Good evening ……… I am..........................

Bhim Thatal

Joint Secretary and Sub Divisional

Magistrate State Resource

Person for RTI Act, 2005 Government of Sikkim

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Tourism Perspective and Socio-Cultural Scenario of Sikkim

April 10, 2023 2

Sikkim Insignia

April 10, 2023 3

Map of Sikkim

April 10, 2023 4

Tourism Perspective and Socio Cultural Scenario of Sikkim

Contents: Brief Introduction, Geography and History

of Sikkim Cultural Evolution Ethnic Communities of Sikkim : Origin, Language, Tradition,

Food Habit, Marriage, Death Customs and Festivals Social and Cultural practices

of the Sikkimese people Tourism Perspective Some Pictorial Tour of Sikkim

April 10, 2023 5

Sikkim: A brief profile

Became a part of Indian Union in on May 16, 1975, as 22nd State under 36thAmendment to the Constitution of India35th and 36th Amendment.doc

Special status under Article 371(F) Geographical location: In the Eastern Himalayan

region extending approximately 114 km from North to South and 64 km. from East to West, total geographical area 7096 sq. km.

Situated between 8800 00’ 58” and 880 0 55’ 25” East longitudes and 270 00’ 46" and 280 07’ 48” North latitudes. Population: 607,688

(6.1 Lakhs). 41 Administrative

Departments

Mt KanchenjungaApril 10, 2023 6

Sex ratio of over 980 females per 1000 males. Four Districts:North, East, West and South with Mangan,

Gangtok, Geysing and Namchi as headquarters 16 sub divisions, 32 BACs, 100 Territorial Panchayats,

about 160 Gram Panchayats, 03 ULBs, 32 Assemby 01 and each of Lok Sabha & Rajya Sabha Constituencies.

Per Capita GSDP 37553 against 37490 of India (2008-09). Literacy rate over 85%. BPL rate 13.03%.

Demdrobium Nobile aka ground orchid-State flower

Rhododendron (rhododendron

nevium)-State tree.

Red Panda (arilus fulgens)-

State animal.

April 10, 2023 7

Over 550 varieties of orchids, over 35 varieties of rhododendron, fauna of Himalayan, Tibetan, Indian and alpine habitat. One of the hottest biodiversity spots of the world.

Major languages Nepali, Bhutia, Lepcha, Limboo, Magar, Rai, Gurung, Sherpa, Tamang, Newari, Sunuwar (Mukhia) English, Nepali official languages

Hindi, Bhojpuri, Bangali in business and labour classes.

Nepali- lingua franca of Sikkim. Main religions Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity,

Islam Major occupation: Govt. employment backbone of

local economy Blooming sectors: agriculture, horticulture

floriculture cardamom, ginger, orange, apple, vegetables, orchid, gerbera, gladiolus respectively.  

April 10, 2023 8

History of Sikkim Limbu, Lepcha, and Bhutia – and their close relatives – Kiranti and Tibetans –live in  Nepal,  Tibet, Bhutan, and neighboring States of India. The  Lepchas earliest ethnic group settled in  Sikkim by 13th century from Assam hills before the arrival of Tibetan Bhutias. The Bhutias, immigrants to Sikkim claimed descent

from a common ancestor, a Khampa chief named Khye-bum-sar, and were divided into fourteen main families.

Lepcha- Tibetan relationship begins in 13th century with the signing of a blood brotherhood by the Lepcha Chief Thekong Tek and the Tibetan Prince Khye Bumsa at Kabi Lungchok in North Sikkim.

The Bhutias introduced Buddhism to the region. April 10, 2023 9

In 1642, the Bhutia established a monarchy

headed by the Chogyal (meaning the divine king) and opened relations with Tibet.

The Limbu people (also known as Tshong, Subba, and Yakthungba) are Kiranti people, and are also indigenous group to populate Sikkim.

Around 1819, the Lepchas were still the most numerous populations, comprising roughly half of all Sikkimese, followed by Bhutias (30%) and Limbus (20%)

The Limbu frequently intermarried with the Lepcha

Nomenclature of Sikkim: Denzong, Renzong, Su-him

April 10, 2023 10

Large scale immigration of Nepalis in 1890’s and

the early 1900’s, encouraged by colonial landlords to raise rents in densely forested Sikkim. Indigenous groups pressed the British Empire to stop such settlement on Lepcha and Bhutia lands.

Nepalese population constituted a majority, and indigenous populations amalgamated into a composite Lepcha-Bhutia socio-ethnic group.

Discrimination between the heterogeneous Nepalese and other groups became social issue. The Chogyal strove to treat all subjects equally as citizens, and allowed democratic changes to move forward. These democratic and demographic changes culminated in a plebiscite in 1974, resulting in union with India as a State.April 10, 2023 11

Palden Thendup Namgyal and Queen Hopecooke

The Last Chogyal of Sikkim

April 10, 202312

History and Origin of Sikkim - the

earliest inhabitants originating from Mayel, a legendary kingdom on the slopes of Khangchendzonga, better known as Rong Pa or Mutanchi, they were the most beloved children of Mother Earth.

Legend to the rule of Lepchas in Sikkim. Khey Bumsa couple of Minyak

Lepchas called Sikkim as Nelyang or 'The place of caves'. Sometimes as Myel Lyang, meaning "The Land of Hidden Paradise or the Delightful Region.“

The Bhutias called it Beyul Demazong or "The Hidden Valley of Rice.” April 10, 2023 13

Folklore says:Tensung Namgyal married three

wives, a Tibetan, a Bhutanese and a Limbu girl. His third wife was the daughter of Limbu Chief. She thus brought seven maidens with her who were married into leading families of Sikkim. These Limbu maidens used to refer to the place as 'Sukhim' or "bride's new house." Later on, the Nepalis coming to Sikkim found themselves unable to relate to Limbu pronouncement and thus corrupted the name to Sukkhim which underwent further distortion under British rule and became Sikkim.The Namgyal dynasty ruled over Sikkim for about 332 years. It was only after the Treaty of Sigoli, that Sikkim acquired the status of an independent province. It was added to India as an associate State in 1975 and gradually attained full Statehood.

