**Gangtok** stands as the capital of the mountainous northern Indian state of Sikkim, a city steeped in history and spirituality. Established as a Buddhist pilgrimage site in the 1840s, Gangtok rose to prominence, eventually becoming the capital of an independent monarchy after the end of British rule. In 1975, Sikkim joined India, but Gangtok has retained its status as a Tibetan Buddhist center. Today, it serves as a crucial base for trekkers seeking permits and transport to explore the breathtaking Himalayan mountain ranges of Sikkim.
Nestled close to the Tibetan border, **Lachung** is a picturesque mountain village in northeastern Sikkim, divided by the Lachung River. This serene village is home to the 19th-century Lachung Monastery, a Buddhist sanctuary encircled by apple orchards. Nearby, the Yumthang Valley boasts the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, safeguarding a diverse array of rhododendron species. The valley is renowned for its majestic waterfalls, lush pine forests, and soothing hot springs, making it a haven for nature lovers.
**Pelling**, a small town in the foothills of Mount Khangchendzonga in northeastern Sikkim, offers a serene retreat with a rich history. The late-17th-century Buddhist Sanga Choling Monastery provides stunning mountain views, while the Pemayangtse Monastery captivates visitors with its intricate wall paintings, sculptures, and a gold-plated statue of Guru Padsambhava. Overlooking a valley, the 17th-century Rabdentse Palace, now in ruins, still holds remnants of the king's bedroom and kitchen, whispering tales of a bygone era.
Lastly, perched in the Himalayan foothills of West Bengal, **Darjeeling** is a town with a colonial past. Once the summer resort for the British Raj elite, Darjeeling remains a gateway to history with the narrow-gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, fondly known as the "Toy Train," which was completed in 1881. The town is globally acclaimed for its distinctive black tea, cultivated on plantations that adorn the surrounding slopes. The imposing Mt. Kanchenjunga, one of the world's highest peaks, forms a stunning backdrop, adding to Darjeeling's allure.