Skip to main content

Discovering North Sikkim


Kabi Longchok in North Sikkim – an annual shaman ceremony is held here in honor of the medicinal herbs

Description

North Sikkim is the least populated region, where the cultures of the Bhutias and Lepchas are still lived out in a very authentic way. The Bhutias and Lepchas take great pride in their culture, and Buddhist ceremonies play a very important role in their daily lives. On our journey through North Sikkim, we make a stop at Kabi Lungchok. The monoliths placed here by the indigenous people mark the brotherhood pact that the Lepchas made with the Bhutias who migrated from Tibet in the 15th century. This sacred site is still used by the Lepchas for their annual shamanic rituals honoring medicinal herbs.

The journey continues, passing terraced fields and the impressive “Seven Sisters” waterfall. On clear days, we are treated to a magnificent view of the surrounding mountains, including the 7000-meter Jomolhari peak, located on the Bhutan border. Finally, we visit the Labrang and Phodong monasteries as well as the ruins of the first government seat of the Chogyals. At Phodong monastery, you will visit the prayer hall and a small museum dedicated to the explorer Alexandra David Neel. In the monastery’s upper floor, you can also see an intricate depiction known as “Sangro Pelri” – a model symbolizing the different levels of the universe according to Tibetan Buddhist cosmology.

  • The steep mountain slopes of northern Sikkim are also terraced for rice cultivation.

    The steep mountain slopes of northern Sikkim are also terraced for rice cultivation.

  • Kloster Phodong in north Sikkim

    Kloster Phodong in north Sikkim

Program

Duration: 7 – 9 hours (approx. 5 hours driving; short hike approx. 35 minutes)

Included in the price:

  • Entry permit for guests and vehicle
  • Transfer in Toyota Innova or similar with experienced driver
  • Drinking water, snacks, hot tea
  • Lunch at a local restaurant
  • English-speaking local guide
  • Visits as described above

Price on request: Varies depending on the number of participants and season

Request

Gallery

A little collection of impressions that have been made on this journey.

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Discovering North Sikkim" 3

    Reisernte im Herbst in Nord-Sikkim

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Discovering North Sikkim" 5

    Die Architektur von Kloster Labrang ist aussergewöhnlich

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Discovering North Sikkim" 7

    Ruins of Sikkim’s first Royal Seat in Tumlong, North Sikkim

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Discovering North Sikkim" 9

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Discovering North Sikkim" 11

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA


More daytrips

Continue reading

Monastery Zurman Kharwang in Lingdum


On the terrace of the Zurman Kharwang monastery.

Description

The Lingdum Zurman Kharwang Monastery is an important spiritual center in the region and plays a significant role in the Buddhist community of Sikkim. It was founded in 1995 by His Holiness, the 12th Zurmang Gharwang Rinpoche, a prominent spiritual leader of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. The open-minded monastery also houses an active monk school. It is common to find young monks in the monastery courtyard memorizing the Tibetan alphabet.

Join us as we immerse ourselves in the world of monastic life. Visit the prayer hall and other rooms where various manifestations of protective deities from Tibetan cosmology are represented. Inside the colorful complex, murals depict important events from the life of Buddha. The open-minded monastery also has an active monk school, where young monks can often be found memorizing the Tibetan alphabet or reciting mantras (powerful prayers).

On occasion, you will have the opportunity to witness a prayer ceremony.

  • View from the monastery

    View from the monastery

  • The beautiful monastery

    The beautiful monastery

Program

Duration: 3 – 4 hours (Travel time: approximately 1 hour)

Included in the price:

  • All transfers in a Toyota Innova or similar vehicle
  • Drinking water
  • Lunch at the monastery restaurant
  • English-speaking local guide
  • Monastery tour, both exterior and interior
  • Opportunity to attend a prayer ceremony (if available)

Price on request: Varies depending on the number of participants, season, and qualifications of the travel companion

Request

Gallery

A little collection of impressions that await you.

