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Folk Dances of Sikkim

Folk Dances of Sikkim

People and Culture of Sikkim

The People of Sikkim consist of three ethnic groups, that is, Lepcha, Bhutia and Nepali.
Communities of different hues intermingle freely in Sikkim to constitute a homogenous blend.
Hindu Temples coexist with Buddhist Monasteries, Churches, Mosque and Gurudwara.
The predominant Communities are Lepchas, Bhutias and Nepalese.
These myriad Cultures has produced a quintessential Sikkimese Culture that encompasses all ways and walk of life, but has also managed to preserve their own identity.
These can also be seen in the various places of Worship, Festivals and Cultural dances that are celebrated through the year.

Various Lepcha Folk Dances

Lepcha Folk Dances

Through this romantic dance, story of a young boy and a girl in love is conveyed.
A group of boys ask a group of girls for their hands for the purpose of marriage and in turn promise them with rich gifts and ornaments.
The girls, however, turn down the offer and ask them to approach their parents, instead.
This colourful dance is performed with the support of melodious Lepcha songs and musical instruments such as Sanga (drum), Yangjey (string instrument), Cymbal, Yarka, Flute and Tungbuk.

Zo-Mal-Lok Folk Dance of Sikkim

This famous folk dance of Lepcha community shows normal activities such as sowing, reaping and harvesting of paddy.
The old people and young folk alike join hands to sing, dance and indulge in merry making.
The graceful movements of male and female dancers become more noticeable with the background of pleasant sounds of seasonal birds.
Musical instruments used to support the dance are Tungbuk, Flute, Cymbal, Drum, etc.

Chu-Faat Folk Dance of Sikkim

Literal meaning of Chu is Snowy Range, while that of Faat is Worship.
This group folk dance is performed in the honour of Mount Khangchendzonga, the guardian deity of the Sikkimese people.
The dancers while carrying butter lamps and green bamboo leaves perform a ritualistic dance by singing devotional songs.

Tendong Lo Rum Faat Folk Dance of Sikkim

It is based on a famous Lepcha folk lore often retold to the new generation of Lepchas in the form of lyrical poetry.
According to the legend, this group dance is performed to save people from the onslaught of mighty, mountainous rivers, First, the Lepchas living on the Tendong Hill in South Sikkim are reported to have offered prayers to the God through this dance.
They desired the almighty to save them from the disaster of rising water.
As per folklore, God came as a bird and began sprinkling sacred millet beer on water.
Soon, the level of water subsided and people heaved a sigh of relief.

Kinchum-Chu-Bomsa Folk Dance of Sikkim

This famous folk dance vividly describes the natural beauty of Sikkim, or Ney-Mayel-Lyang (a heavenly, hidden paradise) called so, by the Lepchas.
The snow covered mountain peaks, green captivating meadows, enchanting valleys, thick vegetation, rivers and water falls, holy lakes and serene monasteries sanctify this land.
The young Lepcha boys and girls show their attachment with the land by performing the dance in their colourful attire.

Bhutia Folk Dances of Sikkim

Denzong-Neh-Na Folk Dance of Sikkim

This group dance comprising of boys and girls is performed to pay homage to the past saints such as Guru Rimpoche and present saints in order to get their blessings.
The musical instruments which support the graceful steps of the dancers are: Flute, Yangjey, Drum and Yarka.

Ta-Shi-Yang-Ku Folk Dance of Sikkim

A group of boys and girls through this dance try to invoke benign deities to shower fortunes on their home.
They remember some animal deities also to bring good fortune and prosperity to the people.
It is also performed during the consecration of a new house and to bless a newly married couple.

Tashi Shabdo Folk Dance of Sikkim

This age old group dance beautifully and gracefully shows the custom of offering Khadas (scarf) on auspicious occasion.
The white scarf exchanged by the members of the group during the course of dance is basically a symbol of peace, purity and prosperity.
The dancers dance to the melodious tunes duly supported by musical instruments such as Yarka, Drum, Flute and Yangjey.

Guru-Chinlap Folk Dance of Sikkim

Through this particular group dance performed by boys and girls, due respect is shown to the various Buddhist Gurus and Saints of Sikkim and their blessing is requested for overall peace, prosperity and happiness.
Exchange of Khadas also takes place between the dancers during the course of the dance.

Singhi Chham Folk Dance of Sikkim

In this group dance five boys led by a herdsman dance like legendary Snowlion.
The snowlion is a significant cultural symbol of the state.
The presence of two snowlions dancing under the guidance of a herdsman looks extremely attractive and enchanting to the viewers.
Musical instruments (without any songs) used are Drum, Cymbal, Yarka and Yangjey.

Yak Chham Folk Dance of Sikkim

Through this group dance performed by four male dancers under the command of a herdsman, utility of Yak for a common man living in high altitude areas is shown.
The dance begins in slow and measured steps to the clash of cymbals and the sound of the trumpets.
The group dance always makes a powerful impact on the audience and appears very attractive to the children.
Though Chhams are performed in all the monasteries of Sikkim, the ones performed at Pemayangtse, Rumtek and Enchey being more impressive draw large audience.

Nepali Folk Dances of Sikkim

Maruni Folk Dance of Sikkim

It is one of the oldest and popular group dance forms of the Nepali community, usually performed by three male and three female dancers.
In good old days, the role of Maruni, essentially a female character, was enacted by a male. With the change in customs and traditions, female dancers are now performing such a central role.
It is performed during the festival of Tihar in the courtyard of each house.
The steps of the dancers look very graceful in the background of soothing songs ably supported by musical instruments such as Harmonium, Madal, Flute and Ghoongur.

Chutkay Folk Dance of Sikkim

Through this romantic group dance, performed by a group of male and female dancers, joys of life and feeling of happiness is shared during the harvesting season and on some other happy occasions.

Dohori Folk Dance of Sikkim

This group dance of Gurung community is usually performed by three male and three female dancers.
In a traditional setting, after a hard days work, the dancers would assemble at ‘RodiGhar’ (a sort of entertainment centre) and exchange their views through songs and dance.
The musical instruments used are Madat Flute and Ghoongur.

Jeurum Silly Folk Dance of Sikkim

By means of this group dance of Rai community, performed by one man and four women, feelings of family members and friends is expressed on the occasion of a girl’s marriage.
The dancers aim to protect the Lakshmi (prosperity) of the house. Youth and old alike also join the dancers.
Dhol and Jhamta are the two musical instruments used.

Tamang Selo Folk Dance of Sikkim

This group dance of Tamang community with robust foot tapping and elaborate sound and display of Damphu instrument is performed on all happy occasions.
It highlights vigour and vitality of the community.
Tamang songs known as ‘ Hwai’ are full of human emotions.
These are so popular that no Nepali merrymaking is considered complete without singing a Tamang song.

Lakhey (Mask) Dance Folk Dances of Sikkim

This group mask dance of Newar (Pradhan) community is performed to ward off evil spirits and to bring peace and prosperity.
The musical instruments which support the dance form are Khe( Dhol), Jhali and Dhimay.

Naumati Folk Dance of Sikkim

In this beautiful group dance of Damai community nine kinds of musical instruments are used to perfection.
These are two types of Senai ( Shehnai), Turhi, small and big, Damaha (Nagara) of two types, Tuyamko (Small Dhol) of two types, Dholki and Jhyamta (cymbal).
The Naumati Baja is a regular feature during the wedding and other auspicious occasions.

Chyap-Brung Folk Dance of Sikkim

Chyap-Brung is the traditional musical instrument of the Limboo community.
It is like a Dholak in shape but much bigger in size.
During the course of group dance, male dancers hang the instrument around their necks with the help of a rope and beat the drum with an open palm on one side and a stick on the other.
Such a manoeuvre produces two different sounds which echo boldly in valleys and mountains.

