Khangchendzonga International Trekking to start from May

Gangtok, Mar 27 (UNI) Come May and one can enjoy the pleasure of watching the world's highest peak from atop a pristine Rhododendron meadow with the rare Red Pandas in their natural habitat in Sikkim.

The state tourism department is organising a month-long Khangchendzonga International Trekking programme during May offering adventurous people to complete the famous 'Singalila' trek circuit.

The majestic view of Mt Everest and Mt Khangchendzonga, the third highest peak in the world, comes alive with this trek.

''Our department has decided to offer the trekking at just Rs 2500 as registration fees,'' V R Subba, joint secretary of the state tourism department, said.

However, a ten-day tour comes around Rs 15,000 for each team with two participants.

The oparticipants would start from Soreng in West Sikkim to trek along the high altitudes imposing 13,200 ft foothills of the majestic Kanchendzonga mountains and criss-crossing serene valleys of Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary and Wildlife Sanctuary.

''The objective is to provide adventure lovers an exclusive and a rare opportunity to participate and share this unique experience for an incredibly low fee,'' Mr Subba said.

It is also aimed at promoting some of the most exciting yet undiscovered sites in West Sikkim and promote the state as an ideal eco-tourism destination, he added.

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