April 10, 2023 14

Land Once Sikkim extended fromTegon pass in the east

to Arun River in the west, Tibet in the north to Kishenganj in Purnea in the south. Bhutan and Nepal in the 18th and 19th centuries, fickleness of Tibet and covetous eyes of the British reduced Sikkim to 114 km north-south and 64 km east-west. The smallest states in the country, yet tiny its characteristic, unique and beautiful.

Rising Singalila range to the west, lofty Chola range to the north-east and south-east, and the Pangola range to the east. Passes or la viz; the Chola range, Nathula or the pass of the listening ear, Jelepla or the smooth beautiful pass and Chola or the principal pass, it being the main pass between Chumbi and Sikkim April 10, 2023 15

Chorten Nyimala, Nakula, Thankala, Sebula (cold pass) Kongrala (exalted lady) Donkiala ( where wild yaks freeze) all leading to China. Nepal opens at Singalila (pass of the wild alder) also called Chiwabhanjyang or the hollow where one peeps over, Kangla-Nangmala and Gochala in the west. Richila and Pangola, passes to Bhutan in the east.

Above Singalila range rise Mount Khangchendzonga at 28,156 ft. Khangchendzonga meaning the five treasures of the great snow for its five peaks as repository gold, silver, gems, grains and holy books, residence of the deity Dzonga bound by oath to look over and protect the land from evil for which he was to be propitiated every year. Pang Lhabsol marks the occasion. 

Glaciers :Zemu, Rathong, Lhonak. River Teesta (Rongyu; the straight one) from the lake Tsolhamu along the Lhonak Chhu, Zemu Chhu, Lachung Chhu, Tholung Chhu, Bakcha Chhu, Rong-ni Chhu (also called Rani Khola), Rangpo Chhu river Rangit also called Rongnyit. April 10, 2023 16

Rangit origin-Rathong glacier, tributary the river Rammam

Lakes or Tso in Sikkim:Tsolhamu, Guru Dongmar, Gyamtsona, Mementso, Tsomgo, Khoechoepalri, Laxmipokhari, Ometso, Mulathinkhatso (Green Lake) and Dalapchen Lake, scenic and sacred. Guru Dongmar & Khoechoepalri said to have been visited and blessed by Guru Padma Sambhava. Birds to keep lake clean and not a leaf from the adjoining trees falls into the water as they get carried off by them. Tsomgo, most visited and snapped.

Caves or Phu earlier shelter, later retreats for meditation by the ascetics. 27 caves blessed by Guru Padma Sambhava where he hid sacred relics, texts and treasures. Lharinyingphu, Khandrusangphu, Sharchokpephu and Dechenphu sacred, assumed to be the four cardinal points of Sikkim of which Tashiding is considered to be the centre.

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Lharinyingphu (cave of the God’s precious heart) in

west, text of Rigzin Srogsgrub. Khandrusangphu (cave of the occult fairies) just next to the hot springs at Reshi. In the east lies Sharchokpephu (the secret cave). In South Sikkim, Tendong and Maenam. Dechenphu (cave of great happiness) in Dzongri, western point, visiting this cave believed to have high spiritual attainment.

Therapeutic and medicinal values of the hot springs called Tshachhu. About 9 hot springs in Sikkim considered sacred. Phurtshachhu at Reshi and Ranglop Tshachhu at Borong are the hot springs in South Sikkim. West Sikkim has Gangyap Tshachhu while North Sikkim leads the way with Yumasamdong Tshachhu, Yumthang Tshachhu, Tarum Tshachhu, Zee Tshachhu, Shagyon Phedok Tshachhu and Tholung Tshachhu.

April 10, 2023 18

Cultural Evolution: Three ethnic communities convergence Lepchas: shifting cultivation with hunting,

fishing, extensive knowledge of forest, mountains, nature and exploited it well. Animist by faith, afraid of calamities, worshipped malignant spirits

Managed society with local chieftians until Tibetans came into the scene in 15th century

Bhutias: Historical descendants of the Yello Hat and Red Hat war in Tibet. Red Hat migrated to Sikkim from Tibet bringing Tibetan culture, language, lamaist Buddhism, pastoral and semi-settled agriculture, especially in the far north of Sikkim: came to be known as Bhutias.

April 10, 2023 19

Establishment of Chogyal Dynasty

Mid 17th century : Namgyal Dynasty established. 1642

Chogyal: Tibetan by stock, consecrated king with consent of Lepchas. Centralised feudal bureaucracy on Tibetan lines. Though Ministers from chieftians and immigrant Bhutias were nominated, system was centralised.

Chogyals of Sikkim.doc Other ethnic community to join the history was

the Nepalese. Nepalese consist of the Bahuns, Chhetris, Rai-

Kirat, Limboo, Tamang, Magar, Gurung, Mukhia and others

April 10, 2023 20

Although British did not rule Sikkim practically, they made it as their hill resort: influenced society with links with the Chogyal, influenced politics and introduced western culture and practices

Darjeeling gifted to British EIC by the Chogyal in 1835.

Registration of Sikkim Subject Certificate started 1961.

Documentation language mostly Nepali Democratic dissent started in early 70’s 1973 public uprising against Kazi’s atrocity and in

favour of democratic rule Referendum in 1974 Merger in 1975 Article 371(F)Article 371 Article 371F.doc

Sikkim and its Merger with India

April 10, 2023 21

Protectorate State Referendum Merger 38th Constitutional Amendment and

Article 371 (F) Special Status

Historical Development and Merger

April 10, 2023 22

Protectorate Status

Indo Sikkim Treaty of 1950 between the Maharaja of Sikkim Tashi Namgyal and Politcal Officer Harishwar Dayal

Sikkim shall continue to be a protectorate of India

The Government of India responsible for the defence and territorial integrity of Sikkim. In particular, the Government of India shall have the right to station troops anywhere within Sikkim in consultation with the Government of Sikkim. Sikkim shall not import any arms ammunitions, military stores or store other warlike materials without the previous consent of the Government of India.

