Deorali Orchid Sanctuary, Gangtok

Abstract

Sikkim Himalayas are well-known for their rich wealth of flora and fauna. Many edible, economic and ornamental plants are found in and around Gangtok. Sacred groves of Rumtek, Enchey and Deorah are nature reserves around Buddhist Monasteries. Naturalists have visited these areas since the days of Hooker (1848) and collected beautiful orchids for cultivation. As many as 600 species of orchids were described from Sikkim by King&Pantling (1898) whereas Bruhl (1926) provided a guide to identify these beautiful orchids in nature.

Gangtok or the "Hilltop", situated on the ridge with deep gorges of Ranichu in the West and Rorochu in the East ranges from 1675 to 1860 m. The Enchey monastery near tourist lodge, the deer park near Secretariat and the Institute Tibetology near Chuten attract visitors.