Via Gangtok: 23 Best Places To Visit In Sikkim | A Complete Sikkim Travel Guide
In 2014, my trip to Sikkim began with Gangtok as the epicenter. However, 10 years later, I can still visualize the snowy Tsomgo Chho and the humbling statue of Guru Padmasambhava. Further, Temi Tea Garden was one of the best places to visit in Sikkim because of the lush greenery and the amazing view of the Kanchenjunga.
I also had the best momo and noodles there. However, as we cherished Sikkim tourism, we could only reach a few places in East, South, and North Sikkim. So, we promised to return to Sikkim and explore its hidden gems on the next trip.
Therefore, you can call it my research to find the off-beat locations in the state and create a Sikkim travel guide. Let’s begin!
Best Places To Visit In Sikkim: A Complete Sikkim Tourism Guide
As I pen this guide, Tsomgo Chho gets its first snowfall of the season on 19th October 2024, and the Changu Valley gets transformed into the most beautiful landscape.
Now, the tourism industry in North Bengal and Sikkim has suffered a loss of around 500 crores after the Teesta flash flood in 20231. So, hopefully, the fresh snowfall season will bring a positive turn of events for the tourism landscape of Sikkim.
Meanwhile, let’s explore the hidden gems of Sikkim, spreading across its east, west, north, and south corners.
Sikkim Travel Guide: Exploring The Hidden Gems In North Sikkim
North Sikkim is the most picturesque corner of the state, and in winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland. However, it also looks vibrant from April to May, thanks to the rhododendron flowers’ full bloom.
Moreover, North Sikkim is quite popular on social media, with 212k # NorthSikkim posts on Instagram. So, Gen Z travelers love this mountain abode.
⁍ Lachung
Lachung offers breathtaking mountain vistas with snow-capped peaks that are getting flooded with sunlight. Further, this quaint place in North Sikkim is also the hub of many adventure activities like skiing. Moreover, Lachung is the base of the beautiful Rhododendron trek route.
| Location | Mangan District |
| Best Time to Visit Lachung | March to May |
| Altitude | 9600 feet above sea level |
| So, how do you reach Lachung from Gangtok? | You have to reach Lachung from Gangtok by car. Further, the distance is around 120 Kms and will take 5-6 hours to cover the same. |
| Dream and Travel Tips | Any adventurous soul will love to visit the Zero Point in Lachung in winter. However, if you visit the Zero Point between December and February, you will need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) from the Sikkim Government. Further, if Lachung is the main attraction of your Sikkim tour, go for a customized North Sikkim tour package. It will be more pocket-friendly. |
In addition, Lachung, one of the best places to visit in Sikkim, is a place to learn about Sikkimese culture. Also, the Lachung Monastery serves as the cultural and religious epicenter of the local Lepcha, Bhutia, and Nepalese communities.
⁍ Gurudongmar Lake
Located at a high altitude, Gurudongmar Lake is of great religious significance to Buddhists, Hindus, and Sikhs. Further, this lake, kissing the snow-capped peaks, will let you behold the sight of heaven.
| Location | Mangan District |
| Altitude | 17,800 Feet |
| Best Time to Visit | March to June |
| So, how do you reach Gurudongmar Lake from Gangtok? | You can visit Gurudongmar Lake via Lachung. You can also reach Lachung from Gangtok by car the night before. Moreover, from Lachung to Gurudongmar Lake, it is a 4-hour journey. |
| Dream and Travel Tips | Don’t include Gurudongmar Lake in your itinerary if you are traveling with children below 5. Further, make sure to have your permit from the Police Check Post (for Indians) or the Sikkimese Government (for foreigners). Moreover, don’t spend more than 30 minutes at the lake. High altitudes and low temperatures can cause breathing problems and other discomforts. |
Also, Gurudongmar Lake gets its name from Guru Padmasambhava or Guru Rinpoche, the pioneer of Tibetan Buddhism in India.
‣ Gurudongmar Lake: Myths And Miracles
⦿ Guru Padmasambhava blessed a part of Gurudongmar Lake. So, even when the entire Lake becomes a blanket of snow, water in this part of the lake does not freeze.
⦿ Also, many people believe that the water of Gurudongmar Lake has miraculous or healing power. Thus, it has become one of the best places to visit in Sikkim.
