Everything you need to travel to this underrated destination in India! Trust me, this is India like you've never seen before.
→ This guide mainly covers East Sikkim.
→ This guide is ideal for the first time visitor.
Includes:
- About Sikkim
- How to get there / get around
- Places to visit
- Major attractions & sights at each place
- Where to stay at each place & what to expect
sprinkled with some insider tips here and there from an Indian local (me).
Sikkim is one of the smallest states of India, located in the northeastern part of the country, in the eastern Himalayas. It is a mostly mountainous region, home to the majestic Kangchenjunga, the highest peak in India and third highest on Earth. Ideal for adventure junkies, nature lovers, and road trippers.
💬 LANGUAGE
English, Hindi, Nepali, Bhutia, Lepcha
💰 CURRENCY
Indian Rupee (INR)
How to get there
For anyone wanting to go to Sikkim, they must pass through Siliguri, West Bengal which is considered the gateway to Sikkim.
Take an overnight bus to Siliguri. Again, this may not be the most comfortable ride, but it is very cheap.
🚗 Car | 13 - 14 hrs
If you have no other option, you can reach Siliguri by road. But I don't recommend this, as this will be a long and tiring journey.
Permits
You will need Protected Area Permits to travel to several parts of Sikkim, also depending on whether you're an Indian national or a foreigner.
The simplest way to go about this is through a trusted travel agent or to ask your driver/hotel for information - or simply book a custom itinerary with me and I'll help you arrange everything.
How to get around
🔹 In Sikkim, it's essential to have a car - and it's recommended to pre-book one with a driver for the duration of your entire stay. Especially in peak season - you may not find any vehicles for hire if you don't book ahead.
🔹 Self drive is not recommended unless you have experience driving on mountainous terrain or Himalayan roads.
🔹 The driver will usually pick you up straight from Siliguri Train station or the Bagdogra airport.
If you haven't booked in advance, you can also find taxis (both private and shared) outside the station and airport that will take you to Gangtok and other lower altitude areas. Make sure you research about the rates beforehand, and bargain with them.
(Plug: If you book a custom itinerary for Sikkim with me, contacts for a trusted driver and car + arrangements for any permits will also be provided in the package👇)
The most popular destination in Sikkim is Gangtok, the capital. It's a populous bustling town that often gets very crowded with tourists during peak season. By road, it takes 4-5 hours from Siliguri and the route is scenic.
The capital city, and the most popular destination in Sikkim. It's a populous bustling town that often gets very crowded with tourists during peak season. By road, it takes 4-5 hours from Siliguri and the route is scenic.
Another off beat destination, on the border of Sikkim and West Bengal, it is a small valley situated on the bank of the river Reshi, great for riverside camping.
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Lachen
Climb higher and deeper into the mountains, and head north into Lachen. These areas are more remote, and you will find lesser amenities and comforts the higher you go - but the trade off is worth it, because it is one of the most beautiful places on earth.
One of the best places to stay in Lachen. It's very comfortable, and the staff will provide amenities like thick blankets, hot water, clean rooms and bathrooms, and hot delicious food.
A new hotel in Lachen by the Summit chain of hotels, which are well known for their hospitality in Sikkim
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Lachen itself is a quiet, sleepy town so there's not much to do. People usually make this a base for seeing other attractions further north, so that they can get gradually acclimatised to the high altitude.
The name comes from a spot surrounded by mountains with snowy peaks and black rocks and cliffs. Your driver will usually charge you extra to stop here.
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Lachung
Another small picturesque mountain village, known for its waterfalls, pine forests and hot springs. A bit more bustling than Lachen, it is a paradise for nature lovers.
Smaller, quieter town in Sikkim away from the hustle and bustle of Gangtok. Beautiful views of the mountain, apple valley, a bubbling stream and Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary
Perfect for backpackers, bikers, adventure lovers, road trippers. It's a small but cosy dorm-style living with some private rooms also available. The owners are warm and friendly, and the food is good.
Premium luxury hotel nestled amidst the majestic mountains. this lavish property features comfortable rooms, a multi-cuisine restaurant, a full-service spa
A nature sanctuary with river, hot springs, yaks and grazing pasture on rolling meadows surrounded by the Himalayan mountains. Perfect for a peaceful picnic and photography.
I'm a 31 year old female travel planner, travelling all around the world for 10+ years. I specialise in Asia & a few parts of Europe like Turkey, Spain & Italy. My mission is to craft an unforgettable, amazing travel experience just for you!
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