April 10, 2023 23

Sikkim Subjects shall have the right of entry

into and free movement within India, and Indian nationals shall have the right of entry into and free movement within Sikkim.

Indian nationals shall have: (a) The right to carry on trade and commerce in Sikkim; and (b) When established in any trade in Sikkim, the right to acquire, hold and dispose of any property, movable or immovable, for the purposes of their trade or residence in Sikkim.

Subjects of Sikkim shall have the same right; (i) to carry on trade and commerce in India, employment; and (ii) of acquiring, holding and disposing of property, movable & immovable as Indian nationals.

April 10, 2023 24

Palden Thondup Namgyal became the twelfth and the last Chogyal in 1963. General elections held in 1967, 1970 and 1973. 1973 elections saw widespread protests as political parties accused the govt of poll rigging. To resolve the issue, the Indian government intervened and a Tripartite agreement was signed on May 08, 1973. As per the agreement signed between the Chogyal, Government of India and the political parties’ power was devolved ensuring greater legislative and executive powers.

One of the fallouts of the Tripartite Agreement: Country divided into 31 constituencies, with 1 seat for the Sangha. Subsequent 1974 General election saw Sikkim Janata Congress sweeping the polls with Kazi Lhendup Dorjee at its helm.

April 10, 2023 25

With the Government of Sikkim pressing for closer ties with India and the Indian Parliament passing the 35th Amendment, Sikkim became an Associate State on 5

September 1974. Sikkim was merged with India with the

passing of the 36th Constitutional Amendment on 16 May 1975, becoming its 22nd state.

Kazi Lhendup Dorjee became the state’s first Chief Minister.

Post 1975 there has been seven general elections in the state. Kazi Lhendup Dorjee was followed by Nar Bahadur Bhandari, B. B. Gooroong and Sanchaman Limbu. The present Chief Minister of Sikkim is Pawan Chamling who is now completing his fourth term. April 10, 2023 26

April 10, 2023 27

Ethnic Communities of Sikkim: Origin, Language, Traditions, Food Habits, Cultural Rites

The Lepchas: Meaning and Scope

Lepcha: nomenclature by Nepalese; Lep: speech; cha: unintelligible; unintelligible speaker

Rongpa: Ravine dweller Also, as per Dr Suniti Kumar Chatterjee,

Lepchas are Kirati (Nepali sub tribe); Parrungo-Sumenima had three sons, Lepcha, Jimdar and Meche

Like to be called Mutanchi Rong Kun Rong kup: meaning beloved sons of beloved Mother of Creation and Almighty God

Sikkim they called was Rong Lyang (waiting place while going to Tibet for salt)

April 10, 2023 28

Original inhabitants of Sikkim. Existed much before the Bhutias and the Nepalese migrated to the state.Before adopting Buddhism or Christianity as their religion, they practised bon faith or mun faith based on spirits, good and bad. Worshipped spirits of mountains, rivers and forests, natural for a tribe harmoniously co-existing with the rich natural surroundings.Lepchas concentrated in North and the central part of Sikkim. Dzongu is main area at the confluence of Lachen and Lachung rivers at Dickchu.

Monpa and Thenpa concept of evolution resemble the Eve and Adam concept of Christianity

Ritually very close to Chrisrianity. Rapid conversion among the elite Lepchas into Chriatianity

April 10, 2023 29

The Lepchas

The Lepcha People

April 10, 2023 30

Simple, gentle, shy, they call themselves Rongpa

(dwellers in the steep country) or Mutanchi (the mother’s loved ones)

Mongolian in features, they have a rich folklore drawing parallels with western world. The Great Deluge and The Tower of Babel strongly resemble some of the Lepcha folklores cause to doubt they have been living in isolation for a very long time.

They believe the world was created by Itbu-moo aka It-moo or the Great Mother Creator. She fashioned Kongchen Konghlo (Khangchendzonga) and other mountains, ordained them with divinity, and ordered them to look after welfare of country for which they would be worshipped by the mortals.

The first man and woman Phudong-thing (aka Tukbo-thing) and Nazong Nyu lived in Mayel Lyang, Lepcha paradise, in the foothills of Mount Khangchendzonga.

April 10, 2023 31

Once animistic in faith, the Lepchas later converted to

Buddhism and Christianity. Lepchas still follow their old customs where male and female shamans called Bongthing, Padim and Mun respectively are used in their everyday life along with the monks during marriage, averting sickness, propitiating deities, exorcism and divining the future.

Lepcha kings like Tur-ve, Tur-ayek, Tur-sang-pono and Tur-sung ruled before the Bhutias, more likely local chieftains. The Lepcha patriarch Thekung Tek, more famous today as he granted the boon of children to Khye Bhumsa, the ancestor of the later Chogyals and a prince of the Minyak dynasty, and signed the treaty of blood brotherhood between the Lepchas and the Bhutias. Thekung Mensalong, a Lepcha Bongthing, is also revered for having guided Lhatsun Chenpo to the sacred sites in Sikkim and his grave at Dubdi is considered a holy site. April 10, 2023 32

Society and Caste System Socially limited to Dzongu (isolated) House: Single storey with place for

domestic animals in lower deck and upper deck as residential with centrally heating hearth. Like lake dwellers’ houses in Switzerland

Caste: Four castes: Damsang, Illam, Protestant Christian and Catholic Lepchas

Food: Roots, pork, beef, other wild animal flesh, forest products like surong vee (nettle) and ferns

CHI like Bhutia Chhang is a locally made millet alcoholic drink, arok and chibubApril 10, 2023 33

 Lepcha language: ‘Rong-aring’ or ‘Rongring’ , Tibeto-Burman family. Very interesting, scientific and structured language. Animal’s name start with the letter ‘Sa’, (Surya,

Suthong, su-chyak, suna, suko, sangi, sattim, sahu are the names of tiger, leopard, bear, dear, lion, porcupine and monkey)

Snakes (Panu-bu, Pamol-bu, Panul-bu, Palong-bu) Bmboo products Ta-zyang, Tangar, Tangjung, Tafu, Takchim, Talyung are the names of different bamboo products

Lepchas have their own script but most of their ancient literary works, called namthars, found recorded in Tibetan script. Gazetteer of Sikkim: the third Chogyal, Chador Namgyal invented the Lepcha script

Lepchas belief: script existed before Chador Namgyal. Thikung Men Salong creator of Lepcha script.

