Sikkim, nestled in the heart of the eastern Himalayas, is one of India’s most enchanting and serene states. With snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, ancient monasteries, turquoise glacial lakes, and a vibrant mix of cultures, Sikkim offers a perfect retreat for nature lovers, spiritual seekers, and adventure enthusiasts alike.
Whether you’re planning your first
trip or looking for an offbeat escape, this guide covers how to reach
Sikkim, where to stay, and the top places you must visit.
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🛣️ How to Reach Sikkim
✈️
By Air:
- Pakyong Airport (PYG)
is Sikkim’s official airport, located about 30 km from Gangtok. It
connects to major cities like Kolkata and Delhi (limited flights).
- Most travelers prefer Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in
West Bengal, about 125 km (4-5 hours) from Gangtok. It has more
frequent flights.
- From Bagdogra, you can book a private taxi or shared
cab to reach Gangtok.
🚆 By Train:
- The nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri
(NJP) near Siliguri, West Bengal.
- From NJP, hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to reach
Gangtok. Travel time: 4–5 hours.
🚌 By Road:
- Gangtok is well-connected by road via National
Highway 10.
- Regular shared jeeps and buses operate from Siliguri,
Darjeeling, and Kalimpong.
Travel Tip: Roads in Sikkim can be winding and steep. If you suffer
from motion sickness, carry necessary medication.
🏨 Where to Stay in Sikkim
Sikkim offers a wide range of
accommodation, from luxury resorts to cozy homestays.
📍 Gangtok (Capital City)
- Luxury:
Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino, Lemon Tree Hotel
- Mid-Range:
The Elgin Nor-Khill, Summit Namnang Courtyard
- Budget:
Zostel Gangtok, Tag Along Backpackers
📍 Pelling
- Luxury:
The Elgin Mount Pandim, Norbu Ghang Resort
- Budget:
Rabdentse Residency, Hotel Hill Retreat
📍 North Sikkim (Lachen & Lachung)
- Primarily local homestays and lodges, basic but
comfortable.
- Recommended: Delight Royal Lachung, Apple Orchard
Resort (Lachen)
📍 Offbeat Places (Namchi, Ravangla, Zuluk)
- Quaint boutique hotels and eco-lodges
- Recommended: Cherry Resort (Namchi), Barfung Retreat
(Ravangla)
Stay Tip: Book in advance during peak seasons (April–June &
Sept–Nov), especially in North Sikkim.
🏔️ Must-Visit Places in Sikkim
1.
Gangtok
The capital of Sikkim, Gangtok offers a mix of urban charm and spiritual calm.
- MG Marg
– Popular for cafes, shopping, and nightlife
- Enchey Monastery,
Hanuman Tok, Tashi View Point
- Cable Car Ride
– Get aerial views of the city
- Namgyal Institute of Tibetology – Preserving Tibetan culture
2.
Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir (38 km from Gangtok)
- A glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks
- Ride on decorated yaks and explore Baba
Harbhajan Singh Temple
- Open year-round; frozen in winter months
3.
Nathula Pass (14,140 ft)
- Historic route on the Indo-China border
- Open to Indian nationals only (permit required)
- Travel via organized tour from Gangtok
4.
Lachen, Gurudongmar Lake
- Lachen is the base for visiting Gurudongmar Lake
– one of the highest lakes in the world (17,800 ft)
- Surreal beauty, spiritual atmosphere, and snow-capped
mountains
- Leave Gangtok early; best done as a 2-night trip
5.
Lachung & Yumthang Valley
- Lachung is a charming village known for its beauty and
culture
- Yumthang Valley, also called the Valley of Flowers,
bursts into color during spring
- Nearby Zero Point offers snow even in April-May
6.
Pelling
- Offers mesmerizing views of Mt. Kanchenjunga
- Visit Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins,
and Sikkim Skywalk
- Peaceful town ideal for photography and slow travel
7.
Namchi
- Famous for Char Dham and Samdruptse Monastery
- Panoramic views and religious sites
8.
Zuluk and the Old Silk Route
- Offbeat trail with winding roads and 32 hairpin bends
- Great for photographers and adventure seekers
- Requires a special permit
📅 Best Time to Visit Sikkim
|
Season |
Months |
Highlights |
|
Spring |
March to May |
Rhododendron blooms, Yumthang
Valley flowers |
|
Summer |
June to August |
Lush greenery, occasional rain |
|
Autumn |
September to November |
Clear skies, best mountain views |
|
Winter |
December to February |
Snow in North Sikkim, cold
temperatures |
Avoid peak monsoon (July–August) due to landslides and road closures.
📌 Travel Permits for Sikkim
- Indians:
Need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) for Nathula, Lachen,
Lachung, and Zuluk.
- Foreign nationals need Restricted Area Permits (RAP)
and must travel in a group.
- Permits are arranged via registered tour operators in
Gangtok.
🍲 What to Eat in Sikkim
- Momos
(steamed dumplings)
- Thukpa
(noodle soup)
- Gundruk,
Phagshapa, Chhurpi
- Try local millet beer, Tongba, in mountain
villages
- Best cafes in Gangtok: Baker’s Café, Café
Live & Loud, The Coffee Shop
🎒 Essential Travel Tips
- Pack layers
– Weather varies drastically by altitude
- Carry cash
– ATMs may not be available in remote areas
- Respect local culture
– Monasteries and villages expect modest behavior
- Stay hydrated
– Especially important at high altitudes
✨
Conclusion
Sikkim is not just a destination;
it’s a journey into peace, nature, and spirituality. From the lively streets of
Gangtok to the untouched beauty of North Sikkim and the historical trails of
Zuluk, every turn here reveals something magical. Whether you're hiking to
glacial lakes or sipping butter tea in a village homestay, Sikkim offers an
experience that touches the soul.
Pack your bags, breathe in the mountain air, and let Sikkim show you why it’s one of India’s most underrated travel treasures.
