15 places to visit and things to do in Sikkim for a wonderful experience

One of the most picturesque places in northeastern India is Sikkim. It has all the elements necessary to relieve you from the fatigue of strenuous daily activities since it is discreetly located and gorgeously landlocked with astounding natural beauty. When on vacation in Sikkim, visitors may enjoy the beauty of snowfall in addition to the region’s breathtaking scenery. Here are Sikkim’s popular places to visit that you must include in your itinerary if you want it to be a memorable excursion.

 

How to reach Sikkim?

By air

The National Research Centre and Dikling Monastery are nearby Pakyong Airport, Sikkim’s first airport, situated in Pakyong Village, 35 kilometres south of Gangtok. Visitors to Sikkim can fly into Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal instead of Pakyong Airport, which is only 124 kilometres from Gangtok.

By train

The two train stations in West Bengal that are closest to Sikkim are New Jalpaiguri and Siliguri. Siliguri is 114 kilometres from Gangtok, and NJP is 125 kilometres away. Gangtok is well linked to all the main towns.

By road

National Highway 31A, Sikkim’s lifeblood, travels through lush green woods along the Teesta River’s bank on one side and sky-touching mountain peaks of the Eastern Himalaya on the other side as it links Gangtok and Siliguri.

From dawn to evening, you may travel in luxury thanks to the regular bus service run by S.N.T. and the ample supply of private buses, jeeps, and taxis. 

You may take taxis and jeeps from Siliguri to practically all the popular tourist locations in both South and West Sikkim. For a fair price, you may rent taxis and jeeps to take you wherever you want.

 

15 places to explore when in Sikkim

Nathula Pass

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As it links India and China at the height of 14,140 feet, it is a fortified territory controlled by the Indian military. In the summer, Nathu La Pass provides beautiful vistas of the snow-covered mountains. 

Visit NathuLa Pass to be in awe of the pristine natural beauty. The Silk Route, which connects Tibet and India, was previously utilised for commerce. The drive to Nathula Pass is spectacular year-round because of the blanket of snow everywhere around you.

The fact that only Indians are permitted to enter Nathu La Pass is its finest feature. One must also get a permit because there are still Indian and Chinese soldiers stationed there.

Distance: 61 km from Gangtok

Best time to visit: March-June

Timings: 08:00 AM – 03:30 PM Wednesday-Sunday

Entry fees: Rs 200 and Permission Required

How to reach: Taxis/Drive 

Places to see: Mountain Chomolhari, War Memorial, India-China border, Indian Army exhibition centre, and yak safari

See also: Places to visit in Dharamshala

 

Tsomgo Lake

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Without going to Tsomgo Lake, a vacation to East Sikkim’s tourist spots isn’t complete. Another name for this lake is Changu Lake. Tsomgo Lake is situated at the height of 12,300 feet. By its closeness to Nathu La Pass, a journey to this lake might be combined.

The fact that this lake is so pristinely coloured throughout the year is its finest feature. In the winter, snow accumulates on Tsomgo Lake due to glaciers melting. The melting snow and the lake’s entire appearance may be seen at Tsomgo Lake throughout the summer.

In the summer, vibrant flower beds enhance the lake’s splendour. The surrounding natural beauty appears to be nothing short of a paradise. From a neighbouring hill, you could take in the complete panorama of the lake.

The blossoms will never stop enticing you. Near the lake, you may observe a pretty yak that has been adorned. Don’t forget to take a yak ride for a fun experience. One of Sikkim’s most prominent places to visit is Tsomgo Lake.

Distance: 36.8 km from Gangtok

Best time to visit: January-March and October-December

Timings: Avoid visiting at night due to roads

Entry fees: Permission Required

How to reach: Taxis/drive/ jeeps/ buses

Things to see: Orchids, Migratory Ducks, Yaks and pony rides 

See also: Places to visit in Jammu for a heavenly trip

 

Khangchendzonga National Park

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When you explore this national park, take in the immensity of the natural setting. In 2016, the Khangchendzonga National Park was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is a natural reserve and an ornithologist’s paradise, home to hundreds of rare species of flora and wildlife.

The fact that Mt. Khangchendzonga, East Sikkim’s third-highest peak, is located within this national park makes it a must-see location. 

Visit if you enjoy hiking to view the 19 mountain peaks and 17 high-altitude lakes. This national park is ideal for tourists to visit East Sikkim since it snows for most of the year.

Distance: 45.9 km from Gangtok

Best time to visit: March-May and September-Mid-December

Timings: 10:00 AM to 04:00 PM

Entry fees: 

• INR 300 for Indians 
• INR 80 per student 
• INR 560 for foreigners 
• INR 10 for guide 
• INR 50 for the tent 
• Photography charges vary for camera choice and range between INR 30 to INR 35K. 
• The price is for the first 7 days then additional charges of INR 40 and INR 80 are applied for Indians and foreigners, respectively.

