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wildlife at sikkim
Written by Krishnamoorthy V on November 16, 2022 Share on

Sikkim Wildlife: Sanctuaries in Sikkim!

Known for its thick woodland; from Tropical to the Alpines, Sikkim is filled in abundance with rich natural life. Considered as one of the favorites for travelers and photographers who love wildlife, Sikkim is filled with a diverse range of plants, wildlife animals and birds. To decode Sikkim Wildlife, Snow-kissed mountains, mystic forests, one has a lot to explore in the undiscovered universe of this Vast land. Given below are the 5 breathtaking sanctuaries in Sikkim which are known for their beauty and peace. 

rusty barwing in sikkim wildlife sanctuary
Image Credit: Wikipedia

Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary

Away from the human interference and far from the unsettling crowds, Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary offers the best of Sikkim Wildlife. Established in the year 1984, This sanctuary is spread over an area of 52 Kms. Known as an extension of the Kangchendzonga National Park, This place is known for its Avocado trees globally. At a height of 2130 mts, The Tinjurey peak is the highest hill that is present in this region. The place is home for some of the small villages like Mangan, Dikchu, and Pangthang which remain the main attraction for tourists along with the Wildlife. 

Visitor Information

  • The best time to visit Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary would be between April to July as the Rhododendrons will be in full bloom during this period. 
  • The sanctuary is open from 8 in the morning till 3 in the afternoon. 
  • There is an accommodation option available at the sanctuary itself and would approximately cost INR 50 per person per night. 

 Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary

Located on the eastern part of Sikkim,  Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary houses many hybrid and endangered varieties of plants. Along with the ground slipper orchid and Rhododendron (Sikkim’s state tree), tourists can also witness and marvel at some of the rare trees such as Oak, Champ, Ferns, etc. In addition to the plants and trees, This sanctuary is also has a wide range of wildlife and one can spot species of musk deer, Himalayan black bear, and red panda frequently here. To spot or experience rare wildlife easily, you need to be at the right place at the right time. 

Visitor Information

  • The ideal time to visit Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary would either be from April to August or between October to November.
  • The closest railway station to the sanctuary would be the New Jalpaiguri Station and the nearest airport would be the Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal.
red panda in Sikkim wildlife sanctuary
Image Credit: Public Domain Pictures

Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary

One of the gorgeous Sanctuaries in Sikkim, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary easily becomes the tourists favorite due to its astonishing beauty. It is home to a variety of vibrant floral species, including orchids and rhododendrons which makes it one of the must-visit sanctuaries across the country. A paradise for nature and adventure lovers, This place sees a footfall of people from different parts of the world to get a glance of the bright colored flowers that blossoms here. 

Visitor Information

  • The recommended time to visit Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary in order to witness the flowers bloom would be during the months of April-May.
  • A solid 2 – 3 hours time is required to explore this sanctuary fully.

Also Read: Perfect 7 Days Sikkim Itinerary to unwrap the land of snows.

Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary

Considered as one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries in Sikkim, Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary was established in 1987 and is spread over 14 Square kilometers. Acting as a treat for nature lovers, This sanctuary is filled with rich varieties of medicinal plants. With its amazing flora and fauna, This place leaves a long-lasting impression to its visitors, So much so that they might find themselves roaming amidst its wild forests and jungles long after their trip. 

Visitor Information

  • It takes about 5-6 hours solid to explore Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary
  • The admission tickets to this sanctuary are absolutely free of charge. 
  • To get the best experience, Morning hours are the right time to visit. 
deer at Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary
Image Credit: Times of India

Kitam (Bird) Wildlife Sanctuary

Located at Kitam near Namchi, Sikkim, Kitam (Bird) Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the protected sanctuaries in India. This silent and peaceful sanctuary is a heaven for travelers who would like to see the peafowl & other wildlife in their natural habitats. Tumbol Schor, the highest point of Kitam Bird Sanctuary, is famous for providing great scenic and panoramic views of the mountain areas around. Therefore, It is also considered as of the best sanctuaries in Sikkim that keep bird and animal watchers engaged throughout their visit. 

Visitor Information

  • To get a glimpse of the colorful birds at this sanctuary, The best time to visit would be between October to May. 
  • It takes about 5-6 hours solid to explore Kitam (Bird) Wildlife Sanctuary.
pigeon at Kitam (Bird) Wildlife Sanctuary
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons

If you are interested to visit places in Sikkim that are rich in wildlife and natural flora and fauna, Then these sanctuaries would be your best available options. Plan your trip to Sikkim with Pickyourtrail to get the best experiences crafted for you.

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FAQ’s

Which is the most famous wildlife sanctuary in Sikkim?

Khangchendzonga National Park.

What is State Animal of Sikkim?

The Red Panda.

Is red panda found in Sikkim?

Yes, red pandas can be found in Sikkim, but since it is an endangered species only around 300 can be found.

Which national park is found in Sikkim?

Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve.

What are the wild animals in Sikkim?

You can spot snow Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear, Red panda, Musk Deer, Blue Sheep, Leopard Cat, Flying Squirrel and many more in Sikkim.

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