Sikkim, Darjeeling and Kalimpong

SIKKIM: Sikkim was the independent kingdom until the seventies. Now it is one of the state of India tucked in the Himalayas across Nepal's eastern frontier. It is an amazing place of hidden valleys, mystical monasteries, snow-fed lakes and a mountain setting covered with flowers and forests.
This former kingdom is home to three major population groups (Lepcha, Bhutia and Nepalese) providing a colorful composite of cultures. Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world at 8,586 m, dominates the landscape and is revered as Sikkim's guardian deity.
DARJEELING: Darjeeling the queen of hills is in northeast of India provides the perfect ambiance of a hill resort with its mild climate and laid back charm. Its verdant hills and valleys are steeped in color and are interspersed with vast stretches of lush green tea gardens. Darjeeling is heavily influenced by British India, the toy train is one of the most striking examples of Darjeeling's British Raj influence.
KALIMPONG: A former headquarters of a Bhutanese governor, the name Kalimpong is said to have originated from the Bhutanese word. Kalimpong has long been in the shadow of its more famous neighbor Darjeeling, but with its immense natural beauty, ideal location and moderate climate, it is now gradually beginning to come into its own. A quite little town, Kalimpong is perfect for those who wish to get away from the painful drudgery of big city life.