Sikkim is a former Buddhist kingdom nestled along the Himalaya, bordered to the west by Nepal, the north by Tibet, and the east by Bhutan and China. About 30 years ago, India took the reigns, yet its unique identity is still reflected throughout the state.
Narrow, winding roads are etched into the sides of steep mountains prone to landslides. Despite the dangerous conditions, the roads are paved and often surprisingly smooth. The Border Roads Organization (BRO) take immense pride in these results and there are street signs throughout the state which praise the laborers and also caution people against driving dangerously.
4x4's are the primary form of transport. I took two jeep tours - the first a day trip, and the second a 3-day journey into the northern reaches of the state. Sikkim is also home to the world's 3rd tallest mountain, Mt. Kanchenjunga, which I was able to catch glimpses of from Gangtok.
To discover Sikkim, please follow these links:
Sikkim Bound (the jeep trip from Darjeeling)
Good Time Gangtok (exploring the capital city)
Big Waterfalls, Long Drive (1st of a 3-part series)
The Tsopta Valley and Jeep Drama (part 2 - includes our jeep breakdown)
Yumthang - Valley of the Flowers (part 3)