April 10, 2023 34

Script invented by Thling Menselong: administrator of Lepcha King. Lepchas invented,Chakdor Namgyal and other Chogyal rulers further improved

Lepchas skilled in bamboo crafts Phenomenal knowledge of poisonous and non-

poisonous plants, snakes, other flora and fauna. The traditional cloths of the Lepchas are woven in

exquisite colour combinations. Men’s dress is called Thokro-Dum and the female’s dress is called Dumdyam or Dumvum. Man’s Thokro-Dum is completed by a white three-quarter pyjama. Woman’s Dumvum is a an ankle length flowing dress suggesting dry land inhabitants. The male dress is almost always coarse, sturdy and durable while female dress is made of softer material

Also known as Gada for women and Tharu for menApril 10, 2023 35

Lepcha Religion, Marriage and Death Rites Bon Religion: Bon –the medicine man

Concept of Ruum, the God and Muung, the Demon

Thekyong- Tek and Nyekong-Tek Marriage: Polygamy to Monogamy,

groom to prove worth by labour, stays at bride’s house for a year before solemnising marriage

Female progeny favoured, Earlier, number of fields number of wives Death: Earlier burial, later cremation

because of cultural encroachmentApril 10, 2023 36

The Bhutia People

April 10, 202337

THE BHUTIAS

Bhutias are the people of Tibetan origin, farmers, herders. They migrated to Sikkim sometimes after fifteenth century. Known as the Lachenpas and Lachungpas in North Sikkim Language, Sikkimese Bhutia, a language of Tibetan origin. Bhutia villages are larger than those of Lepchas. A Bhutia

house, called "Khim“, is usually of rectangular shape. They follow Tibetan Buddhism. Ingrained in their culture,

monks are integral part in their marriages, births, deaths and beginning of a new venture. The third Chogyal Chakdor Namgyal had decreed one son of every family, including the royal family, was to join the lamasery. Some parts of their earlier Bon culture still prevail to this day as they like the Lepchas have shamans called Pao and Nezung.

April 10, 2023 38

13th century, Khye Bhumsa, a Minyak dynasty

prince settled in the Chumbi valley, blessed by Thekung Tek

Khye Bhumsa’s 3 sons – Kyabo Rab, Langmo Rab and Mipon Rab left Chumbi, settled in Phodong, Gangtok and around.

Thus began the migrations of Tibetans into Sikkim and later called Bhutias.

Bhutias: farmers and herders.

Those lying in the lowlands

practice farming and rear

livestock while at the higher

altitudes they are herders of yaks.

April 10, 2023 39

Bhutias speak Sikkimese  Bhutia, 85% intelligible with

either Tibetan or Dzongkha, the language of Bhutan, although Nepali is more widely spoken. Most Bhutias practice Nyingmapa school, followed by the Kagyupa school of Tibetan Buddhism. The Bhutias are spread out over Nepal, Bhutan, and in the northernWest Bengal, especially in the towns of Kalimpong and Darjeeling.

Clothing: The traditional outfit of Bhutias is called a bakhu, a loose

cloak type garment, fastened at neck and waist with a silk/cotton belt. Males wear bakhu with a loose trouser.

The women wear the bakhu with a silken full sleeve blouse called honju. Loose sheet of multi-coloured woollen cloth with exotic geometric designs is tied called the pangden by married women. Embroidered leather boots by both men and women.

House of Bhutia:"khim" and is usually rectangular. A stone structure outside the house used for burning

incense. It is called "sangbum." "Sang" means incense and "bum" means vase.

April 10, 2023 40

Class: Bhutias had three social classes; aristocracy, quasi-aristocracy, those belonging to the leading Bhutias families who were called Kazis and common. Monarchy was abolished, social distinction also lost

Religion: Lamaism and Lamaist Buddhism Marriage: Khachang-settling of marriage and

fixing an auspicious date for betrothal of ceremony, to be done by the Lama, both side invited to bride’s house and expenses borne by the groom side.

Death: blowing of counch to announce death, body embalmed with preservatives, kept for three to seven days, cremated on the uphillApril 10, 2023 41

Bhutia Religion, Marriage and Death Rites

The Nepali People

April 10, 2023 42

Nepalis in Sikkim Migrants from Nepal: Introduced joom cultivation and settled farming

by clearing forests and rearing cattle Industrious, multi-racial, multi-cultural, fusion Class based and differently dressed; Hinduism Difference not to be taken as social discord Multi-lingual: Kirat, Gurung, Mukhia, Limboo,

Tamang, Magar, Newari, Nepali: lingua franca and medium of education

until English was introduced after merger

April 10, 2023 43

The Nepalis The Nepalese appeared much after the Lepchas &

Bhutias. Migrated in large numbers and became the dominant community. They constitute more than 70 % of population.

Introduced terraced cultivation. Cardamom -important cash crop introduced by them. Except for the Sherpas & Tamangs who are Buddhists, they are Hindus with usual caste system.

They are the largest population in Sikkim consisting of the Bahuns, Chhetris, Newars, Rais, Limboos, Magars, Murmis, Tamangs, Gurungs, Kamis, Damais and Sherpas altogether called the Nepalese.

Rai, Limboo and Yakka form the ancient Kirat tribe of eastern Nepal. Rais -east of the Kathmandu valley between Dudh Kosi and Arun rivers, Limboos-from the Arun River eastwards into Sikkim called Limbuana.

April 10, 2023 44

Besides the Limboos, all the others came into

Sikkim in the later part of 19th century. With the leasing of Darjeeling to the British in 1835, the Nepalese were brought in great numbers by the British for development purposes. Diffusion into Sikkim did occur but in less numbers.

The granting of mining lease to Laxmidas Pradhan by Tshupud Namgyal saw their entry in large numbers as manpower was required for mining, farming and other activities. With the appointment of J. C. White as the Political Officer of Sikkim the floodgates were opened as the British were interested in tilting the political balance of Sikkim towards India instead of Tibet.

