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Sikkim: One of India's Richest Biodiversity Areas

All you need to know about the wildlife and protected areas of Sikkim
Text by: Radhika Raj Design by: Diviya Mehra
Updated   July 29, 2026
Text by: Radhika Raj Design by: Diviya Mehra
Updated   July 29, 2026
1 min read
All you need to know about the wildlife and protected areas of Sikkim
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Explainer on Sikkim, one of India's richest biodiversity hotspots

Is Sikkim rich in biodiversity? 

Yes, even though Sikkim accounts for just 0.22% of India's geographical area, it harbours, 1/3rd of India's floral diversity. Sikkim has over 150 species of mammals, 550 species of birds, 48 species of fish, 627 species of butterflies and insects and hundreds of reptiles and amphibians

What are the sanctuaries in Sikkim? 

Sanctuaries found in Sikkim include Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary, Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary, Kitam Bird Sanctuary and Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary. 

How much of Sikkim comes under protected areas? 

46.93% of Sikkim is protected for conservation. 41.3% of this is the Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve. 60% of the Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve comes under the Kanchenjunga National Park. 

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