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“Great things come in small packages!” Sikkim is a perfect example of this saying. Tucked away in the heart of the majestic Himalayas, Sikkim may be India’s second smallest state, but its vibrant beauty and captivating charm are enough to leave you spellbound.
Serving as the gateway to India’s Northeast, Sikkim offers awe-inspiring landscapes and a variety of thrilling activities. Planning a visit to this stunning destination? Here are 15 of the most remarkable places to explore in Sikkim, ensuring an unforgettable and serene holiday.
1. Gangtok
It’s impossible to resist the allure of Gangtok! As the capital of Sikkim, Gangtok is nestled in the Eastern Himalayas and stands as one of the most vibrant destinations in the state.
If you’re planning a Sikkim holiday, Gangtok travel packages are ideal for those who crave tranquil landscapes, lush forests, flowing rivers, or a peaceful retreat. Nature lovers will find everything they dream of in this picturesque city, while adventure seekers can indulge in activities such as cable car rides, river rafting, and mountain biking.
Gangtok Travel Tips
- The best times to visit Gangtok are from March to April and October to November.
- It’s advisable to avoid travelling during Gangtok’s rainy season. Heavy rainfall can cause roadblocks, potentially disrupting your sightseeing plans.
- If you enjoy the vibrant energy of markets, MG Marg is the perfect place to stay. However, if you seek peace and tranquillity, opting for accommodation away from MG Marg is a better choice.
- When visiting high-altitude destinations like Nathula Pass and Baba Mandir in Gangtok, remember that the air contains less oxygen. It’s essential to take necessary precautions before your visit. You might want to consult a doctor and pack essentials like an inhaler if you have breathing concerns. Bring along medications for vomiting, headaches, and motion sickness to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.
Gangtok Facts
- Gangtok doesn’t have its airport. The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal, located approximately 135 km away. The journey from the airport to Gangtok typically takes around 3 to 5 hours.
- Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world, stands proudly at an elevation of 8,586 meters (28,169 feet) above sea level.
- MG Marg in Gangtok holds the unique distinction of being India’s first spit and litter-free zone.
- Every May, Gangtok hosts the International Flower Festival, featuring a stunning display of roses, orchids, alpine creepers, and a variety of other seasonal flowers.
Main Highlights
- Gangtok is home to breathtaking Buddhist monasteries, including the famous Rumtek and Enchey.
- It’s the perfect destination for those seeking peace and serenity.
- The city also offers numerous stunning sightseeing spots, such as Nathula Pass and Tsomgo Lake, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
2. Yuksom
In western Sikkim, Yuksom serves as the gateway for thrilling treks into the Himalayas and the mesmerizing Kanchenjunga. Once the capital of Sikkim, this quaint village is celebrated for its untouched beauty and rustic charm.
Referred to as the ‘Meeting Place of Three Lamas,’ Yuksom is a rising tourist destination. This means you’ll still experience its pristine landscapes and untouched nature. Home to Sikkim’s oldest monastery, Yuksom remains one of the most peaceful and serene spots in the state.
Yuksom Tips
- Located at a moderate altitude, Yuksom enjoys pleasant weather throughout the year. The best times to visit are from March to June and September to October.
- While Yuksom is accessible by road, public transport can be challenging, especially during the rainy season.
Yuksom Facts
- Yuksom was the first capital of Sikkim in the 17th century and the historic site where the first Chogyal (king) was crowned in 1641.
- The Dubdi Monastery in Yuksom, founded in 1701 by Chogyal Namgyal, is the first Buddhist monastery in Sikkim.
Main Highlights
- Yuksom is a charming historical town, renowned for its breathtaking beauty.
- It serves as the ideal gateway to Mt. Kangchenjunga.
- Yuksom offers a variety of captivating trekking trails.
- Key attractions in the town include historical monuments, ancient monasteries, tranquil waterfalls, and serene lakes.
3. Tsomgo Lake
When in Gangtok, don’t miss visiting Tsomgo Lake (also known as Changu Lake)! Located just 38 km from Sikkim’s capital, it sits at an impressive altitude of 12,400 feet, making it one of the highest lakes in India.
While Tsomgo Lake freezes during the winter, it transforms into a magical sight in the summer. During this season, the lake’s turquoise waters beautifully reflect the nearby peaks and the crystal-clear blue sky above.
Tsomgo Lake Tips
- Tsomgo Lake is a perfect day trip from Gangtok. It’s best to start early in the morning to reach on time and fully enjoy the stunning views.
- To visit Tsomgo Lake, you’ll need a special permit. This can be obtained from the Sikkim Tourism Department at MG Marg in Gangtok, or you can ask your travel agent to arrange it for you. Be sure to bring a photo ID and two passport-sized photos when applying for the permit.
- During the winter season, be prepared for roadblocks caused by heavy snow.
Tsomgo Lake Facts
- Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, is one of the highest lakes in India, situated at an elevation of 3,753 meters.