The Nepalese contribution to Sikkim has been terrace farming and cardamom plantation. They have also brought along with them a rich and a vibrant culture which has made the state more colourful.

April 10, 2023 45

Till the 1870 Gorkha conquests the lands up to the River

Arun belonged to Sikkim. The Kiratis are Mongolian in appearance and share a similar culture with the other Tibeto-Burman tribes. Earlier animistic in nature, followed Hinduism due to dominance of the Hindu Kings of Nepal.

Animistic traditions still strong as their shamans called Nakchung, Mangpas, Bijuwas and Phedangmas esteemed and involved in all the sacred and day to day ceremonies.

Magars, Murmis, Tamangs, Gurungs and Sherpas also Kiratis Tibeto-Burman origin-settled in middle and western Nepal. Animistic but have adopted the Hinduism or the Buddhism.

The rest are all Aryan in origin who pushed into the Kathmandu valley during early times from India and the other parts. The religion they chiefly pursue is Hinduism and Buddhism.

Nepali House: Two-storey with courtyard and pali a store-house, angena, chula, juthelno

April 10, 2023 46

Class: As that of Hindus. Castes and sub-castes Religion: Hinduism, Buddhism in certain Castes Marriage: Mangani, arranged marriage,

astrologers consulted,star signs are matched, middle person (lami) acts as the messenger for both the families, courting to bride by groom’s side, auspicious day fixed and marriage solemnized generally in December or March- April

Marriage function marks Naumati Baaja and Janti Death: body cremated in the downstream, river.

13 day ritual performed by the sons or brothers.

April 10, 2023 47

Nepali Religion, Marriage and Death Rites

Limbus in Sikkim and their nexus with the Lepchas The Limbu people

 (also known as Tsong, Tshong, Subba, and Yakthungba) are a Kiranti people, and are also an indigenous group of Sikkim. Around 1819, the Lepchas were still

the most numerous population, comprising roughly half of all Sikkimese, followed by Bhutias (30%) and Limbus (20%)

Who outnumbered- the Bhutias or the Limbus not clear

The Limbus frequently intermarried with the Lepchas. At this time there was no appreciable Nepali population present.

Nomenclature of Sikkim originally in Limbu dialect as “Su-him” meaning ‘beautiful house’. Similar story goes with Lepcha Mayal lyang and Bhutia Denzong April 10, 2023 48

The Plainsmen

Marwaris, Biharis and Bengalis in Sikkim are collectively termed as the plainsmen, referring to their place of origin. They too form a sizeable population in the state and contribute to the economy.

Amongst them the first to arrive were the trading community of Marwaris attracted by the trade with Tibet. With the new state requiring a lot of workforce the other communities followed and brought along with them their rich cultures.

April 10, 2023 49

Festivals of Sikkim Although Buddhism appears to be the

predominant religion in Sikkim ,the real side of religion in the state is Hinduism. Buddhism is followed by mostly the Tibetans and Bhutias. Hinduism is followed by the Nepalese. Other religions too flourish because of the tolerantmindset of the Sikkimese like Christianity, Sikhism and The Buddhist Festivals: Saga Dawa: The holiest Festivals. Lord Buddha’s birth, Enlightenment, passing away & attaining Nirvana. This Three-Fold-Auspicious-Day on full moon day, 4th month of Buddhist lunar calendar last May and early June. Marks carrying the Holy Books of the teachings of the Buddha from Tsuk-La-Khang Monastery in the Palace around the town.

April 10, 2023 50

Lhabab Dhuechen: symbolises the Descent of Buddha from the heaven of the thirty three gods after visiting his mother. Dhuechen (festivals) Lha (heaven) Bab (descent). Legends: Buddha’s mother Queen Maha Maya reborn in Trayastrimsa (heaven of the thirty Gods), Buddha knew her whereabouts and at the age of forty-one ascended to the heavens along with thousands of his followers. Stayed in heaven for three months, delivered sermons to his mother and other celestial beings. Lord Buddha had left behind on earth one of his disciples, Maudgalyayana, as his representative. This disciple and other devotees of the Lord could not bear the long separation and longed to hear his preaching, Maugalyayana, who possessed miraculous powers, was exhorted to go up to the heaven to request the Lord to return to the earth.

April 10, 2023 51

The gods were not willing to let Lord Buddha return to earth but Maugalyana suggested that as the earthly beings did not have the powers to visit heaven, the celestial being could come to the earth to attend his preaching. Lord Buddha finally relented and descended to the earth at a place called Sankasya along a triple ladder that was prepared especially for the occasion by Viswakarma, the God of Machines.

Drukpa Tsheshi: This festival is observed by the Buddhists to mark the event when Buddha first turned the Wheel of Dharma (His first sermon to five disciples at Sarnath). This festival celebrates Buddha's first preaching of the four Noble Truths to his first five disciples in a deer park at Sarnath. The first is the Noble Truth of suffering.

April 10, 2023 52

The Second Noble Truth is the truth of the origin

of suffering Karma and Delusion and their causes. The third Noble Truth is the cessation of the suffering or the attainment of Nirvana. The fourth Noble Truth is the truth of the Eight Fold Path leading to Nirvana. The day falls on the fourth day (Teshi) of the sixth Tibetan month (Drukpa).

Held on the 4th day(Tsheshi) of the 6th month(Drukpa) of the Tibetan Calendar around July or August every year. Marked by prayers at the Deer Park and at a secluded place called Muguthang in extreme North Sikkim. The festival is celebrated by holding a Yak race.

Phang Lhabsol: This festival is unique to Sikkim. It was popularised by the third Chogyal of Sikkim, Chakdor Namgyal.

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In this festival the snowy range of Khangchendzonga is worshipped for its unifying powers. This festival also marks the signing of the treaty of blood brotherhood between the Lepchas and Bhutias by Khye Bumsa and Tetong Tek when the local deities were invoked to witness the occasion. 

In fact Phang means witness. On this day, the guardian deity is portrayed by masked Lama dances as a fiery red-faced deity with a crown of five skulls, riding a snow lion. To lighten the mood of the spectators, jesters called 'Atchars' play antics during the Chaams.

