A former Kingdom and a fascinating Himalayan Jewel, Sikkim is situated in Eastern Himalayas spreading below Mount Khangchendzonga (8,534m), the third highest mountain in the world.  Sikkim has been given many names. The Lepchas, original inhabitants of the land called it Nye-mayel `paradise'. The Limbus named it Su Khim or `new house' while to the Bhutias it was Beyul Demazong `the hidden valley of rice.

The ethnic communities of Sikkim are Lepcha, Bhutia and Nepali. Sikkim shares its border with Nepal in the west and Bhutan in the east, with the Tibetan plateau rising from its northern border. It was once a Himalayan monarchy and part of the famous Silk Route to China. Its merger with India in 1975 has offered a window to the world to discover the treasures of this hidden land.  Sikkim's tiny size geographically belies the profound diversity she offers. The state has the steepest rise in altitude over the shortest distance and is a biodiversity hotspot

The panoramic perfection of the snow-capped Himalayas, flower-bedecked meadows, the vibrant culture and joyous festivals, the infinite variety of its flora and fauna makes it a holiday destination that is at once fascinating and challenging.  Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim. The official languages of the State are Nepali, Lepcha, Bhutia and English.