Which of the following ancient texts or classical accounts contains the earliest vague geographical references to the eastern Himalayan tribal settlements encompassing present-day Sikkim?

💡 Solution & Explanation

Ancient Sanskrit literature, including the epics and Puranas, frequently mentions the Kirata people who inhabited the Himalayan mountain ranges, including the tracts corresponding to modern Sikkim. The Arthashastra and Sangam texts focus entirely on peninsular and Gangetic administrative or commercial matters. The Kiratas played a significant role in ancient Himalayan ethnic formations and feature prominently in classical Indian geographical treatises.