⦿ Moreover, it is said that the lake’s water grants children to couples who can’t have one.
⁍ Yumthang Valley
Known as the Flower Valley of Sikkim, Yumthang Valley is a rich display of diverse flora and fauna. Further, the wildflowers in the meadows look most vibrant against the backdrop of mountains and snow. The valley also has hot springs and clear streams.
| Location | Mangan District |
| Altitude | 11693 Feet |
| Best Time to Visit | March to June |
| So, how do you reach Yumthang Valley from Gangtok? | Yumthang Valley is at a 120 Km distance from Gangtok. It will take you more than 5 hours. You will have to take a shared or reserved taxi to reach Yumthang from Gangtok. |
| Dream and Travel Tips | Don’t forget to visit the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary. You will find musk deer, red pandas, and many birds and rhododendron species here. Carry some cash, as ATMs are not available. |
Moreover, you will find yaks passing through the valley, and these animals are delightful, often decked up in colorful gear.
⁍ Naga Falls
Naga Falls in Sikkim has crystal clear water, and its multilayered cascade looks amazing. The surrounding lush greenery will also soothe your eyes.
| Location | Mangan District |
| Best Time to Visit | September-November |
| Visiting Hours | 9 am to 6 pm |
| So, how do you reach Naga Falls from Gangtok? | You can reach Naga Falls from Gangtok by Road. It is located at an 82 Km distance from Gangtok. However, you can also visit it from Lachung, just 38 Kms away. |
| Dream and Travel Tips | The trek to the top of the waterfall is bumpy and strenuous. So, it’s better to reach Lachung from Gangtok the day before. From Lachung, the waterfall is just around 38 Kms away. Don’t miss the nearby Bhim Nala Falls. |
Furthermore, the water here is intense. Still, you can swim or bathe in the clean and cold water. However, you must avoid this while visiting the falls during monsoon season.
⁍ Seven Sisters Waterfalls
It’s beautiful to behold when seven cascades are sideways to cut through the rugged mountain terrain. Further, as you reach the Seven Sisters Waterfalls, you will get the most amazing views of Mount Kanchenjunga.
| Location | Mangan District |
| Visiting Hours | 8 am to 5 pm |
| Best Time to Visit | May to July and February to April |
| So, How to Reach Seven Sisters Waterfalls from Gangtok? | The Seven Sisters Waterfalls is around 30 Km away from Gangtok via the Singtam – Chungthang Road. |
| Dream and Travel Tips | Don’t forget to visit the Mawsmai Caves and nearby Nohkalikai Falls when you are at Seven Sisters Waterfalls. |
Moreover, sunsets look most beautiful at Seven Sisters Waterfalls, and throughout the day, the rays of the Sun keep showing beautiful colors in the waterfall.
⁍ Mount Katao
Mount Katao in Sikkim is one of the most important Indian Army bases. However, it is a destination less trodden thanks to the perilous route leading to it.
| Location | Lachung |
| Altitude | 15000 Feet |
| Best Time to Visit | March to June (The Alpine Meadows get filled with flowers). |
| So, how do you reach Mount Katao from Gangtok? | Mount Katao is more than 150 Km away from Gangtok. You must travel from Gangtok via the Gangtok-Chungthang Road to reach Mount Katao in 6 hours. However, it will be best for you to reach Lachung the day before and, from there, travel for a distance of around 25 Kms. |
| Dream and Travel Tips | If you are interested in adventure activities in Sikkim, you can visit Mount Katao from December to February. Snowboarding and skiing are popular adventure activities here. |
Furthermore, Mount Katao offers the best views of the beautiful Lachung River. You will also love beholding the Himalayan Mountains from here.
Best Places To Visit In South Sikkim: Know The Offbeat Destinations
With Namchi as the capital, South Sikkim is the cultural epicenter of the state. Along with having great scenic beauty, it is also a tapestry of local human lives.
From the towering statue of Guru Padmasambhava on the Samdruptse Hill in Namchi to the Siddheshwara Dham, it is further the spiritual and religious hub of the state. Moreover, South Sikkim has many hidden gems for you to explore.
