In Darjeeling at the Zoological Park one can have glimpses of high altitude wild life, like the Siberian tiger, Himalayan black bear and pandas, while a nearby farm is breeding snow leopards. The East Himalayas present perhaps the best trekking routes in the whole of India. A popular trekking route from Darjeeling takes one to Sandakphu and Phalut from where one can have breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga and Mount Everest. The most popular trek in Sikkim is from Yuksom to Dzongri and Goccha La for superb views of Kanchenjunga. Two peaks in Dzongri area of West Sikkim, Thingchen Khang and Jopunob, have been declared 'trekking peaks', which means they are free of royalty payment.
Foreigners have to obtain permits for trekking on most routes in Sikkim.
The topography, with its high ridges, cliffs and deep-down valley's is an ideal venue for such sports. The river Teesta, with its deep gorges, rapids and strong currents, is tailormade for river rafting, for much of the stretch covering both Sikkim and North Bengal. Canoeing and kayaking have also been introduced on the river Teesta and the lake in Mirik. The route takes you from martam to Gangtok in Sikkim, via the famous Rumtek monastery. Rock Climbing is regularly conducted at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in Darjeeling.