Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, Gangtok
The famous Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom Center was established in 1957 for the sake of training and production. The main focus of this place is given to art and craftwork, the authorities wanted to preserve the traditional art and craft of the state. It has widely encouraged people and artists to display their talents in a tangible way. The DHH also offers various programs to teach people the art that have enhanced their artistic skills.This Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom has increased the opportunities and employment in this town and in the surrounding areas as a whole. This Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom Center has proved to be one of the important training centers in Sikkim and it is growing popularity with every passing day. The center turned out to be a blessing for a lot of people as it didn’t just create employment opportunities but also made this town to be self-sufficient.
The Growth of Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom Center
This Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom center was established with a handful of trainees in the first year; however, the number grew drastically. Today, the center stands with around 650 trainees and 32 training centers throughout the state. It also has one emporium in Sikkim's house.It’s surprising to know that there are over 13 production units all over the state with over 170-250 paid workers and 260 personnel which includes officers and supporting staff in Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom Center.
Did You Know?
• You will be able to find the main emporium of DHH in the capital city located at Zero points. The handlooms and handicrafts are perfectly showcased here.• You will be able to find things like handlooms, wooden carved and painted items, thanka paintings, carpets, wooden masks, cane, and bamboo made items, multi-craft items, traditional hats and caps, stuffed dolls, and embroidered products.
• The center has over 28 centers throughout the state and one emporium in the Sikkim House, New Delhi.
• Apart from producing, importing, and exporting, the center also does a job of preserving the heritage and keeping the cultural tradition of Sikkim alive.
• The center highly promotes exhibitions and fairs all over the state for promotion and popularization of local art and craft of the talent of Sikkim.
• After gaining popularity and love from the audience, the artists have become more known and some even opened their own website to support a passive income.
Navigation
The establishment of Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom Center was done to promote the manufacture and sale of craftwork, carpets, furniture, etc. The famous center is located in about 1 km (0.6 miles). You can take the Tibet road from the MG Marg and move straight up to reach the crossing where the handicraft center is located.The main building is just opposite of the training centers and numerous handicraft items; you can also visit a museum which was opened in around 2007 dedicated completely to artwork and items created by local artists and craftsman. The best part has to be the Emporium where you will be able to buy the handiwork made at the center itself.
Essential Travel Tips
While visiting Gangtok you must remember some of the essential travel tips, some of them are as follows:• Get complete details about the permit
• You must respect the culture
• Keep yourself warm by wearing a sweater
• Stay safe while going for adventure activities
• Save money by sharing transportation
• Adjust with the climate change
These tips will cover the entire basic requirement you must follow on your trip to Gangtok.
Pro Details
There is no airport in Gangtok
This detail is important to share, if you are traveling from a flight, then you must know that Gangtok doesn’t have an airport. You will have to land on the Bagdogra Airport which is around 126km (78miles) away from Gangtok. However, you will easily find cabs and other transportation to reach Gangtok. The nearest railway station is called Jalpaiguri from where you can cover the distance of 120km (74 miles) by road. The distance can be easily covered by Bus or taxi.
Best time to visit Gangtok
Even though Gangtok is beautiful in every possible way, and can be visited throughout the year. You can visit the location between October and mid-December if you want a pleasant experience. You will also get a clear view of Himalaya peaks from the location, if you love exploring slower gardens, then visit this place during March and May to witness lush Rhododendron flowers in full bloom. Lastly, if you want to witness snow, just visit this place between January and February. Follow some of the travel tips that are mentioned to have a smooth Journey, wear comfortable shoes, stay warm, and stick to the time you are planning to visit to prepare according to the season. You will love to explore the talents and art of this place.