Begha & Sikkim

Begha is a small rural village situated high in the Himalayan mountain range in West Sikkim, India and hosts a combination of Myanmar, Tibetan and local Sikkimese people who have settled and shared this area for past centuries. Formally part of Nepal, its language, culture and people resemble this and is somewhat different to the majority of India. It is very close to the Nepalese border and is surrounded by dense forest, waterfalls and the amazing Himalayan mountain range creating an incredibly beautiful and mystical landscape. The closest town with shops for food, phone and clothes is a 5km walk along a steep and windy dirt road however basic necessities like toiletries are available in small roadside shacks.

Begha Location

Sikkim became part of India in 1975 when the then King of Sikkim decided for its own benefit and protection, the country should become part of this larger nation. Nestled in a secluded position between Tibet, Nepal and Bhutan it has been possible to maintain a unique Sikkimese culture with open, warm and friendly people with little Western influence however some inhabitants do have a reasonable/good level of English skills. With it’s incredible peaked mountains, steep valleys and endless waterfalls it is considerably different to the majority of India and visitors are not only greeted with open arms and warm hearts, but always leave with the most amazing memories of this untouched and incredible land.

All Sikkimise inhabitants have been provided with an iron sheet roof over their head, however electricity continues to be erratic or non-existent. Clay ovens and stoves are the norm and consistent work is hard to find. Seasonal work that includes breaking stone, collecting sand and working in the fields or on the road maintains many of the families in Begha’s livelihood and at present only a very small percentage of the parents/guardians of the children have regular paid employment.

From Begha it is easy to travel through Sikkim as it is not a very large state. Close by is Pelling which has one of, if not the most incredible view of Kanchenjunga mountain which is the third highest peak in the world. Nearby is also Soreng, which is a larger commercial based town with a large variety of shops and a large Sunday markets. Much of Sikkim is worth a visit to the beautiful landscapes and your visit here will surely bring many amazing sights which you can cherish in the future.