Dhaan Nach Folk Dance of Sikkim

This group dance performed by four men and four women with the backing of harmonium, madal, flute and ghoongur shows the symbol of good and firm spirit of farmers against rain and scorching heat.
In order to break the monotony of routine field work, men and women attempt merrymaking through song and dance.
It is a ritualistic dance performed by the youth and old alike in traditional costumes, since time immemorial.

Sikkim is one of the fastest growing states in India. The state has favorable agro-climatic conditions, which support agriculture, horticulture and forestry. As per the state budget 2016-17, Sikkim got certified as first fully organic state in India by the Central Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare as well as other recognized agencies of the country.

Between 2004-05 and 2015-16, Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) expanded at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 19.44 per cent to US$ 2.75 billion whereas the Net State Domestic Product (NSDP) expanded at a CAGR of 19.11 per cent to US$ 2.33 billion.

The State Government has achieved remarkable progress in the core areas of agriculture, health, education and development in infrastructure. Today, Sikkim is the most talked-about state in the Country.

Sikkim has evolved as a progressive State with marked improvements in socio-economic indicators, despite facing the disadvantages of inadequate connectivity, high cost of infrastructure building and maintenance, difficulty in delivering services to dispersed populations in hilly areas.

People of Sikkim engage in different economic activities, prominent among which are Tourism, Industries, horticulture & agriculture etc. giving rise to a definite occupational structure. Major contributions to the economy are provided by sectors like Agriculture, Horticulture, Forest, Mining, Industries, Power, Tourism, Aqua Culture and Livestock etc.

Agricultural economy

The state’s economy is largely agrarian, based on the terraced farming of rice and the cultivation of crops such as maize, millet, wheat, oil seeds, pulses, spices, cereals barley, oranges, tea and cardamom.

Agriculture is vital to the progress of Sikkim as more than 64% of the population depends on it for their livelihoods. The Sikkim AGRISNET is an internet-based agriculture information centre to promote scientific agricultural methods and convert research into practice in the agricultural sector. Sikkim has a suitable climate for agricultural and horticultural products. It supports multiple crops; viz., rice, wheat, maize, millet, barley, urad, pea, soya bean, mustard and large cardamom. The surveyed arable land in Sikkim is 109,000 ha, of which only 9.5% is used, this provides a vast untapped potential for development. The state government is also laying emphasis on improving organic farming in the state.

Agriculture is the major economic activity and is practiced on terraced field that has been laboriously created from steep hillsides. There are in all 689 enterprises that have been identified, which are mostly concentrated in rural areas.

Sikkim is the largest producer of cardamom and also boasts to utilize largest area for its cultivation. Tea is exported to USSR & Germany. A coffee plantation has also been started at Majitar.

The economy broadly depends on the agriculture which provides livelihood to the majority of population in the state. However, it’s progress remained limited due to difficult topography and other natural barriers. As a result all head sectors related to agriculture emerged, government is doing its best to improve the situation.

Horticulture

Horticulture also contributes to the economy of Sikkim. Large Cardamom, ginger and turmeric are the principal crops while Mandarin orange, guava, mango, banana and so on are the principal fruits grown in the state. The department of Horticulture is deeply involved in motivating and providing technical guidance to local farmers. Sikkim is also a paradise for flowers. Gladioli, anthuriums, lilliums, primulas, rhododendrons, orchids as well as many other floral species thrive here. The state is home to an amazing 450 species of exotic orchids alone. There is immense potential for developing floriculture on a commercial basis here, and the department of Horticulture is making concerted efforts to turn this sector into an export-oriented industry.

Forest

Sikkim has rich bio diversity and thus provides economic activities. The total land area managed by and under administrative control of Forest Department is above 80% of the total geographical area of the state. The composition ranges from tropical Dry Deciduous Forests with Sal and its associates in the valleys of Teesta and Rangit to the Alpine Scrub and Grasslands in high altitudes. During the two last decades Forest Department has laid emphasis on development of fodder and fuel wood in the agriculture fallow lands of the villagers giving priority to plantation of broom grass for fodder and for economic up liftment of the villagers.

Aqua Culture

Pisiculture is an important area of economic activity particularly in the context of enabling the rural people. The state’s natural resources endowments with an extensive network of freshwater rivers, lakes and streams offers conditions which are conducive for development of inland fisheries where a variety of carps and trout’s can thrive. With a view to exploit these natural resources endowments.

Sericulture

Mulberry, muga, eri and oak-tussar are cultivated in Sikkim. The Sericulture Directorate is responsible for development of sericulture in Sikkim. The sericulture potentiality of Sikkim state has been explored jointly by the State Department and Central Silk Board, through launching a flagship programme titled Catalytic Development Programme. Over the years with consorted efforts from the both ends (state and central governments), considerable success have been achieved by the state sericulture industry in generating employment. Raw silk production in the state increased from 0.20 metric tonnes in 2013-14 to 6.0 metric tonnes in 2015-16.

Livestock

Animal Husbandry provides an additional source of income to the people. Animal husbandry form an extremely important element in the effort to bring about substantial improvements in living standards. The overall area available for agriculture operations is limited to about 15% of the geographical area of the state and with the increasing population, per capita land availability has been consistently declining, it is therefore, essential, that supplementary sources of income should be developed in order to provide not only the much needed support to the rural families but also to make available in increasing quantity, protein rich food items such as milk, egg, and meat. Adequate number of livestock like cattle, buffaloes, pigs, sheep’s, goats, yaks and few other are reared in Sikkim. Yaks are reared in north eastern ranges bordering Tibet, Bhutan and western region bordering Nepal.

Industries and Mining

The Commerce and Industries Department of Sikkim is involved in promoting trade and industry in Sikkim. The Sikkim Industrial Development & Investment Corporation Limited (SIDICO) is the state-level institution engaged in promoting, financing and developing the tiny and small scale industries (SSI) sector in the state.

Brewing, distilling, tanning and watch making are the main industries located in the southern regions of Sikkim. A small mining industry exists in the state, extracting minerals such as copper, dolomite, talc, graphite, quartzite, coal, zinc and lead. Sikkim has identified Rangpo-Gangtok, Melli-Jorethang, Jorethang-Rishi and Ranipool-Gangtok as industrial corridors with provision for giving land to investors on a lease basis.

The units that are engaged in the manufacturing sector are mainly dealing with pharmaceuticals, chemicals, liquors, foam mattresses, food products, iron rods, etc. Sikkim has identified agro-based industries, horticulture and floriculture, minor forest-based industries, animal husbandry and dairy products, tourism-related industries, IT including knowledge-based industries, precision oriented high value-low volume products, hydro-power, tea, education and hospitality as thrust sectors. The Information Technology (IT) Department, Government of Sikkim is in the process of setting up a state-of-the-art IT Park and National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT) at Pakyong.

Pharmaceuticals

Pharmaceutical is an emerging industry in Sikkim due to tax incentives offered by the state government as well as low manufacturing and labor costs. Sikkim is home to 14 major pharma companies, which have significant investments in the state. The North-East Industrial and Investment Promotion Policy, 2007 and the pollution free atmosphere are highly beneficial for pharma investments in Sikkim. Some of the policy incentives are: 100% excise duty exemption on finished products. 100% income tax exemption. 30% capital investment subsidy on investments in plant and machinery.

The policy of framework in regard to industrialization in Sikkim has to be formulated keeping in mind the particular factors endowments that the state has the limitations in regard to resources, particularly, minerals and industrial raw materials as well as man power. The state is not so rich in mineral resources and apart from the deposits of copper, lead and zinc, no other viable and exploitable mineral deposits have so far been discovered. While on the other hand the state enjoys a tranquil climate, a dust free atmosphere and peaceful industrial entrepreneurial talent, has also to be taken note of. In regard to industrial development, a number of small and medium units have been promoted in the state. For example, The Sikkim Time Corporation (SITCO) and Government Institute of Handicraft and Handlooms.

