Heritage Walk: Sikkim

What is a heritage walk?

If you want a fun and immersive way to experience a city or town, a heritage walk is exactly what you’re looking for! Typically, a heritage walk is a guided tour that explores a particular area’s historical, cultural, and architectural significance. They are usually organised by local organisations or tourism boards and aim to promote the understanding and appreciation of a region’s cultural heritage. In short, heritage walks can be an enjoyable and informative way to explore a new place. They provide an opportunity to learn about the traditions, customs, and values shaping a community. If you’re looking for interesting activities in Sikkim, a heritage walk might be the perfect thing to consider!

What do you need to know about Sikkim?

An overview of Sikkim’s history will reveal its alluring character as a culturally diverse gem worth discovering. Hinduism, Buddhism, and the indigenous traditions of the Lepcha, Bhutia, and Nepali communities influence Sikkim’s unique culture. This cultural diversity is revealed by tracing its history. Before becoming a state of India, Sikkim was the sovereign kingdom of the Namgyal dynasty in the 17th century until the mid-1970s, known for being an important centre of trade and commerce. With at least ten languages spoken in Sikkim, seven religious groups, and four ethnic groups, Sikkim is amazingly diverse.

Also, Sikkim is known for its splendid landscapes and natural beauty. Nicknamed the Valley of Rice, its location in the Indian Himalayas makes it a biodiversity heaven with alpine and subtropical climates. The famous Kangchenjunga Mountain is found in Sikkim. It is the highest peak in India and the third highest in the world. Sikkim is also home to the Khangchendzonga National Park- a UNESCO World Heritage Site that impressively covers almost 35% of the state’s area!

Heritage walk tours in Sikkim

These on-foot tours allow the visitor to get up close and personal, feel the textures of the natural material, listen to the stories of people on the streets as they passionately tell you about their neighbourhoods with so much pride, and smell the aromas of Sikkim.  

Heritage walk tours in Sikkim are a must-do experience for visitors who want to learn about the state’s rich cultural and historical heritage. With beautiful surroundings, friendly locals, and fascinating landmarks, these tours offer a unique and rewarding way to experience the best of Sikkim. Mainly, they highlight the bazaars, monasteries, temples, and museums. Also, let’s not forget the natural heritage of Sikkim!

The Routes

Tour operators, travel agencies, and local guides organise heritage walks in Sikkim. Many reputable tour companies offer organised heritage walk tours, which include experienced guides, transport, and accommodation. Some popular tour operators in Sikkim include Sikkim Tours and Travels, Sikkim Darjeeling Tours, Sikkim Himalayan Adventure, and Sikkim Trekking Tours. The main routes to check out are:

1. Gangtok Heritage Walk: One of Sikkim’s most popular heritage walks is in the state capital, Gangtok. The tour takes visitors through the town’s winding alleys and bustling bazaars, past colourful buildings and traditional architecture, and the historic Enchey Monastery. Along the way, visitors can learn about the town’s history, culture, and traditions from knowledgeable local guides.
2. Yuksom Heritage Walk: Another popular heritage walk is in the town of Yuksom, known as the “Gateway to Kanchenjunga.” The tour takes visitors through the town’s historic centre, including the ancient Dubdi Monastery, the coronation throne of the first king of Sikkim, and the ruins of the Rabdentse Palace. Visitors can learn about the town’s role in Sikkim’s history and the region’s unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
3. Namchi Heritage Walk: One popular heritage walk is the “Namchi Heritage Walk”, which takes visitors through the picturesque town of Namchi, known for its beautiful monasteries and temples. The tour includes visits to the Namchi Monastery, the Ralang Monastery, and Tendong Hill, which are believed to be the site of a legendary battle between good and evil. Visitors can also witness the unique culture of the Bhutia community and enjoy traditional food and drink.
4. Pelling Heritage Walk: The “Pelling Heritage Walk” is another popular tour that takes visitors through the charming town of Pelling, which offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range. The tour includes visits to the Pemayangtse Monastery, the Rabdentse Ruins, and the Sanga Choeling Monastery. Along the way, visitors can learn about the history and traditions of the region, as well as the unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist cultures.
5. Tashiding Heritage Walk: Tashiding is a picturesque village in West Sikkim, known for its stunning views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range and its historic Tashiding Monastery. The heritage walk starts from the Tashiding Monastery. It continues through the village of Tashiding, passing through traditional houses and farms and offering a glimpse into the local way of life. Visitors can also visit the nearby Gompa Dara, a small hilltop monastery offering panoramic views of the mountains.

Reference List:

1. 2023 Heritage & Cultural Walk of Pelling (2 hours guided walking tour) (no date) Tripadvisor. Available at: https://www.tripadvisor.in/AttractionProductReview-g1162472-d21190710-Heritage_Cultural_Walk_of_Pelling_2_Hours_Guided_Walking_Tour-Pelling_West_Sikkim.html (Accessed: April 2, 2023). 
2. 30 best places to visit in gangtok – updated 2023 (with photos & reviews) (no date) Tripadvisor. Available at: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attractions-g659796-Activities-Gangtok_East_Sikkim_Sikkim.html (Accessed: April 2, 2023). 
3. Admind (no date) Welcome to Sikkim, Sikkim University. Available at: https://cus.ac.in/index.php/en/information-3/important-links/sikkim-information#:~:text=The%20terrain%20throughout%20Sikkim%20is,from%20subtropical%20to%20high%20alpine (Accessed: April 2, 2023). 
4. Cultural & Theme Tours in Namchi (no date) Tripadvisor. Available at: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Products-g2282617-zfg11866-Namchi_South_Sikkim_Sikkim.html (Accessed: April 2, 2023). 
5. Sikkim (no date) Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, inc. Available at: https://www.britannica.com/place/Sikkim (Accessed: April 2, 2023). 
6. Sikkim.gov.in (no date) Government of Sikkim, India, IndiaGov. Available at: https://www.sikkim.gov.in/KnowSikkim/about-sikkim/art-culture (Accessed: April 2, 2023). 
7. Tashiding Monastery, Yuksom (no date) Tripadvisor. Available at: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Review-g2289068-d3704896-Reviews-Tashiding_Monastery-Yuksom_West_Sikkim_Sikkim.html (Accessed: April 2, 2023). 
8. Walking & Biking Tours in Yuksom (no date) Tripadvisor. Available at: https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attraction_Products-g2289068-zfg11876-Yuksom_West_Sikkim_Sikkim.html (Accessed: April 2, 2023).