With that, my Sikkim trip that had lasted exactly a fortnight was officially complete. It had been a wonderful experience encountering such varied aspects of nature in such close proximity, from glaciers to tropical jungles, sheer cliff faces to treacherous winding hill roads, from spectacular sunrises illuminating snow capped peaks to rainy and cloudy days. Sikkim reawakened in me the attachment and fascination that I have always felt towards nature.
The cheerful hubbub of the streets of Gangtok, with its wonderful eateries and endless shopping opportunities were in stark contrast to the quiet peaceful environment of the monasteries all around Sikkim and the peace loving, non materialistic views and teachings of the monks that lived in them.
The charm of Darjeeling with its choo-choo steam toy train and lush green tea gardens was such a pleasant experience after the endless rush and rat race of city life. The heritage sites and temples of South Sikkim were comparable to any in the country.
Trekking along the beautiful routes of West Sikkim amidst picture perfect lakes lying in the shadow of the mighty Mount Kanchendzonga was an experience that will be cherished for a lifetime. Comparable only with Kalga in Himachal Pradesh, the little village in Khechuperi on top of the hill has given me an idea of what I think I would like heaven to be like.
Most of all, the helpful, cheerful natives of this beautiful land made me promise myself to return.
BACK TO SIKKIM
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