Tucked away in the Himalayan foothills with the world's third highest mountain, Khangchendzonga, looming in the backdrop, the state of Sikkim is wedged between Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet. Monasteries here like Rumtek and the only institute of Tibetology are among the biggest repositories of Tibetan Buddhism, rich flora and fauna and cultural confluence.

Locals offer yak rides at Tchangu Lake

It is a state that boasts of virtually endless mountain treks and trails, the easiest of which is the ride to the Tibetan border at Nathu-La. A three-hour jeep ride is the only way to get there, past winding roads of military camps-a ride open only to Indian nationals. Photography is, of course, strictly forbidden.

You first pass the silvery waters of the freezing Tchangu Lake and its yak rides. Enterprising locals rent out high-altitude clothing and snow boots, without which a freeze unto death at Nathu-La's frozen 14,400 ft is a distinct possibility.

At this height, Indian Army soldiers eyeball Chinese troops across a thin barbed wire and through howling winds. A tense border? Not really. Chinese troops in impeccable olive green uniforms and Ray Ban sunglasses pose for pictures with Indian troops and visiting families. No, they aren't saying "Hindi-Chini bhai bhai" yet.

Bagdogra (124 km) is the nearest airport and Siliguri (114 km) the closest railhead.

HOT DEALS
Days of the Raj

COLONIAL COUCH: Shimla's Cecil hotel

Shimla's Cecil hotel offers a classic colonial experience. Relax in the indoor heated pool or be pampered with rejuvenating massages at the spa. Romantic evenings in your room will be made complete with private, candle-light dinners overlooking the vistas of the mountains. A three-day stay is valid till March 31, 2003 at Rs 14,200 a couple. E-mail reservations@thececil.com or call (0177) 204848 for information.

Cruise Caper

Hotel Ashok Pondicherry is offering backwater cruises from Chunnambar Resort to Paradise Beach, free drink on arrival, complimentary breakfast, a 30 per cent discount on food and beverages with a tour to Aurobindo Ashram and Auroville also thrown in. The price of Rs 1,900 per person for two nights and three days is valid for a group of at least 10 people. Contact (0413) 2655160/167 or e-mail reservation@indiatourism.com.

TOURISM NEWS
Plastic Worth

The global launch of Citibank World Money card-a point-of-sale-enabled prepaid dollar card-combines the safety of travellers cheques with the convenience of a debit card. The plastic payment card offers the use of 78,000 ATMs. It can be purchased for $500-10,000 and be reloaded at Citibank branches.

All Spruced Up
The restoration of Aurangabad's magnificent Ajanta and Ellora Caves has reached the second phase. Funded by the Government of Japan which contributed about Rs 400 crore, the sprucing up includes a visitor management system to market the world heritage site in UK, USA and France. Phase I included prevention of water seepage, protection of the sensitive paintings and landscaping of adjoining areas.

—Compiled by Nidhi Taparia Rathi