Step into the vibrant world of Sikkim! Since 2007, my blog has been a tribute to this beautiful land. Explore Sikkim's history, heritage, sports, cinema, and biodiversity. Discover captivating articles, old videos, cherished photographs and the latest news. Join me in celebrating the essence of Sikkim's culture and natural wonders. Welcome to the oldest running blog on Sikkim!
Welcome to Yumesamdong, also known as Zero Point. It is a mesmerizing tourist destination located in the heart of North Sikkim, India. This scenic spot is situated just 22 kilometres north of the famous Yumthang Valley, at a breathtaking altitude of 15,400 feet. Visitors can look forward to a once-in-a-lifetime experience amidst the stunning Himalayan wilderness.
Yumesamdong is a haven
for nature lovers, offering panoramic views of snow-clad peaks and pristine
landscapes that seem straight from a postcard. The journey to Zero Point is
an adventure in itself, with a one-hour drive from Yumthang Valley taking you
through winding mountain roads and picturesque valleys.
For the best experience,
plan your visit between April and May when the hillsides come alive with the
vibrant colours of rhododendron blooms. The entire route leading to Zero Point
transforms into a breathtaking display of nature's beauty, making it the perfect
backdrop for unforgettable memories.
However, it's best to
avoid visiting during December and January, as heavy snowfall can make travel to the region difficult and hazardous.
Whether you're a seasoned
traveller or an adventure enthusiast seeking to explore off-the-beaten-path
destinations, Yumesamdong promises an experience like no other. So pack your
bags, embark on an adventure, and discover the magic of Zero Point in North Sikkim.
Meenakshi Madan Rai made
history as the first Sikkimese woman appointed High Court Judge. Sworn in
on April 13, 2015, in Gangtok, the then Governor Shriniwas Patil administered
her oath.
Rai is the third Sikkimese to hold this position and the first female
Justice in the High Court of Sikkim. Previously, Justice AP Subba was the first
from Sikkim appointed to the High Court bench in October 2004, and Justice SP
Wangdi followed in June 2009.
This group photograph of the Teachers and the students of Government Senior Secondary School, Singtam dates back to 1966. The school then was more popular as Singtam High School.
06.04.24: Central
Referral Hospital (CRH) proudly welcomes Dr. Sunita Dhakal, Sikkim's first Head
& Neck Surgeon, to the Ear Nose & Throat (ENT) department. Holding a
Master of Surgery in Ear, Nose, and Throat, alongside a Master of Chirurgiae (M.Ch.)
in Head & Neck Surgery, Dr. Dhakal brings unparalleled expertise in cancers
of the oral cavity, maxilla, larynx, pharynx, thyroid, parotid, and
reconstructive surgeries of the head and neck.
Operating on Mondays and
Saturdays, she offers personalized consultations, integrating cutting-edge
techniques. With Dr. Dhakal's compassionate approach and advanced skills, CRH anticipates enhanced community service. Patients are invited to schedule
consultations to benefit from her expertise and CRH's state-of-the-art
facilities.
Rongli, March 9, 2024: The 4th Shiv Lata Free Educational Scholarship Event celebrated the exceptional accomplishments of Master Ayush Kumar Prasad and Miss Edlina Subba, who emerged as the top performers among the 24 participants in the scholarship exam held on February 17, 2024.
The event occurred at Riverine Elementary School, Melatar, Rongli, and was attended by distinguished officials, Shiv Lata family members, and Smt. Sabnam Golay, the school's Headmistress, served as the Chief Guest.
The scholarship is generously supported by the family members of Late Siba Narayan Pradhan and Late Nirlata Pradhan. Siba Narayan Pradhan, was a former Head-Sir of Middle English School, Rongli (now Kumari Pema Tsedeun Secondary School).
Smt. Sabnam Golay, the esteemed Headmistress of Kumari Pema Tseduen Government Secondary School, emphasized the significance of quality education and acknowledged the collective efforts of the family members of Late Siba Narayan Pradhan and Late Nirlata Pradhan in supporting the scholarship initiative.
The Shiv Lata Free Educational Scholarship stands as a prestigious initiative, students from Class V, irrespective of their school affiliation (government or private), are eligible to participate in the examination. The scholarship covers all educational expenses for the selected students, enabling them to enrol at Riverine Elementary School, Melatar, Rongli, from Class VI to Class VIII.
10.03.24: The Sikkim Government Retired Employees Welfare Association (SGREWA), Singtam Branch, expressed joy in honouring Shri Kunjilal Mintri of Om Himalayan Medical Hall, Singtam Bazaar.
Shri Mintri had been providing the SGREWA members 12% discount on medicines and a 10% discount on diagnostics.
Recognizing his commendable contribution to society as a thriving entrepreneur, SGREWA extends best wishes for sound health, continued success, and a flourishing career. Smt. Hansa Rai read the commendation, while Shri CP Pradhan presented the memento.
Further, in his speech, Shri Mintri thanked the members for the honour and shared his best practices in helping society, he further announced that he had increased the discounts of 15% on medicines.
The felicitation ceremony took place on March 8, 2024, with warm regards from the association's members at their office. SGREWA applauds individuals like Shri Kunjilal Mintri for their positive impact on the community.
04.03.24: Roshan Prasad, a renowned philatelist hailing from
Singtam, Sikkim, won the Large Silver award in the Literature Class at the
EPAEX 2024 Stamp Exhibition held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates for his
recently released book “The Stamp Chronicles – A Journey Through Philately”
which was released at the Sikkim Awards 2023 by the Honorable Chief Minister of
Sikkim, Shri Prem Singh Tamang (Golay).