The third Chogyal of Sikkim, Chakdor Namgyal is credited for choreographing the Pang-Toed dance performed by monks on this day. This festival is held on the 15th day of the 7th month around the end of August. 

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Losoong: Losoong marks the end of the harvest season and also the end of the tenth month of the Tibetan Year. Celebrating good harvest and praying for even better crop, Chaam performed at monasteries at Palace (Tsu-La-Khang), Phodong and Rumtek. The dances symbolize the exorcizing of the evil spirits of the year and the welcoming of the good spirit of the new year. It is best observed in rural Sikkim. Archery competitions and festivities mark the event. Losar: Tibetan New Year shared Sikkimese and marked with gaiety and festivity in the month of February. Tibetan youths perform Yak dance and throwing sampa as a way of greeting and welcoming the new year with shouts of "Tashi Delek". The Tibetan community exerts itself in the more than week long festivity with their brocades, jewelry, songs, dances and picnics.

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Bumchu: Bum means "pot or vase" and chu

means "water". This festival is celebrated at the monastery at Tashiding in the month of January or February. During the festival, the pot containing the Holy water is opened by the lamas of the monastery. The level of water in the pot foretells the future for the forthcoming year. If the water is to the brim, it foretells a year in which peace and prosperity will prevail. If the water is over the brim and is spilling signifies a year with natural disaster and flood , it prophesies bloodshed and disturbances. If the water lever is low or almost dry it signifies famine. A part of the holy water is distributed amongst the gathering of devotes and the pot is replenished with river water and sealed at the end of the festival to be opened only in the next Bumchu April 10, 2023 56

Guru Rimpoche's Trungkar Tshechu: Sikkimese Buddhist pay homage to the master who first blessed Sikkim as holy land, Guru Rimpoche. He is believed to have established Buddhism in Sikkim and introduce Tantric Buddhism to the Himalayas after vanquishing ‘demons’ obstructing the growth of dharma in Tibet. Commemorates his victory over demons and the devout believe that virtues accrued by recitation of mantras on this day are two-fold. Kagyed Dance: 28th and 29th day of the 10th month of the Tibetan Calendar, around December. Symbolises destruction of the evil forces and hoping for peace and prosperity to flourish. The dancers of this is extremely popular Chaam are always monks who are accompanied liturgical music and chanting. April 10, 2023 57

The solemn nature of the dance is

interspersed with comic relief provided by the jesters. Kagyed dances enact various themes from the Buddhist mythology and culminate with the burning of effigies made of flour, wood and paper.

Kalchakra Puja: A mention of the two bodies of Buddhism, Hinayana and Mahayana has been made at the beginning of this chapter. To attain Nirvana or Enlightenment and freedom from suffering one of the paths offered is Tantrayana which emphasizes the Tantric or mystic aspect of Buddhism involving complex and esoteric rituals. April 10, 2023 58

HINDU FESTIVALS:

Dasain / Dusshera/ Durga Puja: One of the most important festivals for the Nepalese Hindus, in the month of October. While Hindus around the world celebrate Durga Puja, the Nepalese observe the days as Dasain or Bijaya Dashmi. This festival symbolizes the victory of good over evil. It is widely believed that on this day the evil Mahisura was slain by Goddess Durga who is the embodiment of Goodness and Shakti, in a fierce duel fight.On the first day barley seeds are sown in the soil and their growth a few inches foretells a good harvest. The next important day, a week later is Fulpati meaning the "day of flowers". Maha Astami and Kala Ratri follow Fulpati. The next day is Navami. April 10, 2023 59

The 10th day of the festival is known as Vijay Dashmi and also marks the victory of Lord Rama over Ravana. During this day people smear their foreheads with coloured rice and the barley sprouts which were sown on the first day of Dasain are picked and place over ears.

Tihar or Tyohar/ Diwali: festival of lights aka Deepavali means "a row of lights". Celebrated to mark the return of Lord Rama, his consort Sita and brother Lakshmana, to their kingdom after 14 years of exile. To celebrate their return, the people of Ayodhya are believed to have lit up their houses and streets with lamps and the tradition is followed till date. People also conduct Lakshmi Puja to please the Goddess of Wealth. It falls on the last two days of dark half of Kartik (October-November). For some it is a three-day festival. 

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In Sikkim the festival honours certain animals on successive days. Day 1 known as "Kak(crow) Tihar" is dedicated to crows and they are offered rice and some if caught are even garlanded. Day 2, which is known as "Kukkur(dog) Tihar", dogs are garlanded. Day 3 the cows are honored with garlands and their horns are painted in bright colors. It is the turn of the bullocks on day 4. Day 5 is also known as Bhai Tika in which brothers visit the homes of their sisters and they apply tikas vermilion to each other foreheads. It is also an occasion for exchanging gifts. During Tihar, traditional carols called Bhailo or Deusi are sung.

Saraswati Puja: This festival falls in the month of January and honors the Hindu Goddess of knowledge "Saraswati".

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Janmastami: aka Krishnastami or Gokulastami, dedicated to Lord Sri Krishna and commemorates his birth. Eighth day (Astami) of a lunar fortnight hence the name (Krishna+astami), associated with Lord Krishna’s birthday and is a combination of religion and celebration together, celebrated during the month of August or September. 

Maghe Sankranti : Important festivals of Hindus, aka Makar sankranti in other parts of India is celebrated on the first day of the month of Magh (of the Vikram Sambhat calendar), believed by the Nepalese as the day that marks the division of the Winter and Summer solstice. It marks the beginning of the lengthening of days. Bathing in rivers, especially in the confluence of rivers, is prescribed for this day followed by feasting. April 10, 2023 62

Fairs organized along the river banks and confluence of rivers. The prayers begin with dawn and the fairs draw people from surrounding areas in thousands. Occasion for villagers to gather, meet and buy. The most colourful introduction to the Sikkimese milieu as people from all communities patronize these fairs. Jorethang (South Sikkim) and Saramsa (East Sikkim).

