Sikkim boasts a rich biodiversity of incredible birds, plants, and animal species. Despite its tiny size, the state has distinct life-forms thriving in its various ecosystems. Perhaps there isn’t any other place in the world with as rich of biodiversity as Sikkim. From wet and warm grasslands to alpine highlands — the variations in Sikkim’s terrain and rainfall makes its flora and fauna highly unique. The dense tropical evergreen and semi-green forests provide habitation to the most exquisite flora and fauna in Sikkim. Higher elevations in Sikkim boast Alpine forests, as well as Temperate Broadleaf and Conifer forests.
Sikkim’s Flora: When it comes to flora in Sikkim, there are more than 4,500 flowering plants. Sikkim is the only state in India with over 550 species of orchids and around 40 species of Rhododendrons. Additionally, around 28 species of bamboos, seven species of canes, more than 350 species of ferns grow in Sikkim’s ecosystem. The temperate forests of Sikkim comprises Oaks, Chestnuts, Indian Mahogany (Toona) trees.
Sikkim’s Fauna: The fauna in Sikkim is as diverse as its flora. A variety of species of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, butterflies and moths thrive in the dense forests of Sikkim. Himalayan Squirrel is the most common species found in Sikkim. Exotic birds like Satyr Tragopan and Blood Pheasant also inhabit Sikkim. The most fascinating animal in Sikkim is the Red Panda which is also the state animal of Sikkim. Besides, large Hawk-Cuckoo, Himalayan bear, Snow Leopard, and Himalayan Yak are commonly found animal species in Sikkim.
Places to Visit in Sikkim: Explore the Flora & Fauna
The best places to witness the incredible flora and fauna of Sikkim are its wildlife sanctuaries. If you are a wildlife and nature lover, add the below places in your Sikkim trip itinerary.
- Kanchenjunga National Park
- Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary
- Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary
- Fambong Lho Sanctuary
- Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary
- Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Kanchenjunga National Park
Other than being a national park and biosphere reserve, Kanchenjunga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sikkim. The entire National Park spans across an area of 1784 sq km. The park is bordered by Mountain Lamaongden, Mount Narsing and Mount Pandim, and Mountain Kanchendzonga on its eastern, southern and western boundaries. The surrounding biosphere at KNP gives pace for environmental education, scientific research and environmental training.
- Flora to spot at KNP: Oaks, Fir, Birch, Maple, Medicinal Plants and Herbs
- Fauna to spot at KNP: Himalayan Black Bear, Red Panda, Barking deer, Snow leopard, Asian emerald cuckoo, sunbirds and eagles.
- Best Time to Visit KNP: March and May & September and mid-December.
- Opening Hours: 9 AM to 4 PM
- Address: Near Chungthang Town, West Sikkim, Sikkim
2. Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary
Situated near Tsomgo lake along the Nathula Road, Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary is 31 kms away from the capital city Gangtok. It is a nature reserve replete with abundant flora and fauna. It encompasses an area of 31 square kilometres and is ideal for those who seek to spend time in nature. Just from the name, one can understand that this sanctuary has a plethora of alpine vegetation. Rare species of orchids, rhododendrons along with tall junipers and taller silver firs also thrive beautifully here.
- Flora to spot: Poppies, Orchids, Primulas, Kutki, Nilo Bikh etc.
- Fauna to spot: Mainland Serow, Musk Deer, Red Panda, Asiatic Black Bear, Himalayan Goral, Himalayan Marmot, Takin
- Best Time to Visit: April to August, and October to November
- Address: JN Road, Dichenling Area, Gangtok, East Sikkim, Sikkim 737103
- Opening Hours: 8 AM to 6 PM
3. Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary
Established in 2004, Barsey or Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary is a paradise for nature lovers and floral enthusiasts. It encompasses an area of 104 sq kilometers in the Singalila Range. This sanctuary primarily is known for its foliage and rhododendron blooms. Most tourists visit this sanctuary for a trek or nature walk. One can easily spend 3 to 4 hours admiring its natural beauty. If you are interested in birdwatching, make sure to take a pair of binoculars.
- Flora to spot: Rhododendrons (March to May)
- Fauna to spot: Red Panda, Himalayan Langur, Himalayan Yellow Throated Marten
- Best Time to Visit: November to May
- Address: Hilley Forest Block, West Sikkim, Sikkim 737121
- Opening Hours: 08:00 AM to 04:00 PM
4. Fambong Lho Sanctuary
Spread across an area of 51.76 km², Fambong Lho Sanctuary is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim for nature lovers. The views of the surrounding landscape from Fambong Lho Sanctuary is absolutely mesmerising. Ideal for birdwatchers and hikers, the sanctuary is located 20 kilometres from Gangtok and can be reached via private cab. The name of this sanctuary, Fambonglho, has been derived from a Lepcha word called Hambomloh, meaning wild Avocado trees. The sanctuary also has forests of kimbu, champ, ferns, bamboo and oak trees.
- Flora to spot: Rhododendrons,Orchids, Lithocarpus, Quercus and Castanopsis
- Fauna to spot: Red Panda, Civet cat, Himalayan Black Bear, Rufous-headed hornbill, etc.
- Best Time to Visit: April to July
- Address: Dikchu – Rang Rang, Road, L. Mangshila, Sikkim 737107
- Opening Hours: 8 AM to 3 PM
5. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary
Another beautiful sanctuary to spot rhododendrons is Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary in Yumthang valley. This sanctuary is comparatively smaller (110 acres) than other wildlife sanctuaries. However, it is not small in its natural beauty, foliage and serenity. The views from this sanctuary are absolutely stunning. The Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary lies at altitudes ranging between 3048 m to 4575 m. There are around 40 species of rhododendrons that grow in this sanctuary. Other flowers include Primulas, Aconites, Poppies, Saxifrages etc.
- Flora to spot: Different varieties of Rhododendron
- Fauna to spot: Wood snipe, Hoary-throated barwing, Blood Pheasant
- Best Time to Visit: April to July
- Address: Yumthang, North Sikkim, Sikkim 737120.
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
6. Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary
Maenam wildlife sanctuary was established in 1969 and ever since has been home to a variety of endemic animals and birds. Many medicinal plants and herbs thrive beautifully in its soil. It is quite famous for its trekking and hiking trails. Many visitors come here to witness the ethereal and paradisiacal nature. And of course, the flora and fauna is something to stay most excited about.
- Flora to spot: Bamboo thickets, Viburnum erubescens and Rosa sericea
- Fauna to spot: Red Panda, Serow, Goral, Barking Deer, Leopard-Cat, Marbled-Cat, Civet-Cats, Blue necked Pita, Sunbird, Blood Pheasant and Black Eagle, etc.
- Best time to visit: November to May
- Address: Ravangla, South Sikkim, Sikkim 737139
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Sikkim treasures various plants, animals and birds in its rich and thriving ecosystem. If you want to take an up and close look, visit any of the above mentioned sanctuaries on your Sikkim tour.