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Monastery Zurman Kharwang in Lingdum" 15

    Mönche bei Abendzeremonie in Rumtek

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Monastery Zurman Kharwang in Lingdum" 17

    Gebetsfahnen Kloster Rumtek

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Monastery Zurman Kharwang in Lingdum" 19

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Monastery Zurman Kharwang in Lingdum" 21

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Monastery Zurman Kharwang in Lingdum" 23

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Monastery Zurman Kharwang in Lingdum" 25

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA


Other day trips

Continue reading

Rice Fields of Martam & Temi Tea Garden


Short

On this day trip, discover the extensive, terraced rice fields of Martam with us and visit Sikkim’s largest tea garden Temi. Meet the tea pickers and learn about the “green gold” in the oldest tea processing plant of Sikkim. Tea-tasting too may be arranged.

Request

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Rice Fields of Martam & Temi Tea Garden" 27

    bambooretreathotel-tagesausflug-lepcha-dorf1

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Rice Fields of Martam & Temi Tea Garden" 29

    bambooretreathotel-tagesausflug-lepcha-dorf2

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Rice Fields of Martam & Temi Tea Garden" 31

    bambooretreathotel-tagesausflug-lepcha-dorf3

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Rice Fields of Martam & Temi Tea Garden" 33

    bambooretreathotel-tagesausflug-lepcha-dorf4


Other Tours

Continue reading

Day trip to Lake Tsomgo


Tsomgo Lake not far from the border with Tibet

Description

The winding drive from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, to Tsomgo Lake, near the Tibetan border, is an unforgettable adventure. Over the course of about 3 hours, travelers will pass through breathtaking mountain landscapes and various vegetation zones. The lake is considered sacred by both Buddhists and Hindus, as evidenced by numerous prayer flags adorning the shore. “Tsomgo” in the language of the Bhutias means “source of the lake.”

As you ascend, the trees, bamboo, and plants become smaller, and eventually, you reach the tree line at an impressive altitude of 3,650 meters above sea level, transitioning into the sparse alpine vegetation. From May to August, primroses create colorful carpets on the barren meadows, and the rare Blue Poppy (Meconopsis) also flourishes here, stunning with its blue blooms.

Tsomgo Lake itself sits at an elevation of 3,780 meters above sea level. In spring, enjoy the beauty of blooming primroses, magnolias, and rhododendrons. Even in winter, the lake is worth a visit.

You can try a yak ride along the shore of the alpine lake or take a walk past food stalls and souvenir shops to the natural shore of the lake.

With our knowledgeable guide, embark on a hike (1 hour each way) to a viewpoint at around 4,250 meters above sea level and enjoy a breathtaking view of Mt. Kanchenjunga (depending on weather conditions). Alternatively, you can reach the viewpoint at 4,200 meters via the cable car or take the cable car for the return journey.

More information about Tsomgo Lake & Nathula: sikkim.ch

  • From the vantage point you can get a glimpse of the Tibetan plateau

    From the vantage point you can get a glimpse of the Tibetan plateau

  • During the winding journey on a well-maintained road, you will experience different vegetation zones

    During the winding journey on a well-maintained road, you will experience different vegetation zones

Program

Duration: 8 – 9 hours (6 hours of driving; hike and sightseeing: 2 – 3 hours)

Included in the price:

  • Transfers in Toyota Innova or similar vehicle with experienced driver and special permit
  • Entry permit
  • English-speaking local guide
  • Drinking water and hot lunch at a local restaurant
  • Hike to the viewpoint and return
  • Optional cable car ride
  • Option for Indian citizens: Additional drive via Baba Mandir to Nathula Pass, the border crossing between India and China. Get a glimpse of the Tibetan Plateau and see the Chinese and Indian border guards.

Price on request: Varies depending on the number of participants and season

Request

Galery

A little collection of impressions from this journey to Tsomgo Lake.

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Day trip to Lake Tsomgo" 37

    bambooretreathotel-besichtigung-gangtok5

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Day trip to Lake Tsomgo" 39

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Day trip to Lake Tsomgo" 41

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Day trip to Lake Tsomgo" 43

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Day trip to Lake Tsomgo" 45

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Day trip to Lake Tsomgo" 47

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA


Other day trips

Continue reading

Sightseeing tour of Gangtok


Traditional wood carving art in Gangtok

Description

We would be happy to arrange a personalized day trip to the capital of Sikkim for you. Please feel free to choose your areas of interest, and we will incorporate additional sightseeing or interactions for you.

