Sikkim – The Himalayan Gem of Northeast India
Where the Mountains Whisper Peace
Overview
Nestled in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas, Sikkim may be India’s second-smallest state — but it holds a universe of beauty within its borders. Snow-clad peaks, turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, vibrant monasteries, and serene villages make Sikkim a paradise for travellers seeking both adventure and tranquillity.
Crowned by Mount Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak, Sikkim is a place where Buddhist spirituality meets breathtaking nature, and where every winding trail unveils a new wonder — from the alpine meadows of North Sikkim to the lush forests of the South.
Major Areas & Towns
Gangtok
MG Marg, Rumtek Monastery, Tashi View Point, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Banjhakri Falls, Hanuman Tok, Ganesh Tok.
Tsomgo Lake & Nathula Pass
High-altitude glacial lake and iconic Indo-China border route, offering stunning Himalayan vistas.
Yumthang Valley (Lachung)
The “Valley of Flowers,” blanketed in colourful rhododendrons during spring.
Gurudongmar Lake (Lachen)
One of the world’s highest lakes (17,800 ft), sacred and surreal amidst snowy peaks.
Pelling
Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, Skywalk, Sanga Choeling Monastery, Rimbi Waterfall, Khecheopalri Lake.
Namchi
Char Dham Complex, Samdruptse Hill, Ngadak Monastery.
Ravangla
Buddha Park (Tathagata Tsal), Ralang Monastery, Temi Tea Garden.
Yuksom & Goecha La Trek
Trek through alpine forests, lakes, and Kanchenjunga viewpoints — one of India’s most scenic routes.
Top Destinations
Gangtok
MG Marg, Rumtek Monastery, Tashi View Point, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Banjhakri Falls, Hanuman Tok, Ganesh Tok.
Tsomgo Lake & Nathula Pass
High-altitude glacial lake and iconic Indo-China border route, offering stunning Himalayan vistas.
Yumthang Valley (Lachung)
The “Valley of Flowers,” blanketed in colourful rhododendrons during spring.
Gurudongmar Lake (Lachen)
One of the world’s highest lakes (17,800 ft), sacred and surreal amidst snowy peaks.
Pelling
Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, Skywalk, Sanga Choeling Monastery, Rimbi Waterfall, Khecheopalri Lake.
Namchi
Char Dham Complex, Samdruptse Hill, Ngadak Monastery.
Ravangla
Buddha Park (Tathagata Tsal), Ralang Monastery, Temi Tea Garden.
Yuksom & Goecha La Trek
Trek through alpine forests, lakes, and Kanchenjunga viewpoints — one of India’s most scenic routes.
Zuluk & Silk Route
Old trade route offering thrilling hairpin bends and panoramic Himalayan views.
Getting There
- By Air: Pakyong Airport (near Gangtok) offers limited flights; Bagdogra Airport (West Bengal) is the main gateway.
- By Rail: Nearest major station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), 125 km from Gangtok.
- By Road: Excellent scenic drives from Siliguri or Darjeeling via NH 10, with breathtaking valley and river views.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (March–May): Blooming rhododendrons, clear skies, and ideal for treks.
- Autumn (October–December): Crisp Mountain air and clear views of Kanchenjunga.
- Winter (Dec–Feb): Snowfall in North Sikkim; best for snow lovers.
- Monsoon (June–September): Lush greenery but occasional landslides — ideal for nature photography.
Why You’ll Love Sikkim
🏔️ Stunning Himalayan panoramas, lakes, and meadows
🧘 Deep spirituality and Buddhist serenity
🌸 Rhododendron valleys, alpine flora, and pristine ecology
🚙 Adventure routes — Nathula, Zuluk, and Goecha La treks
💚 Sustainable tourism and warm local hospitality
🎭 Unique fusion of Lepcha, Bhutia, and Nepali cultures
Signature Experiences
- Sip butter tea with monks at a hilltop monastery.
- Witness sunrise over Kanchenjunga from Pelling or Gangtok.
- Walk through blooming rhododendron trails in Yumthang.
- Stay in a homestay amid terraced farms and prayer flags.
- Drive the legendary Old Silk Route for the thrill of a lifetime.