Q1. What is the capital city of Sikkim?
a) Namchi
b) Gangtok
c) Rangpo
d) Mangan
Show Answer
Correct Answer: b) Gangtok
Explanation: Gangtok is the capital and largest city of Sikkim. It is located in the eastern Himalayan range and serves as the state’s administrative, commercial, and cultural center. The city is known for its scenic beauty, Buddhist monasteries, and as a base for trekking expeditions.
Q2. When did Sikkim become an Indian state?
a) 1947
b) 1950
c) 1965
d) 1975
Show Answer
Correct Answer: d) 1975
Explanation: Sikkim became the 22nd state of India on May 16, 1975. Prior to this, it was an independent kingdom under Indian protectorate status. The integration followed a referendum where the majority of Sikkimese voted to join India, leading to the abolition of the monarchy.
Q3. Which is the highest peak in Sikkim?
a) Mount Everest
b) Kanchenjunga
c) Nanda Devi
d) Annapurna
Show Answer
Correct Answer: b) Kanchenjunga
Explanation: Kanchenjunga, at 8,586 meters (28,169 ft), is the highest peak in Sikkim and the third-highest mountain in the world. It is located on the border of Sikkim and Nepal and is considered sacred by the people of Sikkim.
Q4. What is the state animal of Sikkim?
a) Snow Leopard
b) Red Panda
c) Musk Deer
d) Himalayan Black Bear
Show Answer
Correct Answer: b) Red Panda
Explanation: The Red Panda, also known as the “Firefox,” is the state animal of Sikkim. This endangered species is found in the temperate forests of Sikkim and is known for its distinctive reddish-brown fur and raccoon-like appearance.
Q5. How many districts are there in Sikkim?
a) 4
b) 6
c) 8
d) 10
Show Answer
Correct Answer: b) 6
Explanation: Sikkim is divided into six districts: Gangtok, Mangan, Namchi, Gyalshing, Soreng, and Pakyong. These districts were established to improve administrative efficiency and promote balanced regional development across the state.
Q6. Which pass connects Sikkim to Tibet?
a) Zoji La
b) Rohtang Pass
c) Nathu La
d) Khardung La
Show Answer
Correct Answer: c) Nathu La
Explanation: Nathu La is a mountain pass in the Himalayas that connects Sikkim with China’s Tibet Autonomous Region. It is one of the three open trading border posts between India and China and holds significant strategic and economic importance.
Q7. What is the state flower of Sikkim?
a) Rhododendron
b) Orchid
c) Noble Dendrobium
d) Blue Poppy
Show Answer
Correct Answer: c) Noble Dendrobium
Explanation: The Noble Dendrobium (Dendrobium nobile) is the state flower of Sikkim. It is a species of orchid found in the Himalayan region. This beautiful flower symbolizes the rich biodiversity and natural beauty of Sikkim.
Q8. Which river is known as the lifeline of Sikkim?
a) Brahmaputra
b) Teesta
c) Rangeet
d) Manas
Show Answer
Correct Answer: b) Teesta
Explanation: The Teesta River is often referred to as the lifeline of Sikkim. It originates from the Pahunri glacier and flows through the state, playing a crucial role in Sikkim’s ecology, agriculture, and hydropower generation.
Q9. What percentage of Sikkim’s area is covered by forests?
a) 25%
b) 47%
c) 67%
d) 82%
Show Answer
Correct Answer: b) 47%
Explanation: Approximately 47% of Sikkim’s total geographical area is covered by forests. This high forest cover contributes to the state’s rich biodiversity, helps maintain ecological balance, and supports various endemic species of flora and fauna.
Q10. Which is the main language spoken in Sikkim?
a) Hindi
b) Bengali
c) Nepali
d) Sikkimese
Show Answer
Correct Answer: c) Nepali
Explanation: Nepali is the most widely spoken language in Sikkim and serves as the lingua franca of the state. It became the official language of Sikkim in 1977. Other languages spoken include Bhutia, Lepcha, and Limbu.