Located in the North East of India, Sikkim is a great place for a holiday if you love exploring nature and adventure sports. There are a lot of beautiful places to visit in Sikkim. While most of these are rooted in Buddhist culture, there are a few that are closely connected to Sikkim’s history.
While there are many places to see in Sikkim, only a few stand out. These places are popular with tourists because they offer great holiday experiences. In this article, we take a look at the best places to visit in Sikkim. We have also created itineraries if you are planning to visit Sikkim for 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, or 5 days.
Quick Facts about Sikkim
- Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport
- Nearest Railway station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
- Reaching by Road: You can go for a road trip via NH 12 or take a bus from Siliguri. There are a lot of private and public buses available from Kolkata to reach Gangtok.
- Best Time to Visit: You can either enjoy Summer or Winter in Sikkim. Therefore, March to May is best for a summer vacation or October to mid-December for a winter vacation. Monsoons are best to be avoided.
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Places to Visit in Sikkim in 2 days
- Day 1: You need to arrive a day before so that you can have an early morning breakfast and start local sightseeing in Gangtok in a private cab. You can cover places like Ranka Monastery, Ban Jhakri Falls, Shanti View Point, Institute of Tibetology, Ganesh Tok, Cottage Industry, Tashi View Point, Rumtek Monastery, shopping at the local market, and stroll around M G Marg.
- Day 2: If you are leaving on this day, you will be driving to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station. It will be a 5 hours drive. On the way, you can stop at Coronation bridge if time permits and enjoy a drive along the River Teesta.
Places to Visit in Sikkim in 3 days
- Day 1: Reach Gangtok and check-in to the hotel or resort. You can explore in the evening the famous MG Marg.
- Day 2: You must start your day with an early breakfast. On the first day, you can enjoy the local sightseeing at Gangtok. You can cover places like Ban Jhakri Falls, Shanti View Point, Ganesh Tok. Cottage Industries, White Hall, Tashi View Point, and Rumtek Monastery.
- Day 3: If you are leaving on this day, you need to reach either Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station. You can enjoy the ride on the banks of river Teesta. If time permits visit Coronation Bridge.
Places to Visit in Sikkim in 4 days
- Day 1: Arrival to Gangtok and explore the city. Take a stroll in M G Marg.
- Day 2: On this day, you can cover all the local spots, like Ganesh Tok, Hanuman Tok, Flower show, Cottage Industry, Handicraft Center, Institute of Tibetology, Dro-Dul Chorten, Enchey Monastery, and Banjakhri Falls.
- Day 3: Visit Tsomgo/Changu Lake and Baba Mandir, Nathu La Pass, enjoy an evening stroll around M G Road and shop at the local market.
- Day 4: You can wake up early and enjoy a sunrise view of Kanchenjunga Range. Post breakfast, you can start your journey to either Bagdogra Airport/New Jalpaiguri Railway Station. The drive will be through the banks of River Teesta. You can stop at the Coronation Bridge if time permits.
Places to Visit in Sikkim in 5 days
- Day 1: On the way to Gangtok, you can enjoy the ride besides the River Teesta and stop at the Coronation Bridge. In the evening, you can take a stroll on M G Marg and do a little shopping at the local market.
- Day 2: After early morning breakfast, you can cover all the local spots in Gangtok, like Ganesh Tok, Hanuman Tok, Flower show, Cottage Industry, Handicraft Center, Institute of Tibetology, Dro-Dul Chorten, Enchey Monastery, and Banjakhri Falls.
- Day 3: You need this whole day to visit Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir. While you are there, a trip to Nathula Pass can be arranged.
- Day 4: On the way to Pelling from Gangtok to Chardham, you can stop at Namchi, Temi Tea Garden, Samdruptse and Siddeshwar Dham (Chardham).
- Day 5: You can enjoy local sightseeing in Pelling, like visiting Darap Village, Rimbi Waterfalls, Khecheopalri Lake, Khangchendzonga waterfalls, Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, and New Helipad Ground.
Best Places To Visit In Sikkim
1. Gangtok
Gangtok is a great place to start exploring Sikkim. The state’s capital offers fantastic options for a holiday. It has a good nightlife, great shopping options and a superb line-up of places to see. Gangtok has often been used by trekkers as a base from where they can head to the hills to hike, but the city is much more than just a stopover point.
- Places to visit in Sikkim near Gangtok: Tashi View Point, Hanuman Tok, Institute of Tibetology, Enchey Monastery, Rumtek Monastery, Ban Jhakri Waterfalls, M G Marg, Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, and Phodong Monastery.