- The lake is considered sacred by the locals, and its waters are believed to possess healing properties.
- The lake’s surface transforms in colour with each season, further enhancing its natural beauty.
- During winter, the lake freezes, crafting a peaceful and serene landscape.
- Tsomgo Lake is also the venue for the Guru Poornima festival, making it a place of spiritual significance.
Main Highlights
- In winter, travellers indulge in trekking along the lake’s edge, ice skating on its thick ice, and enjoying yak rides across the frozen surface.
- During summer and autumn, the blooming Primula flowers and other alpine plants around the lake become major attractions.
- In October, bird watchers flock to the lake to observe native birds waddling in its waters.
4. Nathula Pass
As a former section of the historic Silk Road, Nathu La is an essential stop on any Sikkim travel package. It is one of the highest motorable passes in the world, standing at 4,310 meters above sea level, and it links Sikkim with Tibet.
The pass is accessible to Indian visitors, but you must obtain permission from the tourism department to visit. Unfortunately, foreign nationals are not permitted to visit Nathu La.
NathuLa Pass Tips
- Nathu La Pass remains closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays.
- Access to the pass is restricted during winter due to heavy snowfall and temperatures that can plunge as low as -25°C.
- Be cautious on the winding roads to Nathu La Pass, as they can lead to motion sickness. If you’re susceptible, it’s advisable to carry motion sickness medication.
- A special permit is required to visit the area. Bring a photo ID and two passport-sized photos. You can obtain the permit from the zonal office or have your travel agent arrange it for you.
- Photography is prohibited at Nathu La Pass.
Nathula Pass Facts
- At an altitude of 4,302 meters, Nathu La Pass ranks as one of the highest motorable roads in the world.
- The pass connects Sikkim to China and was historically a crucial section of an ancient Silk Route that linked Lhasa in Tibet to the plains of Bengal.
Main Highlights
- Nathu La Pass offers breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountains and the Chumbi Valley in Tibet.
- Driving through the hills can be an exhilarating experience, often more enjoyable than the destination itself. This is certainly the case at Nathu La Pass, where traversing snow-covered roads amidst scenic beauty creates a truly memorable journey.
5. Pelling
If you’re captivated by the majestic Himalayan Range, Pelling is the perfect destination for you! From this charming town in Sikkim, you can experience some of the finest views of the Himalayas and Kanchenjunga Peak, making it an ideal location for your Sikkim holiday.
Located at an elevation of 7,200 feet, this picturesque town boasts stunning waterfalls, breathtaking views, abundant natural beauty, and thrilling adventure activities such as rafting, kayaking, trekking, and mountain biking.
Pelling Tips
- Pelling enjoys a moderate climate year-round, making it a great destination at any time. However, the ideal time to visit is during the summer months, from May to July.
Pelling Facts
- The monasteries in Pelling are among the oldest in Sikkim.
- Situated at a high altitude, Pelling often experiences snowfall during the winter months.
- Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas and Kanchenjunga mountain ranges, Pelling offers clear and close-up views of these majestic peaks.
Main Highlights
- Pelling offers a variety of incredible trekking trails that begin right in the town.
- The main highlights of Pelling include stunning views of the Kanchenjunga Mountains, beautiful waterfalls, charming bridges, and ancient monasteries.
- While in Pelling, be sure to visit the Pemayangtse Monastery, Khecheopalri Lake, Rabdentse Ruins, Sanga Choeling Monastery, and Kanchenjunga Falls.
6. Lachung
Lachung offers many reasons to mesmerize you! Situated at an impressive elevation of 8,610 feet, it is a renowned snow destination in Sikkim. Its untouched and captivating beauty makes it one of the most picturesque and charming places to visit in Sikkim.
Located in northern Sikkim, this charming mountain village is blessed with the pure beauty of the Lachung Chu River and is also famous for the Lachung Gompa. Despite its popularity, the village maintains a unique and enchanting charm that is hard to find anywhere else.
Lachung Tips
- Lachung becomes inaccessible during the monsoon season due to heavy rainfall and in winter because of the thick snow that blocks major routes.
- While stunning, the roads in Lachung are often in poor condition, so be sure to allocate ample time when planning your visit.
Lachung Facts
- Joseph Dalton Hooker, the British botanist, described Lachung as the “most picturesque village of Sikkim” in his book, The Himalayan Journal.
- Lachung is adorned with fruit orchards and glacial rivers, which enhance its natural charm.
Main Highlights
- Lachung is a stunning yet largely unexplored Himalayan village in Sikkim.
- Lachung is renowned for its towering dark mountains, winding glacial rivers, cascading waterfalls, and lush fruit orchards.
7. Ravangla
Nestled between Maenam and Tendong Hills, Ravangla is one of the top destinations in southern Sikkim. Located between Gangtok and Pelling, this scenic town also offers some of the most sought-after treks in Sikkim.
