Pakyong

Pakyong is a town and a municipality in the East Sikkim district of the Indian state of Sikkim. It is located at an altitude of approximately 1,720 meters (5,643 feet) above sea level. The town is situated about 30 kilometers by road from the state capital, Gangtok. Pakyong is a rapidly developing area, largely due to the presence of the Pakyong Airport, which is the only airport in Sikkim.

The Pakyong Airport, inaugurated in 2018, was a significant development for the region, providing much-needed air connectivity to Sikkim. This has boosted tourism and economic activities in and around Pakyong. The town itself serves as a gateway to various tourist destinations in East Sikkim.

Pakyong experiences a temperate climate, with distinct seasons. Summers are pleasant, while winters can be cold, with occasional snowfall. The surrounding landscape is characterized by lush green hills, forests, and agricultural terraces, typical of the Himalayan region. The local economy is primarily based on agriculture, with cardamom and ginger being important cash crops.

The population of Pakyong is diverse, with various ethnic communities residing in the area, contributing to the cultural fabric of Sikkim. The town offers basic amenities and is a hub for local commerce and administration for the surrounding villages. Its strategic location and the airport have positioned Pakyong as an important center in East Sikkim.