SIKKIM- GAMUT OF WILDLIFE

If you also prefer mountains over beaches and want to explore North-East India ,then don't miss the chance to atleast know about the 'Traveler's Paradise' state Sikkim. And I am here to intensify your urge to visit this beautiful land. To prove my statement I have a video for you all, enjoy!

The northeastern state Sikkim is not only known for its mesmerizing hilly beauty but also the richness of the varied wildlife. The wildlife of this state is manifold as compared to other wildlife sanctuaries in India due to the diverse altitude of the region. The different altitude of the landscape of Sikkim provides a variety of Flora and Fauna. The various species of wild animals enriching the wildlife of Sikkim are the Himalayan bear, leopard, snow leopard, musk deer, red panda, wild ass, and so forth. Thus, the wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Sikkim should be added to everyone’s itinerary whoever is coming to explore this beautiful state. And here I am with the list. Check them out!

✱Khangchendzonga National Park, Yuksom

Khangchendzonga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This high altitude national park in Yuksom is known for its spectacular wildlife where exotic animal species such as Red Panda, Snow Leopard, Great Tibetan Sheep, Bharal, Musk deer etc can be spotted. The park also has a number of bird species like the Black-necked Crane, Grus nigricollis, Grey Peacock Pheasant, Himalayan Monal Pheasant, Blood Pheasant, Satyr Tragopan, Tibetan Snow Cock, and Himalayan Snow Cock. Khangchendzonga National Park has about 18 glaciers, including Zemu Glacier, which is quite famous for its massive size. Besides this, the national park also has over 17 alpine lakes along with a view of about 19 Himalayan mountains peaks, amongst which is the popular Mount Khangchendzonga. There is also a sacred shrine named Tholung Monastery in the buffer zone of the national park.

 Best time to visit- Between April and May.

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✱Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Lachen

Surrounded by striking mountain ranges of the Himalayas, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary holds its own reputation for housing an impressive collection of rhododendron species. This popular attraction in Sikkim comes to life during the spring season with flowers that sprawl far. You can discover more than forty species of rhododendron trees here in fact, and can also witness some bird species soaring high up in the air such as wood snipe and hoary-throated barwing. This sanctuary is rich in natural vegetation and thus it is covered in various other species of plants and trees such as potentillas, primulas, saxifrages, poppies, aconites, gentians etc. This nature park is also famous a trekking destination in Sikkim.

 Best time to visit- From April to July to see the blooming Rhododendron flowers.

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✱Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, Namchi

Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary possesses wide variety of rare species, here you can see unique birds and mammals. This sanctuary also houses many medicinal herbs and plants. In addition, within the premises there are two added attractions you can visit such as Maenam Gompa and a Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Adventure lovers can also venture on trekking expedition routing to some amazing trails around the wildlife sanctuary.

Best time to visit- Between March and June. You will get an opportunity to see many rare birds and mammals during this spring-summer season.✱Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, SikkimContiguous to the neighbouring ridges of Tsomgo Lake and Rong Chu, Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary is abode of a large variety of flora, which evidently make the reserve look spectacular. Kyongnosla is perfect for a nature lover, and those constantly in search of places that can rejuvenate and offer mental peace. This sanctuary is ideal for spotting a variety of flora including rhododendron, orchids, and silver fir. Apart from it, the sanctuary is perfect for a photography tour as well.Best time to visit-The months of May, June, October and November are the best time to visit Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary. The weather remains pleasantly warm and dry during these months.

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Thank you for your time. Stay tuned for more!

Salvi Jain