Mining

The state of Sikkim is endowed with rich geological resources. The department of mines and geology has been responsible for exploration and establishment of mineral resources, with the object of developing commercially exploitable mineral resources. Moderate to fair amount of success has been achieved during the investigation carried out by different agencies in certain sectors namely dolomite, coal, quartzite, graphite, lime stone, silliminite, talc, mineral water, thermal springs, building stone and materials for porcelain.

Tourism

Tourism provides the main thrust to the economy. With the tranquil climate, the natural beauty and the fine cultural heritage of Sikkim, the growth of tourism has immense possibilities. There are large number of places of tourist attraction particularly the snow clad mountains, the lakes and unspoiled forest areas and valleys of flowers. The advantage of having very fine monasteries in Sikkim can also be taken to attract Buddhist tourists from countries like Japan and the South Eastern countries.

Sikkim was the first to promote the concept of eco-tourism, village tourism and home stay tourism in the country. This essential concept promoting man-nature affinity has been recognized as a new model of tourism. Today, Sikkim is already on the national and international tourism map.

Sikkim has been featured and ranked 17th in the New York Times “52 best places to go in 2017”. Similarly, Sikkim has also been featured as the best destination to visit in the world in 2014.

The Year 2017 has been declared as the Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development, an area of development in which Sikkim has already made considerable strides with eco-friendly tourism and the development of innovative initiatives such as Chaar Dham and Tathagatha Tsal. Additionally, Gangtok City has been recognized as the safest tourist destination in the country.

Keeping nature at the backdrop, the State Government proposes to promote tourism mainly through nature based tourism. Few activities which are proposed include, Rock Art Sculpture, Folk Healing Center and Yoga Sthan. In the niche Tourism Sector, facilities such as golf courses, water sports etc, are being proposed.

A priority has been given to create mega projects, one example of which is the Sky Walk at Bhaleydunga. The Ropeway to Bhaleydunga, currently under progress is expected to be completed in 2 years time. Today, Sikkim having been featured in leading International Journals and magazines, has become one of the most sought after destinations and caters to all types of tourists. Film tourism is also catching up fast with the support of the government, as many recent film shoots by popular Bollywood artistes in the state takes place.

Through sustainable forest management practices and massive afforestation drives, about 72.60 lakh saplings have been planted till date under the State Government’s flagship programmes such as Smritivan, State Green Mission, Ten Minutes to Earth and Paryavaran Mahotsav. The forest and tree cover of the State has increased by about 4% over the last two decades from 43.95% to 47.80%. The State Government has also banned the use and sale of disposable Styrofoam products, prohibited the burning of tyres, agricultural waste, use of packaged drinking water bottles, bursting of crackers in Sikkim which are first such prohibitions imposed in the entire world.

The declaration of the Khangchendzonga National Park as UNESCO’s World Heritage Site on 17th July, 2016 at Istanbul, Turkey, is a testimony to the tireless efforts of the government. The Khangchendzonga National Park has also been declared as one of the 100 top Green Destinations of the world for the second consecutive time. In addition to this, the State Government is also proposing to develop a world class Biodiversity Park and Ecotourism Centre at Tendong, South Sikkim.

The State Government has now prioritized the construction of a Ropeway from Pelling to Sangacholing Monastery in West Sikkim connecting the landmark statue of Lord Chenrezig, that is near completion, to Pelling. This project along with the Statue of Lord Chenrezig would be a great value addition to tourism in boosting tourism footfall in the State. The boost in the tourist footfall is very encouraging as Sikkim hosted over 8 lakhs tourists in 2016 alone.

Major initiatives taken by the government to promote economy of the state

The state government launched Sikkim AGRISNET, an internet-based agriculture information centre, to promote scientific agricultural methods and convert research into practice in the agricultural sector.

The Government of Sikkim has placed information technology high on its agenda. The budget allocation for information and broadcasting is expected to be US$ 0.96 million during 2015-16.

Pharmaceutical is an emerging industry in Sikkim due to tax incentives offered by the state government as well as low manufacturing and labour costs. Sikkim is home to 14 major pharma companies, which have significant investments in the state. These include Cipla, Sun Pharma, ZydusCadila, Alembic, IPCA, Alkem Lab, Intas Pharma, Torrent Pharma and Unichem.

The Sikkim government has announced a technical collaboration with floriculturists from the Netherlands and Thailand to develop the state’s potential in floriculture and market cut flowers from the state globally.

The Department of Information Technology, Government of Sikkim is in the process of setting up an IT park and National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT) at Pakyong. The IT Park will have state-of-the-art facilities that will offer a plug and play environment and cater to the specific needs of the information technology and business process outsourcing (BPO) segments.

In order to give a boost to handloom and handicrafts sector, the Government of Sikkim has been making several efforts, which include providing training to upgrade the quality and designs of the products; bringing expertise and professionals for their marketing and supply, etc.

The Sikkim Government plans to set up Tea Development Corporation of Sikkim, which would be the nodal agency for developing the tea Industry in Sikkim. It would work to expand the Temi tea estates in the state and acquire new gardens either wholly or partially owned by the government.

The Sikkim Manipal University (SMU), a partnership between the Government of Sikkim and Manipal Education and Medical Group (MEMG), provides technical, healthcare and science education. It is rated as one of the top universities in the country.

The State Government is very concerned with the youth populace and therefore, has laid special emphasis to skill the youth and to make them employable and self-dependent so that they can lead a life of self-respect and confidence. A separate Department of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Capacity Building therefore has been setup with its network of the State Institute of Capacity Building, Livelihood schools, Industrial Training Institutes, Kaushal Kendras and Incubation Centres for skilling the youth. These initiatives aim at creating opportunities for self-employment, for industrial wage employment, and community based employment as Social Entrepreneurs.

Till December 2016, a total number of 10,151 trainees have been trained in sectors such as Beauty & Wellness, Tourism & Hospitality, Apparel, Homestay, Driver cum Tour Guide, Primary Teacher Training etc. An Atal incubation centre has been approved by the Ministry of Skill Development in Assam Lingzey. Two more incubation projects for the distillation of lemon grass oil has been set up in Kerabari, South Sikkim, and Timberbong, West Sikkim, under the Rastriya Krishi Vikas Yojana.

Handicrafts of Sikkim

Handicrafts of Sikkim

Traditional arts and handicrafts have been the very breath of Indian Civilization visa-vis Sikkim too.
Significantly, Sikkim is also known for its traditional handicrafts, paintings, motifs, carpet, traditional tribal shoes, dresses, ornaments, weaving, and so on.
The traditional handicrafts in Sikkim had has enormous cultural significance.
Many of the Bhutia and Lepcha as well as Nepalese are engaged in traditional handicrafts production of Sikkim.

Handloom Weaving of Sikkim

In ancient times, the Lepcha’s of Sikkim were said to use yarn spun out of stinging nettle (sisnu) plant to weave clothes.
Today cotton and woollen yarn are used together with vegetable dyes and synthetic colours.
Lepcha weaves or ‘thara’ is woven in vertical looms with a backstrap. Such looms are of small width.
Traditional design with different colours are used to make tharas which are used for making bedspreads, bags, belts, curtains, cushion covers, table mats, tray cloths etc, apart from their traditional dress.

Woodcarving of Sikkim

It is one of the most important crafts of Sikkim.
Traditionally, only the Buddhists Bhutias and Lepchas used to practise wood carving. Indeed, wood carving is an ancient art form of both the Lepchas and Bhutias of Sikkim.
The items of woodcraft having wide range of variety can be found from household items to partitions to eight Buddhists lucky signs.
Woodcrafts are available in the following shapes choktse or table, almirah, sofa-sets, drawers or bhodin , screens, lamp stands, cheosum or altars, wall decorations, etc.

