Sikkim stretches from the low lands in the south with tropical climate to the mountainous regions in the north with summits that touch the skies. The altitude  varies right from sea level to mountain peaks covering a wide spectrum of  flora and fauna. Nowhere in the world in such a small area can one find such varied flora and fauna- Tropical to the Alpines. Sikkim's botanical and zoological richness is awe- inspiring, boasting of more than 4000 species of plants and 30% of all the birds found in the Indian sub-continent. Sikkim's 600 varieties of orchids are a feast for the eye.

Luxuriant forests cover 36% of the land. The lowlands in the south between 800 feet to 5000 feet experience tropical climate. Here you find lush green vegetation including figs, laurel, Sal trees and bamboos. However, some of these areas have now been cleared for farming. The temperate forests of oak, chestnut, maple, birch, alder, magnolia and silver fir dominates between 5000ft and 13000ft. Above 13000ft, is the alpine zone where juniper, cypresses and rhododendrons grow. The perpetual snowline lies at 16000 ft.

More than 4000 species of plant have been identified and recorded in Sikkim. Over 600 species of orchids (Epiphytal and terrestrial types) grow in Sikkim in the tropical and temperate zones. 35 species of rhododendrons grow in temperate and alpine regions, flowering from May to August and covering the hillsides in a riot of colours.

Kanchenjunga National Park

The Kanchenjunga National Park (KNP) is situated in the North District of Sikkim, covering an area of 850 square kilometres and whose centre piece, naturally, is the sacred mountain of Kanchenjunga. The area of the park of spectacular wilderness with one of the highest mountain peaks towering above virtually undisturbed forest cover. There are many glaciers in the park area, amongst them the Zemu Glacier is the longest and most awesome. The lofty Mt. Kanchendzonga (8585 m) which literally means 'Abode of Gods consisting of five Treasure Houses' including the five peaks are Narshing, Pandim, Simvo, Kabru and Siniolchu. The most beautiful amongst these peaks are Mt. Pandim, Mt. Narshing and Mt. Siniolchu which lie in the park area. The topography and the peaks along with the forest wilderness in the park area forms the main attraction of the KNP which attracts nature & adventure lovers from all over the world. It has 454 types of orchid, over 600 species of butterflies, 550 species of birds, red pandas; snow leopards Sikkim is a naturalist's paradise, and there are many wildlife parks and sanctuaries. 

The variation of altitude and vegetation have enriched the park area with rich variety of flora. The temperate broad leaved forest are dominated by Qurcus spp, Schima Spp, Castanopsis Spp, Acer Spp, Birch Betula Spp, Himalayan Larch, Lari griffithi etc. 

Singba Rhododendron Sanctuary

It is in the North Sikkim. It is the best place to see more than 20 different species of rhododendrons endemic to Sikkim. It has a small population of tigers, civets and some birds, including the beautiful blood pheasant that is the state bird of Sikkim. April to July are the best time to visit, when the rhododendrons are in full bloom and the sanctuary turns into a riot of colours.

Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary

Southern Sikkim has the Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, spread across 3,500ha of land. The temperate forest is home to the red panda, leopard, black eagle and civet cat amongst other animals and birds found in the region. The 3,260ft high Maenam Peak also lies within the confines of the reserve. Rabongla is the closest town to the Sanctuary.

Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary

Adjoining the Changu Lake, the 400ha Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary is at a distance of 36km from Gangtok. This highland sanctuary supports a fascinating array of rhododendrons, primroses, poppies and a variety of wild flowers. The reserve is home to the gravely endangered musk deer, red panda, Himalayan black bear, serow (long-haired goat) and some species of pheasants. Unrestrained development and construction is taking a toll on the area, as landslides and deforestation become more common than ever before. Sadly, the seemingly formidable alpine region is most vulnerable to such mindless environmental degradation.

Fambong La Wildlife Sanctuary

It is located at a distance of 25 km from Gangtok and has an area of 51.76 sq. km. The main vegetation is Oak, Katus, Kimbu, Champ with thick bamboo forests and ferns. The Sanctuary is also home to a large number of wild orchids, rhododendrons etc. The richly forested area is known to be home for various species of wild animals and birds. This area, located close to Gangtok, is being developed as a short duration trekking trail.

Sanctuary hosts Himalayan Black Bear, Red Panda, Barking Deer, Goral, Serow, Marbled-Cat, Clouded Leopard, Leopard-Cat and Civet-Cats along with various kinds of birds. The Binturong or Bear-Cat (Arctictis binturong) is a rare civet reported from here.

The best season to visit the Sanctuary is from March to late May and September to mid- December.

Entry to Sanctuary is permitted from the chief Wildlife Warden, Government of Sikkim, Gangtok.

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