Sikkim

Metro Cities

Sikkim, the 22nd state of the Indian union, is a small mountain state in eastern Himalayas. The kingdom of Sikkim is located between 28^o 07' 48" and 27^o 04'46" north latitudes, and 88^o 00 58" and 88^o 55'25" east longitudes. It is bounded by Tibet  on the north, Nepal on the west,  Bhutan  on the east and West Bengal lies to its south. It is the least populous state in the union. Sikkim is strategically important for India. It lies astride the shortest route from India to Tibet.

The capital Gangtok, which is situated in the east district, is the principle urban centre; in this district more than one third of population resides now. The capital of the state can be said to constitute the focal point of all socio-political and cultural activities. It is connected by well-developed road links with all four districts. Gangtok, is the principal commercial centre of the state. Being the seat of the government, it has become the most important  centre of administrative and political  activities. The population of Gangtok is composed of all ethnic groups -the Bhutia-Lepcha, the Nepali and the plainsmen.

Sikkim is a land of  rich and varied scenic beauty, magnificent  mountains, eternal snows, dark forests, green  fertile valleys, raging torrents and calm, placid lakes. Her magnificent variety of flora and fauna are the naturalist's dream; the steep variations in elevation and rainfall give rise to a glorious multitude of species within a comparatively limited area. The scenic grandeur of mighty snow-capped peaks, the highest of which is the 28,162  feet  Kanchanjunga on the Nepal-Sikkim border,  has been a symbol of romantic awe and wonder for the people. It is the world's third  highest peak. Kanchanjunga has five satellite peaks: Jano, Kabru, Pandim, Narsim, Simiolchu.

Two principle mountain ranges are the Singilela and Chola which start in the north  and continue, following a more or less southerly direction. Between these ranges are the principle rivers, the Rangit and the Teesta, forming the main channels of drainage. These rivers are fed by the monsoon rains as well as by melting glaciers.

CLIMATE

Sikkim's climate varies from the tropical heat in the valleys to Alpine cold in the higher altitudes. The Tropical climate prevails in the deep valleys with elevation up to 5000 ft . The temperate climate zone comprises areas having  elevations between 5000 ft  and 13000 ft. Above 13000 ft are the Alpine climate Zones reaching upto 16000 ft which marks the beginning  of the perpetually snow-bound zone.

Sikkim is a region of heavy rainfall. On an average, Sikkim receives 125 cm rain. But the rainfall varies widely between various regions like sheltered valleys, foot hills and high mountains .

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