About Sikkim Map
The above Sikkim map shows all 6 districts highlighted in different color along with their respective district headquarters. The map clearly highlights the state capital Gangtok. The Sikkim district map also highlights state boundaries of Sikkim along with International boundaries with countries of Nepal, Bhutan and China in North, and the Indian state of West Bengal in South, East and West. The inset map clearly highlights location of state of Sikkim in India along with a compass to indicate the correct map orientation. This Sikkim map will be very much useful for anyone who wants to know the political map of Sikkim highlighting all 4 districts and their headquarters, the capital of the state and the state and international boundaries around Sikkim.
Districts of Sikkim
| S.N. | District Name | Headquarter Name |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gangtok | Gangtok |
| 2 | Gyalshing | Gyalshing |
| 3 | Mangan | Mangan |
| 4 | Namchi | Namchi |
| 5 | Pakyong | Pakyong |
| 6 | Soreng | Soreng |
About Sikkim
Sikkim, a state in the northeastern part of the country is made up of stunning Himalayan landscapes, snow clad peaks, crystal clear lakes, rich biodiversity, ancient Buddhist monasteries and a unique culture and traditions. Sikkim, the second smallest state in India is an eco- friendly state and one of the most environmentally conscious and preserved destinations in the country. Sikkim became the 22nd state of India on 16th May 1975 when it ended its monarchy and joined the Indian Union through a constitutional process followed by a referendum. Sikkim is a small state with an area of 2,746 square miles (7,096 square kilometers) and a population of approximately 610,577 people as of the 2011 Census of India. The capital and the largest city of Sikkim is Gangtok which is the political, cultural, educational hub of the state and also the base for tourists visiting Sikkim. Sikkim is known internationally for being the first fully organic farming state of India, for its sustainable tourism and for the breathtaking Himalayan scenery.
Location and Geography
Located in the eastern part of the Himalayas, the Indian state of Sikkim is geographically unique and is bounded by Nepal in the west, Bhutan in the east, and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China in the north and northeast. In the south, Sikkim is bounded by the Indian state of West Bengal through which all road and rail links to Sikkim are made. The geography of Sikkim is largely mountainous and has deep river valleys. Some of the valleys are at a low of 984 feet or 300 meters above sea level. The highest point is the summit of Mount Kanchenjunga at 28,169 feet or 8,586 meters, and is the highest mountain in India and the third highest in the world. As a result, Sikkim is one of the premier mountain destinations in the world.
Administrative Divisions
Sikkim is divided into 6 districts- Gangtok, Gyalshing, Mangan, Namchi, Pakyong and Soreng, each with its own district headquarters that are responsible for local governance, development, administration etc including departments related to education, health, police and law & order. The state capital Gangtok also acts as administrative headquarters and is the major commercial hub, a hub for education and a popular tourist destination. As the state is small it is very easy to administer and at the same time it has maintained the ecological sensitivity and cultural diversity of the region.
Climate
Sikkim is a country with diverse climate mainly due to the drastic change in elevation. While the low-lying areas have a humid subtropical climate, the higher altitudes experience temperate, alpine and tundra type of climate. In summer, the temperatures are generally mild and pleasant; they could be as low as 50°F (10°C) or as high as 82°F (28°C) depending on the altitude. The state experiences the southwest monsoon from June to September. This season brings most of the rainfall to the state in the form of torrential showers. In winter, the northern part of Sikkim and the higher elevations are extremely cold with mercury plummeting to below freezing point on most days and receiving heavy to extreme snowfall. Spring and autumn seasons are perhaps the best time to visit Sikkim with clear blue skies, pleasant temperatures and magnificent vistas of the towering mountains.
Economy
Sikkim’s economy today is extremely diversified comprising of Tourism, Agriculture, Hydropower, Horticulture, Pharmaceuticals & Small scale Industries. While Tourism has emerged to be one of the largest revenue earners for the State with visitors from all across the globe flocking to the State to experience the majestic mountain ranges, ancient Monasteries, rugged Treks, wildlife sanctuaries and adventure sports, Agriculture continues to be a mainstay of rural livelihoods with production of Cardamom, Ginger, Oranges, Vegetables, Flowers & Medicinal plants. Sikkim’s pioneering effort in graduating to 100% Organic has garnered international appreciation & acclaim. The immense potential of Hydroelectric power has been harnessed generating substantial revenues from the fast flowing rivers of Himalayas.
