10 Places to Visit in Sikkim: The Gateway to North-East India

Sikkim is like a state that sprung right out of a storybook with its majestic mountains, verdant greenery, and alluring valleys. As you explore the places to visit in Sikkim, you’ll be enamored by the charm they exude. This state is the crowning jewel of North-East India and is a paradise on Earth. Despite being the second smallest state in the country, you’ll be amazed by the hidden gems it keeps covered under a blanket of mysticism. It’s time to uncover Sikkim’s enchanting places layer by layer.

10 Best Places to Visit in Sikkim: Take a Tour of this Bewitching State

Plan a vacation to this soulful city, which is every bit as charming as people say it is. Whatever your expectations are from this mesmerizing state, it’ll surpass them all. Being an undiscovered destination for tourists, you’ll be surprised at what attractions this place harbors. So, let’s look at the Sikkim places to visit that you must explore when vacationing here.

1. Tsomgo Lake
2. Yumthang Valley
3. Gurudongmar Lake
4. Pelling
5. Gangtok
6. Nathula Pass
7. Goechala
8. Green Lake
9. Teesta River
10. Yume Samdong

1. Tsomgo Lake: Watch the Mountains Reflect in this Glacier Lake

Tsomgo Lake is the first tourist attraction on our “places to visit in Sikkim” list because of the serenity this lake exudes. Located at an altitude of 12310 ft., you’ll be mesmerized by the beauty and breathtaking surroundings. With the glorious snow-capped Himalayas to the beautiful flora and fauna around you, visiting this place is like living in a daydream. You’ll even come across yaks, Brahmini ducks, ponies, and other such animals near this egg-shaped lake. Spending peaceful time in the vicinity of this lake, a gift of nature, and watching the reflection of the mountains in the frozen water is everything you need to make your vacation a success. You can either visit during winters, when the lake’s frozen and everything’s clad in snow or during summers, when the vibrant flowers line the lake and you can see the lush greenery.

Best time to visit Tsomgo Lake: April to May or January to March

Distance from Sikkim: Approx. 148 km

Facts about Tsomgo Lake:

• It’s also known as Changu Lake
• Tsomgo Lake is one of the highest lakes in India
• The lake changes color as per the season
• The Guru Poornima Festival takes place here

Tsomgo Lake Permit: You’ll have to get a permit to access the lake as it’s a restricted area. Foreign nationals require a special permit, though. You’ll have to visit theTourism and Civil Aviation Department of Sikkim to get this permit. Carry valid identity proof and two photographs for the same. It takes a day or two for the permit to arrive.

Tsomgo Lake travel tips:

• Wear boots to the lake due to snowy paths
• Leave for the lake early in the morning
• Infants or senior citizens might feel short of breath at such high altitude

Legend of the Tsomgo Lake: It’s believed that the Buddhist Monks could predict a person’s future by looking at the color of the lake’s water. A dark tinge in color means issues in the future. The faith healers also visit this lake during Guru Poornima or Rakshabandhan to take a dip in the healing waters

How to reach Tsomgo Lake:

From Sikkim – You must take a cab or taxi to reach Gangtok and from there you can hire a special car from Jawaharlal Nehru Road to reach the lake

From Gangtok – You can either ride in a special car from Jawaharlal Nehru Road or take a taxi to the lake

From other destinations: You must take a flight to Bagdogra Airport or Jalpaiguri Railway Station in West Bengal and then take a cab or taxi to Sikkim.

2. Yumthang Valley: A Scenic Valley Home to Vibrant Flowers

Yumthang Valley is one of the most popular tourist attractions because of the swoon-worthy view it offers of rare and exotic flowers. With Yaks grazing on the green meadows, the mesmerizing Teesta River, hot springs, and magnificent mountains surrounding this valley enhance its beauty. Monsoon season is when all the flowers in the valley bloom and create a symphony of vibrancy and liveliness. The various bright colors of Primrose, Cobra Lilies, Cinquefoils, etc. brighten up this entire valley and make it a must-visit location for tourists. Therefore, this valley is also known as the “Valley of Flowers.” All the nature lovers or those looking for a peaceful retreat would find this attraction the highlight of their vacation.

Best time to visit Yumthang Valley: March to mid-June

Distance from Sikkim: Approx. 199 km

Facts about Yumthang Valley:

• Yumthang Valley was compared to the valleys of Switzerland by Dr. Joseph Hooker, the author of the book “The Himalayan Journal”
• It’s also known as the Valley of Flowers
• This valley is located close to the China Border

Yumthang Valley permit: Carry a valid identity proof and two photographs when applying for the permit

Yumthang Valley travel tips:

• Don’t disturb the wildlife
• Speak softly when visiting monasteries
• Keep a little cash handy as there aren’t any ATMs nearby
• Carry warm overcoats
• Keep medicines for motion sickness, cold, headache, etc.

How to reach Yumthang Valley:

From Sikkim – You must reach Gangtok first via cab or taxi and then visit the valley via road

From Gangtok – You can travel via cab or taxi as the valley is well connected by roads

From other destinations: You can either fly to Bagdogra Airport or board a train to Jalpaiguri Railway Station in West Bengal and then reach Sikkim via cab or taxi

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3. Gurudongmar Lake: Soak in the Tranquil Vibes at this Scenic Lake

Gurudongmar Lake is an absolutely breathtaking sight because of the scenic beauty surrounding it. With the snow-capped Himalayan mountains magnifying the beauty of this location, you can bet that it’s one of the top places to visit in Sikkim. The tranquil and crystal-clear water of the lake is soothing, and you can spend hours here enjoying the beauty. Locals believe that the water in this lake is holy because even in the coldest of winters, one part of this lake never freezes since it was blessed by Guru Padmasambhava. During summers, the lake is clear, and you can see the mountains reflecting on its surface. Gurudongmar Lake is the second highest lake in Sikkim at an altitude of 18,000 ft. and is considered holy by Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists.

