This is the only state in India which has no railway station: Know about it

New Delhi: Indian Railways operates one of the largest rail networks in the world, with trains connecting every corner of the country. Trains are arguably the most sought-after public transport in India, with lakhs of people availing of its services every day. The trains are cheaper and best way for long distance travels in the country for those who do not want to burn a hole in the pocket by purchasing flight tickets. In today's age, it feels surreal that there is a state in the country which has no rail connectivity. But yes, there is one such place.

Sikkim in northeastern India has the Tibet Autonomous Region of China in the north and northeast, West Bengal in the south, Bhutan in the east, and Koshi Province of Nepal in the west. The least populous state in India is notable for its biodiversity, including alpine and subtropical climates, as well as being a host to Kangchenjunga, the highest peak in India and third-highest on Earth. Almost 35 per cent of the state is covered by Khangchendzonga National Park, which has been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Sikkim is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country and haven for the nature lovers. However, despite being a tourism hotspot, Sikkim reportedly has no railway station. While it may sound strange, the fact is true. It is even more surprising when we consider the fact that India has one of the largest rail networks in the world.

The reasons behind the lack of rail connectivity in Sikkim are its rugged terrain, strategic location, and multiple geographical challenges. The mesmerizing views may enchant the travelers, but the narrow passes, towering mountains and steep valleys make engineering construction extremely difficult. Also, Sikkim is known for frequent landslides and seismic activity. Hence, the construction of a railway line there is extremely challenging.

On February 26, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday laid the foundation stone for Sikkim's first railway station at Rangpo. It signaled a change in the situation, promising rail connectivity for Sikkim with the rest of the country. As per reports, the railway station will serve both tourism and defense purposes.

While the state may not have any railway station as of now, its natural beauty makes Sikkim a must visit destination. From the famous Tsomgo Lake to hidden gems like Khecheopalri Lake, each place has its own beauty and importance. From scenic mountain roads to flights via Pakyong Airport, Sikkim remains a must-visit destination, offering some of India’s most breathtaking sights.

Sikkim's closest railway stations are located in West Bengal. The nearby station is the Siliguri Railway Station which is located about 114 kilometers away, and New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, which is located around 125 kilometers away. Sikkim is well-connected by roads, with national highways and winding mountain routes linking it to neighboring states.

Sikkim is the least populous among all the states in India and also the second-smallest. Its location in Eastern Himalaya makes it a biodiversity hotspot and the land experiences alpine and subtropical climates. Also, the state has India's highest peak and the third-highest on this planet, the Kangchenjunga. The capital and largest city of the state is Gangtok and the Khangchendzonga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, covers almost 35 per cent of the entire Sikkim. Apart from breathtakingly beautiful places, the state also offers mouthwatering traditional cuisines of the Lepcha, Bhutia, Limbu, and Magar people. Padmasambhava, the Buddhist saint, passed through ancient Sikkim in the eighth century and noted the rich produce of the place.

Some of the common foods found in Sikkim are chow mein, thukpa, gyathuk, wonton, thenthuk, and fakthu. The state is also famous for its momos, steamed dumplings filled with vegetables, mutton or chicken and served with a soup. Several streams which are fed by snow have dominated the valleys of Sikkim. All the streams of Sikkim combine into the major Teesta River and its tributary, the Rangeet. Apart from mountain peaks, the state has The numerous glaciers, lakes including the Tsongmo, and Gurudongmar, hot springs, and rivers and streams. All these make Sikkim a tourism hotspot in the country.