Places to Visit in Sikkim: Our Top 5 Pick

Sikkim, in historical Indian literature, is known as "Indrakil," which translates to "the garden of the war god Indra." This name suggests a strong mythological significance and a connection to the Hindu deity Indra.
Places to Visit in Sikkim

Are you planning to visit Sikkim? Here are our top 5 places to visit in Sikkim.

Sikkim, a well-known tourist destination is nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Sikkim is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and spiritual sanctity. 

Though many people visit Sikkim some of these places are gems, a place where lush valleys, serene lakes, and towering peaks converge to create a traveler’s paradise. 

Quick things:

  • Capital – Gangtok
  • Must-visit places – Tsomgo Lake, Rumtek Monastery, Nathula Pass
  • Attraction – Mountain peaks, Monasteries, Lakes, Alpine forests, Hot springs
  • Who should visit – Trekkers, Culture enthusiasts, Nature admirers, Photographers

Let’s check out these top 5 places to visit in Sikkim

5 Places To Visit In Sikkim

Busy? Then check out the names of top 5 places to visit in Sikkim here.

  • Gangtok
  • Nathula Pass
  • Tsomgo Lake (Changu Lake)
  • Yumthang Valley
  • Lachung and Lachen

1.  Gangtok: Also known as “Land of Monasteries”

One of the top places to visit in Sikkim is Gangtok. Gangtok is known for its pleasant weather and clean streets, making it a great place to unwind. The city’s bustling markets offer an opportunity to interact with locals and taste authentic Sikkimese cuisine.

Sikkim is often referred to as the “Land of Monasteries” due to its numerous Buddhist monasteries, which reflect the profound influence of Buddhism in the region.

Gangtok is the “Gateway to Sikkim,” with many treks and tours into the various parts of the state.

How to travel:

  • Fly into Pakyong Airport, or take a scenic drive or bus ride from Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station in West Bengal. Bagdogra and NJP are the nearest places to Sikkim from which you can get various transportation. 

Must Things to Do:

  • Take a cable car ride over Gangtok, to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city nestled amidst the mountains.
  • Visit Lal Bazaar to buy some Sikkimise Souvenirs
  • You can enjoy cultural events and local cuisines at M.G. Marg
  • Visit Himalayan Zoological Park for some wild side Of Gangtok

Best Time to Visit:

  • October to mid-December for clear views of the Himalayan peaks, and March to May for pleasant weather and blooming flowers.

2. Nathula Pass: Where India Meets China

Not far away from Gangtok, you can visit Nathula Pass, which is one of the three open trading border posts between India and China and is famous for its picturesque landscape.

Beyond the border experience, the area around Nathula is rich in alpine flora and fauna, offering breathtaking views of the snow-clad peaks and valleys. 

It’s also known for its challenging weather conditions, with thick fog and sudden snowfalls being common. You’ll need permits to visit this high-altitude destination. 

How to travel:

  • Access to Nathula Pass is primarily through road. You can hire a taxi or join a guided tour from Gangtok, which is approximately 58 km away.

Must Things to Do:

  • Witness the majestic beauty of the Eastern Himalayan range, including views of towering peaks and rugged terrain.
  • Visit the historic Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, dedicated to an Indian army soldier revered by both India and China.
  • Explore the Indo-China border and see the international trade market at Sherathang, near Nathula.

Best Time to Visit:

  • May to October, as the pass is snow-covered and often inaccessible during the winter months. The summer months offer clearer skies and easier travel conditions.

3. Tsomgo Lake: Also known as “Changu Lake”

Tsomgo-Lake_-Also-known-as-_Changu-Lake
Image Credit: esikkimtourism.in

On your visit to Ntahula Pass, you can visit Tsomgo Lake. A glacial lake surrounded by rugged mountains.

The lake spans about 1 kilometer in length and has a depth of around 50 feet. Did You know? One of the most remarkable features of Tsomgo Lake is its changing colors, which vary with the seasons. 

During the winter, the lake is completely frozen, transforming into a pristine sheet of ice, while in spring and summer, you can witness blooming flowers and lush greenery around it.

Tsomgo Lake is surrounded by steep mountains and a variety of alpine vegetation and also has a great religious significance to the local people.

How to travel:

  • Access Tsomgo Lake by road, via a taxi, or a shared vehicle from Gangtok, which is about 40 km away.