Organic Farming and Sustainable Development
Sikkim, recognized internationally as India’s first fully organic state, is today a role model in sustainable agriculture practices & environment conservation. Organic agriculture has many advantages including conservation of soil health & bio diversity, support to eco-tourism & value addition of agricultural produce. This is in addition to Sikkim’s ongoing initiatives in forest conservation, waste management, renewable energy and sustainable tourism practices.
Forests and Biodiversity
Sikkim, with over 46% of its geographical area under forest cover, is home to one of the richest biodiversity in India. Eastern Himalaya, which is the part of Sikkim, is a globally recognized biodiversity hotspot. With over 5000 species of flowering plants, including hundreds of hundreds of orchid species, 25 species of rhododendron, and of many rare Himalayan trees, Sikkim has an extremely high endemism of medicinal plants. Red panda, the state animal of Sikkim, co-exists with Snow leopards, Himalayan black bear, Musk deer, Himalayan tahr, Red fox, and many other species of birds and animals. Khangchendzonga National Park, a World Heritage Site, along with other protected areas in the state, protects this biodiversity of immense value to mankind and the planet.
Culture and Heritage
Sikkim is home to many different ethnic groups such as the Lepcha, Bhutia and Nepali. The traditions of these communities are reflected in the states language, architecture, festivals, cuisine, music and handicrafts. Influenced heavily by Buddhism the centuries old monasteries, colorful prayer flags, stupas and religious festivals are all an integral part of Sikkim’s culture. Hinduism too is widely practiced in Sikkim, which together with Buddhism has created a unique, harmonious, multicultural society. Most festivals are celebrated all over the state. These include Losar, Saga Dawa, Pang Lhabsol, Dasain, Tihar and Maghe Sankranti.
Tourism in Sikkim
Sikkim, with its unparalleled natural splendor, spiritual heritage, wild life and adventure activities, has fast emerged as premier mountain tourism destination of India. The state has to offer to its visitors from all over the world Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Yumthang Valley, Gurudongmar Lake, Pelling, Pelling, Ravangla, Lachung, Lachen, Zuluk and many more destinations. The state is home to some of the world’s oldest Buddhist Monasteries, the Rumtek Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery, Tashiding Monastery and Enchey Monastery. The place is also a haven for adventure tourists as they can indulge in trekking, mountain biking, river rafting, paragliding, white water rafting, camping, high altitude photography in alpine meadows, glaciers, waterfalls and lush green rhododendron forests.
Transportation
In spite of geographical challenges faced by innumerable engineering challenges posed by Sikkim’s unique terrain, development of Sikkim’s communication has been rapid and far-reaching. The National Highway 10 (NH-10) connects the state to its neighboring state West Bengal, passing through the State Capital, Gangtok. In addition, the Pakyong Airport situated about 30 km from Gangtok in West District is operational for Domestic Flights, while New Jalpaiguri (NJP) in West Bengal is the nearest rail head. However, development of all roads within the State that connects Towns, Tourist destinations, along the borders have been provided adequately. Traveling within Sikkim is becoming very easy.
Education
Sikkim has made huge progress in the area of education and human resources development through establishment of schools, colleges, universities and technical institutions of repute. The major universities and institutions of Sikkim include Sikkim University, Sikkim Manipal University, National Institute of Technology (NIT) Sikkim and other colleges offering courses in engineering, medical, management, hospitality and environmental studies etc. The literacy rate in Sikkim has increased manifold and quality education is given due importance for the overall growth and development of Sikkim.
Why Sikkim is Important
Sikkim is crucial for India for four reasons. First, it is strategically located at the international borders of Nepal, Bhutan and China. Secondly, the state is home to the Himalayan eco-system that supplies 70% of India’s fresh water and contributes significantly to the country’s biodiversity. Thirdly, Sikkim is the pioneer in implementing sustainable development model of fully organic farming, making it the first fully organic farming state of India. Finally, the state is home to some of the most spectacular mountains, revered religious sites, unique wildlife and ecologically responsible tourism practices, which are admired by all parts of India.