Sikkim....Gangtok....Himalayas....

Journey to Sikkim – Where the Himalayas Touch the Sky

During one of my visits to India, I had a three-day stop in Kolkata to deliver a training session for our IBM partners. The work went well, and, as is my tradition after any work trip to India, I carved out some time for travel. This time, my heart was set on Sikkim. My younger sister joined me, and together we planned a little adventure.

The trip became possible thanks to our dear friend Kumkum, who asked her cousin to arrange everything—from picking us up at Bagdogra airport to driving us all the way to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.

First Stop: Bagdogra

We reached Bagdogra in the afternoon and spent the evening soaki
ng in the quiet charm of the place. A visit to the local monastery introduced us to the calming rhythm of North Eastern hospitality—gentle smiles, slow conversations, and the scent of incense drifting through the cool evening air.

The Road to Sikkim

The next morning, we started early. After crossing the border check, the road to Gangtok unfolded like a moving painting—the emerald Teesta River flowing alongside us, winding mountain roads hugging the hills, and the towering Himalayas slowly revealing themselves in the distance.

Our hotel in Gangtok was perched on a hill, and from the balcony, the mighty Kanchenjunga stood in full view, its snow-clad peaks catching the morning light. Sitting there with a cup of the finest Darjeeling tea, hot toast, and freshly steamed momos felt like the perfect welcome.

Honoring a Hero and Crossing Borders

Our first stop was Baba Mandir, a shrine dedicated to Harbhajan Singh, an Indian Army soldier who fought bravely at Nathula Pass and is revered as a guardian of the region. Standing there, surrounded by prayer flags fluttering in the cold wind, I felt a deep sense of gratitude and pride.

Next, we headed towards Nathula Pass, nestled in the Dongkya range of the Himalayas on the Indo-China border. Our guide told us it’s an important trade post where villagers on both sides still practice barter exchange. The altitude, the crisp air, and the thought of standing on a historic gateway between nations made the moment unforgettable.

Lakes, Yaks, and Monasteries

We visited the breathtaking Tsomgo Lake, its shimmering blue waters reflecting the snow peaks. The weather turned chilly, and we quickly rented rubber boots to tackle the slush. The highlight? A playful, slightly wobbly ride on a yak—an experience that had us laughing the whole way.

The next stop was Rumtek Monastery. The sprawling complex, with its vibrant gardens, ancient thangkas, and peaceful meditation corners, radiated a sense of timelessness. My favorite moment was watching young monks in maroon robes playing football in the monastery corridor—their giggles echoing through the air.

We also toured a tea estate, sampling fragrant blends and packing a few for home. The scent of fresh tea leaves followed us for the rest of the trip.

Diwali in Gangtok

Our fifth day happened to be Diwali, the festival of lights. Mahatma Gandhi Marg was alive with shops selling incense, Tibetan handicrafts, and textiles. As night fell, fireworks lit up the Himalayan sky. The hotel owner surprised us with a special dinner—fluffy roshgullas and chhurpi, a delightful milk-based sweet.

Sitting on the balcony that night, gazing at the Himalayas—the cradle of great rivers, the abode of Shiva—I felt a stillness that only nature can offer.

Farewell, But Not Goodbye

All too soon, it was time to drive back to Bagdogra for our flight to Kolkata and then onward to Chennai. My heart was full—of serene landscapes, warm people, and moments that will stay with me forever.

Sikkim is not just a place you visit; it’s a place that gently imprints itself on your soul. And I know I will return.

                                                     PEACE ON EARTH

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