Must Things to Do:

  • Experience the serene beauty of Tsomgo Lake, surrounded by steep mountains, and witness its changing colors.
  • You can enjoy a yak ride around the lake, offering a unique way to explore the scenic surroundings.
  • Visit nearby attractions like the Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, home to a variety of flora and fauna.

Best Time to Visit:

  • The ideal time is from October to March. During these months, the lake is either completely frozen or the surrounding area is lush and vibrant.

4. Yumthang Valley: Popularly known as ‘Valley of Flowers’

Yumthang-Valley_-Popularly-known-as-Valley-of-Flowers
Image Credit – flowersofindia.net

Yumthang Valley, situated in North Sikkim, India, is a stunningly picturesque destination, often referred to as the ‘Valley of Flowers’. A top pick for places to visit in Sikkim.

Yumthang transforms into a carpet of colors with blooming rhododendrons, primulas, poppies, and iris, creating a breathtakingly beautiful landscape, especially during spring especially from April to June. 

Did you know? The Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary in the valley is home to over 24 species of rhododendrons.

The place has a natural haven with hot springs, where you can relax and rejuvenate in the lap of nature. 

How to travel:

  • Access Yumthang Valley by road, typically through a hired vehicle or a guided tour from Lachung, which is about 25 km away.

Must Things to Do:

  • Witness the enchanting beauty of Yumthang Valley, often called the ‘Valley of Flowers’, especially during spring when it’s covered in vibrant blooms.
  • Soak in the Yumthang Hot Springs, known for their therapeutic properties amidst scenic settings.
  • Explore the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, home to over 24 species of rhododendrons, adding a burst of color to the landscape.

Best Time to Visit:

  • April to June for the flowering season, showcasing a spectacular array of blooms. Alternatively, November to March for snow-covered landscapes and serene beauty.

5. Lachung and Lachen: Remote Himalayan Retreats

If you are planning to visit Yumthang Valley, then visit the nearby places of Lachung and Lachen an unexplored places to visit in Sikkim.

Lachung

Lachung serves as a base for exploring the Yumthang Valley and Zero Point. The name Lachung means “small pass,” reflecting its location in a valley at the confluence of the Lachung Chu and Lachen Chu rivers.

How to travel:

  • Reach Lachung by road, through a taxi, or a shared jeep from Gangtok, which is about 118 km away. The journey offers scenic views of waterfalls and streams.

Must Things to Do:

  • Visit the village of Lachung, with its traditional houses and beautiful monasteries, set against a backdrop of mountains.
  • Visit the Lachung Monastery, a significant cultural and religious site showcasing the region’s rich heritage.
  • From there you can take a trip to Yumthang Valley, known as the ‘Valley of Flowers’.

Best Time to Visit:

  • The best time is from October to June. Winter months offer snow-laden landscapes, while spring brings a riot of colors with blooming flowers.

Lachen

Lachen means “big pass” and serves as the gateway to the sacred Gurudongmar Lake and the Tso Lhamu Lake.  It is smaller and less explored than Lachung, offering a more secluded and tranquil experience. 

How to travel:

  • Access Lachen by road, either by hiring a taxi or in a shared vehicle from Gangtok, approximately 107 km away. The journey through the mountain roads offers stunning views of Sikkim’s landscapes.

Must Things to Do:

  • Immerse in the tranquil atmosphere of Lachen, a less frequented and serene village known for its natural beauty and distinct culture.
  • Visit the Lachen Monastery, an important spiritual site that provides insights into the local Buddhist traditions.
  • Visit Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and sacred significance.

Best Time to Visit:

  • The ideal time to visit Lachen is from October to May. During these months, the weather is generally clear, offering spectacular views, and the journey to Gurudongmar Lake is more accessible.

Your Journey Awaits: Explore These 5 Places to Visit in Sikkim

Sikkim, a well-known destination in the Northeast of India, is renowned for its majestic mountains, serene monasteries, and diverse flora and fauna. 

For those who seek a retreat into nature, Sikkim is the perfect destination. It’s an ideal place for reconnecting with nature and offers endless opportunities for photography enthusiasts.

Sikkim is also easily accessible from the rest of India, which makes it a well-known destination. These 5 places to visit in Sikkim can give unique cultural, religious, and natural experiences. 

Stay tuned for more updates on additional must-visit places in Sikkim.

Considering a broader exploration? Venture into the neighboring state of West Bengal, where an array of diverse and captivating experiences await. From there you can also visit other northeastern states of India. 

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