How to reach: Taxis/ drive/ buses

Things to See: Snow Leopards, Red Panda, Trekking 

 

Gangtok

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A little bit of heaven is Gangtok. It is Sikkim’s capital and one of the greatest destinations to visit during the summer since there are so many activities to do with family members and friends.

History enthusiasts would adore visiting Gangtok since it is a beautiful place with a fascinating past. Besides having a rich history, Gangtok has some of the most breathtaking views of the towering Kanchenjunga.

You may treat yourself to activities like paragliding and rafting. The greatest alternative for you, and you will see the snow-capped peaks up close during the summer, is hiking. Don’t hesitate to enjoy quiet time with the monks at one of Gangtok’s many monasteries.

Distance: 74.7 km from Sikkim

Best time to visit: Late September- Mid-December

How to reach: Visitors to Sikkim can fly into Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal or Pakyong Airport in Pakyong Village, i.e., 35 km from Gangtok and from there, one can commute via buses or taxis.

Places to visit: Cable Cars, Lakes, Monasteries, Snow Lakes, Wildlife Sanctuaries, and many more

 

Pelling

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Pelling in Sikkim offers visitors a variety of experiences, whether you want to call it an adrenaline centre or a spiritual centre. Pelling’s breathtaking scenery, located at the height of 7,200 feet, is indescribably beautiful.

Due to its location in the foothills of the Himalayas, this village in west Sikkim is renowned for its breathtaking vistas of Mount Kanchenjunga. Pelling is a must-see for trekkers since it serves as the base camp for several treks.

Enjoy your trip to Pelling amid nature, seeing monasteries, waterfalls, and bird viewing. It is the ideal place to travel with your family throughout the summer. Peeling is a picturesque hamlet that exudes calmness and peace.

Distance: 113 km from Gangtok

Best time to visit: Late September- Mid-December

How to reach: Private buses and taxis

Places to visit: Pelling Skywalk, Darap village, Hiking, Picnics, Kanchenjunga waterfalls, and many more

 

Legship

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Legship is regarded as the best vacation spot in West Sikkim since it is tucked away in a pristine environment. Visitors looking for a restorative experience amid nature can schedule a trip to Legship. 

This little village in West Sikkim, situated on the River Rangit, is perfect for those who want solitude.

Also, the beauty of nature offers a lot of options. Legship is best visited during the summer because there are many opportunities for a picnic and river rafting. Don’t forget to take your family to this Legship in June if you visit West Sikkim.

Distance: 105.4 km from Gangtok

Best time to visit: November to February

How to reach: Taxis/buses

Things to see: Buddhist Monasteries, Hot springs

 

Lachen

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Lachen, located in Sikkim’s northern region, is one of the most picturesque towns and a popular travel destination noted for its Lachung monastery. It is said to be one of the most notable and well-liked locations for Buddhist pilgrims and visitors because of its tranquil greenery and natural beauty. 

Lachen is a less crowded, lovely vacation spot that is particularly well-known for being the entrance to the revered Gurudongmar and Tso Lhamu lakes.

The Nyingma order of Himalayan Buddhism, the Lachen Monastery, Lachen Chu, and the alpine glaciers are the most prevalent areas in Lachen. 

The charming town of Sikkim is renowned for its abundant greenery, mostly made up of meadows and bushes as well as apple orchards.

Distance: 114 km from Gangtok

Best time to visit: May to September

How to reach: Taxis/buses

Things to see: Buddhist Monasteries, Hot springs

 

Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple

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Knowing that there is a soldier’s temple in Sikkim should make Indians proud. Just above Changu Lake, there is a shrine dedicated to Indian Army veteran Harbhajan Singh. Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple is easy to reach in the summer. 

The considerable snowfall causes the roads to the temple to occasionally be impassable, much like in the winter. According to the temple’s mythology, Baba Harbhajan still comes here to fulfil his mission. 

The troops think that Baba remains present. As a result, one chair is always left vacant in talks with Chinese troops for Baba Harbhajan. Additionally, food and beverages are stored for Baba.

Distance: 53.8 km from Gangtok

Best time to visit: April to November

Timings: 08:00 AM to 05:00 PM

Entry fees: Permission Required/ Foreigners are not allowed

How to reach: Taxis/ trekking

 

Yumthang Valley

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Despite Yumthang Valley’s reputation as a “valley of flowers,” snowfall can occur at any time of year. The ice river is suitable for barefoot travel. In Yumthang Valley, wildflowers begin to blossom in the summer. It is around 3,575 metres (m) above sea level.

Distance: 134.4 km from Gangtok

Best time to visit: February- April

Timings: preferred time is 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Entry fees: Permission Required/ INR50 for Indians

How to reach: Taxis/ Drive. For safety, drive till Lachen then you can commute to the valley from there.

