Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks in Sikkim that You Must Explore

Sikkim is one of the least populated states in the country but also one of the most beautiful. With Tibet, China, and Bhutan on the borders, Sikkim is a melting pot of culture. Apart from its natural beauty and unique culture and tradition of the people, the wildlife of Sikkim attracts many tourists. The state has lush green forests that house some of the rarest species of animals, birds, and flora. Sikkim has some of the best national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in the entire country. 

Here are some of the best places to visit in Sikkim if you’re interested in spending some time in the wild.

Khangchendzonga National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Khangchendzonga National Park is the most popular national park and wildlife sanctuaries in Sikkim. Apart from housing some unique species of animals, birds, and flora, the national park also houses the third highest peak in the world–mount Kanchenjunga. Snow leopards, musk deer, red panda, and the Great Tibetan sheep are some exotic species you will find here. There are also many exotic bird species like Tibetan snowcock, Himalayan monal pheasant, and grey peacock pheasant are some of the exotic birds you can find at this national park of Sikkim. There are many spectacular alpines, lakes, glaciers, and valleys in the national park you can explore at your own pace. 

Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary

Located in West Sikkim, this wildlife sanctuary in Sikkim attracts many nature lovers. The wildlife sanctuary is surrounded by some of the most beautiful lakes and the Singalila range, which shares its border with Nepal. This sanctuary in Sikkim is home to Leopard Cat, Himalayan Langur, and Himalayan Palm Civet. Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary attracts many bird lovers as it houses many migratory species. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in the trekking experience offered in the sanctuary. There are campsites and homestays too where you can spend the night. Stay amid nature and watch the wild animals in their natural habitat.

Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary

This wildlife sanctuary in Sikkim has a picturesque view since it is surrounded by the Pangolakha range and the Chola range. Pangolakha Wildlife sanctuary has some rare faunal and avifaunal species. The Red Fox, Red Pandas, and Asiatic Black Bears are some of the rare species you can spot here. The sanctuary is also home to 110 species of trees in the forest. The sanctuary is an ideal spot for trekking and bird-watching since it houses various exotic species of birds. 

Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary

A paradise for nature-lovers and adventure-lovers, the Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim. Black eagle, common partridge hill, marbled cat, and barking deer are some species you will find here. You can trek through the lush greenery and marvel at the scenic view. The sanctuary also has a variety of medicinal plants that you can learn more about. This wildlife sanctuary in Sikkim is a great place to immerse yourself in nature.

Kitam Bird Sanctuary

This is Sikkim’s only bird sanctuary and houses more than 200 species of birds and exotic butterflies! Colourful birds flying all over are a sight you can’t miss. The sanctuary has many rivers and lush greenery that nature-lovers can enjoy. Take a walk amid nature, watch the birds, learn more about them, and when you get tired, dip your feet in the ice-cold river water. If you’re up for some adventure, you can also hike on the rough paths in the sanctuary to spot some rare exotic birds hiding away in the lush forests. Hike to Tumbol Schor–the highest point in the sanctuary, which offers a panoramic view of the surrounding greenery. 

Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary

This wildlife sanctuary in Sikkim has many endangered species of plants and trees. Rhododendrons and ground orchids are some rare and endangered plants you will see here. You will also spot endangered trees like Ferns, Oak, and Champ. Apart from endangered plants and trees, the sanctuary has many rare animal species like red pandas, musk deers, Himalayan black bears, and more. Take a walk in the sanctuary amid the surrounding greenery and spot some of the most exotic animals.

Where to Plan a Stay in Sikkim

Located in the heart of Sikkim, Club Mahindra Gangtok and Le Vintuna Gangtok are great stay options. After spending time exploring the wildlife of Sikkim, you will need a place to relax and rejuvenate, and these resort in Sikkim offer just that.

The wildlife of Sikkim is mesmerizing! There is a lot to see and learn. Plan a trip to this beautiful state and explore nature and the wild like never before!