Sikkim was an autonomous mountain Kingdom under Indian protection until 1975 when the Sikkimese monarchy was deposed by the Indian Government, creating the 22nd state in India.

A visit to Sikkim offers a window on to the high peaks of the Eastern Himalayas, notably Kanchenjunga, the world's third highest mountain.

Lush, steep-sided valleys hide Sikkim's Buddhist Monasteries, a real highlight of a tour of Sikkim alongside the warm-hearted people and the Himalayan panoramas.

Sikkim's capital Gangtok is wonderfully located facing the Kanchenjunga range and is the focus of most people's tour of Sikkim, with plenty to see and do in and around Sikkim's capital.