Sikkim is like a state straight out of a fairytale, with its towering mountains, lush landscapes, and captivating valleys. As you journey through the places to visit in Sikkim, you’ll be enchanted by the magic they radiate. This state, the crown jewel of Northeast India, is truly a paradise on Earth. Though it’s the second smallest state in the country, you’ll be surprised by the hidden treasures it keeps wrapped in an air of mystique. Now is the time to unravel Sikkim’s enchanting destinations, one layer at a time.
10 Best Places to Explore in Sikkim: Embark on a Journey through this Enchanting State
Plan your getaway to this captivating destination, where the charm exceeds all expectations. Sikkim, an often overlooked gem, is filled with hidden treasures that will leave you in awe. Let’s delve into the must-visit spots in Sikkim that should be on your itinerary.
- Tsomgo Lake
- Yumthang Valley
- Gurudongmar Lake
- Pelling
- Gangtok
- Nathula Pass
- Goechala
- Green Lake
- Teesta River
- Yume Samdong
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1. Tsomgo Lake: Watch the Mountains Reflect in this Glacier Lake 🌄
Location: 12310 ft. above sea level
Best Time to Visit: April to May or January to March
Distance from Sikkim: Approx. 148 km
Overview: Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, is an enchanting glacial lake surrounded by majestic snow-capped Himalayas. This serene spot offers stunning reflections of the mountains and is home to yaks and Brahmini ducks. Visit in winter to see the lake frozen or in summer for vibrant flowers and lush greenery.
Travel Tips:
- Wear boots due to snowy paths.
- Leave early in the morning.
- Carry warm clothes and medicines for altitude sickness.
Permit: Required for access; special permits for foreign nationals. Obtain from the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department of Sikkim with valid ID and photos.
Legend: The water’s color was believed to foretell the future and is considered holy by locals.
How to Reach: Take a cab from Gangtok to the lake or a special car from Jawaharlal Nehru Road.
Also Read:- The 10 Famous Lakes In The World
2. Yumthang Valley: A Scenic Valley Home to Vibrant Flowers 🌸
Location: Approx. 199 km from Sikkim
Best Time to Visit: March to mid-June
Overview: Known as the “Valley of Flowers,” Yumthang Valley blooms with rare flowers like Primrose and Cobra Lilies. Surrounded by lush meadows, hot springs, and the Teesta River, this valley offers a picturesque retreat for nature lovers.
Travel Tips:
- Respect wildlife and monastery customs.
- Carry cash as there are no ATMs.
- Bring warm clothes and medicine for altitude sickness.
Permit: Valid ID and photos needed for permit.
How to Reach: Travel via cab or taxi from Gangtok.
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3. Gurudongmar Lake: Soak in the Tranquil Vibes at this Scenic Lake 🏔️
Location: 18,000 ft. above sea level
Best Time to Visit: November to June
Distance from Sikkim: Approx. 246 km
Overview: One of Sikkim’s highest lakes, Gurudongmar Lake features crystal-clear water and breathtaking views. It’s revered as holy by Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists due to its legend of being blessed by Guru Padmasambhava.
Travel Tips:
- Carry warm clothes and necessary medicines for altitude.
- Get the inner line permit a day in advance.
- Use sunglasses to protect against UV rays.
Permit: Special permit needed for foreign nationals; Indian nationals require an inner line permit.
How to Reach: Travel from Gangtok to Lachung, stay overnight, and continue to the lake.
4. Pelling: An Enchanting Quaint Town in West Sikkim 🏞️
Location: Approx. 59 km from Sikkim
Best Time to Visit: December to May
Overview: Pelling offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga Mountains, picturesque monasteries, and waterfalls. This small town is a favorite for trekkers and those seeking peace amidst nature.
Travel Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes and warm clothes.
- Respect local culture and traditions.
How to Reach: Take a cab from Gangtok or travel by road from Bagdogra Airport or Jalpaiguri Railway Station.
5. Gangtok: The Most Popular Tourist Destination in Sikkim 🌆
Location: Approx. 107 km from Sikkim
Best Time to Visit: September to October or May to June
Overview: Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is renowned for its vibrant culture, stunning views of Kanchenjunga, and attractions like MG Road and Tsomgo Lake. It’s a bustling city that captures the essence of Sikkim.
Travel Tips:
- Avoid visiting during the monsoon.
- Carry warm clothes and comfortable shoes.
How to Reach: Fly to Bagdogra Airport or take a train to Jalpaiguri Railway Station, then travel by cab to Gangtok.
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6. Nathula Pass: Travel to the Snow Passage of Gangtok ❄️
Location: 14140 ft. above sea level
Best Time to Visit: May to October
Distance from Sikkim: Approx. 165 km
Overview: Nathula Pass, one of the highest motorable passes in India, offers stunning snowy vistas and connects Sikkim with Tibet. It’s a historic route once part of the Silk Route.
Travel Tips:
- Obtain permits in advance.
- Carry motion sickness medicine.
- Wear appropriate clothing and trekking shoes.
Permit: Required from the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department.
How to Reach: Take an SUV from Gangtok to Nathula Pass.