Wooden mask of Sikkim

One of the most important materials items of Buddhists’ traditional culture that has special socio-religious significance is wooden mask of various types being used during their religious dances by the Lamas.
The masks are carved out of the tough light wood of the giant climber called Zaru-shing, mostly found in the high altitude areas of Sikkim.
While in Tibet they were composed of mashed paper and cloth.
In all cases they are beautifully painted and varnished, and are provided with yak tail wig.
Each mask has a specific meaning and a story with certain religious connotation associated Various Wooden Masks with it.
Traditionally the mask dances are staged by the Lamas or monks in the Gonpas or Monasteries.
Such dances are normally performed only by men in the monasteries.
There are different types of mask normally made by Bhutias and Lepchas like mask of Khangchendzonga, mask of Garura, mask of Mahakal, etc.

Thangka Painting of Sikkim

The important Thangka is a paintings of divinities or group of divinities on silk clothes which depicts different incarnations and life of Lord Buddha, Goddess Doma (Tara), Guru Padmasambhav or God Chana Dorji or for that matter, any Tibetan saint, wheel of life (one of the purest Buddhists emblems) or some other deity, surrounded by deities of lesser significance etc.
Thangkas are the religious scrolls found hung in monasteries and houses of Buddhists.
It has an excellent tradition in Sikkim.
Such paintings are considered very auspicious and are supposed to drive away evil spirits.
Thangka painting is a renowned art of Sikkim.
“The Thangka works of master craftsmen sell for thousands of rupees abroad. They work in seclusion in remote villages” as cited by exgovernor of Sikkim namely Taleyarkhan (1981)

Cane and bamboo work of Sikkim

It is also the traditional handicraft Bhutias, Lepchas and Nepalese of Sikkim.
Cane and bamboo pieces are first of all split by using simple tools like Khukri or knife to make thin strips.
Thereafter the strips are sized as per requirement and are then intricately woven and modified and improved upon as per the graphical design.
There are varieties of cane and bamboo-craft products like, fruit, baskets, bamboo flower sticks bear mugs, hair clips, tea-trays, tea strainers, spoons, flower vases, piras, mats, hats and tumblers.
In Sikkim bamboo grows in abundance. But the cane is grown only in limited areas; thereby bulk of it comes from neighboring Siliguri or other parts of the North East.

Preparation of Lucky signs of Sikkim

Another important handicraft is the ‘Lucky signs’ mostly made by women in Sikkim.
The lucky signs are made by adopting two types of methods

one type of embroidery work done by using needle on silk or ‘sharteen’ clothes
Another is the paintwork (fabric) on silkl’shirteen’ clothes.

Such lucky signs are presented either in the form of words or symbol. It is used as wall hanging and means the ‘symbol of peace’.

Hand-made paper making of Sikkim

It is another important handicraft item.
Apart from other units, there is another important section namely Handmade – paper unit in the Government Institute of Cottage Industry at Gangtok, Unit was opened in the year of 1962.
Handmade paper, namely ,

Rayon paper (used for rapping);
Rags paper (used for making files);
Card sheet (used for making greeting cards and paper bag).

Raw materials are used to be brought from Kolkata.

Carpet Weaving of Sikkim

Traditionally, carpet (locally known as Den) weaving is a symbol of cultural expression in the state of Sikkim.
Besides, Carpet is very important export oriented handicraft industry in Sikkim.
The carpets are of with various exquisite and intricate designs, motifs and colours which are typical of Sikkimese type and made of various sizes.
The price ranges vary according to size and quality of the particular carpet. Carpet weaving is dominated Carpet product by women.
Though it is a traditional activity, very few families follow it as apart of family tradition.

Blanket Weaving of Sikkim

It is also one of the traditional handicrafts of Sikkim
It is normally done by women particularly in North Sikkim.
The blankets are woven on loom, and the raw materials are available in local market.
There are mainly two sizes of blanket available i.e. 4 ft. by 6ft. and 4 ft. by 7 ft.

Soft Toys of Sikkim Supported by Sikkim Government and GoI

The Soft Toys Production unit of the Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, Zero Point, Gangtok is one of the prominent sectors for support and creation of self employment in Sikkim.
This sector is being re-energized into a home to home industry through a project initiative namely “Production and Training for Soft Toys at Gangtok, Sikkim “funded by the North Eastern Council, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India and also Government of Sikkim.
The toy making craft is an activity that can supplement and contribute to the family income and also create self employment.
The focus of the department is therefore to facilitate continuous capacity building and skill upgradation in this sector and thereby create a resource base of trained manpower.
Quality standardization and product diversification are two important areas of focus and therefore the best raw materials for creation of quality products are being used in the training centres.
The training module has been oriented in such a manner so as to emphasis and promote products that are closely connected with the environment and also identify with the local ethos.
Our main motto is to offer quality products to our valued customers at competitive prices.
The Soft Toys Sector provides self employment and income to the large number of artisan in terms of quality and cost comparativeness of the soft toys products of DHH are compared to the best of the world.
Presently, one project on “Production and Training on Soft Toys at Gangtok, Sikkim” funded by North East Council is underway and 225 numbers of trainees are being trained all over the state.
The department is required to ensure placement and create self employment for the trainees within and outside the state.

Vegetation of Sikkim for Sikkim PSC

Vegetation of Sikkim

Sikkim provides a great variety of habitats, that support and sustains rich flora and fauna.
The Vegetation of Sikkim changes from tropical to subtropical upwards through middle hills with much coniferous and Oak forests of temperate character to the higher slopes with sub alpine scrub and alpine “meadows” generally related to higher alpine flora of the north temperate zone.
Sikkim has been known to be the most humid region in the whole range of Himalaya, because of its proximity to the Bay of Bengal and direct exposure to the south-west monsoon.
The annual rainfall ranges from 200 – 500 cm in most of its inner valleys except for its northern most region which receives scanty rainfall.
Throughout the year, but particularly from June to September, monsoon brings heavy rainfall to the state.
Lower hills and valleys enjoy a sub tropical climate, warm in winter, hot and extremely humid in summer.
Towards interior the climate becomes gradually more temperate.

Flowering Plants of Sikkim

Sikkim is one of the biodiversity rich states of our country.
The flowering plant diversity Sof the state with some indicative figures of dominant genera like Bulbophyllum, Calanthe, Coelogyne, Cymbidium, Dendrobium, Gentiana, Juncus, Pedicularis, Primula, Rhododendron and Swertia recorded from the region.
Nearly 165 species have been named after the state, as they were first collected from the state or plants were known to occur in Vegetation of Sikkim.
Some of the representative endemic species of the state have also been listed.
One hundred ninety seven families, 1371 genera have been appended with indicative number of species of each genus known to occur in Vegetation of Sikkim.
In all more than 4450 species of flowering plants recorded so far.