 

Gurudongmar Lake

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Any time of year, visitors to Sikkim dream of seeing this high-altitude lake. The lake never freezes throughout the winter, not even at zero degrees. The lakes are peaceful and serene in the summer and provide vistas of the mountains covered in winter.

Gurudongmar Lake is at a height of 17,800 feet, and the locals consider it to have supernatural power. 

The Guru Padmasambhava, who once travelled through this pristine lake on his tour across Tibet, is frequently linked to it. To see the wild, vibrant blooms, this lake in north Sikkim is a must-visit location in the summer with the family.

Distance: 189 km from Gangtok

Best time to visit: November- June

Timings: the preferred time before sunset

Entry fees: Permission Required/ Foreigners and kids below 6 are not allowed 

How to reach: Taxis/ Drive. For safety drive till Lachen then you can commute to the valley from there via a bus or shared vehicle.

 

Namchi 

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Namchi, the capital of South Sikkim, has been designated as Sikkim’s cultural capital. It is a natural tourist destination nestled in the Himalayas. The village, which is at a height of around 1315 metres, is engulfed in magnificent splendour.

The nicest thing about Namchi is that it sells copies of the four major Hindu shrines. This South Sikkim hamlet draws many tourists due to its religious offerings. Enjoy Namchi’s natural beauty and spirituality if you want to travel to South Sikkim during the summer.

Distance: 77.9 km from Sikkim

Best time to visit: October-February

How to reach: Buses/Shared vehicle

Places to visit: Food, Nightlife Trekking, annual food fest

 

Banjhakri Falls

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The Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park, exquisitely tucked away among the verdant woods, are the must-see locations in Sikkim for all nature enthusiasts. 

The falls are the most notable feature of Ban Jhakri Park and are regarded as the most pleasant location by both residents and visitors. 

It is unique because of the marked routes, gorgeous gazebos, and ingenious footbridges. All those adventurers out there are drawn to the Falls.

Distance: 7.5 km from Gangtok

Best time to visit: August to September

Timings: 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM

Entry fees: INR 50

How to reach: Cab/Drive

 

Pemayangtse Monastery

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The Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the state’s oldest monasteries, has played a significant role in Sikkim’s Buddhist pilgrimage circuit since its completion in 1705. The Nyingma Order, the oldest of Tibetan Buddhism’s four schools, is cared for by the monastery. 

The crimson caps that the monks wear help people identify them amid Sikkim’s Bhutias. A distinctive and beautiful location for the old monastery is at the height of 2085 metres (6840 feet) above sea level. 

The well-known Dzongri hike path also has a starting point at Pemayangtse Monastery. From the monastery, you can see the picturesque Kanchenjunga massif, which has five eight-thousander peaks known as the “Five Treasures of Snow.”

Distance: 122.8 km from Gangtok

Best time to visit: October to February especially for the cham festival

Timings: 09:00 AM to 06:00 PM

Entry fees: INR 20

How to reach: Buses till Pelling then you have to commute via a Cab/Drive yourself there.

 

Ravangla

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One of the popular hill towns in Sikkim is Ravangla, located in South Sikkim. Everything in this town will attract vacationers. The best is available to you during the summer, from meditative monasteries to pulsating waterfalls.

Additionally, the midsummer temperature ranges from four to 12 degrees Celsius. While seeing the beautiful Mt. Kanchenjunga, visitors may sip award-winning tea. If you are taking your family to Sikkim in the summer, be sure to take time to enjoy Ravangla’s natural beauty and spirituality.

Mt. Kabru and other mountain summits are also visible from Ravangla. For bird lovers, Ravangla is a paradise. The Buddha Park of the Ravangla Buddhist community has historical importance. 

Distance: 63.6 km from Gangtok

Best time to visit: August to September

How to reach: Taxis/buses

Things to see: Buddhist Monasteries, Hot springs, Trekking, Temi tea Estate and many more.

 

Cholamu Lake

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The Cholamu Lake in North Sikkim is the fourteenth-highest lake in the world and the highest lake in India. It is at an elevation of 18,000 feet above sea level. This modestly small, nearly frozen lake may be seen for the first time as you descend the slope of around 300 feet from Donkia La pass (18,300 feet). 

Only a few kilometres separate Cholamu Lake from the Tibetan border, but it is off-limits to regular travellers. To access Cholamu Lake, one needs special permission from the Army and the Sikkim police/administration.

Distance: 195.4 km from Gangtok

Best time to visit: October to November 

Entry fees: Permission is required from the army and foreigners aren’t allowed

How to reach: Cab

 

FAQs

What is Sikkim renowned for?

Sikkim, a section of the Eastern Himalayas, is known for its biodiversity and for having alpine and subtropical climates. It also has Kangchenjunga, the third-highest mountain on Earth and the highest peak in India. Gangtok is the capital and biggest city in Sikkim.

How long is enough time in Sikkim?

You will need around 12–15 days to visit all the well-known attractions and one of the most picturesque places in Sikkim.