The Exhibition was
organised by Emirates Philatelic Association between 28th February – 3rd March
2024 at Dragon Mart 2, Dubai to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of UAE – China
diplomatic relations and to promote philately in the region where 66
participants from 9 countries participated. Roshan earned 78 marks out of 100
to secure his position and win the Large Silver medal.
This is the second book
Prasad has written on Stamp Collection with the motive to provide the readers
with a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the world of postage stamps, encompassing
topics such as stamp collection, the history and evolution of postage stamps,
practical guidance on starting a stamp collection journey, essential
accessories, building an exhibit, philatelic material selection, and exhibition
standards, all while nurturing a deeper understanding of philatelic terminology
and knowledge through features like Stamp Recognizing, Global Renaming, and The
Stamp Quiz.
His book has also been
selected for the Specialized World Stamp Exhibition "EFIRO 2024"
organized by the Romanian Philatelic Federation in accordance with the Federation
Internationale de Philatelie (FIP) in Bucharest, Romania scheduled for April
2024.
Singtam, 14.02.24: The
prestigious GANGTOKPEX 2024 (Feb 7-8), organised by Sikkim Post and held at Sir
Tashi Namgyal Senior Secondary School, Gangtok concluded on a high note,
showcasing the extraordinary talent of philatelists from Sikkim and nearby region.
The Vermeil Medal, the highest honour in the senior category, was awarded to
Shital Pradhan from Singtam, Sikkim, for his captivating exhibit titled
"Sikkim Through Philately," earning an impressive 72 marks.
In the senior category,
Silver Medals were bestowed upon Deepen Pradhan (Rhenock - India Pre
Independence), Sushil Karthak(Siliguri
- Famous Indian), Anand Yonzone (Darjeeling - The Postal System), and Nilema
Yonzone (Darjeeling - Women Empowerment), each receiving 62 marks for their
outstanding contributions.
Bronze Medals were shared
by Ganesh Kumar Pradhan (Rhenock - Philatelic Exhibition in India / Special
Covers on Sikkim), Sishir Pradhan (World of Football), Sunita Gurung (Singtam -
Darjeeling Postal Collection / Special Covers on Sikkim), Sushil Karthak
(Siliguri - Rhino), Rubenn Pradhan (Rhenock - India Miniature Sheet), Shanti
Bhuzal (Rhenock - Biodiversity), Anirudh Sharma (Rhenock - Toy Train Through
Philately), and Bipul Bikas Das (Siliguri - Himalayas), with each participant
earning a commendable 57 marks.
In the Junior category,
young talents were recognized with Silver Medals awarded to Sumiran Tirwa,
Ekashray Tamang, Ujjalata Singh Sunwar, Nancy Gurung, and Avishu Pradhan for
their impressive exhibits. Meanwhile, Subasna Basnet, Sudarshan Rai, Aakriti Rai,
Albin Sohit Chettri, Meghna Sharma, Tanishka Pradhan, and Sidharth Rasaily
received well-deserved Bronze Medals.
The philatelic exhibition
featured the unveiling of the Special Cover on "Chyabrung - A Musical
Instrument of the Limboo Tribe of Sikkim," designed by Roshan Prasad, a
renowned philatelist from Sikkim. Additionally, a Philatelic Workshop and Quiz
Competition for students, hosted by the knowledgeable Vivek Yonzone, from
Darjeeling, added an educational and engaging dimension to the event. Deepen
Pradhan from Rhenock, Sikkim had designed the beautiful logo of GangtokPex
2024.
Ganesh Pradhan, President
of the Sikkim Philatelic Society, has congratulated the Sikkim Post for
successfully conducting the event. Pradhan further extended his congratulations
to the awardee participants.
Saramsa Garden in
Ranipool, Sikkim, is a beautiful botanical garden perfect for nature lovers.
Spread over acres of land, it's a haven of diverse plants from Sikkim and
beyond. You'll find all sorts of plants here, from colorful orchids to
medicinal ones and plenty of flowers.
The Garden is more popular these days for a best picnic destination to enjoy weekend holidays with family and friends. I have personally enjoyed this trip with my son and with newly installed playground item it is more enjoyable for kids. Pay Rs. 100 and enjoy the fun time at the Garden. Marriage parties and social function is other things that attract people to this place.
What makes Saramsa
special is its peaceful atmosphere and lovely pathways that wind through the
greenery. It's a great place for a relaxing stroll or to just sit and enjoy
nature's beauty. The garden also has a greenhouse where they take care of
delicate plants, making it even more interesting to explore.
Besides being a lovely
spot for visitors, Saramsa Garden is also an educational place. They organize
workshops and programs to teach people about plants and how to take care of
them. It's a fantastic opportunity to learn while being surrounded by the stunning
natural setting.
For anyone visiting
Sikkim, especially those who adore nature or want to learn more about plants,
Saramsa Garden is a must-visit. It's a peaceful escape filled with colorful
plants and a chance to discover the fascinating world of botany.
The distance from Gangtok
to Saramsa Garden in Ranipool, Sikkim, is approximately 14 kilometers (around 9
miles) by road. It's a relatively short drive and can take around 30-40
minutes, depending on the traffic and mode of transportation. Many visitors to
Gangtok often take a short trip to Saramsa Garden to enjoy its serene
environment and beautiful botanical offerings.