Sikkim is justly renowned for the diversity and abundance of its flora. This diversity is the result of its geographical location, a very moist climate, and a wide range of climatic zones. More than 40 different species of Rhododendron have been identified, whilst it is reckoned that there are over 400 species of orchids. In addition, there are the Primulae, Gentians, Meconopsis and other spectacular alpine flowers, not to mention some beautiful trees and shrubs. The best itinerary for you will depend on the plants you wish to see in bloom, and the time of year you are able to come.

Spring is a wonderful time here for flowers, with April and May being the richest months. April is good for Rhododendrons, while the majority of herbaceous plants such as Primulae and Arisaemas are beginning to appear in the second half of the month. Orchid lovers will find plenty to interest them in the tropical and temperate forests from early April, but for most true alpines, including the lovely Meconopsis species and dwarf Rhododendron species, the dedicated plants person will need to brave the discomforts of the monsoon in July or August. Late August and September/October is the season for gentians and autumn flowering orchids and much more besides. Into November there are still many interesting flowers to be seen, especially at lower altitudes, and there is normally the added bonus of clear dry weather.

Depending on the time of year, we would recommend a trek up to Dzongri, giving the opportunity to study the flora of widely differing habitats including tropical forest, temperate forest, and the alpine zone including Rhododendron forest.

For Rhododendron aficionados, trekking the Singalila Ridge South in April is a wonderful place to see R. arboreum species amongst others. A visit to Lachung in North Sikkim offers the chance to see an even greater variety of Rhododendron species and in greater numbers(see plant hunting report in feedback section). The trip from the capital Gangtok to Lachung and return requires a minimum of three days. Accommodation in the area is currently very basic.

Epiphytic orchids can be seen in great number and variety between Bagdogra and Darjeeling, around Darjeeling, and in rural Sikkim. They are much treasured by locals as garden plants, and are often seen outside houses or at the roadside. Terrestrial orchids may also be found in the forests.

Several Arisaema species can be found before even leaving Darjeeling, and in general, they will be seen wherever there is forest or plenty of undergrowth. They will be found on roadsides, and on the Dzongri trek amongst others.

Primulae may be found from late April into May and June depending on the species, on the Singalila ridge, the Dzongri trek, and in Northern Sikkim, always bearing in mind that heavily grazed areas may not yield a great deal.Note: For identifying flowers we recommend the books ‘Flowers of the Himalaya’ and ‘Flowers of the Himalaya, A Supplement’, by Polunin and Stainton. Although published many years ago, these are still the best references available for the area.



BACKGROUND READING on plant hunting in Sikkim includes:

• Joseph Hooker’s Himalayan Journals, now republished in India,
• Hooker by Ray Desmond in the Antique Collectors Club series,
• A Plantsman in Nepal by Roy Lancaster also merits a look,
• Travels in the Cloud Kingdom by David Lang details more recent treks in Sikkim