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About Sikkim Statehood Day

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About Sikkim Statehood Day

Sikkim Statehood Day is marked on 16 May, the day in 1975 when Sikkim became the twenty-second state of India.

Sikkim is a small Himalayan state under the snow peaks of Kanchenjunga, known for its monasteries, orchids, clean towns and organic farming. Its Lepcha, Bhutia and Nepali communities live side by side.

The day is marked with flag hoisting and cultural programmes in Gangtok and across the districts, and with awards for service to the state.

  • 16 May every year
  • 22nd state, formed 1975
  • Capital Gangtok

Where it began

Sikkim was a Himalayan kingdom ruled by the Namgyal dynasty of Chogyals from the 1600s. After 1950 it was a protectorate of India.

In April 1975 the people of Sikkim voted in a referendum, and on 16 May 1975 Sikkim became the 22nd state of India.

Since then the day has been kept as a time to celebrate the state and its people.

Gangtok climbs the green hillsGangtok, Sikkim

How it grew over time

  1. 1642

    The Namgyal dynasty begins its rule over Sikkim.

  2. 1950

    Sikkim becomes a protectorate of India.

  3. April 1975

    The people of Sikkim vote in a referendum.

  4. 16 May 1975

    Sikkim becomes the 22nd state of India.

  5. Today

    The day is marked with state functions and cultural shows in Gangtok.

How it is celebrated in different places

  • Gangtok

    The main function with flag hoisting, parades and cultural shows.

  • Districts of Sikkim

    Schools and groups hold Lepcha, Bhutia and Nepali songs and dances.

  • Sikkimese abroad

    Groups meet for greetings, food and music.

Sikkim Statehood Day moments

A temple looks out over the hillsGangtok, Sikkim
Kangchenjunga, the guardian peak of SikkimSikkim
Sunrise on the snow peaksSikkim
Hills and clouds over a Sikkim townSikkim

Sikkim Statehood Day today

People share greetings and celebrate the many cultures of Sikkim, its music, dress and food such as momos and thukpa. The state is also proud of being clean, green and fully organic in its farming.

How people celebrate Sikkim Statehood Day

  • Flag hoisting in Gangtok
  • Lepcha, Bhutia and Nepali dances
  • State awards
  • Cultural programmes

How to wish well

  • Wish on the morning of 16 May.
  • Pride in Sikkim's people, nature and harmony fits the day; keep politics out.
  • "सिक्किम राज्य दिवसको हार्दिक शुभकामना" is a simple Nepali greeting.

Questions about Sikkim Statehood Day

When is Sikkim Statehood Day?

Every year on 16 May.

When did Sikkim become a state of India?

On 16 May 1975, as the twenty-second state.

What is Sikkim known for?

Kanchenjunga, its monasteries, orchids and being India's first fully organic state.

What do you say on Sikkim Statehood Day?

Say "Happy Sikkim Statehood Day" or, in Nepali, "सिक्किम राज्य दिवसको हार्दिक शुभकामना".

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