Sharing a mere 0.2% of India’s geographical area, Sikkim is among the most biologically diverse states in the country. Situated in the lower Himalayas, the land of mystic grandeur, Sikkim is home to around 5,000 species of flowering plants. They include rare species of primulas, rhododendrons, lilies, oaks, and ferns. This tiny state boasts 600 varieties of orchids and 30 species of rhododendron and an astounding variety of animals—including nearly 550 species of birds and 700 species of butterflies.

Some of the most popular places in and around Sikkim to see the varieties of orchids are Deorali Orchid Sanctuary near Gangtok and another hotspot to see varied flora near the capital town Gangtok is Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary where there is a chance to spot Himalayan black bears and red pandas.

Aesthetically beautiful forests of Rhododendrons including several other indigenous varieties of floras and fauna can be pleasantly spotted at Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary in the Singalila Range in the southwest corner of West Sikkim during late spring. The Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary near Ravangla in South Sikkim and the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary near Lachung. These regions are not only blessed with innumerable varieties of Himalayan flowers but with breathtaking mountain views.

 Yumthang valley of north Sikkim is rightly referred to as ‘the valley of flowers for its astounding varieties of Himalayan flowers. The valley is extremely picturesque, with green slopes covered with trees, yaks grazing in the flower-spangled grassy plains below, and a river flowing right through the valley.

Climatic advantage coupled with a skilled workforce makes Sikkim much more suitable for commercial floriculture and Ornamental horticulture. Realizing the potential of this sector, many budding entrepreneurs are taking up floriculture.

The main flowers which are grown commercially are Cymbidium Orchids, Carnation, Anthurium, Gladiolus, Lilium, Gerbera, etc. Flourishing floriculture has also helped Sikkim to attract large number of tourists to the region.

Flower Exhibition Centre in Gangtok showcases flowers from the different parts of Sikkim together under a single roof which makes it a heaven for all nature lovers.