⁍ Borong
Borong is the best place in South Sikkim to have a brilliant view of Mount Kanchenjunga. You will also love the view of Mount Pandim and Mount Narsing from here.
| Location | South Sikkim, Near Ravangla |
| Altitude | 5800 Feet |
| Best Time to Visit | March to May and October to November |
| So, how do you reach Borong from Gangtok? | Borong is 70 Kms away from Gangtok, and you can reach this destination by car. However, many Sikkim tourism packages are available, with Ravangla as the main attraction. You can opt for that package to explore most of South Sikkim. Nevertheless, from Ravangla to Borong it is around a 16 Km drive. |
| Dream and Travel Tips | Borong has Ralong Monastery, the largest monastery in Sikkim. Ralong ‘Karma Rabten Ling’ Monastery is revered by the Kagyupa lineage of Buddhism, and being a consecrated place, it offers a spiritual experience. |
Further, along with Ralong Monastery, you will love the Bamelli Bridge and Vyanjan Valley here. In addition, visiting the paper factory here is a one-of-a-kind experience. Moreover, it is a great place to see the Japanese way of papermaking.
⁍ Temi Tea Garden
The Temi Bungalow in Temi Tea Garden is central to the amazing tea estate tour. So, if you want to spend a few days in this picturesque tea garden, this resort will be your best refuge. The Temi Tea Garden, however, stole my heart with the most vibrant view of Mount Kanchenjunga.
| Location | Namchi |
| Altitude | 4,500–6,400 Feet |
| Best Time to Visit | October to December |
| So, how do you reach Temi Tea Garden from Gangtok? | Temi Tea Garden is around 46 Km away from Gangtok. You can easily reach this tea garden after a car ride of 2 hours. You can take a shared ride like we did, or you can even reserve a ride. |
| Dream and Travel Tips | Don’t forget to try the momos here, as I mentioned earlier. We enjoyed every bit of our time at Sikkim Chai Point. You can get some packaged tea here as souvenirs. Further, the nearby |
Moreover, the tea garden on the gentle slopes of Tendong Hill also offers a beautiful view of the nearby villages.
| The Sikkim Cherry Blossoms Festival 2024 will occur from 8th-10th November 2024 at Temi Tea Garden. |
⁍ Ravangla
From watching the sunrise at the Rayong Viewpoint and rejuvenating at the Borong and Ralong hot springs, Ravangla has many nature activities to offer.
| Location | Namchi District |
| Altitude | 7000 Feet |
| Best Time to Visit | March to June and September to November |
| So, how do you reach Ravangla from Gangtok? | Ravangla is around 68 Km away from Gangtok. A cab ride from Gangtok is the easiest way to reach Ravangla. |
| Dream and Travel Tips | Ravangla is famous for housing the tallest Buddha Statue in the world, in Buddha Park. Also, very few know about the short hiking trails here. You can especially explore the Maenam Hill trek while traveling solo. |
Further, you can attend the Cherry Blossom Festival in November to learn about local culture.
⁍ Namchi: The Cultural Hub And One The Best Places To Visit In Sikkim
Namchi, for me, is synonymous with the monumental statue of Guru Padmasambhava on the Samdruptse Hill. It is the tallest statue of Guru Padmasambhava in the world. The statue overlooks Namchi Town as a blessing.
| Location | Namchi District |
| Altitude | 5500 Feet |
| Best Time to Visit | October to December |
| So, how do you reach Namchi from Gangtok? | You can reach Namchi from Gangtok by taking a car ride of 3 hours. |
| Dream and Travel Tips | If you want to indulge in the traditional food of Namchi and become familiar with it, you must visit in October. October is the month of Namchi Mahotsav. Further, if you want to enjoy a good display of Himalayan flowers at Namchi, February will be the best time for you. |
Samdruptse Hill is known as the wish-fulling hill in Sikkim. It also offers an amazing view of the Namchi town and Mount Kanchenjunga.