Holi: This Hindu festival of colors takes on a new meaning in the colder climes of Sikkim. All night revelry, songs and dances brings the business community (which is largely Hindu) to the streets and also observed is the (Matki) competition in the heart of the town. A good example of communal harmony prevalent in Sikkim as the ethnic Bhutias and Lepchas seen with their Hindu friends to take a crack at the pot hung high in the air. April 10, 2023 63

Other Festivals: Namsoong: Indigenous festival of Lepchas. Marks

new year which begins from the first day of first month (Kurnyit Lavo) of the year which continues for seven days. It is celebrated all over Sikkim, Darjeeling district, Ilam of Nepal and some parts of Bhutan.

Sakewa: Festivals of the Rai community. The day is observed with offerings of a variety of sweets and food grains to the deity of food and wealth, Kubera.

Bhanu Jayanti: The Nepalese poet, Adhikavi Bhanu Bhakta, enjoys a demi-God status in these areas and his birth anniversary is marked with processions, poetry recitations, and seminars. Bhanu Bhakta was the first Nepalese to translate the Hindu holy book, Ramayana, into a Nepali version.

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Tendong Lho-Rum-Faat: Lepcha festival is observed by the Lepchas to pay obeisance to the Tendong Hill which saved their tribe from annihilation in the great flood. 

Sikkimese New Year: Losoong is the New Year for the people of Sikkim. It generally, falls in the month of December and marksthe end of harvesting season. The highlights of the festival are Chaam dances and archery contests.

Losoong (Farmers' New Year): 18th day of the 10th month of the Tibetan lunar calendar marking gricultural New Year when rice and grains are in plenty. Chaam (dance) performed. People get up before dawn to take bath and wear new clothes. Later, all the family members sit together to pray for peace and prosperity. This festival lasts for 15 days.April 10, 2023 65

Nyempa Guzom: festival in the Monasteries.

Common people visit and offer fruits, sweets & even donations and pray for the good will of their family and beloved ones. It falls on the 6th and 7th day of the 11th month of Tibetan calendar (December-January).

Tamu Lochar: Gurung Communities Tamu New Year. On 15th day of the nine month of Nepali Calendar during December. Celebration after a year's hardwork, field works barred.

Legend: ancestors of Tamus known as Khemas did a long meditation and Lord Buddha himself appeared to them on this day of Pus pandra and enlightened them. Started the Tamu Buddhism. On this day the Lo (birth sign) changes. Decisions taken and debts repaid on this date. The festivity lasts for 3 days.

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Sikkimese Cuisine Momo :Hot steamed flour dumplings filled

with minced meat, cheese or vegetable, local chilly sauce and hot soup, the most commonly available food in Sikkim. Found from the roadside to the most expensive restaurants. on every menu.

Thukpa or Gya-thuk : Another popular and easily available item , a typical Tibetan style noodles in soup, based with vegetables or meat.

Saelroti :The Nepalese prepare a special kind of assorted bread, mostly during festivals called the . This is prepared from fermented rice batter which is deep fried in a ring shape and eaten with potato curry or meat or simply by itself.

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Fermented food is an important element of many Sikkimese dishes.

Chhurpi, a fermented dairy product prepared from cow milk with a mild sour taste is used for making soups and chutney. It is often used with Ningro, a wild fern to make a most exotic combination.

Kinema, a fermented soyabean food, rich in protein and with a unique flavour is eaten with rice Gundruk and Sinki are two traditional fermented

vegetable products which are sun dried after fermentation and stored for consumption. These are later used for soups, curries and pickles.

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Bamboo shoot is another commonly used

ingredient in local food. Fresh bamboo shoot called Tama, is often used with pork to make an irresistible curry.

Meso, a traditional fermented bamboo shoot product used to make pickles.

Sishnu Soup : the most exotic local dish , prepared from leaves of edible wild varieties of nettle.

Chaang: a fermented cereal-based alcoholic beverage sipped from a bamboo receptacle using a thin bamboo pipe. The receptacle which has millet in itis topped with warm water a few times until the millet loses its flavour. No visit to Sikkim is complete till you try this.

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  Tea grown in Sikkim is famous by its brand name 'Temi Tea'.

Temi Tea estate is located in  Temi, South Sikkim and  is one of the best tea producing tea estates in the  country. Established  in  1969 with an area of  437 acres and 406 workers and 43 staff members.  It   produces about 100 MT tea annually. 1997-98 the estate produced 1,16,000 Kgs. the highest record  ever achieved.Rs.  2.18 crores  credited  to  the State  exchequer. Temi  tea  garden  received All  India Quality  Award ; from  Tea  Board  of  India  for  the  two consecutive years i.e. 1994 and 1995.                

Temi Tea Garden, the only garden in Sikkim, is a fully organic tea estate. April 10, 2023 70

Tourism Perspective

SIKKIM

- The Blessed Land

SIKKIM

- The Blessed Land

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Blessed with natural abundance, pleasant climate, peaceful ,friendly and religious people

SIKKIM is undoubtedly a tourist’s paradise

Basic Information Connectivity :

Nearest Airport – Bagdogra (123 kms)

Nearest Railway Station – NJP (114 kms)

Climate : Tropical to Alpine

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ENTRY FORMALITIES Restricted Area Permit (RAP)required for foreigner visitors which can be obtained from all Indian Missions abroad and Tourist Information Centres at New Delhi,

Kolkata, Siliguri, Rangpo and MelliApril 10, 2023 74

AttractionsNature

One of the bio-diversity hot spotsMountains, Rivers, Lakes, Abundant flora & fauna

CultureRich cultureWarm & hospitable people

Adventure-

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Tourism ProductsPilgrimage TourismMonasteriesChurchesTemples MosquesVillage TourismHome staysHandicraftLocal cuisineAdventure TourismTrekkingMountain bikingParaglidingRiver Rafting Expeditions

April 10, 2023 76

Infrastructure & Destination

Development

Hotels from Budget to

Star category

Home stay facilities

Wayside Amenities

Beautification of

destinations

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Connectivity & Communication

Good network of roads

and transportation Excellent network of

communication - internet, telephone etc.

