Have you ever dreamed of walking in a flower field filled with dancing blooms? If yes, then turn your dream into reality by going for flower tourism. For the uninitiated, Flower tourism, alternatively known as floral tourism refers to visiting destinations known for their indigenous or non-indigenous flowers. This tourism may include visits to floral fields, lush gardens, parks, sanctuaries or even nurseries.
Post-pandemic, the tourism industry has been seeing a rapid rise in flower tourism. And the one place that should be most credited for driving this change is Japan. For many, the endless photos of cherry blossom trees in Japan on their Instagram feed are envy-inducing. Japan is one of the most coveted destinations for flower tourism and has been on the bucket list of many travellers. Whether one simply wants to admire the beauty of the blooming flowers or wants to get rid of the FOMO, flower tourism will only see a rise in popularity.
The flower tourism is not just limited to cherry blossoms in Japan. It also includes tourists looking for peonies of California, Tulips of Netherlands, Daisies of South Africa, and so on. If you are wondering if there’s a place in India that can fulfill your flower tourism dreams, it has to be Sikkim. This beautiful 100% organic state has many species of flowers growing on its land. From orchids to peonies and from roses to primulas, there are many floral blooms you can witness in Sikkim.
Top 10 Most Beautiful Flowers to See in Sikkim
1. Orchids
There are different varieties of orchids grown in Sikkim. The Dendrobium nobile or Noble Orchid is the state flower of Sikkim. You will be surprised to know that Sikkim, despite its small size, has over 523 species of orchids. It comes second only to Arunachal Pradesh which has around 620 species. Sikkim’s unique geographical features, coupled with its temperate climate makes it an excellent area for cultivation of orchids.
Where to See: Deorali Orchid Sanctuary, Mainaam Garden, & ICAR-National Research Centre for Orchids
2. Rhododendrons
If the state flower of Sikkim is orchid, then the state tree of Sikkim is Rhododendron tree bearing rhododendron flowers. Although it’s debatable, there are around 36 species of rhododendrons that are native to Sikkim. They grow in high altitudes, ranging between 1500 to 6000 meters above sea level. The most common colours of rhododendron flowers are red, pink, and deep purple.
Where to See: Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary & Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary
3. Big Leaf Hydrangeas
Although not native to Sikkim, you will find beautiful blooms of Big leaf Hydrangeas thriving in Sikkim. These are big flowers that grow clutching a cluster of petals which gives them a beautiful look. They typically grow in Sikkim at an altitude of 1000 metres to 3000 meters above sea level. The most common hues of these flowers are blue, faded purple, and even yellow
Where to See: Lachung, Yumthang Valley, Pelling, Mengan.
4. Angel’s Trumpet
One thing about flowers you must know is that not all flowers are meant to smell or touch. Some flowers, despite their attractive appearance and inviting colours, can be extremely toxic. And one such flower is Angel’s trumpet. Also known as Brugmansia, it does not grow on its own in Sikkim, rather it was cultivated in the green houses and nurseries. The flower in native to South America and is considered to be toxic.
Where to See: Garden and Park of Gangtok and Pelling
Caution: Do not smell or touch Angel’s Trumpet flower.
5. China Rose/ Hibiscus
Hibiscus is grown and found widely in the state of Sikkim. It is used for both aesthetic and medicinal purposes. Many use this flower to prepare herbal tea for reducing inflammation and reducing cholesterol levels. China Rose or Hibiscus grows well in the subtropical regions of Sikkim and is found widely across the state. These hibiscus are found in red, white, pink and even yellow colours.
Where to see: Plant Conservatory in Gangtok, Flower Exhibition Centre – Ridge Park, Namchi
6. Peonies
Peonies are beautiful flowers that are found in many parts of Sikkim, but are also cultivated and nurtured in nurseries. The climate of Sikkim is perfect for growing peonies. These flowers need a temperate climate with cool summers and cold winters. And this is exactly what Sikkim’s climate is for the most part of the year.
Where to see: Yumthang Valley, Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden, Flower Exhibition Centre. For buying flowers you may check out Deorali Bazaar, Roshni Flower Shop (Tibet Shop), etc.
7. Poppies
Just like peonies, poppies too, require a temperate climate throughout the year to grow beautifully. The most common variety of poppy found in Sikkim is the Himalayan Blue Poppy. They thrive well in extreme high altitudes which are often more than 3500 metres above sea level. Other varieties of poppies found in Sikkim are: Yellow Poppy, Blue Prickly Poppy, Himalayan woodland poppy, and more!
Where to see: Kyangnosla Alpine Sanctuary, Yumthang Valley, around Teesta River.
8. Primulas
Primroses or Primulas grow well in moist and cold conditions, and they require partial to full shade. They thrive in seasons from early spring to autumn. There is a particular kind of Primula found in Sikkim, called Primula sikkimensis. It is also called Sikkim Primrose or Himalayan Cowslip. The high-altitude meadows with damp soil is where most of the primulas are found.
Where to see: Lachung and Yumthang Valley
9. Roses
Who can resist the scent of evergreen roses? This is beautiful as ever sweet smelling flower is a favourite of many. Roses grow well in moderate and temperate climates. They require a temperature of 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. If you want to go for a flower tourism trip in Sikkim, specifically for roses, visit Daramdin village.
Where to See: Solophok Rose Garden (Namchi), Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden, Kudzu Restaurant, Saramsa Garden.
10. Purple Fox Glove
Purple Fox Glove requires acidic and moist soil to grow and thrive. Cooped with a cool and moist climate they thrive beautifully. These flowers require partial shade but even in sunlight they manage to survive pretty well. You will see Purple Fox Glove in eye-pleasing colours of white, pink and purple.
Where to see: Yumthang Valley is the best place to see Purple Fox Glove. You can also find them growing in the meadows of Lachung Valley.
These were the top 10 flowers in Sikkim to witness on your floral tourism trip. Remember to maintain a distance with flowers. Refrain from touching or smelling them and do not pluck them. We hope you have fragrant and beautiful experiences in Sikkim.