Read more: 15 Spectacular Places to Visit in Gangtok
2. Pelling
Pelling is one of the top tourist destinations in Sikkim. The place has been developed fantastically well with cosy hotels and great facilities. At an altitude of 6800 feet, Pelling is a great spot for trekking and mountain sports. This is why most tourists love coming here for a holiday. There are a few stunning sites to see so if you love exploring you can check them out. Since the town is small, the best way to explore Pelling is on foot, keep that camera ready to capture magic moments.
- Places to visit in Sikkim near Pelling: Darap Village, Rimbi Waterfalls, Khecheopalri Lake, Khangchendzonga waterfalls, Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, and New Helipad Ground.
BookHotels in Pelling for a comfortable stay.
3. Tsomgo Lake
Situated in East Sikkim, Tsomgo Lake is a must-visit site. The lake is considered to be holy for Buddhists and Hindus alike and is very well-maintained. To get to the lake you need to get past a rocky, rough road; driving here is quite an adventure. The best way to get to the lake is a cab ride from Gangtok
- Distance from Gangtok: 36.9 km
- Things to do at Tsomgo Lake: You can do some fun activities to enjoy at the lake are Yak and Pony rides and watching migratory birds at the lake.
Read: Best Places to Visit on a Long Weekend
4. Goechala
Goechala is an amazing spot for trekking. The climb up to this hill is one of the most exciting treks in North East India. Rewards of successfully climbing up to the summit are stunning views of Kanchenjunga and fourteen other peaks in and around Goechala.
- Best time for trekking: October and November
- Tips: As the weather is cold, it is a great experience climbing up during this time. Carry woollen clothes to keep yourself warm in the cold.
Also, Read: Some of the Best Adventure Places in India
5. Yuksom
Yuksom is a great place to see in summer. The lush greenery around is at its brightest best and you can experience a bit of local culture too. While most of the people who visit the town of Yuksom are trekkers making their way to Mount Kanchenjunga, there is a fair number of people that come to explore local sites.
- Places to visit in Yuksom Sikkim: Dubdi Monastery, Kanchenjunga Falls, Khecheopalri Lake, Norbugang Chorten, Kartok Monastery, Tashiding Monastery, and Gurudongmar Lake.
6. Khangchendzonga National Park
The Khangchendzonga National Park in Sikkim is the region’s best wildlife park. During the summer season, the park sees thousands of tourists driving down to explore the exotic and beautiful flora and fauna found in the park. From local species like the snow leopard to Himalayan deer and even exotic animals like the Himalayan Tahr, you can spot them all at the park. The Khangchendzonga National Park is also a great place for nature trails and hiking.
- Distance from Gangtok: 50 km
- Best time to visit: April and May
- Tip: Apply for proper permit, if you want to trek all the way up to Zemu Glacier and other surrounding areas. Do not plan your trek during the monsoon season (June to September) as the heavy rainfalls make it impossible to trek.
7. Nathula Pass
Located about 14,140 feet above sea level, this pass is iconic. It connects India with Tibet and a portion of this pass lies in close proximity to the famous Silk Road. There are a few shops near the Nathula Pass that sell authentic and original Tibetan clothing, artwork and handicrafts at great prices. A few miles away lies Kupup, a place where you can stay under the clouds for a magical experience.
- Tip: To enter the Nathula Pass you need a permit. You can get one for Rs.200 at a counter before the Pass with proper IDs.
- Best time to visit: April-mid June and October-November
- Opening Time: You can visit any day except Monday and Tuesday as it will be closed.
Read More: 37 Best Places to Visit in June to Beat the Heat
8. Ravangla
Located in West Sikkim, Ravangla is a popular tourist destination. The place is home to great outdoor experiences. You can go sightseeing at some stunning Gompas and Monasteries or go shopping for local products. Make sure you visit the Buddha Park, a haven of Buddhist culture. The hills in Ravangla are ideal for hiking. The trails are amazing and the views from the hills are stunning.
- Tourist places to visit in West Sikkim, Ravangla: Buddha Park, Ralang Monastery, Tashiding Monastery, Ralong Hot Springs, and Doling Gompa.
9. Namchi
Namchi combines culture with a bit of adventure and nature. The place is one of the top choices when it comes to tourism in Sikkim. Many tourists visit to get up-close to Buddhist culture. In Namchi, you can visit splendid Gompas and Monasteries or choose to explore the gorgeous woodland mountain valleys. If you love the outdoors, you will have a great time in Namchi.
