May 16 marks the Sikkim Statehood Day in India. On this day in 1975, Sikkim became the 22nd state of the country. This year, Sikkim is celebrating 49 years of statehood. And here’s everything you need to know about this day and its significance. Also, to nudge your wanderlust soul a little, we have listed eight reasons why you need to add this beautiful state to your travel bucket list this year!
Sikkim State Day – History & Significance Of This Day
We all know that India was a land ruled by different dynasties and kingdoms. By 1947, as India gained independence, many princely states and kingdoms decided to join the country and became part of the nation. However, it wasn’t until 1975 that the monarchy was abolished from the North Eastern state of Sikkim. Palden Thondup Namgyal, the last Chogyal of Sikkim, stepped down when the people in the region voted in a referendum to make Sikkim a state of India.
That’s how, on May 16, 1975, Sikkim became the 22nd state of India. Under the leadership of local leader Lhendup Dorjee Khangsarpa, who then went on to become the state’s first Chief Minister, Sikkim became an indispensable part of the nation.
Greetings to the people of Sikkim on their Statehood Day. This state is known for its scenic beauty and hardworking people. Over the years, Sikkim has made a mark in organic farming. Our Government will keep working for the welfare of Sikkim in the times to come. I pray that the…
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 16, 2024
Sikkim initially became an ‘Associate State’ before it was a complete statehood status under the 36th Amendment to the Indian Constitution. The state is celebrating its 49th year of statehood this year. Known for the ancient traditions of its indigenous communities, the Sikkim State Day is important for the people in the state.
Greetings to the people of Sikkim on Statehood Day! Sikkim is blessed with sublime natural beauty manifested by snow-laden peaks, dense forests and waterfalls. Preserving their rich cultural heritage, the people of Sikkim have made significant contributions to the country’s…
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) May 16, 2024
To celebrate the day, President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to their official X (formerly Twitter) account to wish and deliver a special message to the people of Sikkim. The state’s Governor, Lakshman Acharya also extended his congratulations to the state for completing 49 years of statehood.
मेरा प्यारा सिक्किमे दाजुभाइ, दिदीबहिनीहरूलाई ४९औँ राज्य स्थापना दिवसको हार्दिक शुभकामना।
विकसित भारत @2047 को लक्ष्य हासिल गर्ने प्रतिबद्धताको साथमा, सिक्किमलाई प्रगति र समृद्धिको दिशा प्रदान गरि राष्ट्र निर्माणमा योगदान पुर्याऊ।
प्रगतिको पथमा अघि बढ्दा एकता र देशभक्तिको… pic.twitter.com/C62VOJiaNQ— लक्ष्मण प्रसाद आचार्य (Lakshman Prasad Acharya) (@Laxmanacharya54) May 16, 2024
Also Read: From Kerala’s Vagamon Glass Bridge To Sikkim’s Sky Walk Pelling, 4 Glass Bridges To Visit In India
8 Reasons To Add Sikkim To Your Travel Bucket List This Year
Now that you know a little more about Sikkim, here are eight reasons why you should definitely visit Sikkim this year –
- With five hot springs, 28 mountains, 227 high-attitude lakes, and more than 100 rivers, Sikkim is a nature lover’s paradise!
- Not only that, there are more than 80 glaciers in Sikkim that you can admire.
- The state has many monasteries where you can learn more about the Buddhist culture or just soak in the peaceful vibe there.
- Located on the Old Silk Route, Nathu La Pass is one of the biggest attractions in Sikkim and an absolute must-visit for its historical significance and beauty.
- You can visit the Khangchendzonga National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a delight for nature enthusiasts.
- To hog on mouth-watering food like Gya Thuk, Phagshapa, Sha Phaley, and of course, momos.
- To enjoy treks and indulge in activities like mountain biking and rock climbing.
- Hospitality and the people of Sikkim are one of the biggest reasons that you need to visit this state.
Are you inspired to visit this beautiful state yet? Let us know in the comments.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva
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