  • Bazar Gangtok

    Bazar Gangtok

  • Do-Drul Chörten

    Do-Drul Chörten

Our standard program

You will drive to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, and visit the Institute of Tibetology. There you will find one of the most beautiful collections of Buddhist literature, as well as a large number of Thangkas, bronze figures, and religious artifacts. From there, the journey continues to Do-Drul Chörten, where pilgrims from Bhutan are often seen.

At the Cottage Industries Institute, traditional crafts are taught. Here, you can also find traditional wood carvings, textiles, and bamboo items for sale. We will visit the Mummy Temple located above Gangtok, from where we have a magnificent view of the Kangchenjunga massif. On foot, we will take a stroll through the Gangtok bazaar, enjoying the lively atmosphere, and perhaps even make a deal or two.

In spring, a visit to the flower exhibition, with numerous orchids in bloom, is also worthwhile.

  • Cottage Industries

    Cottage Industries

  • Institute of Tibetology

    Institute of Tibetology

Ideas for a customized day trip:

  • Children’s Village of Chongey (Human Development Foundation of Sikkim)
    Upon prior arrangement, cultural programs can also be organized here: dance performances by the students showcasing Lepcha, Bhutia, and Nepalese folklore.
  • Gangtok Zoo
  • Visit to traditional goldsmith
  • Bollywood movie in a local cinema
  • Hairdresser appointment
  • Facial treatment appointment at a beauty salon

Duration: 6–8 hours; drive approximately 2.5–3 hours.

Included in the price:

  • Transfers in a Toyota Innova or similar
  • Local English-speaking tour guide
  • Drinking water
  • Entrance fees as described

Price upon request: Varies depending on the number of participants and season – contact us at: bookings@bambooretreat.in and info@sikkim.ch

Request

Gallery

A little collection of impressions from this journey around Gangtok.

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Sightseeing tour of Gangtok" 53

    bambooretreathotel-besichtigung-gangtok5

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Sightseeing tour of Gangtok" 55

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Sightseeing tour of Gangtok" 57

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Sightseeing tour of Gangtok" 59

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Sightseeing tour of Gangtok" 61

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA


Other day trips

Continue reading

Jungle Trekking to Viewpoint in Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary


The green splendor of the Fambong Lho area

Description

This one-day trek from/to Bamboo Retreat Hotel takes you into the Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary, with its pristine jungle and stunning views of Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan giants.

The Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 52 square kilometers. The famous Rumtek Monastery is located on the southeastern border of the reserve. The snow-capped mountain ranges of Kanchenjunga are clearly visible from the starting point of the trek, in the northwestern part of the reserve.

In the morning, we drive to the trekking starting point at about 2,100 meters above sea level in Golitar. From there, we begin a varied hike through the rich jungle and changing vegetation to a viewpoint, our destination for the day. At around 2,300 meters, weather permitting, we will enjoy a breathtaking view of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Narsing, Mt. Tenzingkhang, and Mt. Jupono.

Along the way, we will experience a diverse range of vegetation. The main vegetation of the forest we hike through includes oaks, Quercus sp. (Nepali: Katus), Castanopsis sp. (Nepali: Champ), Michelia sp. (Nepali: Kawlo), Machilus sp. (Nepali: Kimbu), Morus sp. (Mulberry trees), dense bamboo forests, numerous fern species, and a solitary Tsuga dumosa fir tree in Tinjure. Additionally, tree ferns like Cyathea sp., Rhododendron arboreum, mixed with Lyonia ovalifolia (Nepali: Angeri), are found here. The sanctuary also houses a large number of wild orchids, mosses, and Lycopodium sp.

This diverse vegetation provides a habitat for a wide variety of wildlife, including the Goral, Muntjak, Himalayan Black Bear, Red Panda, Weasel, Marten, Leopard Cat, Jungle Cat, Marble Cat, Large Indian Civet, Palm Civet, and Sloth Bear.
Bird species found here include pheasants such as the Satyr Tragopan and Kalij Pheasant, quails, Brown Wood Owl, Collared Scops Owl, Yellow-billed Blue Magpie, Black Eagle, Green Pigeon, Long-tailed Parakeet, Yellow-bridled Sunbird, Collared Grosbeak, Brown Oriole, Orange-bellied Chloropsis, Red-tailed Minla, Nepal Treecreeper, Oriental White-eye, Laughing Thrush, and Tits.