7. Goechala: Embrace the Adventure
Goechala, also known as Goecha La, is a breathtaking high mountain pass offering unparalleled views of the Himalayas. Its proximity to these majestic peaks ensures a truly awe-inspiring experience. Ideal for activities like trekking, skiing, hiking, and camping, Goechala also holds a unique place in Indian currency, as its scenic view is featured on the back of the 100 rupee note. This serene spot, with its starlit skies and panoramic mountain vistas, makes it a perfect romantic escape. When planning a honeymoon in India, Sikkim is often recommended as a top destination.
Distance from Sikkim: Approximately 32 km
Goechala Facts:
- The view from Goechala is depicted on the reverse side of a 100 rupee note.
- It serves as the base camp for the Kanchenjunga summit.
- To obtain a Goechala permit, present a valid ID and two photographs.
Goechala Travel Tips:
- Wear comfortable trekking shoes.
- Pack warm clothing.
- Carry a first aid kit.
- Bring raingear, even outside of monsoon season.
- Carry extra batteries and film for your camera.
- If possible, hire a trained guide.
How to Reach Goechala:
- From Sikkim: Travel to Yuksom by cab or taxi and begin the trek to Goechala.
- From Gangtok: Take a bus, cab, or taxi to Yuksom, then start the Goechala trek.
- From Other Locations: Fly into Bagdogra Airport or take a train to Jalpaiguri Railway Station, then proceed by cab or taxi to Yuksom and trek to Goechala.
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8. Green Lake: Discover a Snowy Paradise
Green Lake, named for its soothing jade green color, is framed by snow-capped mountains and offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range. The journey to this lake involves traversing rocky terrain and vibrant flora, including blue poppies, through Kanchenjunga National Park. As the base camp for climbing Kanchenjunga and Zemu Glacier, Green Lake is a thrilling destination for adventure seekers. Its remote and unspoiled nature adds to the excitement of exploring this hidden gem in North Sikkim.
Best Time to Visit Green Lake: March to May or October to December
Green Lake Facts:
- It serves as the base camp for climbers of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Zemu Glacier.
- The lake’s jade green hue gives it its name.
Green Lake Travel Tips:
- Wear comfortable trekking shoes.
- Stay hydrated.
- Pack warm clothing.
How to Reach Green Lake:
- From Sikkim: Take a cab or taxi to Gangtok, then travel by road to Lachen, followed by a drive to Zema, the starting point of the trek to Green Lake.
- From Gangtok: Travel by cab or taxi to Lachen, then proceed to Zema to begin the Green Lake trek.
- From Other Locations: Fly into Bagdogra Airport or take a train to Jalpaiguri Railway Station, then travel to Gangtok and take a cab or taxi to Zema for the trek.
9. Teesta River: Revel in the River’s Serenity
Teesta River, a key waterway of Sikkim, divides the state from West Bengal. Originating from the Teesta Kangse Glacier at 7068 meters, it flows 309 km before merging with the Brahmaputra River. The river’s flow, surrounded by lush greenery, offers a calming experience, and during winter, the frozen river presents a stunning view. Teesta River is a prime spot for river rafting and is a peaceful retreat where you can marvel at its beauty.
Best Time to Visit Teesta River: December to June
Distance from Sikkim: Approximately 195 km
Teesta River Facts:
- The river extends 309 km before joining the Brahmaputra.
- It’s a vital resource for Rangpo, Jalpaiguri, and Kalimpong.
- It separates Sikkim from West Bengal.
Teesta River Travel Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- Stay hydrated.
How to Reach Teesta River:
- From Sikkim & Gangtok: Take a cab or taxi from Sikkim or Gangtok to the river.
- From Other Locations: Fly into Bagdogra Airport or take a train to Jalpaiguri Station, then travel by cab or taxi to the river.
10. Yumesamdong: Explore the Edge of Sikkim
Yumesamdong, or Zero Point, sits at an altitude of 4,724 meters and represents the farthest frontier of civilization in Sikkim. Known for its pristine snow-covered landscape and clear blue skies, this remote location is a must-visit for travelers. With no roads beyond this point, the area offers an immersive experience in Sikkim’s natural beauty. You can explore nearby Lachung Village, engage with local culture, or simply enjoy the breathtaking scenery and tranquility.
Best Time to Visit Yumesamdong: March to April
Distance from Sikkim: Approximately 203 km
Yumesamdong Facts:
- Also known as Zero Point, it marks the end of accessible roads.
- Requires an inner line permit due to its proximity to the Chinese border.
- Covered in snow year-round.
Yumesamdong Permit: To obtain a permit, submit two photographs and valid ID to the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department.
Yumesamdong Travel Tips:
- Depart early in the morning.
- Avoid visiting in December and January due to heavy snowfall.
- Those with breathing issues should avoid this location.
- Rent snow boots, gloves, and overcoats.
- Carry cash and necessary medications.
- Wear warm clothing.
How to Reach Yumesamdong:
- From Sikkim: Take a cab to Yumthang Valley and then proceed to Yumesamdong.
- From Gangtok: Travel by cab or taxi to Yumesamdong, as no other vehicles are permitted.
- From Other Locations: Reach Bagdogra Airport or Jalpaiguri Railway Station in West Bengal, then take a cab or taxi to Sikkim. From there, travel by road to Yumesamdong.