Located within a close proximity with the Rumket Monastery, this lush and verdant botanical garden is the home to several rare and exotic species of plants and trees. Some of the orchids found in this garden are indigenous to only this part of the world and holds high medicinal and commercial value as well. If you are a vivid nature lover, this colourful offering of the Sikkim travel packages will take you to a treasure island. And if you are visiting this garden with your family members; especially the younger ones, your visit will surely be cuddled up by the colourful ambience within the garden.Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden Tips Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden is situated very close to Rumtek Monastery. The best time to visit the garden is from March to May when the garden is bursting with the vibrant colour of blooming flowers and October to Mid-December to catch a mesmerising view of surrounding valleys and snow-capped mountains. The garden is open on all days of the week from 8 am to 6.30 pm. Entry fee is Rs. 10 per person for adults and Rs. 5 per person for children.Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden Facts The garden also has dense temperate forests of Oak and a beautiful lake.Main Highlights It houses numerous species of orchids and over 50 different species of tree, including many oaks. From the hilltop, one can get an unparalleled view of the beautiful city of Gangtok with towering Himalayan Mountains in the backdrop. Kids can have a gala time enjoying the merry-go-round, swings and see-saws installed at the park.

Nestled amidst lush and evergreen thickets, the namgyal institute of tibetology is an ideal centre to learn about buddhist cultures and traditions. Established in 1958, this institute is in fact the home to the largest collection of tibetan preaching outside tibet, and this include relics from 11th and 12th century collected from different parts of the world. Namgyal institute of tibetology tips it is open from 10 am to 4 pm, from monday to saturday.Namgyal institute of tibetology facts it is one of the largest repositories of tibetan works, located outside the tibet region. It displays some of the rarest and oldest collection of ritual objects, mementos, religious art, jewellery, tibetan iconography, documentaries and books on sikkimese tradition and culture. There is also a library which boasts unique buddhist tomes, some of which are a hundred years old.Main highlights one of the striking features of the institute is its sikkimese architecture. The institute is surrounded by verdant forests of oak and birch.

A visit to yumthang valleys it truly a colourful affair! located at an elevation of 3, 500m, this scenic valley is the home to several exotic, rare and wild flowers. It is often said, one who visits this quintessential valley, often gets pleasantly affected by its treacherous colours and alluring beauty! come the monsoons, the entire valley blooms at its best and displays the most enchanting colours of the nature. Primrose, cobra-lilies, louseworts and cinquefoils are some of the most commonly found species in yumthang. Yumthang valley tips the best time to visit the yumthang valley is between april end and mid-june to witness the flowering season. The valley usually remains closed from december to march due to heavy snowfall. You will need a special area permit to visit the yumthang valley. Keep two passport sized photographs and a valid identity proof handy as you will need it while obtaining the permit. It is advised to not disturb the wildlife in the valley. While visiting any monastery, do not make a loud noise or disturb people around. Carry sufficient cash as there are no atms in the region. Do not forget to carry medicines for headache, motion sickness and common cold. Do not forget to carry sufficient woollen clothes as it is usually cold in the valley. You can even rent an overcoat, gloves and snow boots from a local vendor.Yumthang valley facts the himalayan journal by dr. Joseph hooker compares yumthang to the valleys of switzerland. The yumthang valley is popularly known as the valley of flowers. Some of the beautiful himalayan flowers that you can find in the yumthang valley during the spring season are rhododendrons, poppies, primulas, cobra lilies, louseworts, and irises. Yumthang valley is located very close to the china border.Main highlights it is a nature sanctuary with free-flowing rivers, rolling meadows, yaks and hot springs.