⁍ Tendong Hill
Tendong Hill, one of the best places to visit in Sikkim, is associated with Lepcha mythology. The Lepcha community believes that the hill has risen from the horn of a deity.
| Altitude | 8530 Feet |
| Best Time to Visit | March to May for rhododendron blooms, and October to December for the best views of the Himalayan Range |
| So, how do you reach Tendong Hill from Gangtok? | You can reach Damthang from Gangtok by taking a cab ride. It is a 2-hour ride. From Damthang, Tendong Hill is a trek of around 2 hours. |
| Dream and Travel Tips | The monastery at the hilltop is beautiful. Also, don’t forget to enjoy a 360-degree view from the watchtower at the hilltop. |
⁍ Siddheshwara Dham
Siddheshwara Dham is a popular pilgrimage site for the Hindus. Further, it is a replica or a model coexistence of the four major holy sites or Char Dhams. So, if you are a religious soul, it will be one of the best places for you to visit Sikkim.
| Location | Solophok Hill |
| Altitude | 4314 Feet |
| Best Time to Visit | March to June and September to November |
| So, how do you reach Siddheshwara Dham from Gangtok? | You can take SSRTC buses or cabs to reach Namchi. From Namchi, you can take a bus or cab ride to the Siddheshwara Dham. |
| Dream and Travel Tips | People believe that visiting the Siddheshwara Dham in Sikkim will wash away all their sins. |
The temple complex has replicas of the Jagannath Dham in Puri, Dwarika, Badrinath and Rameshwaram.
⁍ Ralang Monastery
Along with being a Ralang Monastery, Ralang Monastery is also one of the best places to visit in Sikkim to learn about Tibetan art. So, the thangkas and paintings here are amazing.
| Location | Borong |
| Altitude | At an altitude of around 8000 feet |
| Best Time to Visit | September to December |
| So, how do you reach Ralang Monastery from Gangtok? | Ralong Monastery is around 78 Km away from Gangtok. It will be a cab ride of around 2.5 hours. |
| Dream and Travel Tips | Don’t miss the Pang Lhabsol festival at Ralong Monastery from September to December. |
The 9th Karmapa, or the head of the Kagyupa sect of Buddhism, blessed this monastery. Further, it is revered as a place to know about the spiritual side of Sikkimese people.
Best Places To Visit In East Sikkim: Gangtok And More
As a popular hub of Sikkimese culture and cuisine, East Sikkim is also home to many off-beat and quaint destinations. Let’s explore the best of East Sikkim.
⁍ Rolep
Rolep is a virgin village, slowly emerging as a paradise for birders. Further, the hanging bridge in Rolep offers a beautiful view of the Rangpo Khola River Valley.
| Location | East Sikkim |
| Altitude | 4000 Feet |
| Best Time to Visit | Monsoon and Winter |
| So, how do you reach Rolep from Gangtok? | You can reach Rolep from Gangtok by Road. It is almost a 3-hour ride. |
| Dream and Travel Tips | Enjoy the tranquillity here, and it will offer you the greatest pleasure of doing nothing. |
You will also love the Buddha waterfalls, Shokey Khola River, and lush green Himalayan foothills here.
⁍ Aritar
Aritar stands out because of the view of Mount Kanchenjunga and the lush greenery around it. Also, you can go for a short walk in the village or go boating at Lampokhri Lake.
| Location | Pakyong District |
| Altitude | 6000 Feet |
| Best Time to Visit | March to May |
| So, how do you reach Aritar from Gangtok? | Aritar is a 67 km distance from Gangtok, where you can take a cab ride. |
| Dream and Travel Tips | The Lampokhari Tourism Festival from March to April is the biggest draw. Winter here is very cold, and the temperature will drop to around -2 degrees Celsius. |
Further, for a time of introspection here, you must visit the Aritar Gumpa and Aritar Monastery.
⁍ Rumtek Monastery
The Dharma Chakra Centre, or Rumtek Monastery, is a brilliant example of Tibetan architecture. Further, it is inspired by the monastery in Tsurpu, Tibet.
| Location | Gangtok District |
| Altitude | 4900 Feet |
| Best Time to Visit | March to June and October to December |
| So, how do you reach Rumtek Monastery from Gangtok? | Rumtek Monastery is just 22 Km away from Gangtok City. So, you can take a cab ride of 1 hour to reach the monastery. |
It is also a center for Kargyu teachings, and you will find many Buddhist artworks in the monastery.
⁍ Gangtok
Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, is at the heart of the state’s tourism scenario. Further, you can get glimpses of Mount Kanchenjunga from here, and M G Marg is a bustling city street with the best cafes and shopping centers.
| Altitude | 5410 Feet |
| Best Time to Visit | December to February |
In addition, you can ride on the Zig-back ropeway to get a bird-eye view of the entire city.
