The mesmerizing beauty of the Indian State Sikkim with its lush green landscapes offers an ideal vacation as there are plenty of things to do and scenic sites to visit. The place also has two main rivers – Teesta river and Rangeet river. As rivers play an important role in our Indian culture, these rivers in Sikkim also have a lot to offer. Not only do these rivers irrigate the plain but also offer adventure activities such as rafting adding value to the scenic view of Sikkim. Explore the wonder place with your friends and family keeping the best time to visit in mind.
Best Time To Visit Sikkim
The best time to visit Sikkim is between March to June or September to December. If you want to see the beautiful natural beauty blooming in the Himalayan kingdom, then springtime (March to June) is the best to visit. Winter season is an ideal time for romantic dates as the whole area gets covered in snow. You can also be a part of festivals like Cherry Tea and Red Panda Winter Festival and enjoy like a local.
Beautiful Rivers In Sikkim
The beauty of Sikkim is incomparable and rivers add to the value of the scenic view. Here’s the list of most gorgeous rivers in Sikkim that you must visit.
1. Teesta River
Teesta river is one of the main rivers in Sikkim. Rangeet is one of its main tributaries which originates from the Rathong glacier. During monsoons (June to September), the flow of the Teesta is greatest due to monsoon rains and supply of bountiful meltwater through glaciers. It is also during this time that rivers of Sikkim become muddy, dangerous and full of rocks and hence are not navigable.
There is a dam as well named Teesta Barrage which helps to provide irrigation for the plains between the upper Padma and the Jamuna. The popular Teesta also offers you crazy rafting experience along with the scenic view. The banks of the river are home to various birds and species where you can sit and watch the birds.
Famous For: Rafting, bird watching
Time Duration For Rafting: 3 to 4 hours
Difficulty Level For Rafting: Grade 3 and 4
Best Time: March to May
Must Read: Monsoon In Sikkim: Explore The Unexplored Beauty Of Sikkim
Sikkim-Gangtok-Darjeeling Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle
Visit Sikkim and explore Yumthang valley, Tsomgo Lake, Gangtok, Nathula Pass, and Pelling. Experience peace and tranquility while exploring Buddhist monasteries, snow-capped mountains, and wildlife sanctuaries. Book packages inclusive of airport transfers, cab, resort, sightseeing, and meals.
2. Rangeet River
Another stunning river that you cannot miss out in Sikkim is the Rangeet river which is also the largest river in the Indian state of Sikkim. One of the major tourist spots in Sikkim, visitors usually come to experience the breathtaking view of mountains. It is indeed an amazing experience to view the Rangeet river meeting Teesta at Triveni on a valley and surrounded by mountains on all sides. While you are here, do walk through the bridge and look around.
Rangeet also offers a unique experience of rafting. You can enjoy other facilities as well such as camping on the sandy white beaches along the banks of the river.
Famous For: Rafting and camping on the beaches
Difficulty Level For Rafting: Grade 2 and 4
Best Time: March to May
Suggested Read: Paragliding In Gangtok: Witness The Breathtaking Sikkimese Beauty From A Bird’s Eye View!
3. Rangpo river
A tributary of the Teesta river, River Rangpo forms the border between Sikkim and West Bengal states at Rangpo town. Flowing mostly through East Sikkim and few parts of Darjeeling district of North Bengal, the greenery that surrounds this gorgeous beauty is a must thing to see on your trip to Sikkim.
Famous For: Natural beauty
Suggested Read: 12 Best Restaurants In Gangtok For Indulging In The True Sikkimese Flavors!
4. Lachen River
The Lachen river is one among the two main tributaries of the Teesta river. What makes this river unique are the beautiful aspects that come alive in Lachen. Apart from the natural beauty of the place, dont forget to visit the Lachen Gompa which is a major attraction at this place. Other famous nearby attractions include Yumthang Valley.
Famous For: Lachen Gompa, Yumthang valley (2-days trek)
Suggested Read: Trekking In Sikkim: 9 Trails That Will Prove You’ve Entered The Paradise
5. Relli River
Flowing near Kalimpong is yet another river in the states of Sikkim and West Bengal called Relli river. Its main tributaries are Khani river and Pala river and confluence with the Teesta. What attracts people to this popular river is that the village of Relli serves as a popular weekend destination offering varied activities such as picnicking spots, recreational fishing, boating and local cuisine. Many historical sites such as monasteries and gompa are also situated near the river making it a well-received tourist destination.
Famous For: Fishing, boating, picnic and local cuisine
Suggested Read:Sikkim In June: A Complete Guide On How To Experience It Best
6. Jaldhaka River
Also known by the name of Dichu river in earlier times, the Jaldhaka iver originates from the Kupup or Bitang Lake in southeastern Sikkim and passes through Bhutan and partly through Bhutan-Bengal. A river valley located at 1500ft above sea level along Jaldhaka River is a popular tourist destination of Dooars. Not only the mesmerizing view of the riverside but there are tons of things located nearby Jaldhaka to allure the travellers.
Famous For: Nautre lovers, trekking and hiking
Suggested Read: 9 Cosy Homestays In Sikkim That Are As Good As Home
How To Reach Sikkim
The Indian State of Sikkim is well-connected by rail, road and train. It is easily reachable from all major cities.
Air: Sikkim has no airport of its own. The nearest airport to Sikkim is Bagdogra airport in West Bengal. Regular flights are available to and fro from Bagdogra to all major Indian cities.
Train: The New Jalpaiguri railway station is approximately 200 km from Sikkim. You can easily get cabs or taxis from these stations till Sikkim.
Road: If you are visiting Sikkim from nearby states such as West Bengal you can easily travel by cab or taxis. Frequent buses are also available at your service. or city then you can easily travel by road. Apart from the frequent buses, hired cars can take you there too.
Further Read: 10 Famous Cafes In Gangtok To Enjoy The Sikkimese Culture
Sikkim rivers add to the vibrant and scenic Sikkim. This Himalayan mountain kingdom is famous for its beauty and charm. Rivers in Sikkim offers one a kind rafting experience and is a must-visit for you if you are an adventure freak. Wait no longer and plan a trip to Sikkim right away as the place has a lot in store for you.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Rivers In Sikkim
Which river flows in Sikkim?
Teesta river flows through Sikkim. It is a very beautiful river and works as a wonder for the state. It is one of the most famous rivers in Sikkim.
What is the source of river Teesta?
Tso Shamo lake is the source of river Teesta.
Why is Teesta river green?
Teesta river is green because of the fact that the bedrock is grinded due to the construction of dams and as a result rocks enter into the water. That results in the green color of the river.
Where does Brahmaputra river originate from?
The Brahmaputra river originates from the Himalayas.
Where is Teesta river situated?
The river originates from Pahunri glacier and enters into Sikkim Himalayas.
Which river is known as lifeline of Sikkim?
Teesta river is known as the lifeline of Sikkim. It flows throughout the state of Sikkim.
What is the other name of Brahmaputra river?
Brahmaputra river flows into Tibet from India and there it is known by a different name, that is, Yarlung Tsangpo. Whereas it is called Lohit Luit in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
Which tributary of the river Brahmaputra flows through Sikkim?
Teesta river is a tributary of the river Brahmaputra river that flows through Sikkim.
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Nishi, a travel enthusiast who loves exploring places and sharing the true experiences with the future travelers.
