Sikkim Travel Guide
Discover Sikkim's breathtaking beauty with our 10-day itinerary. Explore Gangtok, visit glacial lakes, and experience the charm of Pelling. Navigate challenging roads with local taxis and indulge in luxury stays. Book your Sikkim adventure now for an unforgettable journey.
Introduction
Sikkim is a state located in the North Eastern part of India known for its natural beauty including glittering glacial lakes, endless pastures, waterfalls, quiet monastery towns, and scenic drives. Popular tourist destinations in Sikkim include Gangtok and Pelling, which offer several hotels.
Potential Itinerary
- Day 1: Fly to Bagdogra Airport and transfer to Gangtok.
- Days 2-3: Explore Gangtok and its surroundings.
- Days 4-6: Take a North Sikkim Tour to visit Gurudongmar Lake, Lachen, and Lachung.
- Day 6: Visit Yumthang Valley and transfer back to Gangtok.
- Day 7: Transfer to Pelling.
- Days 8-9: Explore Pelling and its surroundings.
- Day 10: Transfer to Bagdogra Airport and fly back home.
Budgeting
The estimated cost of a 10-day Sikkim trip (as of October 2017) is around INR 90,000-100,000.
Transportation
Traveling in personal or rental cars is not advisable in Sikkim due to the requirement of multiple permits. It is recommended to book taxis through local tour agencies.
Accommodation
- Gangtok: Offers a wide range of accommodation options. Elgin Nor Khill is a luxurious boutique hotel with a rich historical connection as the Royal Guesthouse of the King of Sikkim.
- Lachen and Lachung: Basic accommodation is included in the North Sikkim Tour. For a more upscale option, Apple Orchard Resort in Lachen and Yarlam Resort in Lachung are good choices.
- Pelling: The Elgin Mount Pandim is a luxury property offering spacious rooms, good food, and lovely views of the Himalayan peaks, including Mt. Kanchenjunga.
Places to Visit
- Gangtok: Explore MG Road for food and souvenirs, visit the Tibetology Museum, Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo/Changu Lake, and Tashi View Point.
- North Sikkim Tour: Visit Lachen (a small village), Gurudongmar Lake (one of the world's highest and remote lakes), and Lachung.
- Yumthang Valley: Covered with purple flowers during April, it offers stunning panoramas.
- Pelling: Known for its monasteries, waterfalls, and views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Notable spots include Pemayangtse Monastery, Kanchenjunga Falls, and Rimbi Falls.
Things to Know
- The lack of infrastructure in areas like North Sikkim can make travel challenging.
- Roads in Sikkim are often in poor condition.
- The 5-hour journey to Gurudongmar Lake mostly involves off-roading, but the stunning mountain view is well worth it.
- Tour agencies typically handle the arrangement of taxis, including acquiring the necessary permits.
- It is recommended to book transfers and North Sikkim tours through tour agencies.
Conclusion
Despite the challenges of poor infrastructure and difficult roads, Sikkim is worth considering for a visit to India due to its significant natural beauty, adventurous drives, cultural sites, and panoramic vistas. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or someone looking to unwind in the tranquility of monasteries, a Sikkim tour offers it all.
