Sikkim Itinerary for 5 Days: Everything You Need To Know.

Located in the heart of North East, Sikkim is a beautiful state bordered by three different locations. Bhutan, Tibet and Nepal are easily accessible through this state. Sikkim is all about serene lakes, snow-capped mountains and dramatic landscapes that define the beauty right of it. Right from the famous Sikkimese cuisine to subtropical climates, Sikkim itinerary helps you with everything! It also boasts of rich biodiversity and plenty of monasteries.

If you are planning to travel here, make sure to check for hotels in Sikkim for a comfortable time. With a detailed Sikkim itinerary for 5 days, you can very conveniently explore the best of this destination. Let’s go through some of the best places you can visit along with their significant highlights.

Your Sikkim itinerary for 5 days –

1. Tsomgo Lake 

Your Sikkim itinerary remains incomplete without marking this mesmerizing destination. Tsomgo lake is one of the revered places here as the lake is associated with various mythological beliefs. Who can ever miss a heavenly destination covered with Alpine forests? That indeed is a sight to spot for the heart. Also, you can spot wildflowers blooming during summers here.

Tsomgo lake is also about soaking in nature and watching the sunset with your loved ones. If you love nature, this is an amazing destination to spot rose finches, flycatchers and other migratory birds. It is believed that as seasons change, the surroundings and the color of the lake automatically changes thereby making it a prime sacred destination for locals.

Things to Do – Watch the sunset, witness wildflowers, eat local food at stalls and capture the beauty around

2. Nathula Pass

You cannot miss the famous Nathula Pass as you think of Sikkim. If you are planning for a Sikkim itinerary for 5 days, keep this for Day 1 as it is full of fabulous views and adventure. This mountain pass receives immense recognition as it has been the central point for border connections with China. Located at an altitude of 4130 meters, the pass remarks Sino-Indian trade.

It takes approximately 2 hours to reach the destination from Gangtok. The famous attraction is the Indo-China border filling you with all the patriotism. You can also spot the highest-altitude ATM in India on your way here. Make sure to book hotels in Gangtok so you can go back for a cozy sleep.

Things to Do – Witness the Mera Bharat Mahan Hill, visit the Mandakini waterfalls and pose the best in the encapsulating background.

Also check, Best Time to Visit Gangtok, Sikkim: When You Should Go and Why

3. Yumthang Valley

You must have seen the long stretches of greens with a healing blue backdrop in movies. Well, that’s probably all the feels Yumthang valley offers you. Known for its surreal natural beauty, the valley is all about yaks, rivers and hot springs. Thousands of tourists flock during summers to witness the blooming of wildflowers here.

Know that you must be prepared to face the dropping temperatures as the valley is located on a higher altitude. Zero Point is one of the famous points in Yumthang offering a jaw-dropping combination of rivers and mountains meeting in nature’s lap. The valley is also popular for its Himalayan cuisines and people who are great at hospitality.

Things to Do – Try palatable momos, relax near Yumthang Chu and connect with the locals in the village of Lachen

4. Gurudongmar Lake

Who knew up above there are lakes filled with heartwarming beauty? Gurudongmar is one of the highest lakes in the world filled with soul-healing views and pureness of aroma. If you are planning for a Sikkim 5 days itinerary, make sure to visit the lake on Day 2 as it needs a good amount of time.

With its high altitude, it attracts bikers from around the world to enjoy the tricky terrain. Summer is the best time to visit Gurudongmar Lake as it offers a crystal clear view of the waters. What better than adding rugged mountains at the back and romancing with the snow?

Do not miss 15 Best Places to Visit in Sikkim for a Great Holiday

Things to Do – Relax and listen to what your soul speaks to you in silence, meditate with the calming waters and capture the unrealistic beauty of the state. 

At times, just being present in the moment is all you should do!

5. Pelling

All the classy pictures you see on Instagram are sure to fail as you walk through the town of Pelling. Located on the foothills of Khangchendzonga, Pelling is best known for the famous Pemayangtse Monastery, and Rabdentse ruins. Also, it attracts tourists from all over the world to learn and know more about Buddhist culture. If adventure kicks you, visit the Singshore Suspension Bridge, Titanic View Point and Phamrong Falls.

If you are in Pelling, though it may bring you chills, walking through the glass skywalk is a must to do! Sanghak Choeling Monastery is located at the top of the skywalk which is clearly visible during the journey. Pelling also has Khecheopalri lake, Rimbi river and Kanchenjunga falls contributing to the beauty of this town. Look for hotels in Pelling and plan your trip in advance to avoid high prices during the peak season. 

Things to Do – Experience calmness at Tashiding monastery, seek blessings at Kirateshwar Mahadev temple and go for adventurous trekking here.

