Proud to be a Sikkimese: Sikkim Travel, Culture & Local Heritage

Tendong Hill is a legendary name in Sikkimese culture, steeped in history and spirituality. Rising 8,350 feet in the Himalayas, it is located about 20 kilometers from the town of Namchi. This sacred mountain holds a special place in the hearts of the Lepcha people, who share a powerful story of survival—the tale of the great flood, a legacy echoed in cultures worldwide. Today, Tendong is celebrated during the Tenmdong Alho Rum Faat Festival , a beautiful occasion of gratitude for the mountain’s protection during that devastating deluge. I had been searching for the oldest published reference to this story when I discovered an account from Among the Himalayas by Major L.A. Waddell, published in 1900. This tale highlights the connection between the Sikkimese people and their natural surroundings. Long ago, when only the Rong (or Lepchas) inhabited this land, a terrible flood struck. The waters rose swiftly, drowning everyone in the valleys and covering all the mountains except for two: ...

Sikkim Express Council of Ministers to contribute 1 month’s salary each GANGTOK, August 31: Sikkim government has decided to contribute an aid of Rs.1 crore to relief and rehabilitation works of those affected by the massive floods at Bihar. This decision was reached during a Cabinet meeting held yesterday where deep and heartfelt sympathies towards all the families of those who have lost their lives, properties and homes was recorded on behalf of Sikkimese people and the State government. The Cabinet, which observed two minutes’ silence in memory of those who lost their lives during the floods has also decided to contribute an amount of Rs.1 crore on behalf of the people and Government of Sikkim towards the relief and rehabilita...