Biodiversity of Vegetation of Sikkim

India is recognized as one of the 12 mega diversity centres of the world. Out of the 18 Biodiversity hot-spots in the world, India owns 2, namely the Western Ghats and the Eastern Himalayas.
Sikkim covering just 0.2 % of the geographical area of the country has tremendous biodiversity and has been identified as one of the HOT-SPOT in the Eastern Himalayas.
There are 10 bio-geographic zones & 25 biotic provinces— which have 16 major forests types & > 200 sub types as per (Champion & Seth 1968).
Sikkim falls under Himalayan (2) Bio-geographic zone & Central Himalaya (2c) biotic province—-having about 9 types of forests types (Champion & Seth).
The State is endowed with rich floral and faunal diversity. Species wise, the State harbors over 4500 flowering plants, 550 Orchids, 36 Rhododendrons, 16 Conifers, 28 Bamboos, 362 Ferns and its allies, 9 Tree Ferns, 30 Primulas, 11 Oaks, over 424 Medicinal plants, 144+ mammals, 550 Birds, 48 Fishes and over 600 Butterflies.
While these figures are still not absolute, it may be kept in mind that this is only the mega-fauna and flora.
The tremendous diversity of insects like beetles and moths as well as a host of other life forms is yet to be enumerated.
Most of the high altitude medicinal plants are rare and endangered species.
Sikkim also has 28 Mountains/Peaks, more than 80 Glaciers, 227 high altitude lakes/wetlands and over 104 rivers and streams.
Nature has been particularly generous in her gift of sylvan treasures to the state of Sikkim.
Luxuriant forest, abound in all part of state and variety of medicinal plants, herbs, shrubs, bamboos and trees growing in state is truly rich.
In the forest, there are number of plants whose medicinal values have been well recognized by local people as well as by different pharmaceutical, insecticidal and perfumery sectors.
Medicinal plants ought to be given the status of a “National Resources” because their sustained availability is essential to sustain one of the world’s oldest medicinal traditions, a priceless legacy of the Indian people.
The local inhabitants for treatment of various ailments use numerous herbal remedies.
Modern medicines owes to the flora of these mountains.
Many inhabitants for treatment of various ailments use numerous herbal remedies.
Many species of Himalayan origin have revolutionized the allopathic systems of medicine

Forest and Forestry of Vegetation of Sikkim

Forest is one of the richest natural resources of Vegetation of Sikkim.
With luxuriant forest abounding in all part of state, Forestry has been the major land use in the State and 82.31% of the total geographical area of the State is under the administrative control of the State Forest Department.
The total forest and tree cover of the State is 3392 sq. km (47.80% of the total geographical area of the state).
The composition ranges from tropical Dry Deciduous Forests with Sal and its associates in the valleys of Teesta and Rangit to the Alpine Scrub and grassland in high altitude.

Forest Type of Vegetation of Sikkim


*S.No.*	*Groups*	*Characteristic of Species*	*Altitude (Mts)*	*Places*
1.	Tropical Moist Deciduous Forest
	Tropical Moist Deciduous Forest	1. Dillenia pentagyna 2. Dysoxylum floribundum 3. Gymnema arborea 4. Lagerostroemia patviflora 5. Shorea robusta 6. Toona ciliata	250-900	Rangpo Chhu, Sherwani, Jorethang, Rangit
2.	Sub-Tropical Forest
	Sub-Tropical Broad Leaved Forest	1. Albizia procera, 2. Alnus Nepalensis, 3. Bauhinia purpurea 4. Castanopsis indica, 5. Macaranga denticulate 6. Michelia champaca, 7. Schima wallichii	1000-2000	Tong,Gyalzing, Sangklang Selem Chakung Chhu.
	ii)Sub Tropical Pine forests	1. Pinus roxburghii, 2. Engelhardtia colebrookiana 3. Quercus leucotrichophora	1000-1800	Gangtok, Gyalzing, Rongli
3.	Montantane Wet Temperate Forest
	i)Temperate Broad Leaved Forests	1. Acer campbellii, 2. Engelhardtia spicata, 3. Machilus edulis, 4. Michelia cathcartii, 5. Quercus lamellose, 6. Taxus baccata	1700-2700	Chunthang- Lachung, Yumthang
	ii)Mixed Coniferous temperate forest Forest	1. Abies densa, 2. Acer campbellii, 3. Betula utiis, 4. Rhododendron, arboreum, 5. Abies densa, 6. Taxus baccata, 7. Tsuga dumosa, 8. Larix griffithianum	2700-3000	Lachen, Zemu, Yathang, Lachung
4.	Sub-Alpine Forest
	Sub-Alpine Forest	1. Abies densa, 2. Betula utiis 3. Casiope fastigata 4. Rhododendron sp.	Above 3000	Above Yathang
5.	Moist Alpine
	i) Birch- Rhododendron Scrub Forest	1. Betula utilis, 2. Sorbus foliolosa, 3. Rhododendron campanulatum,	Above 3600	Thangu, Maiminchu
	ii) Deciduous Alpine Scrub	1. Betula utilis, 2. Berberis sp., 3. Lonicera sp., 4. Rosa sp	3600-3900	Changu Thangu
	iii) Dwarf Rhododen ron Scrub	1. Rhododendron lepidotum	Above 3600	Thangu
	iv) Alpine pastures	1. Allium, 2. Anemone, 3. Delphinium	Above 4000	Chopta Yumasong
	b) Dry Alpine Scrub
	i) Dwarf Juniperous scrub	1. Juniperusrecurva 2. J. wallichiana	Above 3600	Chopta Chhangu
	ii) Dry alpine scrub	1. Ephedra gerardiana, 2. Meconopsis sp., 3. Ribes sp.	Above 4000	Chopta

Folk Songs of Sikkim

Folk Songs of Sikkim

People and Culture of Sikkim

The People of Sikkim consist of three ethnic groups, that is, Lepcha, Bhutia and Nepali.
Communities of different hues intermingle freely in Sikkim to constitute a homogenous blend.
Hindu Temples coexist with Buddhist Monasteries, Churches, Mosque and Gurudwara.
The predominant Communities are Lepchas, Bhutias and Nepalese.
These myriad Cultures has produced a quintessential Sikkimese Culture that encompasses all ways and walk of life, but has also managed to preserve their own identity.
These can also be seen in the various places of Worship, Festivals and Cultural dances that are celebrated through the year.
Folk songs and folk dances occupy a prominent place in the culture of Sikkim.
Men and womenfolk fully participate in dances to mark such important occasion like birth, weddings rituals or any other festivals
For those belonging to the peasant & labour class the melodious folk songs and dances arc indeed life giving ambrosia whose lifting tones & rhythmic pattern wipes away their fatigue hunger & worries.

Music cum Dance of Bhutias of Sikkim

Bhutias have a rich folk culture. Men and women sing folk songs and perform folk dances.
‘Denjong Chha-Lu’ is one of the popular national songs of an older Sikkim, Beyul Demojong – a hidden land endowed not only with natural beauty but also with spiritual contentment.
Bhutias are devotedly Buddhist and the Denjong Chha-Lu highlights the significance of the secret land of plenty i.e. Sikkim.
Through this song-cum-dance marked with foot-tapping and graceful hand movements, the Bhutias also express their reverence of great teachers and sacred places by whose grace Sikkim has become a beatific land.
The dancers don traditional attire (see above) to perform. Musical accompaniment is provided by instruments like the dranyen (a six stringed instrument producing melodious notes), gyumang (many stringed instrument, usually 74-stringed), piwang (two stringed instrument), flute, cymbals and drums. Bhutias are intrinsically nature-lovers.
Their country songs, called zhunglu, mostly contain descriptions of the landscape and its animals.
The song, ‘Zigmo Zeepa Jhoen’ means to greet animals and witness their merrymaking.
With rhythmic foottapping matched by the music of the dranyen, gyumang, piwang, flute, cymbals and drums, the dancers first greet the sun, and then form a circle to greet the snow lion of the mighty mountain, the vulture, the king of the birds, the ten-horned stag of the flat land, the striped tiger of the jungle, the golden fish of the sacred lake, the singing birds of the pleasant grove and the sturdy horses of the tamed stables.
As they tap out their rhythms, the dancers greet young lads of this ‘arcane’ land to showcase their skills at arrow-shooting, and to ask the young lasses as well to exhibit their talent at singing.
Through the medium of song, the Bhutias convey their conviction in the belief of peace and merrymaking.

