Gangtok Orchid Flower Exhibition-2010

Gangtok, April 3 (ANI): An ongoing Orchid Flower Exhibition-2010 here in Sikkim has become a major charm for scores of flower enthusiasts and a large number of tourists who are thronging it everyday.

Tourists from various parts of India presently holidaying in Sikkim are a delighted lot since a majority among them got the chance to view orchids in assorted hues at this exhibition.

The month-long flower show commenced on March 21.

This remote State in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, bordering China, is known for wide varieties of orchids, the most popular being Cymbidium orchid.

"We have come from Jabalpur. And this flower exhibition is very beautiful. So many varieties of colourful flowers are here and all of us are enjoying this flower exhibition," said Jaipal Singh Tomar, a tourist from Madhya Pradesh.

The prime objective of this flower show has been to conserve rare and endangered native species of flora, propagate and commercialise the floriculture in Sikkim alongside promoting tourism in the State, luring nature and adventure loving visitors.

"I am feeling very good here. I am happy to see this beautiful flower exhibition. Many different colours of flowers in a wide range have been showcased here," said Reshav, another tourist.

Sikkim is home to more than 500 species of orchids and boasts of being the home to nearly one-tenth of the world's orchid species.

The State is also famous for its large variety of butterfly species. By Tashi Pradhan (ANI)