  • The route leads through dense vegetation and extensive forests to a secluded viewpoint

    The route leads through dense vegetation and extensive forests to a secluded viewpoint

  • Wild natural landscapes are home to a wide variety of bird and mammal species

    Wild natural landscapes are home to a wide variety of bird and mammal species

Program

Duration: 6 – 9 hours (3 hours driving; hiking: 3 – 6 hours depending on fitness and route)

Best time to visit: December to April

Included in the price:

  • Transfer in Toyota Innova or similar vehicle with experienced driver
  • Trekking permit and entry to the sanctuary, with the accompaniment of a wildlife ranger or guide
  • English-speaking local guide
  • Packed lunch, snacks, hot tea, and drinking water
  • First aid kit

Optional extension with overnight stay: We can also offer this trek as a two-day trekking tour, including an overnight stay in a forest house above the village of Tumin.

Price on request: Varies depending on the number of participants and season

Request

Galery

A little collection of impressions that have been made on this journey.

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Jungle Trekking to Viewpoint in Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary" 65

    bambooretreathotel-besichtigung-gangtok5

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Jungle Trekking to Viewpoint in Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary" 67

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Jungle Trekking to Viewpoint in Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary" 69

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA


More daytrips

Continue reading

Monasteries of Rumtek


New monastery in Rumtek

Description

Immerse yourself in the Buddhist heritage of Sikkim and join us on a visit to the two Kagyu monasteries of Rumtek. Your guide will explain the different schools of Buddhism and the significance of the Buddhist murals, statues, and symbols. You will gain deep insights into the life of the monks at the monastery.

If possible, we will allow you to experience a “Puja”: a religious ceremony where monks or devotees invoke spiritual powers through prayers, chants, offerings, and rituals to attain prosperity, healing, protection, or enlightenment.

Both monasteries host mask dance festivals in winter. We are happy to provide information on the anticipated dates.
Optionally, you can end the day with a walk from the nunnery to the Bamboo Retreat Hotel.

The new monastery

The new Rumtek Monastery, also known as the Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre, was built in 1966 in Tibetan style under the leadership of the 16th Karmapa, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje. After the Karmapa fled Tibet, the Chogyal (King of Sikkim) offered him asylum and support to build a new monastery. It is one of the most significant Buddhist monasteries in Sikkim and the main monastery of the Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism in India. It houses the Golden Shrine, which displays statues of the Karmapa reincarnations, and is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide. The monastery holds great religious significance and is also a center for Buddhist studies and practices. During the lifetime of the 16th Karmapa, it was an important pilgrimage destination for Tibetan Buddhists from around the world. The Karmapa is one of the most important reincarnations in Tibetan Buddhism and the head of the Karma Kagyu school, one of the four main branches of Tibetan Buddhism. The Dalai Lama is the head of the Gelugpa (Yellow Hat) tradition. Your guide will also show you the “Golden Shrine,” the most important sanctuary in the main Rumtek Monastery, where all previous Karmapa reincarnations are represented with statues.

  • New monastery Rumtek

    New monastery Rumtek

  • Monk reciting a prayer

    Monk reciting a prayer

The old monastery

The old Rumtek Monastery, founded in 1734, is situated on a picturesque hill and radiates a peaceful, meditative atmosphere. It was originally the main monastery of the Kagyu tradition in Sikkim before the new monastery was built. It is a less-visited site compared to the new monastery, but it holds significant historical and spiritual importance. Visitors can experience its simpler, original architecture and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. The monastery is also known for its impressive views of the surrounding landscape and occasional religious ceremonies.