Music cum Dance of Bhujels of Sikkim

Bhujels are fond of folk songs and dance, which are mostly seasonal, though some are used at any time.
Some of their popular dances are the Ghatu, Chutka, Jahmre (Folk Duet) and Nachan (Padurya).
Chutka’s various enactments begin from Maghe Sankranti (mid-January) and continue through till Asar Purne (midJuly).
Usually performed at night, it involves a group of boys going to the houses of unmarried girls in the evening, sitting outside their houses and singing the ‘Chutka’ which is laced with love and promises.
After the boys sing three or four rhymes, the girls come out from inside the house, and the entire neighbourhood begins to dance to the beat of the drums (Takyu) played by the boys.
Interestingly, the girls do not sing. Before leaving the next morning, the boys pay for the feast organized by the dancing girls’ parents.

Music cum Dance of Chettris of Sikkim

Chettris have a tradition of folk songs, lores and music, and use of stringed musical instruments.
One of the oldest and most popular group dances in which the Chettri community rejoices is the Maruni Naach.
The dance form traces its origin to Tihar, a period that marks the return of the Hindu god, Rama, from exile.
During the festival, which runs for 15 days, richly dressed Maruni dancers go on a house-to-house visit, performing in their courtyards.
Curiously, the dancers are usually accompanied by a clown, called dhatuwaray, whose job it is to protect the Maruni from rowdy elements and to keep alive the general performance with his gestures and humour.
In the good old days, the role of Maruni, surprisingly a female character, was enacted by a male. With the change in customs and traditions, the dance has evolved and female dancers are now performing that central role.
The dancers tune their steps to the different beats of the madal – also adorned with marigold flowers. With flute and cymbals, the intricate patterns of their dance blend into the pulsating rhythm of festivity and celebration.
Before the dance performance, the dancers assemble at the house of the teacher and offer prayers to the madal.
The teacher plays the madal in a slow, grand tempo, and then starts the decoration of the maruni.
Maruni is not only confined to singing and dancing; it also is comprised of dance dramas, conforming to different aspects – emotions and feelings; gestures; songs and clothes – as laid down in the Natya Shastra, an ancient Indian treatise on the performing arts, encompassing theatre, dance and music

Music cum Dance of Damai of Sikkim

The Damai people are very good folk musicians.
Both men and women take part in dance and music.
Some men are professionals in that they are known for using nine types of musical instruments, called naumati baja.
This is a traditional profession inherited from their ancestors which is why they still serve as folk musicians for all the Nepali communities of Sikkim, especially during marriages.
Naumati baja is an ensemble of nine traditional musical instruments, which lends an auspicious aura to ritual functions and auspicious occasions such as weddings.
The naumati baja repertoire consists of context-specific traditional tunes such as seasonal rice-planting tunes (asare), music for the Hindu month of Phalgun (phagu), the seasonal tune of the October Dasain festival (malasri); songs performed for the bride’s departure at weddings (beuli magne); music accompanying ceremonial rites (astute); popular folk dances, modern folk songs, etc.
Typical features of current naumati music are small intervals, stepwise melodic movements and short repetitive phrases, among others.

Music cum Dance of Kamis of Sikkim

Kamis are joyous people who spend their pastime in music and dance.
They are also expert performers of the traditional folk dance, Maruni Nritya.
They have folk songs related to marriage, juari is held after the harvest, and they perform Maruni Naach and Madale Naach at the time of Tihar and Dasain, their biggest festivals.
The theme and origin of this dance form may be similar to the Maruni Naach performed by the Chettri community and Mangar Maruni staged by the Mangar community, but this performing art, performed by Kamis depicts Maruni as a male character garbed in female costumes and ornaments.
Even the dhatuwaray or phursungay, who acts as the court jester wearing funny masks and clumsy clothes in order to make people–especially children–laugh, is traditionally typical.
The dance begins with sakhi or sasi songs, sung to pay obeisance to all the gods and goddesses of the earth, sky, the underworld and all the four directions of the earth.
As the Maruni dances to the tune of the naumati baja, the jester keeps alive the dance with his gestures and humour.
Although this dance is associated with the festival of Tihar, because of its popularity, it is performed even on occasions like marriages.

Climate of Sikkim for Sikkim PSC

Climate of Sikkim

The Climate of Sikkim is extremely varied largely due to variation in altitude.
It has the Himalayan or high mountain type of climate.
Altitude is the most important factor controlling the climate and weather condition here.
Relief features such as high mountains act as the barriers for the movements of monsoon winds.
Low temperature, high rainfall on windward slopes, comparatively dry on the leeward side and heavy precipitation in the form of snow at the mountain top are the main features of the Climate of Sikkim.
Due to great variation in sharp edged mountains throughout the state, there is large variation in rainfall and temperature.
The Himalayas act as barrier to monsoon winds forcing them to ascend thereby causing orographic rainfall and snow fall.
The Himalayas also act as barrier to the flow of cold winds from Central Asia, resulting heavy snowfall on the mountain tops and higher elevations and dry winter season at lower elevation located at the leeward side.
The monsoon winds dominate the Climate of Sikkim.
There is seasonal reversal of winds almost throughout the Climate of Sikkim.
The monsoon imposes the seasonal rhythm which is apparent in the activities of the people since most of them are agriculturists.
The following four seasons are prevalent on the basis of the monsoon circulation over the state.

The cold weather season – December to February
The spring weather season – March to May
The south-west monsoon – June to September
The period of retreating monsoon – October to November

Rainfall and temperature of Climate of Sikkim

The mean annual rainfall varies from 2000 mm. to 4000 mm. with intensity of rain from drizzling showers in lower altitude to torrential rains in higher altitude.
There are two maximum rainfall areas (i) South-East region and (ii) South-West region.
There is an area in the North-West region which gets very little rainfall.
The greater part of rain fall is received during May to September.
The annual rainfall of Sikkim is 2739 mm.
The temperature varies with the altitude and slope aspect.
The mean temperature in the lower altitudinal zone, it varies from 1.5 degree centigrade to 9.5 degree centigrade.
The maximum temperature is usually recorded during July-August which varies from 21 Degree Celsius to 26 Degree Celsius and minimum during December-January between 6 Degree Celsius and 8 Degree Celsius.
Fog is a common feature in the entire state from May to September.
Biting cold is experienced at high altitude places in the winter months and snowfall is also not uncommon during this period.
Climatic factors are entirely influenced by altitude.

*S. No.*	*Station*	*Maximum Temperature (Degree Centigrade)*	*Minimum Temperature* *(Degree Centigrade)*	*Rainfall (millimeter)*
1	Gangtok	18.8	12.7	3589.5
2	Mangan	25.5	15.3	3244.1
3	Mazitar	29.4	17.3	1620.2
4	Namthang	32.1	14.0	1972.0

Climatic types in Climate of Sikkim

Snow Peak Type:

This climate conforms to altitude of 4001 meters or more above the mean sea level.
The mountain peaks are mostly covered by snow. Precipitation is mainly through snowfall.
Cultivable land is not available in this climatic type.
Vegetation is mainly herbs or medicinal herbs.

Densely forested hill type:

These climatic conditions are found between 2701 metres and 4000 metres above the mean sea level.
The land has dense vegetation with tall trees and variety of rhododendron and primula flowers.
It is mostly covered by snow during winter season and precipitation is through snow and heavy rainfall during summer.
Winter is extremely cold. Potato and cabbage are cultivated during summer months at Thangu, Lachen and Lachung in North District.

Very high hill type:

Such climatic conditions are associated with the height between 1701 metres and 2700 metres above the mean sea level.
Snow fall is common during winter months, i.e. December to February and heavy rainfall during June-July.
This climate is suitable for seed potato growing. Other alternative crops are temperate fruit plants cabbage, peas, radish and other vegetables.
Soyabeans, high altitude maize and off season cabbage cultivation is common.
Lachen, Lachung, Ravongla, Damthang, Phadamchen, Zuluk, Okhrey, Hilley, Bhareng and Ribdi are the important areas in this climatic type.