⁍ Lingtam
Lingtam is a quiet beauty with orchids and lush greenery. Further, being a hidden gem in Sikkim, it is best for some moments of solitude.
| Location | East Sikkim |
| Altitude | Around 5000 Feet |
| Best Time to Visit | May to Reach |
| So, how do you reach Lingtam from Gangtok? | Lingtam is around 67 Km away from Gangtok. So, you can take a cab ride from there. Moreover, the overall journey will take you 5 to 6 hours. |
West Sikkim Tourism Attractions: Best Places To Visit In Sikkim
With the Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, and other best places to visit in Sikkim, the western part of the state is ideal for a spiritual and historical sojourn. Further, like other parts of the state, it is a hub of scenic beauty.
⁍ Biksthang
Biksthang is a Himalayan Hamlet. Further, it is famous for its beautiful stretches of Pine trees. Also, Pelling, near Biksthang, is another of the best places to visit in Sikkim.
| Location | West Sikkim |
| Altitude | 4200 Feet |
| Best Time to Visit | October to February |
| So, how do you reach Biksthang from Gangtok? | Biksthang is around 120 Km from Gangtok. So, you can take a cab ride to reach this destination. |
Moreover, from Biksthang, it feels like you can touch Mount Kanchenjunga.
⁍ Kanchenjunga Falls
Kanchenjunga Falls is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim as part of the state’s rural tourism. Further, locals say that this cascade originates from the glaciers in Mount Kanchenjunga.
| Location | Thingle I |
| Height | 100 Feet |
| Best Time to Visit | September to October |
| So, how do you reach Kanchenjunga Falls from Gangtok? | Kanchenjunga Falls is around 120 Km away from Gangtok. So, you can only reach it after a 5-hour car ride from Gangtok. |
Moreover, Kanchenjunga Falls only emerged as a tourist spot in the 1990s. Topjor Bhutia, a local tour operator, discovered it as an attraction in West Sikkim.
⁍ Rabdentse Ruins
Tensung Namgyal built Rabdentse as the second capital of the kingdom of Sikkim in 1670. However, the Gurkha Army destroyed it, and it only has the remains of the invasion.
| Location | West Sikkim |
| Best Time to Visit | March to June |
| So, how do you reach Rabdentse Ruins from Gangtok? | Now, Rabdentse Ruins is at a 100 Km distance from Gangtok. However, it is a short walk from Pelling. So, the best way is to reach Pelling from Gangtok the day before and then go to the ruins. |
Further, as one of the best places to visit in Sikkim, Rabdentse Ruins is a holy site for Buddhists. Moreover, it is a part of the holy circuit along with the Dubdi Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery, Tashiding Monastery, and Norbugang Chorten.
⁍ Pemayangtse Gompa
Pemayangtse Gompa is one of the holiest sites for Buddhists in India. Lama Lhatsun Chempo built it in 1647. Further, despite earthquakes and many destructions, the monastery has been restored as a pilgrimage site.
| Location | Pemayangtse |
| Altitude | 6,840 Feet |
| Best Time to Visit | February to June |
| So, How to Reach Pemayangtse Gompa from Gangtok? | Now, Pemayangtse Gompa is around 110 km from Gangtok. So, you can take a car ride from Gangtok.However, you can reach Pelling the day before from Gangtok for an easy journey. |
| Dream and Travel Tips | Don’t miss the Cham dance festival at this monastery in February. |
Also, you will love the statues of Rinpoches and Guru Padmasambhava here. Moreover, the paintings and architecture of the monastery and telltales of rich Tibetan culture.
⁍ Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary
Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim if you are a nature lover. Further, along with the best varieties of rhododendrons, you will also see red pandas and black bears here.
| Location | Hilley Forest Block |
| Altitude | 10000 Feet |
| Best Time to Visit | April to May |
| So, how do you reach Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary from Gangtok? | Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary is around 128 Km away from Gangtok. Therefore, you must take a car ride of close to 5 hours to reach your destination. |
| Dream and Travel Tips | If you are a birder, don’t miss to catch a glimpse of the Yellow-throated martens and Assamese macaques. |
Moreover, this sanctuary offers the best views of Mount Kanchenjunga.
- https://www.indiatoday.in/india/story/sikkim-flash-flood-lake-burst-avalanche-cloudburst-teesta-river-reason-earthquake-isro-satellite-images-2445278-2023-10-06 ↩︎
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