On the off chance that you wish to appreciate some wonderful touring and picnicking in Gangtok, then head to Ban Jhakri falls. Situated inside the popular Energy Park, the 100-foot Ban Jhakri Waterfall is an excellent spot. Nature rules here, a still quietness hangs all around, just punctuated by the intense spouting of the water gushing on the stones. The Ban Jhakri Falls is of sacred importance to the locals here as they are said to have a power which can repulse insidious spirits. When you are in the recreation centre, make a point to visit the man-made lake. Popular among the locals, this place has visitors throughout the year. Tips You will be required to pay an entry fee of Rs. 20 per person to enter the park where the waterfall is located. There is a gift shop and a caf on one side of the ticket counter. Best time to visit the waterfalls is between February and April. Facts Ban Jhakri Falls are naturally created waterfall which originates from the springs located at a higher altitude. It is a 100-feet gushing waterfall located within aforested area. Main Highlights It serves as a beautiful picnic spot where you can spend a nice relaxing time.

Encompassed by striking Himalayan Mountains, the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is home to an astounding accumulation of forty Rhododendron species. The best time to visit is from April to July when the blossoms are in full sprout. This haven is situated close to Lachung in Yumthang valley in North Sikkim and it is around 7 hours from the capital Gangtok. There are various cabs that are accessible from Yumthang and Gangtok for this place. Notwithstanding, trekking from Yumthang Valley is one of the best ways to explore the nooks and corners of this place. Potentillas, primulas, saxifrages, poppies, aconites, gentians are available in abundance here.

Lhonak Valley is a standout amongst the most famous trekking places in Sikkim and a standout amongst the most visited destinations in Lachen. The valley is generally uninhabited aside from uncommon settlements of Tibetan migrants. The valley is under steady vigil by the Indian Army as its the last Indian station in Sikkim. Guests can enjoy birdwatching and natural life spotting amid their trek to this valley.

A wonderland in the North East, North Sikkim is one of the least explored places in the nation. Scribbled with picturesque lakes, elevated mountains, vivid knolls, rich greenery and thick woodlands, it really turns out to be a heaven for the guests. Green Lake close to Lachen is one such shrouded diamond that permits astounding views of the Kanchenjunga and different sublime Himalayan pinnacles. Travelers set out on the well-known green lake trek Sikkim, to delight in the excellence of the mountains! The winding street that prompts this staggering lake is scattered with a substantial assortment of rhododendrons that are a sight for the eyes. Despite the fact that the going is intense through rough territory and thick backwoods, the final product is justified regardless of the exertion.

The capital city of the country, Thimphu (previously called Thimbu) is undoubtedly the first place to visit in Bhutan. Situated towards the western-central region of the country and on the banks of gushing Raidak River, this city is dotted with scenic vistas and mountain peaks that reaches 2, 000-3, 800m. A city that showcases the indigenous cultures and traditions of Bhutan in the most splendid ways, Thimphu also boasts of being the commercial centre of this happy kingdom. The official residence of Bhutans royal family, this beautiful city has an abundance of luxury stay options, tourist attractions, places to see in Bhutan, and other modern facilities. Best Time to Visit: March to May Tourist Attractions: Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang), Tashichho Dzong Fortress, Memorial Chorten, Centenary Farmers Market, National Library of Bhutan, National Institute of Traditional Medicine, The Folk Heritage Museum, Changangkha Lhakhang, Dechen Phodrang, Dochula, Takin Preserve, Zangto Pelri Lhakhang Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (54km) Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) (302km / 8 Hours) Weather: Summer (September to November), Winter (November to March), Monsoon (June to September)

Positioned on an elevated hilltop, the town called Trongsa is known for its scenic beauty and panoramic views. Owing to its topology, this pictorial place to see in Bhutan can also be called as the Balcony of Bhutan! Magnifying the enchanting charm of this town, there is its rich history, traditional white-washed buildings and colourful plants spreading all across its perimeter. Visitors often throng this place to enjoy panoramic views of its surrounding valleys and the magical mountainous glimpses. Among the many attractions in this quaint town, the Trongsa Dzong that resembles as a flying dragon, serves as a major attraction. To mention here, the dzong is estimated to be built in 1648! Best Time to Visit: Year-Round Destination Tourist Attractions: Trongsa Dzong, Ta Dzong, Chendbji Chorten, Kuenga Rabten, Chkhor Raptse Dzong, Thruepang Palace, Trongsa Tower Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (230km / 6 Hours) Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) (484km / 12 Hours) Weather: Summer (April to June), Winter (September to April), Monsoon (July to September)