High hill type:

The climate between 1501 metres and 1700 metres above the mean sea level falls under this category.
Precipitation is mainly through rainfall.
This is essentially a large cardamom growing belt.
Other important crops of the zone are the maize, peas, millets, vegetables etc. Usually, this is essentially a dry weather with occasional drizzling in winter and heavy rainfalls in summer.

Mid hill type:

Such climate is found between 881 metres and 1500 metres above the mean sea level.
This is essentially an orange belt, most suited for cultivation of orange.
Winters are cold and dry without any rain and summers with heavy rainfall.
The other crops are the maize, paddy, oilseeds, pulses, large cardamom, ginger and vegetables etc.

Low hill type:

The climate between 300 to 880 metres above the mean sea level may be called low hill type.
This climate is essentially a sub-tropical type and suitable for cultivation of sub-tropical fruits such as banana, guava, lemon and lime etc.
Most of the area is under paddy cultivation. Other important crops are maize, pulses, oilseeds, ginger and vegetables.
The winters are dry and comparatively warm and the summer are hot and have comparatively less rainfall.
Thus the Climate of Sikkim and the seasons of Sikkim state are suitable for growing varieties of crops which include not only cereals but also commercial crops.
Paddy, maize, millets, pulses are the principal crops and large cardamom, potato, ginger and other horticultural crops are the cash crops.
Orange is also a commercial fruits of Sikkim

Fairs and Festivals of Sikkim

Fairs and Festivals of Sikkim

People and Culture of Sikkim

The People of Sikkim consist of three ethnic groups, that is, Lepcha, Bhutia and Nepali.
Communities of different hues intermingle freely in Sikkim to constitute a homogenous blend.
Hindu Temples coexist with Buddhist Monasteries, Churches, Mosque and Gurudwara.
The predominant Communities are Lepchas, Bhutias and Nepalese.
These myriad Cultures has produced a quintessential Sikkimese Culture that encompasses all ways and walk of life, but has also managed to preserve their own identity.
These can also be seen in the various places of Worship, Festivals and Cultural dances that are celebrated through the year.

List of major Fairs and Festivals

Loosong/Namsoong

Lossong celebrated all over Sikkim marks the end of the harvest season at the end of the tenth month of the Tibetan Year.
Taking cue from a good harvest and praying for even better prospects for the next crop, the festival is marked by religious masked dances in Enchey Monastery.
The dances symbolize the exorcizing of the evil spirits and the welcoming of the good spirits for the new year.
Lossong has now become an important festival where visitors from all over the world can get to see the local sporting events like archery, climbing of greased pole.
Local cuisine, handicrafts, floriculture and cultural programmes are some of the added attractions during the festival.
The festival is organized by Tribal Youth Association of Gangtok.

Lampokhari Paryatan Mahotsav, Aritar

Located at a height of 5100 ft, Aritar is surrounded by lush green forest, lakes and paddy fields.
The entire Khanchendzonga range can be viewed from this place. Aritar offers adventure sports, nature trails.
Lampokhari is one of the serene lakes where one can enjoy boating.
Added attractions are Aritar Monastery, Mankhim Dara, Phusray Lake, Pango Lakha and Rachela

Baisakhi Festival, Makha Tumin –Lingee

Organised to herald the spring season and the Nepali New Year.
Cultural programme, traditional customs, local cusinies and other local activities can be experienced

Sakewa

Sakewa is celebrated with great fervor by all the Kirat Khambu Rai community.
Also known as Bhumi/ Chandi Puja or land worshipping ceremony it is celebrated all over the State.
It is celebrated at that time of the year when cranes migrate to the Northern Hemisphere this indicates sowing season of cucumber, pumpkin and other kharif crops.
The festival begins with Shakti Puja at Mangkhim (temple) performed by a Chief Priest (Mangpa) for good harvest followed by the Shova Yatra.
Various traditional dishes like Wachipa, Bongchipa, Arakha Hengmawa, Baksa and Okrukma are served.

Saga Dawa

Full moon day of the 4th month in the Tibetan Lunar Calendar, around end of May and early June.
Saga Dawa is a very important festival for the Buddhists.
This day is considered to be the holiest of the holy Buddhist Festival.
On this day Lord Buddha took birth, achieved Enlightenment and passed away attaining Nirvana.

Bhanu Jayanti

A cultural festival organised to celebrate the birth anniversary of the Nepali poet, Bhanu Bhakta Acharya.
Competitions for school children are organised in various field such as poetry, drama etc.
Other programmes include cultural parade and culture programmes.

Drukpa Tshechi

This festival celebrates Lord Buddha’s first preaching of the Four Noble Truths to his first five disciples at Saranath.
The festival is held on the 4th day of the 6th month of the Tibetan lunar calendar.
Prayers are conducted in the major monasteries all over the State.

Namprikdang Namsoong , Dzongu, North Sikkim

Namsoong is celebrated to welcome the good spirits for the New Year.
Namsoong has now become an important festival where visitors from all over the world can get to see the local sporting events like archery, pole climbing etc Local cuisine, handicrafts, floriculture and cultural programmes are some of the added attractions during the festival.

Cherry Tea Festival Temi South Sikkim

Tea plantation at Temi, South Sikkim was commenced in the year 1969.
The plantation ranges between the elevation range from 1460 to 1890 msl.
Temi being agro- climatically suitable for cultivation of China variety of tea plants initially procured from Darjeeling Tea Gardens.
The tea factory with orthodox type of manufacture was established in 1977.
The garden is consistently producing superior quality tea acceptable to wide markets both international and domestic segments.
The festival is organised with objectives as under:

To promote Sikkim (Temi) Tea globally.
To promote new destinations in and around South District.
To promote home stays and village tourism in order to enhance and generate income of the local community.

Lhabab Duechen

This festival epitomizes in a significant manner the descent of Buddha from the heaven of the thirtythree Gods after visiting his mother.
It is universally believed that Lord Buddha through his spiritual powers came to know about the whereabouts of his mother who did not live for a long time after his birth.
After gaining the necessary information about his mother he ascended to Heaven where he delivered sermons to his mother and other celestial beings.
During this period the disciples of the lord could not bear his long separation and longed to hear his preaching.
Buddha finally relented and descended on earth along a triple ladder that was prepared especially for the occasion by Viswakarma

Barahimizong

The festival of Barahimizong is celebrated by the Mangar community living in Sikkim.
The celebration reflects the faith in almighty as the bestower and protector of mankind.
Through this festival, the gratitude to God is expressed by offering fresh harvest and seek good fortune for the coming days.

Dasain ( Durga Puja)

Also known as Durga Puja, this fortnight long Hindu festival usually falls in the month of October.
The festival symbolizes the victory of the Hindu Goddess Durga over evil.
Barley seeds are sown in the soil on the first day of this festival and their growth foretells good harvest.
A week later is “Phulpati “meaning the day of flowers, followed by Maha Astami and Kala Ratri and Navami.
The 10th day of the festival is known as Vijay Dashmi and also marks the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana.
During this day people smear their foreheads with colored rice and the barley sprouts, which was sown on the first day of Dasain, are picked and placed over the ears.

Indrajatra

Indrajatra is an important religious festival celebrated with pomp and fanfare by the Newar community in Sikkim.
It is belived that many centuries ago, Indra (king of Heaven)’s mother needed specially scented flowers (Parijat).
Indra looked for them but could not find them in heaven.
Indra discovered Parijat flowers in the Kathmandu Valley and tried to steal them for his mother. He was caught and imprisoned by people in the Valley.
Indra’s mother came searching for him and people were shocked to know what they had done.
They released Indra and dedicated one of the most colourful festivals of Nepal to him to calm down his anger.

