Places to visit in Sikkim
Sikkim is India's smallest state, located in the country's northeastern region. Sikkim is surrounded by Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet, so there is no shortage of tourist attractions in Sikkim. Sikkim is known for its beautiful scenery, green meadows, crystalline lakes, and towering mountain ranges as the gateway to the Himalayas. This mountain kingdom has a distinct personality. The state's captivating destinations, as well as the coexistence of Hinduism and Buddhism, have given rise to a unique and peaceful culture in the state of Sikkim.
Sikkim is a land of monasteries, which are beautiful structures that cover the entire state. It will be difficult not to fall in love with this land, with its clean and green roads, valleys, mountain tops, and meadows. The eastern Himalayan state has rhododendron groves and thick woodlands, orange and apple orchards, and a peaceful atmosphere that hits anyone who visits hard. Sikkim is the place to go when the rest of the country is on fire during the summer months; the mountainous state is a fantastic escape from the heat and monotony of life in the plains. During the summer, there will be a swarm of wildflowers that will fill the valleys and truly make your visit worthwhile.
Sikkim is the place to go for Himalayan trekking and river rafting on the Teesta and Rangit. Monsoon clouds frequently surround the mountain tops at higher altitudes, giving the area a mesmerising look and feel. Sikkim is a wildlife sanctuary that is home to snow leopards, wild goats, black bears, blue sheep, flying squirrels, and the famous red panda. The state's cultural and ethnic background makes it a magnet for curious tourists all year; Sikkim is just as beautiful in the winter as it is in the summer.
Sikkim's thrills are unparalleled; with 28 mountain peaks, 80+ glaciers, 227 high-altitude lakes, five major hot springs, and 100+ rivers and streams, this Northeastern State has more than enough challenges to quench the thirst for adventure. Not to mention, Sikkim is home to the world's third tallest mountain peak, Kanchenjunga, also known as Khangchendzonga, which stands 8568 metres tall. In fact, this smallest state in India is home to several 5thousanders, including Frey Peak (5830 Meters), Mount Jopuno (5603 Meters), Lama Wangden (5868 Meters), and Brumkhangse (5635 Meters), making it one of the best mountaineering destinations for those seeking a bit of adventure.
Sikkim has planned a new adventure for the winter season, which begins in October, right after the Hindu religious festival of Durga Puja. As the snowfall season approaches, the sharp gradients of Sikkim's mountains become stopovers for skiing. The winter months of November to March are ideal for all ski enthusiasts to visit Sikkim's Yumthang Valley. This valley is located 25 kilometres from Lachung in North Sikkim; another skiing destination in the state to visit for an exciting experience is Phuni Valley, which is about 18 kilometres from Lachung.
Sikkim is also an adventure destination, with a plethora of exotic trekking trails, some of which are short and mesmerising, while others are simply worth the effort. The trekking trails here are too good to resist for any nature or adventure lover, passing through rustic hamlets, lesser known places, and spots with breathtaking views. Green Lake Trek, Village Trek, Monastic Trek, Rhododendron Trek, Phoktey Dara Trek, Singalila Trek, Goechala Trek, and Dzongri Trek are among the most popular treks in Sikkim. Another addictive adventure activity in Sikkim is rafting, and the venues for this heart-racing and blood-pumping activity are the Teesta and Rangit rivers, which have Grade II to IV rapids on offer.
In Sikkim, adventure is limitless; in fact, it is a novel way to observe and explore the beauty of this surreal Northeastern state. So, just as you're about to conclude that there aren't any more challenges for you to face in Sikkim, an avant-garde adventure will likely appear in front of you. Among these surprises is Mountain Biking, an eco-friendly sport that is possibly the best way to explore the state. Another must-do adventure activity in Sikkim is paragliding/hang gliding; with a bird's eye view of the villages, rivers, temples, and forests, this aerial sport will undoubtedly leave you wanting more.
Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Yuksom, Lachung, Lachen, Yumthang Valley, Teesta River, Ravangla, Pelling, Zuluk, Namchi, Khangchendzonga National Park, Rumtek Monastery, and many other beautiful places can be found in Sikkim.
Lake Tsomgo (38 Km from Gangtok)
Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, is a glacier-fed body of water that is one of the best places to visit in Gangtok. Tsomgo Lake, at an elevation of 12310 feet, is one of Sikkim's most popular tourist destinations. The lake is 38 kilometres from Gangtok, on the way to the Nathula Pass.