- Places to visit in Namchi Sikkim: Samdruptse, Char Dham Temple, Ngadak Monastery, Siddeshwar Dham, Tarey Bhir, Rose Garden, Sai Mandir, Tendong Hill, and Namchi Ropeway.
10. Singalila
Singalila is a top destination for trekking in these parts of India. The town is home to legendary trails that are both challenging and exciting. From the peaks of the mountains, soak in stunning views Mt. Everest, it is a sight to behold. The defining tourist spot of the area is the Singalila National Park, a wildlife park, home to exotic animals and great sceneries.
- Best time to visit: March-May
11. Zuluk
Nestled among the hills, Zuluk is known because of its historic connection to the Silk Route. History apart, the town is a laid-back destination, ideal for those looking to get away from commercial tourist places. You can enjoy nature at its very best. Sit on the hills and soak in the peaceful ambience or choose to trek on the lovely hills.
- Places to visit in Zuluk Sikkim: Thambi View Point, Tukla Valley, Sikkim Silk Route, Lungthung View Point, Nag Temple, Adi Baba Mandir, Kalpokhari Lake and Mt. Gnathang Valley.
12. Phodong Monastery
The Phodong Monastery is one of the most important monasteries in Sikkim. It is one of the few monasteries to have been reconstructed over and over again. Its gorgeous architecture is something that’s worth checking out. For spiritual bliss, make sure you visit in the morning when special prayers are chanted.
- Distance from Gangtok: 28 km
- Timings: 9 am–5 pm
13. Zemu Glacier
The glacier is a famous trekking spot in Sikkim and all adventure sports lovers in Sikkim must make the climb up the glacier at least once in their lives. Challenging and exciting, trekking at Zemu Glacier will give you the chance to come across remarkably stunning trails. The trek is challenging, so be prepared for strenuous walking and passing through rocky terrain.
- Distance from Gangtok: 120 km
- Best time to visit: March and June
- Tips: Carry woollen clothes to keep yourself warm in the cold.
14. Lachung
Lachung is a scenic village in Sikkim. This place gives tourists plenty of opportunities to explore Sikkim’s cultural aspects. The drive to Sikkim from Gangtok is simply amazing. The roads are good and the view majestic. One of the top sites to see in the town is the Lachung Monastery, an ancient Buddhist abbey that’s the pride of the town.
- Places to visit in Lachung Sikkim: Lachung Monastery, Amitabh Bachchan Falls, Bhim Nala Falls, Bheema Falls, Yumthang Valley, Chopta Valley, and Seven Sisters Waterfalls.
15. Yumthang Valley of Flowers
For a unique experience, make your way to the Yumthang Valley of Flowers. Located about 150 kilometres away from Gangtok, this place feels like heaven on earth. The entire area is covered in gorgeous flowers that bloom in summer. Do check out the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary that’s situated close by.
- Best time to visit: Late February to June
- Tip: You have to take a Protected Area Permit as it is close to the China border with India. Also, the valley is closed for the winters.
Now you know our best places to visit in Sikkim and easily plan a trip to the traveler’s paradise. Do let us know your favourite places to visit in Sikkim with a comment below.
Frequently Asked Question About Sikkim
- What are the best places to visit in Sikkim in April?
You can witness snowfall in Sikkim in April on the highest points like the Lachung, Lachen, Gurudongmar Lake, Yumthang Valley and Zero Point. Visit these places to enjoy a wonderful and exquisite vacation.
- What are the best places to visit in Sikkim in January?
You can visit Sikkim in mid-January to enjoy the blissful winter. Although snowfall in Gangtok is uncommon during this time, places like Lachung, Yumthang Valley are closed due to heavy snowfall.
- What are the best places to visit in Sikkim in March?
March is considered the best time to visit Sikkim as the climate is pleasant. It is the best time to visit the blooming natural beauty as it would be the beginning of the spring season. You can also enjoy snow in the highest points of Sikkim.
- What are the best places to visit in Sikkim in June?
June is the best time to enjoy the lakes in Sikkim. You can visit the monasteries, parks and waterfalls in Sikkim during this time. Check out Khecheopalri, Buddha Park of Ravangla, Bakthang Waterfall, Goecha La, Yumthang Valley of Flowers, Nathu La Pass, Lake Tsomgo, and Khangchendzonga National Park.
- What are the best places to visit in Sikkim in October?
Sikkim in October is for people who want to enjoy the winter. If you love snow, visit Yumthang valley, Gangtok, Pelling and Lachung. The average temperature in this season stays between -5 degrees Celsius to 7 degrees.
