In April 2023, my wife, Dr. Farheen Khan Anika, and I embarked on a five-day tour to Sikkim, India's greenest state. Our journey began on April 26th, departing from Dhaka, with a plan to reach Kolkata the next day. The trip involved crossing the Benapole land border, a process that took nearly nine hours to clear, largely due to the influx of Bangladeshi tourists traveling for Eid-ul-Fitr.

The immigration process was both exhausting and time-consuming. Standing in a long queue under the scorching 40°C heat only added to the challenge. Nevertheless, we made it safely to Kolkata, arriving around 6:00 PM on April 27th. We stayed at Hotel Angina on Marquis Street, which cost us 2,500 rupees per night. While the hotel wasn’t extraordinary, it was one of the few available options, as most hotels in Kolkata were fully booked by other tourists from Bangladesh.

The next day, we explored Kolkata and indulged in some shopping at the New Market, where we found products much cheaper than those in Dhaka. Having planned ahead, we had booked rail tickets for April 29th, from Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri (NJP), a key rail junction for the northeastern states of India.

We arrived at the iconic Howrah Railway Station at 5:00 AM for our 5:55 AM journey on the newly inaugurated Vande Bharat Express. This high-speed train dramatically shortened the 550-kilometer trip from Kolkata to NJP, reducing the travel time from nearly 10–11 hours to just around 7 hours. The experience was nothing short of amazing. The train's modern design, impeccable service, and comfort made the journey a pleasure. Kudos to the Indian Railways for such a remarkable initiative!

We arrived at New Jalpaiguri (NJP) around 1:15 PM. After disembarking, our first task was to find the international ticket counter and secure our return journey to Bangladesh via the "Mitali Express." This newly launched train service connects Dhaka and NJP twice a week, offering a convenient option for cross-border travel. With our tickets confirmed, we hired a taxi from the NJP taxi stand and set off on our journey to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.

Our taxi departed at around 2:45 PM, and after nearly four hours on the road, we reached Rango Check Post at 6:45 PM, where we obtained our Inner Line Permit from the Sikkim State Government. From there, we continued toward Gangtok, winding through the hilly, zigzag roads. The lush green hills, rivers, and breathtaking landscapes made the journey utterly captivating, filling our hearts with joy. Despite having traveled for more than 17 hours by that point, the natural beauty kept us energized. Finally, at around 9:00 PM, we arrived in Gangtok, greeted by a downpour of rain that added a touch of mystique to the place.

During our stay in Gangtok, we lodged at the "Hotel Golden Pagoda," a significant upgrade compared to our accommodation in Kolkata. Our room, complete with a large window offering a panoramic view of the hills, cost us 2,500 rupees per night. The next morning, we set out to explore the city's
many attractions.

Our first stop was MG Marg, the bustling market area. It was impressively clean, with the streets paved in decorative tiles and lined with branded shops. From there, we ventured to the Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park, a serene place filled with greenery, plants, and trees, offering a glimpse of Sikkim's natural beauty. We also visited the Bakthang Waterfall, Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary, and the beautiful Saramsa Garden., normal, The following day, we continued our adventures with trips to Ban Jhakri Falls Park, Ganesh Tok, and the Nehru Botanical Garden.

MG Marg (Mahatma Gandhi Road):
MG Marg is the heart of Gangtok’s shopping district, known for its cleanliness, organization, and the vibrancy of its surroundings. The street is pedestrian-only, lined with decorative tiles, and adorned with benches and street lamps, giving it a quaint European feel. It is a haven for shoppers and tourists alike, with branded stores, cafes, and souvenir shops adding to the experience. The absence of litter and honking vehicles makes it a perfect place to stroll and take in the lively ambiance of the city.

Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park:
This zoo is a peaceful retreat spread over 205 hectares, located at an altitude of about 5,840 feet, offering a natural habitat for its inhabitants. The park’s layout mimics the natural surroundings of the animals, giving them ample space to roam freely. You can spot rare species like the red panda, Himalayan black bear, and snow leopard here. The lush greenery, the presence of towering trees, and the tranquil atmosphere make it a great place to connect with nature.

Bakthang Waterfall:
A scenic spot just a few kilometers from Gangtok, Bakthang Waterfall is a beautiful cascade of water flowing down a rocky cliff amidst lush greenery. The waterfall is easily accessible and offers a great backdrop for photography. Visitors often enjoy the fresh air and the cooling mist from the falls while standing on the footbridge that crosses the stream. It’s a great place to relax, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and admire the serene landscape.

Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary:
This sanctuary is a hidden gem for nature lovers, located about 20 kilometers from Gangtok. The dense forest is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including rare orchids, rhododendrons, and large ferns. The sanctuary also houses animals like the Himalayan black bear, red panda, and various species of birds. Its rich biodiversity and pristine environment offer an opportunity to enjoy nature walks, bird watching, and the scenic beauty of the hills.

Saramsa Garden:
Known as the "Ipecac Garden," Saramsa Garden is a peaceful haven located around 14 kilometers from Gangtok. Established in the mid-20th century, it was originally intended for growing medicinal plants but has since evolved into a recreational park with a stunning variety of flora. The expansive green lawns, colorful flowerbeds, and walking paths make it an ideal spot for relaxation and picnics. The well-maintained garden is a favorite destination for those looking to unwind amidst nature.

Ban Jhakri Falls Park:
Situated around 10 kilometers from Gangtok, this park is built around a 100-foot waterfall cascading down a rocky slope. The park is themed around the local shamanic traditions of the Ban Jhakri, or “forest healers,” and features various sculptures depicting shamanic healing rituals. The surrounding landscaped gardens, gazebos, and energy spots make it a picturesque spot to visit. The peaceful sounds of the waterfall, combined with the cultural displays, create a unique atmosphere.

Ganesh Tok:
Perched at a height of 6,500 feet, Ganesh Tok is a small temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. The temple offers breathtaking panoramic views of Gangtok and the surrounding mountain ranges. A viewing area adjacent to the temple allows visitors to see the distant snow-capped peaks of Kanchenjunga on clear days. The calm, spiritual ambiance of the temple, combined with the fresh mountain air, makes it a peaceful retreat for travelers.

Nehru Botanical Garden:
Located near Rumtek Monastery, this botanical garden is spread over a vast area and features a wide variety of rare and indigenous plants, including several species of orchids. The garden is well-maintained, with winding paths, shaded seating areas, and picturesque views of the surrounding hills. It’s a perfect place for a leisurely stroll while admiring the beauty of Sikkim’s flora and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

The weather in Gangtok was pleasant, with daytime temperatures around 23°C and nighttime cooling to 12°C—perfect for exploring the city.

Our time in Gangtok was filled with joy and positive experiences, and we returned to Dhaka with hearts full of cherished memories from this enchanting corner of India.