This lake is known for its natural beauty and is one of India's highest altitude lakes. The sight of the surrounding snow-covered hills reflecting on Tsomgo Lake is a memory that you will cherish for the rest of your life. The lake is about a kilometre long and shaped like an egg. Winter is the best time to visit Tsogmo Lake because it is also the best time to visit Gangtok.
The Nathula Pass (56 Km from Gangtok)
When visiting Sikkim, the best place to be for trekking enthusiasts is Nathula Pass, which is located at a height of 14140 feet. Sherathang, the border trade market, is a popular destination for tourists looking to purchase various Tibetan items at a low cost. This Sikkim tourist attraction is well-known among visitors.
Kupup, a little village nearby, is well worth a visit. It always remains in the clouds, which will undoubtedly be a pleasant experience for you. The view from the Nathula Pass is also spectacular.
Base Camp Kanchenjunga (61 Km from Gangtok)
Yumthang Valley of Flowers is a flower valley located in Yumthang, Bhutan (128 Km from Gangtok)
Yumthang valley is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim, thanks to its undulating meadows, grazing yaks on the banks of the untamed Teesta river, and several hot springs nestled among the towering mountain peaks. The Valley of Flowers is located approximately 128 kilometres from Gangtok and is carpeted at a height of more than 11,000 feet above sea level. You may book one of our Gangtok Tours from a diverse range of packages to ensure that you don't miss out on the best of Gangtok.
Come to the valley in late February to march, when the people celebrate the Losar festival. The Rhododendrons blossom and engulf the valley in full beauty throughout the months of April and June.
Lake Gurudongmar (174 Km from Gangtok)
Gurudongmar Lake, located at an elevation of 17,800 feet, is a gorgeous and serene Himalayan lake. Throughout the winter, this lake is hemmed in by snow-covered mountains, while during the summer, the lake water reflects the sky and clouds like a mirror.
It is one of the most popular sites to visit in Sikkim, located on the northern side of the Kanchenjunga mountain range, approximately 174 kilometres from Gangtok. Because of the lake's proximity to the Chinese-Tibetan border, visitors must obtain permits to visit.
Goechala's formal name is Goechala (51 Km from Gangtok)
The high mountain pass of Goechala (Goecha La), which stands at approximately 4,940 m above sea level, is one of the best sites to visit in Sikkim. The pass is a fantastic location for all trekkers visiting Sikkim due to its proximity to some of the highest mountains in the Himalayas. The nicest part about this location is the stunning view of Mt. Kanchenjunga's southeast face.
The view from the pass is so stunning that it was featured on the back of India's 100 Rupee note. This site is a must-see for its beauty since it serves as the base of Kanchenjunga's summit.
Singalila is an abbreviation for Singalila (123 Km from Gangtok)
The Singalila Ridge trek ranges in difficulty from simple to moderate, with elevations ranging from 2,134 to 3,636 metres. As you near the summit, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga Peak, Makalu, and Lhotse Peak.
The journey begins in Darjeeling and proceeds to Tonglu via Maneybhanjang before continuing to Gairibas and crossing the serpentine pathways of Kalapokhri before arriving at the difficult ascent that passes through Sandakphu, the highest peak of the Singalila range at 3,636 metres. The expedition concludes with a downhill hike to Rimbik.
Green Lake
Fix your gaze on the jade-green lake, which is encircled by snow-capped glaciers and mountains. Green Lake is an undiscovered and unspoiled place in Sikkim. It serves as a base for climbers of Mount Kanchenjunga and the Zemu glacier.
The walk to Green Lake begins in Thangu village and passes through the majestic Kanchenjunga National Park, as well as the grandeur of the confluence of the Zemu Chu and Lachen Chu, two highly important rivers in the region.
To begin your journey, drive from Gangtok to Lachen via Mangan and Thangu. Keep a watch out for animals, especially the rarely seen Red Panda in the area.
Lachung (103 Km from Gangtok)
Lachung is a little hamlet in North Sikkim that glows like a morning star at an elevation of 9,610 feet. Lachung is located 103 kilometres from Gangtok, and the meandering river Teesta will accompany you on your journey from Gangtok. It would be a mistake to visit Lachung without taking a tour of the famed Zero Point and Lachung monastery.
Lachung is a picturesque Himalayan town surrounded by apple orchards, pine forests, and various waterfalls. The confluence of two extremely notable tributaries of the river Teesta- Lachung and river Lachen- is also a place of attraction en route in Chungthang, where the road splits into two directions: one to Lachen and the other to Lachung.