6. Ravangla

Adventure junkies, here is your destination! Ravangla is one of the famous places used as a base camp to start with a thrilling trekking experience. You are sure to find multiple tents with backpackers celebrating their time in the mountains. The small town of Ravangla is also famous for various monasteries depicting Buddhism in various ways.

Some of the best places to visit in Ravangla include Buddha Park, Bon Monastery, Temi Tea Estate and Ralang Monastery. You can also find various budget-friendly hotels in Ravangla for an affordable trip to Sikkim. 

Things to Do – Witness sunrise at Rayong Sunrise View Point, walk with the wild at Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary and experience peace at Borong Hot Spring.

7. Rumtek Monastery 

Who doesn’t wish to explore the other side of Sikkim that speaks highly of Buddhism? Rumtek monastery is the one that receives straight tourist attention because of being the largest one in Sikkim. With its spellbinding architecture, the monastery is home to many monks who perform their everyday rituals here.

It is your opportunity to seek tranquility and attend the prayers. Since the monastery is located opposite to a college, you can meet students learning Buddhism and interact with them. The monastery is home to various religious scriptures and ancient texts. Do not forget to soak the beauty of intricate interiors as you relax in that environment. You can find various budget-friendly hotels nearby.

Things to Do – Witness beautiful architecture, know the mythological beliefs from locals and watch the art objects inside the monastery.

Planning a trip around Gangtok? Check 8 Gangtok Tourist Places in and Around the City to Explore Mountains, Monasteries and Much More

8. Khangchendzonga National Park

Meeting the wild in Sikkim is sure to elevate your holidays here. As the national Park is located in extreme temperatures, Snow Leopards and Red Pandas are found here. Various protected areas in the lower altitudes have these animals that are the rarest species to spot in rest of India. Also known as Kanchenjunga Biosphere Reserve, it is also known for its diversity of birds. 

Migratory birds are common visitors because of the climate. If you are a nature enthusiast then you can spot various orchids and Rhododendrons here. After all, walking through the wildflowers is a sure thing in your Sikkim itinerary. 

Things to Do – Walk through the wild, take binoculars to spot birds and try spotting rare species of animals here.

9. Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden

The Eastern Himalayas are always there to surprise you, and Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden is no less than a beautiful surprise! It is filled with rich flora and fauna. Imagine being in a garden that literally has lofty mountains on the back and ornamental plants right in front of your eyes. The garden is pretty famous for its different varieties of Oak and their botanical contribution. 

You can also spot unique orchids growing here. Along with this, it is also a recreational spot for all age groups. While kids can play, adults can relax on the benches. So, if you are up for a lively picnic in your Sikkim itinerary for 5 days, this is definitely a place to be! Do not miss walking through the lush area of pine forests paying tribute to the Himalayan beauty.

Things to Do – Relax with your loved ones during the picnic time, interact with locals and enjoy knowing about flora.

10. Ganesh Tok

As the name suggests, your Sikkim itinerary for 5 days can also be about seeking blessings at this divine temple. It is located around 7 Km from the town of Gangtok and offers thrilling views from the top. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesh, and the colorful architecture truly embraces the presence of the lord here.

Take time for this place as you would love to soak in the serene environment. It is always a good idea to check for hotels in Gangtok close to the major transportation systems so you can always come back and relax. 

Things to Do – Visit the nearby cafes for small bites, meditate and spend time in the temple premises and show your love for photography here.

11. Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple

You might have seen various temples and places of worship dedicated to Gods and Goddesses. However, this temple in Sikkim is dedicated to a soldier of the Indian Army. To pay tribute, this temple or shrine is built near the Nathula Pass. As you go inside, you can spot a huge portrait of Baba Habhajan. Interestingly, the temple also has a central room dedicated to the everyday life of Baba. 

The room is filled with essentials including clothes, a bed, boots and so on. It is also believed that Baba guards the region and few officials have confirmed the existence of a shadow on a horse. Spooky? No!

Things to Do – Understand the stories of bravery, communicate with locals and appreciate the simplicity of this place.

Elevate your trip with 15 Spectacular Places to Visit in Gangtok for a Memorable Holiday

12. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary

Your Sikkim itinerary for 5 days remains incomplete without visiting the famous Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary. The sanctuary is home to a massive collection of Rhododendron species. Tourists and science enthusiasts often visit the place to appreciate the charming beauty and fresh air.

If you are in Gangtok, this place is around 7 Km through roadways. The sanctuary is located in Yumthang so you can choose to trek upwards making it more rewarding at the end. If you wish to see everything blooming, choose summer and book hotels for the best prices.

Things to Do – Click pictures in between the vibrant flowers of Rhododendrons and walk through the silence of this place.

Sikkim is truly a destination that combines art, beauty and culture like never before. As you immerse in the mystical beauty of mountains, know that hotels have always got your back. Plan your Sikkim itinerary and straightaway head to the land of magic.