the Kanchendzonga loomed into our view as if by way of a warm greeting. With its magnificent recreational facilities, the Royal Plaza, which is a part of the Sarovar Hotels and Resorts stable, arranged our sightseeing tours. The ideal time to visit Sikkim is from April to June. The state's varied flora is at its most resplendent during this season, especially after April 25, the day the International Rhododendron Festival gets underway. Sikkim is the only state in the north-east where you can see this beautiful flower. No wonder rhododendron is regarded as the state tree. But Sikkim is not only about this wild red flower; it has 515 different types of orchids.

When you take a ropeway ride in Gangtok, you can see these colourful flowers sheltered in tall fern trees. Sunset is the best time to enjoy such ineffable beauty. But be warned, the last ropeway departs at 4 pm. Miss it at your own peril.

Dusk descends early in this hill station. And that is when you set out to try your luck at the city’s only casino - Casino Sikkim. But after a hard day’s journey from Bagdogra (the nearest airport), we were tired. So it was time to go to bed.
For Complete IIPM Article, Click on IIPM Article

Source :
IIPM Editorial, 2009


An IIPM and Professor Arindam Chaudhuri (Renowned Management Guru and Economist) Initiative

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