Helicopter service: Daily scheduled flight from

Gangtok-Bagdogra-

Gangtok Airport under construction Widening of existing NH-

31A up to the double lane category and construction of alternate National High Way

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Unique Selling Preposition Organic, Green and Pollution Free State Rich Culture, traditions, heritage and

strong commitment Village Tourism Adventure Tourism Wellness Tourism Pilgrimage Tourism Tea Tourism Peaceful State

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Regulations, Policies & Guidelines

The Sikkim Registration of Tourist Trade Act, 1998

The Sikkim Registration of Tourist Trade Rules, 2008

Tourism Policy is being drafted

Guidelines for Village Tourism

Adopted Code of Conduct for Safe & Honourable Tourism, MoT, GoI

Sikkim Eco Tourism Policy

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Awareness & Orientation Programmes

Cleanliness Drive Awareness programme for tourism

stakeholders Skill Development programmes

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Human Resource Development

Hunar se Rojgar Tak scheme of MoT, GoI

More than 300 local youths have been trained in tourism and hospitality related subjects

Exposure Trips for Village tourism

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Publicity & Marketing Participation in major tourism marts

New Delhi London Berlin Maharashtra & North East Tourism

Bazaar, Mumbai International Tourism Mart, Guwahati Travel & Tourism Fairs

Major Tourism fairs & festivals within the State

– Sikkim Spring Carnival, 2012

- Sikkim Paragliding Festival, 2012 Tourism Stakeholders Meet 2012, Kolkata Sikkim Festival & Stakeholders Meet,

2013, New Delhi Production of publicity materials Release of advertisements in reputed

travel magazines International Flower Festival, 2013

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International Tourism Mart-2013 Guwahati

April 10, 2023 84

Safety & Security

Adopted Code of Conduct for Safe & Honourable Tourism of Ministry of Tourism,

GoI, in April 2011Tourist Police are appointed and deputed at some of the major tourist destinations to

assist the visitorsA Grievance Cell for tourists has been set

up in the Department All Tourist Information Centres open from

8 am to 8 pm all the year to facilitate tourists and to assist them during

emergencies. Earned a lot of appreciation from visitors all over the world.April 10, 2023 85

Sustainable TourismEncouraging Village Tourism

Supporting conservation of natural & cultural heritage

Active participation of local people by organising events such as 10 Minutes to Earth, Earth Hour, Clean India Campaign, to support State Green Mission

Distribution of Garbage Disposal Bags to all the tourist vehicles

Local HandicraftsOrganic produces are

encouragedPollution free

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AWARDS 1 1998-99 Best Tourism Performing State in the North East (National) Ministry of Tourism

(MOT) GOI

2 1999-2000 BestTourism Performing State in the North East MOT,GOI

3 2000-2001 Best Tourism Performing State in the North East MOT,GOI

4 2001-2002 Best Tourism Performing State in the North East MOT,GOI

5 2002-2003 Best Tourism Performing State in the North East MOT,GOI

6 2005-2006 Best Tourism Performing State in the North East MOT,GOI

7 2006-2007 Best State for Tourism Related Programmes along with MP Mot GOI

8 2005 Best Eco Tourism Destination Hospitality India

9 2007 Most Picturesque Destination Todays Traveller Platinum Award

10 2008 Emerging Tourism State Todays Traveller Platinum Award

11 2008 Best Adventure Tourism Destination Safari India National Award

12 2008 Best Adventure Tourist Destination PATWA

13 2007-2008 Best State for Tourism Related Programmes MOT,GOI

14 2009 Most Responsible Tourism State of 2009 Todays Traveller Diamond Award

15 2010 National award for Best State in Tourism Related Programmes & Devpt of Infrastructure MOT,GOI

16 2010 Best State for Adventure Tourism Safari India National Award

17 2010 Best Performing State Commonwealth International Travel Mart

18 2010 India's Most Progressive Tourism State Today's Traveller

19 2011 Best State in Tourism Related Programmes & Development of Infrastructure MOT, GOI

20 2012 Best State for Comprehensive Development of Tourism MOT, GOI

21 2012 Most Innovative & Unique Tourism Project- Siddhesvara Dham,Solophok MOT GoI

22 2012 Best State - Campaign Clean India MOT GOI

Total of 22 Tourism Awards during the last 16 years April 10, 2023 87

The Hon’ble CM receiving the National Tourism Awardwhere Sikkim received three awards:

1. Comprehensive Development of Tourism2. Most Unique/ Innovative Project – Siddheshvara Dham

3. Clean India Campaign

April 10, 2023 88

Pilgrimage

April 10, 2023 89

April 10, 2023 90

Tosar Lake

Khecheopalri Lake

Tsomgo

Guru Dongmar

April 10, 2023 91

CULTURE

April 10, 2023 92

Village Tourism

April 10, 2023 93

Adventure Tourism

April 10, 2023 94

April 10, 2023 95

Flora & Fauna

April 10, 2023 96

Sikkim: A Pictorial Journey

Chorten or the StupaApril 10, 2023 97

1641 Chogylal Coronation Throne

April 10, 2023 98

Red Panda- The State

Animal

April 10, 2023 99

Blood Pheasant-State Bird

Blood Pheasant: The State Bird

April 10, 2023 100

Rhododendron: The State Tree

April 10, 2023 101

The Lakes and the Rivers

April 10, 2023 102

Dances of Sikkim

April 10, 2023 103

Traditional Houses

April 10, 2023 104

Terrains of Sikkim

April 10, 2023 105

Capital Town Gangtok: Then and Now

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Gangtok; the Capital TownApril 10, 2023

MG Marg Gangtok

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A view of Sikkimese terrain

109

River Teesta

Sikkim at 500 ft

April 10, 2023

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Lake Tsomgo

14000 ft.April 10, 2023

Do Visit Sikkim

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Mt. Kanchenjungha (28189 ft)

April 10, 2023

Further Contact Bhim Thatal Joint Secretary and Sub Divisional

Magistrate Phone:(03595)250884 Fax :(03595)250730 Cell :9434110075; 9734143475 E-mail: bhimthatal@gmail.com

District Administrative Centre

Rapdentse, GeysingWest Sikkim, 737111

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