Pelling (72 Km from Gangtok)
Pelling is the second most visited town in Sikkim, after Gangtok. One of the reasons for this is that it has developed quickly as a tourist attraction. Pelling, with its superb hotels and tourist opportunities, is unquestionably a place to stay.
Pelling, located at an elevation of 6800 feet, is largely covered in thick forests with diverse wildlife. The two main tourist attractions in town are the Changey and Khangchendzonga waterfalls, which may be seen in a single day. Pelling is ideal for visitors who prefer to explore a city on foot.
Zuluk (91 Km from Gangtok)
Roosted on tallness of 10,000 feet, encircled by tough lower Himalayan mountains lies Zuluk, a little village that reclassifies normal excellence. Arranged near to the Indo-Tibetan boundary is this beautiful town with a major group of Military settled and guarding.
Zuluk fills in as the foundation of spots in the East Sikkim like Nathang Valley, Tsomgo lake, Kupup, and so on, and used to be a previous shipping lane among Tibet and Kalimpong by means of Jelep-la.
Situated around 91 kilometres from Gangtok, visiting Zuluk needs consent. From groups of yaks to deer, wild canines, Himalayan bears to outlandish birds like Monal Pheasant Kalij Pheasant, Blood Pheasant, and Snow Pheasant, and so forth; Zuluk untamed life safe-haven is a natural life aficionado's joy.
Ravangla (69 Km from Gangtok)
Leave on an excursion to investigate a lesser-known interesting town in the midst of the great heaps of Eastern Himalayas in South Sikkim. Ravangla is a town at a rise of around 8000 feet above ocean level with stunning scenes painted by Kanchenjunga and its sister pinnacles of Kabru, Pandim, Siniolchu.
Rayong dawn perspective, Temi Tea Garden, Relating underground aquifer and Ralang cloisters are not many nearby attractions that can intrigue an explorer. The winding streets which take you to these spots and Ravangla are exceptionally picturesque as well.
Rumtek Monastery (23 Km from Gangtok)
his wonderful religious community is a sight to the irritated eyes, you will observe probably the most extraordinary Buddhist fine arts and wall painting works of art in this three-storeyed profound focus.
Rumtek Monastery has a place with the Kagyu organization and which was first underlying the twelfth century yet was passed on to demolish so during 1960 Gyalwa Karmapa who turned into the sixteenth Karmapa of the middle restored it.
The religious community isn't just a treasury incorporating exceptional wall paintings, hand painting, and 1001 little Gold figures, yet in addition, has numerous vantage focuses sitting above the city of Gangtok. It is one of the Sikkim vacationer places which have a lot of approaches to interest the guests.
Yuksom (122 Km from Gangtok)
Yuksom is an unimposing verifiable town in the West Sikkim region and is otherwise called the "escape to Kanchenjunga." Tashiding Monastery, Dubdi Monastery, Complex of Tashi Teenka, Kartok cloister and Khecheopalri lake are not many of the intriguing legacy spots to visit in Yuksom.
It is significantly known for its religious communities and old stories on Lamas. Yuksom was once the capital of Sikkim which is still socially rich finished off with shocking vistas and plant life.
Teesta River
Teesta river is the primary stream of the province of Sikkim and partitions its locale from that of the territory of West Bengal. Covering an all-out course of 309 km prior to meeting the strong Brahmaputra, the stream goes through the urban areas of Rangpo, Jalpaiguri and Kalimpong, where it has a high significance as the primary wellspring of living.
Starting from a high elevation lake in the North Sikkim and the Teesta Kangse Glacier at the tallness of 7068m, the waterway is likewise an incredible wellspring of experience as there are various areas where you can appreciate the boating in the stream.
Yume Samdong
The spot features Mother Nature at its best, with chilling temperatures, frequenting valleys, and transcending massifs. You can likewise decide to go through a day in Lachung Village to observe the local customs and way of life.
Tso Lhamo Lake
The pleasant Tso Lhamo Lake rests at a psyche desensitizing height of 5,330 m and is perhaps the most noteworthy lake on the planet. The climate conditions are very limit and cruel with freezing temperatures, making it hard to go after travellers.
Lofty snow-clad mountains stand monitor over the lake, and cast a dreamlike appearance in its turquoise blue waters! The lake is a wellspring of the Teesta stream and bears the cost of stunning vistas of the encompassing bounties of nature more than ever. The wonder of Tso Lhamo is promising to leave you awestruck.
