India Travels - The East Himalayas (Culture)

Part 3 of India Travels - The East Himalayas

It was time to indulge in the breathtaking sights of the East Himalaya, thus, a trip to the proposed EcoAdventure site near the Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary was made. The Ecoadventure centre was an initiative by Help Tourism, a siliguri based association for conservation and tourism and Jet Airways in September 2009. The objective was to provide local unemployed youths in West Sikkim with alternative sustainable livelihood. We took on a two hour informative and enriching trek through the sanctuary; learning about the enthralling biodiversity.

Traditionally used tools and jewellery were showcase in the limboo living museum and a thorough explanation of the origins and usage of the items were given by Raj and the family. (pictures of food, farewell gift, millet beer and kitchen; living museum)

We spent the morning treking through the sanctuary and it was indeed an insightful one thanks to our local guides. They were not limited by their english ability and tried their best to showcase the natural beauty of the east himalayas' fascinating bio-diversity.

The Limboo community is not native to this part of West Sikkim but they are from east Nepal and the origins are unknown. Limboo (or Limbu) is translated as "the bearer of bows and arrows". Read more on wiki

I believe pictures would do be the best way to show you! (Perhaps, you would be tempted to see it for yourself). Most pictures are taken by me and the rest are by my travel mates!