Celebrating Colours at Sikkim’s International Flower Show

Lush green mountainsides dotted with vivid hues of flowers, Sikkim is simply stunning. Located at the foothills of the Himalayas, it is home to a diverse variety of flora that ranges from tropical to alpine thanks to its unique location. 

Taking in the Fragrance

As I drove through the leafy hills, I rolled down the window to take in the fresh scent of pine. After being in Mumbai for so long, I had almost forgotten how breathing in mountain air could clear your mind of all troubles. Surrounding me were tall conifers, ferns, and orange and red bushes, sprinkled across the landscape. Occasionally a sunflower raised its glowing head to take a peek at its beautiful surroundings. Everywhere I looked, there were reminders of how beautiful nature can be with flowers in full bloom.

With over 5,000 species of flowering plants, it is only natural that Sikkim hosts the International Flower Show, to be held at the Saramsa Garden between February 23 and 27 this year. A carnival that has put Sikkim on the global floricultural map, it was first held in 2008.

Splash of Red

A trademark of the Himalayas, I recall seeing rhododendron bushes while trekking in Nepal. Here in Sikkim, they were there everywhere I looked, coming out of the verdant background in a blaze of red. There are actually 36 species of rhododendron in Sikkim - it is after all the official tree of the state.

My favourite flowers would have to be orchids, which are a little harder to spot. However, I was lucky enough to view at least one or two of the over five hundred species of orchids found in Sikkim, whilst wandering through the forest one morning. With their distinctive shape, each orchid seems to have a personality of its own. From delicate and dainty to bold and brash, I just love how the petals curl and their speckled tongue displays itself with unabashed pride.

Flowering Glory

The Sikkim International Flower Show celebrates the diversity of this region’s ecology and provides international exposure to the local flower producers. I like to understand my subject, so for me one of the highlights of this festival would be learning about these natural wonders from botanical experts, who are to hold a series of lectures and seminars. Information on flowers, the various species, and even how to grow these beauties yourself would be available at the festival.

This flower show is attended not only by local and Indian specialists, but also international experts. This festival in Sikkim is worth visiting, not just for the horticulturist, but for all nature lovers who wish to be enveloped in the sweet fragrance of newly bloomed flowers.   

Looking for a memorable holiday in the mountains of Sikkim? MakeMyTrip offers convenient flights to Bagdogra from where you can reach various parts of Sikkim via bus or taxi.

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