Sikkim, a state nestled in the North East of India, has an enchanting power that captivates the imagination. Picture yourself sitting in a small, cosy eatery, indulging in a bowl of hot thukpa (a noodle soup), with the towering Himalayas as your backdrop and the soothing murmur of a river nearby. If you’re not inclined to daydream, the stunning photographs captured by countless travellers will transport you to this serene landscape.
This state, home to the majestic Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak, is also a land rich in folk tales, myths, and ancient legends.
Exploring Sikkim with Ease through the e-Visa
Traveling to Sikkim, with its rich cultural history and mystical landscapes, is a dream for many, and India's e-Visa makes that dream easier to achieve. The Indian e-Visa is a convenient online system that allows tourists from eligible countries to visit India without the hassle of going through traditional visa processes. For travelers eager to immerse themselves in Sikkim’s sacred lakes, snow-clad mountains, and vibrant myths, the e-Visa simplifies entry, saving time and effort while enabling a seamless experience.
India visa application form applies online from anywhere with the help of the Internet. If you are coming to India for the first time, you can choose India tour packages. In Tour Packages, all things are included such as accommodation, food, travel, etc. with an expert guide that helps you to get local experience. It is Cost Effective, Hassle-Free Travel Planning, Safety and Comfort, and Time Efficiency. So ready to explore Sikkim without any problem? Let’s explore some of the most fascinating stories that Sikkim has to offer.
Tsomgo Lake
Tsomgo Lake, often referred to as Changu by locals, is a place steeped in legend. One of the most popular beliefs surrounding this revered lake is its ability to predict the future. It’s said that in ancient times, the colour of the lake would indicate the region's fate—dark and murky waters signalled difficult days ahead. To this day, locals hold the lake in high regard, offering prayers to maintain peace and prosperity.
Baba Harbhajan Singh: The Soldier Who Never Left
The story of Baba Harbhajan Singh transcends the ordinary and enters the realm of folklore. Harbhajan Singh, an Indian army soldier, tragically drowned in a swift-flowing stream in 1968. Despite an extensive search, his body remained missing for several days. According to the story, one night, a fellow soldier dreamt of Harbhajan, who revealed where his body could be found and requested a memorial be built in his name. Amazingly, his body was recovered at the exact spot, and a shrine was constructed in his honour.
Today, Baba Harbhajan Singh is believed to continue his duty of patrolling the borders on horseback. Many soldiers claim to have seen him and say that he even warns of impending danger through dreams. A temple, Baba Mandir, stands in his honour, and it is filled with his personal belongings, still maintained as though he might return at any time.
The Elusive Yeti
Among the legends that swirl around Sikkim’s misty mountains, the tale of the Yeti stands out. Known locally as Bon Manchi or Migou, this mysterious creature has puzzled scientists and intrigued explorers for years.
Described as a 4-5 feet tall, hairy, bipedal figure, the Yeti is believed to have the ability to disappear without a trace. Locals staunchly believe in its existence, with some even claiming to have heard its eerie, loud whistles echoing through the mountains.
Kanchenjunga
For the Lepcha people, who are considered the original inhabitants of Sikkim, Kanchenjunga is more than just a mountain—it is a sacred entity. According to Lepcha legend, they were created by Kanchenjunga, and it is to the foothills of this mighty peak that their spirits return after death. The awe-inspiring mountain is visible from nearly every Lepcha village, serving as a constant reminder of their deep connection to their creator.
Khecheopalri Lake: The Mystical, Wish-Fulfilling Waters
Khecheopalri Lake is another of Sikkim’s enchanting sites, rich with myth and reverence. The lake is believed to have been a meditation site for Lord Shiva, while local legends tell of a young Lepcha girl who received a precious stone from the lake's goddess only to lose it in the water. The belief that a gem lies hidden in the lake persists, and locals also regard its waters as having healing properties capable of fulfilling one’s deepest wishes.