Olt monastery Rumtek

Olt monastery Rumtek

Program

Duration: 4 – 6 hours (Travel time: approx. 1 hour)

Included in the price:

  • Transport to the Rumtek monasteries with entrance fees
  • Accompaniment by an English-speaking local, expert guide
  • Drinking water and lunch (either packed or at a local restaurant)
  • Sightseeing as per description, including the “Golden Stupa”
  • Opportunity to experience a prayer ceremony

Optional:

  • Guided walk from the Rumtek Nunnery to the Bamboo Retreat Hotel
  • Visit to the Rumtek Nunnery
  • Arrangement of a “Puja” tailored to your needs, performed by one or more monks in the meditation room of the Bamboo Retreat Hotel

Price on request: Varies depending on the number of participants, season, and qualifications of the guide.

Request

Gallery

A collection of impressions that await you in Rumtek.

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Monasteries of Rumtek" 74

    Mönche bei Abendzeremonie in Rumtek

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Monasteries of Rumtek" 76

    Gebetsfahnen Kloster Rumtek

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Monasteries of Rumtek" 78

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Monasteries of Rumtek" 80

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Monasteries of Rumtek" 82

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Monasteries of Rumtek" 84

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA


Weitere Tagesausflüge

Continue reading

Cultural experience in the Lepcha village


Lepcha shaman at a protection and purification ceremony in Sikkim

Description

Experience the rich cultural heritage of Sikkim’s indigenous people, the Lepchas, and gain insights into rural life.

After breakfast, we embark on a hike along narrow paths through terraced rice fields to a small indigenous village. Depending on the season, various fieldwork activities are carried out: from plowing the fields with oxen in spring to planting rice seedlings, irrigating the rice fields, and harvesting rice in the autumn. This hike offers year-round fascinating glimpses into village and rural life.

Afterward, a short drive takes us to another Lepcha village, where we can see an old Lepcha house built on stilts. In a village house, we are invited to join the village shaman for a ceremony. We experience a welcoming and protection ritual and enjoy a cup of tea together.
Finally, we visit the “Lingdum Zurman Kharwang” monastery. Inside this colorful complex, the murals depict important events in the life of the Buddha. The monastery also houses an active monk school, and young monks can often be seen memorizing the Tibetan alphabet or reciting mantras (powerful prayers).

In the full-day version, we will take an extended hike through the rural area. We will ascend to the village of Rey. On the way back to the Bamboo Retreat Hotel, we may visit the village monastery, a typical rural house, a school, and a small dairy farm.

  • Short hike on terraced rice fields in the fall

    Short hike on terraced rice fields in the fall

  • Sometimes the ceremony takes place in a village house...

    Sometimes the ceremony takes place in a village house…

  • Traditionally, the cows are fed cut branches of leaves

    Traditionally, the cows are fed cut branches of leaves

  • Typical Lepcha house on stilts

    Typical Lepcha house on stilts

Program: Option 1

Duration: 3 – 4 hours (hike approx. 1 hour; drive approx. 40 minutes)

Included in the price:

  • All transfers in a Toyota Innova or similar vehicle
  • Drinking water
  • English-speaking guide
  • Short hike from Bamboo Retreat Hotel
  • Village walk / traditional houses and a Lepcha house on stilts
  • Shamanic ceremony with typical Lepcha snacks and millet beer in a village house or outdoors
  • Visit to the “Lingdum Zurman Kharwang” monastery

Price on request: Varies depending on the number of participants and season

Program: Option 2

Duration: 6 – 8 hours (hike approx. 3 hours; drive approx. 40 minutes)

Included in the price:

  • All services included in the half-day program, plus:
  • Visit to a local school (depending on the season)
  • Visit to the village Buddhist temple
  • Lepcha cultural program with folk dances, songs, and/or instrumental performances
  • Ethnic Lepcha lunch

Price on request: Varies depending on the number of participants and season

Request

Gallery

A little collection of impressions that have been made on this journey.

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Cultural experience in the Lepcha village" 90

    bambooretreathotel-besichtigung-gangtok5

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Cultural experience in the Lepcha village" 92

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Cultural experience in the Lepcha village" 94

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Cultural experience in the Lepcha village" 96

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Cultural experience in the Lepcha village" 98

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

  • Bamboo Retreat Hotel - image "Cultural experience in the Lepcha village" 100

    OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA


More daytrips

Continue reading