Among a vast range of plants, the rhododendron come first in Sikkim, not just because it is a state plant, but also because different species of it is widely available in the northern parts of the state. About 36 types of Rhododendrons are found in Sikkim.

Every child comes with the message that God is not yet discouraged of man……true indeed, for only a child is closest to God. The Kumari or Kumari Devi is the tradition of worshipping young pre-pubescent girls as manifestations of the divine female energy or Devi in Nepal.

The fascinating events of Bhutan’s festivals are filled with history, culture and traditions still continued with the same commitment and devotion. Titled “Bhutan’s festival tour”, one must make this journey at least once, to understand Bhutan’s deeply religious roots.

It’s hardly an unusual remark to say that spirituality beckons a traveller, but it’s no less valid for the repetition. Tengboche monastery, gathered in the shadow of Mt. Everest and Mt. Ama Dablam, among the highest mountains in the world, thrives in a tough environment and exudes spiritual fervour. It’s no wonder that, more than six decades ago, it inspired Tenzin and Hillary on their first ascent. And it’s still inspiring us today. After a riveting landing at the famed Lukla airstrip, a shaky beginning of a marvellous Everest trek, amidst roaring applause from relieved passengers, you come across the most breathtaking sun glistened view in all of the Nepal Himalayas - the Khumbu region. Tengboche can be reached via Namche Bazaar, a quaint town that mostly shelters mountain climbers, trekkers and people of the Sherpa community. From the airstrip at Lukla, it takes about three days of uphill trek. Tengboche lies on a ridge at an altitude of 3,870 meters.