Ravangla is a haven for bird watchers, home to some of the rarest and most endangered bird species in the world. During your visit, you might spot dark-throated thrushes, verditer flycatchers, blue whistling thrushes, babblers, cuckoos, and many more.
Ravangla Tips
- The weather in Ravangla can be quite unpredictable, so it’s wise to be prepared for occasional rain. It’s a good idea to carry a raincoat or umbrella for added protection.
Ravangla Facts
- In April and May, Ravangla comes alive with many flowers in full bloom.
- Tourists flock to Ravangla to witness various species of migratory birds and enjoy stunning views of peaks such as Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Pandim, and Mt. Sinialchu.
Main Highlights
- Ravangla is renowned for its temples, monasteries, picturesque tea gardens, unique flora and fauna, breathtaking sightseeing spots, rich cultural heritage, snowy mountains, cascading waterfalls, and exciting adventure sports.
- One of the most awe-inspiring sights in Sikkim is the magnificent golden Buddha in Ravangla.
8. Rumtek Monastery
- Rumtek Monastery, one of the largest and oldest monasteries in Sikkim, stands as a tribute to Buddhist culture and traditions. Situated near Gangtok, it is also referred to as the ‘Dharma Chakra Centre’.
- The golden Buddha in Ravangla is a remarkable example of Buddhist architecture and teachings. It’s an ideal place to seek mental peace and deepen your understanding of Buddhism. Its spiritual beauty and importance make it a must-visit on any Gangtok travel package.
Rumtek Monastery Tips
- The monastery is open from 9 am to 6 pm, so be sure to plan your visit within these hours.
- Wear comfortable shoes as it’s a long, steep walk from the drop-off point where the taxi leaves you.
- Cameras are not permitted inside the monastery.
- To witness the monks during their morning prayers, make sure to arrive early.
Rumtek Monastery Facts
- Rumtek Monastery is renowned worldwide for its Kagyu teachings.
- The monastery’s architecture is considered one of the finest in the world, closely resembling the original structure in Tsurphu, Tibet.
- The monastery houses sacred items and rare Buddhist artwork, including 1,001 miniature golden Buddha models, Thangkas, and murals. These were brought in 1963 by Rangjung Rigpe Dorje, the 16th Karmapa.
Main Highlights
- The Golden Stupa at the monastery, along with ancient relics and the river flowing down the hill, are key features that stand out.
9. Namchi
In Tibetan, Namchi means “top of the sky,” and a visit to this beautiful city in Sikkim will reveal why. Located about 92 km from Gangtok at an elevation of 1,675 meters, Namchi is one of the most breathtaking cities in Sikkim.
Namchi is primarily known as a pilgrimage centre for Buddhists, rather than just a tourist destination. Key religious sites include the Namchi Monastery, Tendong Hill, and Ralong Monasteries. The city is also home to a stunning 108-foot Lord Shiva statue, which draws numerous Hindu devotees.
Namchi Tips
- The ideal time to visit Namchi is between March and October.
- If you plan to travel during the monsoon season, be cautious of muddy, slippery roads and the risk of landslides.
Namchi Facts
- Namchi is the capital of South Sikkim.
- It is home to the world’s tallest statue of Buddhist Padmasambhava, standing at an impressive 118 feet. Padmasambhava is a revered spiritual figure in Sikkim.
- Additionally, Namchi is a prominent pilgrimage site in Buddhist culture.
Main Highlights
- Namchi is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and serene ambiance.
- Each year in October, Namchi celebrates the vibrant Namchi Mahotsav, a well-loved festival that highlights tourism, culture, and delicious food. The city also hosts a captivating flower festival, where visitors can enjoy an array of stunning floral displays.
10. Do-Drul Chorten
The Do Drul Chorten, the largest stupa in Sikkim, was constructed in 1945 under the guidance of Truslshi Rimpoche. This significant religious site is home to 108 Mani Lhakor prayer wheels. It serves as a serene space to connect with your inner self.
Do-Drul Chorten Tips
- The ideal times to visit are October and June.
- It is open daily from 8 am to 6 pm.
- The stupa is located near the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology and the Gangtok Center.
Do-Drul Chorten Facts
- Do Drul Chorten was constructed in 1945 by Trulshi Rimpoche, the head of the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism.
- It is considered one of the finest monasteries in Gangtok.
- Once believed to be haunted by evil spirits, the site was later blessed by the highly revered Guru Rinpoche, who dispelled all negative energy.
- The stupa features 108 prayer wheels, each engraved with Tibetan mantras.
- The complex is vast, capable of housing more than 700 monks.
Main Highlights
- It’s an ideal destination for history enthusiasts, those in search of peace, and photography lovers.
Conclusion
Sikkim presents a wide variety of attractions for all types of travelers. From peaceful monasteries and breathtaking natural landscapes to lively festivals and thrilling adventures, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re trekking through the majestic Himalayas, exploring ancient temples, or immersing yourself in the rich local culture, Sikkim guarantees an unforgettable experience.
