Sikkim is India 's smallest state, but perfectly formed for trekking. It perches, a touch insouciantly, between Nepal , China , Tibet and Bhutan , and over the centuries has been influenced and indeed populated from all these areas. Kanchendzonga (8,586 M), the third highest mountain in the world, dominates the states, being both awesome topographical landmark and a sacred deity. Gangtok, the capital, abounds with pagoda like roofs of many buildings and the presence of crimson robed monks in the bazaars. The Institute of Tibetology , the only one of its kind in the world, was set up by the erstwhile ruler to promote research on Mahayana Buddhism, and on the language and traditions of Tibet . Lower down the hill is the famed orchid sanctuary where 500 species of orchids indigenous to Sikkim are cultivated. Sikkim offers several treks that lead through pine forests, through picturesque valleys, monasteries and to mountain lakes. It is also the base for mountaineering expeditions and the rivers Teesta and Rangeet offer excellent river rafting.

The Sikkimese, are by nature, a simple, polite and non - aggressive people. Being devout Buddhists, they celebrate their festivals with a characteristic mixture of abandon and reserve. Life in Sikkim is according to some, a never - ending festival, for there are vibrant festivities throughout the year. They are the reflection of the rich cultural heritage of the state, which combines Buddhism and Hinduism with the original traditions of the Lepchas. The major monastries like Pemayangtse, Tsuklakhang, Enchey and Rumtek are important venues for Buddhist festivals. Pang Lhabsol, Drukpa Tseshi, Losoong, Saga Dawa and Dasain are the most popular festivals. A favourite form of celebration is drinking of 'Chang', the millet beer of the Himalayas . Packed into tall bamboo containers, the drink is sipped through a bamboo pipe.

One of the most colourful performances in the world are Sikkim 's mask dances, performed by Lamas in the 'gompa' (monastery) courtyards. The fascinating dances of Kagyat and the masked Rumtek, and Enchey 'Chaams' (ritual dance of the lamas), are the popular dances, which recreate legends and myths, connected with Buddhism, and the eternal triumph of good over evil.

Knotted woollen carpets with the dominating dragon emblem, and eight auspicious signs; wood carvings, Lepcha handlooms in traditional designs and rich colours for clothes, bags, linen and accessories; leather jackets and handbags, articles of homemade paper, Thanka (religious scroll paintings) and Sikkimese Dragon Jewellery make a fascinating collection of handicrafts, inspired by an age old culture

India Travel Destination Guide

Internet access in Delhi

Internet access is as easy as getting a telephone booth in delhi. You can find internet cafes is most of the parts of Delhi. Prices range from a mere Rs10 per hour to around Rs100 per hour but make sure you check your connection by surfing first. Paharganj teems with

Corbyn's Cove and Chirya Tapu

One of the most picturesque sea-beaches, it is ideal for sea bathing and sun-basking. This scenic sea beach is ideal for sunbathing and swimming. The Waves Restaurant, the Peerless Resort nearby and the Hornbill Nest Guest House at a stone's throw, provide a kaleidoscopic view of the blue waterfront.

Information for Women travellers

India is not a country that provides huge obstacles to women travellers petty Indian streets are almost without exception male-dominated - something that may take a bit of getting used to, particularly when you find yourself subjected to incessant staring, whistling and name calling. This can usually be stopped by ignoring

Train services from Delhi

Train Serices from Delhi There are 4 major Railways stations in Delhi. New Delhi Railway Station Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station Old Delhi Railway Station Sarai Rohilla Railway Station New Delhi Station is situated at the eastern end of Paharganj, less than lkm north of Connaught Place. All the trains leave for the major destinations

Woodwork, ceramics and stonework in India

The old carvings of woods of the houses or the temple, those are refourbis, are usually available for the reasonable prices, survived so sometimes. Furniture is made from heavy wood, in order to carry with you, can be a true affair and is particularly good in the mountain ranges

Charities in India

Here are just some of the charities that accept voluntary workers: Denjong Padma Choeling Academy c/0 Sonam Yongda, Pemayengtse Gompa, West Sikkim 737 113 ©03595/50760 & 50141 The academy, with around 200 orphans and destitute children, relies on donations and welcomes voluntary teachers. Sikkim is a restricted area, so you will have

Paintings and antiques in India

Most Tibetan thangkas (Buddhist religious paintings mounted on brocaded silk) are mass produced (usually in Nepal) and mod¬ern, whatever the seller says, but even the cheapest boast the dense Buddhist symbol¬ism inherent in the form. You'll find them in the north, where there are Tibetan commu¬nities, and a little investigation

Safety & Security

Rajasthan is a peaceful state and its people are friendly and well meaning. This piece of an advice is meant to caution but you should not be paranoid otherwise you miss knowing about the very vibrant people and culture of Rajasthan. Like anywhere else, reasonable caution is your best weapon

Cigarettes in India

Indian cigarettes, such as Wills, Gold Flake, Four Square and Charms, are OK once you get used to them, and hardly break the bank (Rs10-30 per pack), but if you find them too rough, stock up on imported brands such as Marlboro and Benson and Hedges, or some rolling tobacco,

History of Princely State Rajasthan

The history of India dates back almost five thousand years, and Rajasthan plays a crucial and unique role, especially with regard to the development of Indian culture. Its impressive story reaches through a heroic past. Its extravagant splashes of bright hues against the desert landscape and the purity of its