In case you're a nature sweetheart or travelling lover, these is unequivocally quite possibly the most striking spots to visit in Sikkim.
Thangu
Settled on a faltering 3,962 m, the entrancing Thangu Valley is covered under an extraordinary rug of snow nearly consistently. May and June see the whole places spotted with lavish high greenery. Thangu is likewise base for the popular Chopta valley and Muguthang journey.
Graced by the streams Teesta, Chopta, and Lassur that slice through the valley, there are a lot of marvellous perspectives to catch your faculties. Flanked by grand Himalayan massifs on each side, the town of Thangu is a quiet little settlement far away from the buzzing about of towns and urban communities. The valley requires a picturesque drive of 6 to 7 hours to get to Gangtok.
Khangchendzonga National Park
Bestridden by the Western angles of Mount Kanchenjunga, the Khangchendzonga National Park otherwise called Kanchenjunga Biosphere Reserve tosses various astonishments along the journeying trails. The path lead to places like Yuksom, Dzongri, the tremendous Zemu Glacier, Goechala, Rathang, Bakim, Tshoka, and so on
Loosening up across a space of 850 sq. kilometre, Khangchendzonga National Park is the biggest natural life hold in Sikkim. The inconceivability of this green retreat is enhanced with the presence of species like the red panda, Himalayan mountain bear, snow panther, Tibetan impala, yapping deer, musk deer, flying squirrel and wild ass.
Enchey Monastery
Established in the nineteenth century, the cloister was at first claimed by Lama Dhrupthob Karpo. It is additionally set apart for the Chinese Pagoda plan that makes it an engineering wonder. The religious community was remade in the year 1908 by Kind Sikyong Tulku, in any case, and is presently perhaps the most visited Sikkim traveller place.
Its present design is in accordance with China's holy mountain, which was known to be the profound dwelling of Jampelyang. The northern Buddhists trusted him to be the God of Knowledge.
Zemu Glacier
The eastern base for climbing Kanchenjunga, the world's third tallest mountain, is Zemu Glacier. It is a 26-kilometre-long glacier that serves as a major supply of water for the Himalayan Teesta River. Starting from Gangtok, you drive to Lachen in North Sikkim and then walk to Jakthang.
Green Lake, at around 16,000 feet above sea level, is a key landmark where most people halt their walk and return, but as you continue on, passing through Yabuk and Rimbik, you will reach Zemu Glacier, which is buried in snow and sits at an elevation of 18,648 feet above sea level. From this vantage point, you can see the beauty of Mount Siniolchu and other Himalayan peaks.
Monastery of Phodong
One of Sikkim's six main monasteries and one of the state's three Kagyu sect monasteries is located around 28 kilometres from Gangtok. The construction of Phodong Monastery dates from the early 18th century.
An eclectic mix of antique murals and paintings adorns the monastery. It is perched at a height of 4500 feet above sea level and offers scenic views and a natural atmosphere.
Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park
Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park, which spans a large 230 hectares of a wooded hill, is one of the Sikkim tourism attractions that serve as an oasis for environment lovers and animal aficionados. The star of this small hilltop zoo is a lovely Red Panda that captures everyone's attention.
You can also see Bengal tigers and black panthers, as well as Himalayan Black Bears, Clouded Leopards, Porcupines, Leopard Cats, Tibetan Wolfs, Large Indian Civets, Gorals, Barking Deer, Himalayan Palm Civets, Yaks, and other animals.
It quickly rises to the top of the list of places to see in Sikkim. The trails are covered with carpets of various rhododendrons and orchids flowering in a variety of vibrant colours.
Ganesh Tok
Ganesh Tok is a modest temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha that is perched on a hill at a height of 6500 feet, adjacent to the TV tower and close to Tashi Point. The observation lounge, which has a balcony and is enclosed by glass panels, provides unobstructed views of the Himalayan snow-capped summits, particularly the Kanchenjunga Peak.
It is one of the spots to visit in Sikkim that is away from the hustle and bustle of the city, about 6 kilometres from Gangtok. To get to the inner sanctum, you must first ascend a flight of stairs and then crawl through a tight passage to worship Lord Ganesha's idol.
Bakthang Waterfall
Bakthang Falls, one of nature's most beautiful beauties, is framed by the gorgeous Himalayas. A half-hour journey from Gangtok, the location is a photographer's fantasy. Nature lovers and trekkers visit this location.
The rushing falls sing a calming melody for guests as they flow from Ratey Chu's major water source. Bakthang Falls, one of the most gorgeous spots to visit in Sikkim, should surely be at the top of your agenda.
Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park
Banjhakri Waterfall is attractively shrouded within lush woodlands and is located 8 kilometres from Gangtok's main town. It is one of the most beautiful and famous tourist destinations in Sikkim and is part of Ban Jhakri Park. A calm lake is surrounded by well-defined trails, footbridges, and gazebos, and at its centre rests a gigantic dragon statue.
The roaring waterfall lies atop 100 feet and captivates the senses of all who visit. The roar of the falls soothes the mind, while the surrounding vegetation enchants the soul.
Tashiding MonasterySEND AN EMAIL
Tashiding, one of Sikkim's oldest monasteries, sits atop a hill, surrounded on either side by the Rathong Chu and Rangeet rivers. The monastery's architecture stands out against the backdrop of the adjacent Himalayan ranges. It exudes many of the ancient world's beauties while also serving as a centre of spiritual enlightenment for those who seek it.
It is thought that the location has the power to cleanse the sins and wrongdoings of individuals who come here to seek forgiveness. The monastery, which was built in the 17th century, is well-known for hosting the big Bhumchhu festival. It currently houses almost 70 monks.
Monastery of Pemayangtse
A golden Buddhist edifice gently ensconced among the magnificent environs of the highlands may be found 110 kilometres west of Gangtok, about 2 kilometres from Pelling. The Pemayangtse Monastery is a three-story edifice founded in 1705 by Lama Lhatsun Chempo.
Pemayangtse literally translates as "sublime lotus." The structure is home to antique paintings, sculptures, carvings, and a collection of Tibetan antiquities. Keep an eye out for the Cham celebration, the largest monk festival held on the 28th and 29th days of the Tibetan calendar's 12th month.
Lake Khecheopalri
The Khecheopalri lake, also known as Kha-Chot-Palri, is steeped in mystery and folklore, and is thought to be a 'wish-fulfilling lake.' It is located in the rustic settlement of Khecheopalri at a dizzying height of 1,700 m and is regarded as a sacred spot by Buddhists. It is frequented by pilgrims and is gaining appeal among tourists.
The lake is surrounded by magnificent lush woodlands and is home to a variety of fascinating aquatic life. Interestingly, leaves are rarely seen afloat on the lake because birds pick them up as soon as they reach the surface.
SINGSHORE BRIDGE
The 240-meter-long Singshore Bridge, which stands at a height of more than 100 metres, is the highest bridge in Sikkim and the second highest in Asia! The bridge is located 5 kilometres from Pelling, near the quaint Uttarey village.
It is one of Sikkim's oldest bridges, connecting two lovely hills and is convenient for trekking. Walking across the bridge infuses you with an adventurous spirit, and you can't help but be awestruck by the surrounding flora. The winds up there are fairly strong, which adds to the excitement.
Kanchenjunga Falls
Kanchenjunga Falls is undoubtedly the most beautiful of all Sikkim tourist attractions. The waters of the fall are thought to originate from the high glaciers of Mt. Kanchenjunga itself, hence the name. The waterfall, hidden deep among impenetrable woodlands, went mostly undiscovered by the general public until the late 1990s.
It is still shaded and undeveloped, making it the ideal retreat for anyone seeking seclusion and tranquillity. The lush beauty of the forests that surround the cascading waterfall is a breathtaking sight to see.
Tashi Point of View
The vista of Kanchenjunga mountain from Tashi viewpoint will take your breath away. It's best to go at daybreak to watch the bone-white peaks turn golden as the sun rises. The viewpoint is around 8 kilometres from Gangtok, with surrounding attractions including the Phodong and Labrang monasteries, as well as the
Bakthang waterfall.
As your trip from Gangtok to Tashi comes to a close, you will need to climb around 115 steps to reach the viewpoint, which you can identify by the swarms of food stalls and hordes of people waiting for the sun to rise.
Namchi
Namchi is the capital of the South Sikkim district and is often regarded as Sikkim's cultural hub. Over the years, the city has grown rapidly. It is well-known for housing reproductions of all four Dhams of India, as well as the largest statue of Guru Padmasambhava in Sikkim.
The town, which is located at 5500 feet above sea level and serves as a base for religious tourism in the state, has a laid-back environment. The Namchi helipad, Shirdi Saibaba Mandir and Char Dham complex, Statue of Samdruptse, Central Park, Namchi Rock Garden, and Baichung Stadium are among the tourist attractions.
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