The Only State in India Without a Railway Station is....

India, with its vast and impressive railway network, is one of the world's largest and busiest rail systems. So, it may come as a surprise that there is one state in India that, until recently, didn’t have a single railway station. In this era of technological advancement and global connectivity, how can a state exist without a railway line? Well, the answer lies in both the state's unique geography and its natural challenges. That state is Sikkim.

Why Sikkim Has No Railway Station

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Sikkim is a stunningly beautiful state that has captivated the hearts of tourists and nature lovers for decades. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, towering mountains, and serene lakes, Sikkim’s charm is undeniable. However, its geography presents challenges when it comes to constructing a railway network.

The steep valleys, rugged mountains, and narrow pathways make it difficult to lay railway tracks. On top of that, Sikkim is prone to frequent landslides, especially during the monsoon season, further complicating any large-scale infrastructure projects like railways. These natural obstacles have long made it impractical to connect Sikkim to the national railway grid.

Despite its appeal as a popular tourist destination, the absence of a railway station has kept the state somewhat isolated from the rest of India’s vast transportation network. This has led to questions and curiosity about why a railway line wasn’t constructed sooner, especially given the technological advances of modern times.

Recent Developments in the Construction of a Railway Line

Good news for the people of Sikkim and visitors alike! In recent years, progress has been made towards connecting Sikkim to India’s railway network. Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for a new Rangpo Railway Station in Sikkim. This marks a significant step towards improving the state's infrastructure, particularly for tourism and defense purposes.

Located near the town of Rangpo, the station will help boost connectivity to and from the state, making it easier for tourists to visit this Himalayan paradise. The station will also play a key role in enhancing India's defense strategy in the region, given Sikkim’s proximity to the Indo-China border.

Sikkim’s Famous Lakes: Must-Visit Tourist Destinations

One of the major reasons why Sikkim attracts so many tourists is its stunning natural beauty, especially its lakes. These serene bodies of water, nestled amidst the mountains, are like nature’s jewels. If you’re planning a trip to Sikkim, here are three lakes you absolutely must visit:

Crows Lake (Kalpokhri Lake) – North Sikkim

Located in North Sikkim, near the Tibetan border, Crows Lake (locally known as Kalpokhri Lake) is a hidden gem. Situated at an altitude of 4,260 meters, it is a tranquil spot surrounded by dense forests. The lake is named "Crows Lake" because of the large number of crows that visit the area. It’s a peaceful and serene place, perfect for anyone seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Cholamu Lake – North Sikkim

Cholamu Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world, situated at an impressive altitude of 5,330 meters. It lies along the Indo-China border, making it not only a natural wonder but also a strategically important location. Its pristine waters and the surrounding snow-capped mountains make it a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Kathok Lake – West Sikkim

Located near the historic town of Yuksom in West Sikkim, Kathok Lake is a serene and peaceful destination. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Kathok Lake is also historically significant as it is associated with the coronation of Sikkim’s first Chogyal (king) in the 17th century. It is an important cultural and spiritual site for locals and a serene spot for visitors looking to connect with nature.