Pang Lhabsol

Pang Lhabsol, a festival unique to Sikkim is celebrated to offer gratitude to Mt Khanchendzonga, the Guardian Deity of Sikkim and to Yabdu, the Supreme Commander.
Rabong is now emerging as one of the important Buddhist Pilgrimage Destinations. Situated at the base of Maenam Hill, a sub-divisional headquarter and transit point for beautiful spots such as Chozo Lake, Ralong Monastery, Manilakhang Sakyamuni Cultural and Pilgrimage Centre and various tourist destinations of South Sikkim, Base Camp for trekkers to Maenam Hill and Borong Hot Spring.
A trek down to the sacred lake “Shar Chok Bhepu”, one of the four holiest caves in Sikkim, would be a memorable experience.

Namchi Mahotsav Namchi ,South Sikkim

Namchi – “Top of the Sky”, nestled among the hills at an elevation of 4,400 feet.
The town commands a panoramic view of the surrounding hills and snow capped mountains and stretches of the valleys below.
It is an excellent place for short stay and village excursions.
Samdruptse “The Wish Fulfilling Hill” has 135 ft high statue of Guru Padmasambhava which is the highest in the world.
Siddheshvara Dham (Char Dham) is another state of the art pilgrimage centre wherein replica of all four Dham has been built around an eighty seven feet high statue of Lord Shiva.
All 12 jyotirlingaas are also built around the temple complex.
With so much to offer to the visitors the Toursim Committees are actively involved in promotion and publicity of Namchi, South Sikkim.
Every year Namchi Mahaotsav is celebrated in the month of October.
There are activities like traditional sports, sale and exhibition of local arts and handicrafts, cuisine, flower show and sale etc.

Kagyed Dance

Kagyed dance, a customary dance festival, celebrated annually in Sikkim falls on the 28th and 29th day of the tenth month according to Tibetan calendar, which according to English calendar falls in the month of December.
In the name of eight tantrik Gods and Goddesses commonly called Kagyed, lamas on these days perform dances and sing songs in different monasteries and offer prayers to them requesting these deities to save human beings from the tormenting evil spirits and to bless them for good health and fortune.

Red Panda Winter Festival, Gangtok

The winter season in Sikkim draws a spectacular image of Mt. Khangchendzonga in its ivory grandeur, providing an alluring background while corpuscular rays pierce through the scudding clouds over the skies, adorning Sikkim perfectly for the cold season.
Red Panda Winter Festival previously known as Sikkim Winter Carnival is organized in the cold months of December/ January annually.
Like most festivals, the Red Panda Winter Festival showcased the traditions and culture of the Sikkimese people.
The festival integrates the locals as well as the tourists with events and activities themed on a typical Himalayan winter.
From food stalls that serves exquisite and delicious cuisines of various ethnic tribes and communities, to cultural carnival showcasing diverse culture and traditions of Sikkimese people, flower shows, handloom and handicraft exhibitions, adventure sports, photography contests, rock –shows, karaoke and dancing and many more other interactions forms the affair of the festival.

Pelling Tourism Festival

Pelling is one of the most popular tourist destinations.
Visitors can enjoy a magnificent view of the mountains including Mt. Khangchendzonga, the 3rd highest mountain in the world.
There are numerous tourist spots in and around Pelling.
A weeklong festival includes cultural extravaganza, sale of local handicrafts, handlooms and local cuisine

Loosong/Namsoong

Lossong celebrated all over Sikkim marks the end of the harvest season at the end of the tenth month of the Tibetan Year.
Taking cue from a good harvest and praying for even better prospects for the next crop, the festival is marked by religious masked dances in Enchey Monastery.
The dances symbolize the exorcizing of the evil spirits and the welcoming of the good spirits for the new year.
Lossong has now become an important festival where visitors from all over the world can get to see the local sporting events like archery, climbing of greased pole.
Local cuisine, handicrafts, floriculture and cultural programmes are some of the added attractions during the festival.
The festival is organized by Tribal Youth Association of Gangtok.

Guru Rinpoche’s Thrunkar Tshechu

“Guru Thrunkar Tshechu is celebrated as the birth day of Guru Padmasambhava, reverentially referred as ‘Guru Rinpoche’ in Eastern Himalayan region and Sikkim in particular.
Guru Rinpoche is revered and worshipped as guardian saint in Sikkim who blessed this land as ‘Bayul Demojong’ (hidden valley of rice) and transmitted tantric Buddhism in the region adjoined by Bhutan and Tibet in the 8th Century AD.
Among the galaxy of Buddhist monks, Arahats and Rinpoches, the prominence of Guru Padmasambhava as the principal associate and disciple of Lord Buddha stands out.
It was his prominence that transformed this land into predominantly a Buddhist land.
Guru Padmasambhava is not only revered by Buddhist but is held in high regard by the Sikkimese across all faiths.

Tendong Lho Rum Faat

Tendong Lho Rum Faat is the oldest festival of indigenous Lepcha community of Sikkim.
The festival is related to with a legend of deluge.
The indigenous Lepchas residing in the Himalayan belt had earlier named each and every mountain, hills, rivers, valleys and ravines which was known as Nye-Mayel-Lang.
Some of these mountains and rivers, hills and ravines have not only carried beautiful and romantic folk lore but historical significance as well.
These mountains and valleys figure prominently in their local myths and folklores.
Tendong Lho Rum Faat is celebrated with great pomp and grandeur in Sikkim on 7th and 8th August every year.
It is a unique ritual maintained by our fore-fathers since time immemorial which is a matter of great pride for all of us.
Realizing its importance and need to preserve this age old tradition and culture of the indigenous Lepchas, the Tourism Department has included this festival in the tourism calendar of events.
The festival is organised annually by the Tendong Lho Rum Faat celebration committee.

Dentam Rhododendron Festival

The three day long Dentam Rhododendron Festival is celebrated under Maneybong – Dentam Constituency in West Sikkim.
The festival will be staged in popular tourist destinations viz. Uttarey, Dentam, Hee Bermoik, Chyataal, Gurasaydara, Changay Village with host of activities ranging from nature to adventure based.

Ram Nawami (Chaitey Dasain)

This is one of the most auspicious festivals of Sikkim and is observed in the honor of Lord Rama.
The grand celebrations commemorate the birth of the virtuous king Rama who is universally adored for his flourishing and righteous sovereignty.
People from all over the state gather together to celebrate this festival with much excitement and vigor.
Also known as Chaitey Dasain it is also celebrated as tourist festival. Devotees hikes towards Tendong Hill, South Sikkim for offering prayers.

Sonam Lochhar

Lho means year or age and Sar means new or fresh.
The word Lhosar means New Year or beginning of new era.
Tamang community in Sikkim celebrates their new year on the first day of new moon or in other words the very next day after the no-moon day of month of Magh.
The Tibetan calendar is made up of twelve lunar months and Losar begins on the first day of the first month.

Losar

It is the Tibetan New year and is marked with a lot of gaiety and festivity across the State

Jorethang Maghey Mela, Jorethang, South Sikkim

Maghey Sankrati is celebrated all over Sikkim as one of the major festivals of the Hindu community.
However, it is not confined to only one religious group.
People of different religions come together to take part in this festival.
There are fairs in almost all parts of Sikkim.
People gather to take a holy dip in the rivers of Teesta and Rangit.
One of the biggest celebration of this festival is in Jorethang, South Sikkim, which lies on the banks of river Rangit.
The main activities during this fair are sale and exhibition of local handicrafts and handlooms, floriculture and horticulture products, cultural programme and competitions in local dance and music.
The festival carries on for almost a week. People from neighboring State as well as tourists from all over the country as well as abroad visits Jorethang during this festival.
Some of the adventure activities which are popular in this area are paragliding and angling