Enriched with the charm and splendour of evergreen mountains, Bumthang or the Jakar Valley if fondly called as Little Switzerland! Well, even though you may not find the scenic Swiss Alps here, you can surely savour the delicious Swiss Cheese while touring around the magnificent Jakar Valley; thus, it got its name. Located in central-eastern part of the country, Bumthang can easily surpass any of the places to visit in Bhutan with its bountiful beauty and natural marvels. Jakars rugged terrains and challenging trails also earned it a fame among the adrenaline seekers. Whether outdoors or indoors, you would surely like every bit of this valley. Best Time to Visit: Spring (March May), Winter (December to February) Tourist Attractions: Jakar Dzong, Wangdicholing Palace, Kurje Lhakhang, Zangtopelri Lhakhang, Jambey Lhakhang, Lhodrak Kharchhu Lhakhang, Tamshing Gompa, Chakhar Lhakhang Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (309km / 9 Hours) Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) (563km / 16 Hours) Weather: Summer (June to August), Winter (December to February), Monsoon (September to November)

One of the most enchanting places to visit in Bhutan, Phobjikha Valley is a treat to every visitors eyes! A glacial valley, this is also the place where one can find the rare black-necked cranes in abundance. Unique from the rest of the Happy Kingdom, the valley showcases heart-warming cultures and is adorned with rich faunal biodiversity. Resembling much to the shape of a bowl, the grace of Phobjikha Valley is further enchanted by the great Black Mountains and endless expanses of evergreen fields. Irrespective of which month or season it is, one can always expect a surreal and serene experience in this valley; all these surely makes Phobjikha Valley one of the most sought-after places to see in Bhutan. Best Time to Visit: May, July, April Tourist Attractions: Black Necked Crane Informatino Centre, Gangtey Goemba, Damchen Lhakhang, Nyingma Dzogchen, Kuezang Chholing Shedra, Khewang Lhakhang, Kumbhu Lhakhang Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (173km / 5 Hours) Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) (427km / 11 Hours) Weather: Summer (June to July), Winter (December to February)

Spread across the length and breadth of Gasa District and some parts of Thimphu, Paro, Wangdue Phodrang, and Punakha, the enthralling Jigme Dorji National Park at 1, 400-1, 700m, is a natural home to many endangered and rare wildlife species. Flaunting its irresistible beauty across 4, 315sq.km, this reserved area is also a tough contender name in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to more than 30 wildlife species, the park also has several cultural sites within its perimeter. On a visit to Jigme Dorji National Park, one can easily spot Bengal Tiger, Snow Leopard, Takin, Clouded Leopard, and Himalayan Blue Sheep are some of the dominant inhabitants of this park. It also houses more than 300 different species of birds and an array of rare floral species. Jigme Dorji National Park has also become a favourite ground for trekkers opting for Jomolhari Trek, Snowman Trek, Lunana Trek and Gasa-Laya Trek. Best Time to Visit: Year-Round Destination Operational Hours: Monday to Friday (09:00AM 05:00PM) Non-Operational Hours: Weekends Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (161km / 5 Hours) Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) (415km / 12 Hours)

Located at the foothills of the great Himalayas and sharing border with an Indian town called Jaogaon, Phuntsholing or the Gateway to Bhutan, is a must visit place in the list of best places to visit in Bhutan! Owing to its proximity to the Indian territory, one can always expect a mix of crowd in this magnificent town. However, the town resonates Bhutans unique cultures and tradition in the most vivid ways. Located around 5-6 hours drive away from Thimphu and Paro, visitors from India, Bangladesh, and Maldives can reach this scenic town without any tourist visa. However, while crossing the border, national of these countries need to show valid ID proofs and seek entry permission. Best Time to Visit: Year-Round Destination Tourist Attractions: Bhutanese Gate, Karbandi Monastery, Chukha Hydrothermal Project, Amo Chouu, Zangtho Pelri Lhakhang Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (167km / 5 Hours) Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) (155km / 4 Hours) Weather: Summer (March to June), Winter (November to February), Monsoon (July to August)