HILL STATIONS IN INDIA - PAGE 1

The hill stations in India are picturesque and also provide a relaxing retreat from the heat and dust of the plains. Thus almost all these places are over crowded making the place loose its importance. India has the mighty Himalayas in the North, Nilgiri hills in the south and these are the hills which accommodate most of the hill stations.

We have chosen a few hill stations among these which are still worth visiting. These are detailed here below.

Gangtok-
The word 'gangtok' in local language of the state of Sikkim where it is situated, means 'lofty hill'. Gangtok is a city in the Himalayan state of Sikkim. An air of enchantment prevails in the city with mystery laden mist. Prayer flags whip in the breeze and the wheels spin the hands of the lamas chanting silently. The people here are very friendly and always smiling.

Location - Situated at an altitude of about 1880m from the sea level, Gangtok is located on the Eastern part of the Himalayas in the state of Sikkim. Closest airport is Bagdogra at about 125-kms. Nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) in the northern part of West Bengal. Nearest international airport is in Kolkata. The best way to travel to this place is by train from Kolkata to NJP and from there by taxis to Gangtok.

Climate - Sikkim experiences a cool climate throughout the year. The air is moist and it rains during July to September. November to June is the best time to visit this tiny mall in the lap of Himalayas. In the months of May & June the nature in Sikkim is at its best.

Clothing - Cotton clothes are preferable during the year except during November to March when woolen clothes are required.

Best Season - May and June

Where to stay - The following are few hotels in Gangtok-
Hotel Nor Khill- 4 star
Hotel Tashi Delek- 4 star

Tourist spots - There are lot of places of interest in and around Gangtok but the following places should not be missed:-

a. Yumthang- Yumthang valley is situated at an altitude of 1200ft, 150-kms. away from Gangtok . Its location is awesome. All around are the snow clad mountains with this valley in the center full of mostly dark red flowers of Rhododendrons. The beauty of the valley is just breathtaking.

b. Chungthang- Situated around 90 kms. from Gangtok at the confluence of two valleys, Chungthang is a place of religious importance of the locals. The place is quite cold and the scenic beauty is marvelous.

c. Rumtek Monastry- Situated at about 25-kms from Gangtok, Rumtek is the seat of Karmapa Lama who heads the Kagyupa Sect of Buddhism. The drive to this place will be through the beautiful country side worth seeing.