Best time to visit Gurudongmar Lake: November to June

Distance from Sikkim: Approx. 246 km

Facts about Gurudongmar Lake:

• It’s one of the highest natural lakes in Sikkim
• A part of the water never freezes even in winters
• It’s believed that this lake water is holy and drinking it would resolve fertility issues in women

Gurudongmar Lake permit: Foreign Nationals aren’t allowed to visit Gurudongmar Lake without a special permit from the Ministry of Home Affairs in Delhi due to the lake’s proximity to China and Tibet Border; however, Indian Nationals can spend time here after getting an inner line permit. You’ll have to submit two photographs and valid identity proof to the tourist office.

Gurudongmar Lake travel tips:

• The oxygen at this altitude is low, so it’s advised to keep the required medicines and to consult a doctor before visiting
• Carry warm clothes
• Get the inner line permit a day before visiting
• Carry sunglasses with UV lenses and polaroid sun coating to avoid the sun rays and white blindness

Legend of Gurudongmar Lake: As per the legend, Guru Padmasambhava visited this lake during the 8th century. Since the frozen water of the lake couldn’t be used for drinking, the locals requested the guru to help them, and he placed his palm on a part of the frozen lake and the snow began to melt. Therefore, people believe that the water here is holy and carry it in containers to use its healing powers.

Another legend is that Guru Nanak blessed this lake in the 15th century when the locals requested him to melt the snow. So, Guru Nanak touched a part of the lake with his stick and since then that part of the lake never freezes. According to him, whosoever drinks the water of the lake would gain strength and virility.

How to reach Gurudongmar Lake:

From Sikkim – You can visit the lake by taking a taxi to Lachen, staying there overnight, and then continuing the journey to the lake

From Gangtok – Take a cab or taxi to Lachung, stay overnight, and then visit the lake the next morning

From other destinations - You must reach Bagdogra Airport or Jalpaiguri Railway Station in West Bengal to reach Sikkim, then take a cab or taxi to Gangtok, reach Lachung from there, stay overnight, and resume the journey to the lake the next morning

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4. Pelling: An Enchanting Quaint Town in West Sikkim

When you’re traveling to the best places in Sikkim to visit, you must include this small town of Pelling to your list. It’s one of the most famous destinations for people looking for a peaceful retreat because of the gorgeous locations adorning it, such as the picturesque Kanchenjunga Mountains, Rimbi Waterfall, Sanga Choeling Monastery, and so on. It’s also a haven for trekkers because of the exciting trekking trails that add to that zing of adventure. You’ll have the most spectacular views of Sikkim and the Kanchenjunga mountains from here, since this place is located 7,200 ft above sea level. Pelling is a tough competition to Gangtok in terms of tourist influx and has already secured the second position as the most visited tourist destination in Sikkim.

Best time to visit Pelling: December to May

Distance from Sikkim: Approx. 59 km

Facts about Pelling:

• Pelling includes some of the oldest monasteries
• You can experience snowfall during winter months here
• Pelling offers a clear view of the Himalayas and Kanchenjunga Mountains

Places to visit in Pelling: Sangachoeling Monastery, Rimbi Waterfall, Yuksom, Khecheopalri Lake

Things to do in Pelling: Try Sikkimese cuisine, learn the history at Rabdentse Ruins, trek to Kanchenjunga National Park, shop at the local markets

Pelling travel tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes
• Carry warm clothes
• Respect the culture and traditions

How to reach Pelling:

From Sikkim – You must first take a cab to Gangtok and then visit Pelling from there

From Gangtok – An outstation taxi to Pelling is a convenient option

From other destinations – Take a flight to Bagdogra Airport or board a train to Jalpaiguri Railway Station, then take a cab or taxi to Sikkim. From there, you can reach Pelling via road

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5. Gangtok: The Most Popular Tourist Destination in Sikkim

Nothing can beat Gangtok because this city is the most famous city in Sikkim. What makes it famous is the amazing tourist attractions that it includes, from Nathula Pass, Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo Lake, MG Road, and much more. You’ll find a kaleidoscope of things to do in Gangtok and numerous places to explore. Regardless of which month you visit this city, you’ll always find it at the top of its game. The view of the majestic Kanchenjunga Mountain makes it even more mesmerizing. It’ll not be wrong to say that this soulful city captures the essence of Sikkim in the best way possible. So do make a note to visit this touristic city for a memorable time.

Best time to visit Gangtok: September to October or May to June

Distance from Sikkim: Approx. 107 km

Facts about Gangtok:

• MG Road in Gangtok is the first spit and litter free zone
• An International Flower Festival is organized every May
• Gangtok doesn’t have an airport

Places to visit in Gangtok: Ban Jhakri Falls, Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Rumtek Monastery

Things to do in Gangtok: Trekking on the Himalayan Mountain Ranges, paragliding, shopping at MG Road, hiking to the Tashi Viewpoint

Gangtok travel tips:

• Avoid visiting Gangtok during monsoon season
• Places like Nathula Pass, Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir are at a higher altitude, so you may experience lack of oxygen
• Carry warm clothes
• Wear comfortable walking shoes

How to reach Gangtok:

From Sikkim – You can take a cab or taxi to Gangtok

From other destinations: Fly to the Bagdogra Airport or take a train to Jalpaiguri Railway Station in West Bengal and then reach Gangtok via a cab or taxi from there

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6. Nathula Pass: Travel to the Snow Passage of Gangtok

Nathula Pass is without a doubt among the top places to visit in Gangtok, Sikkim because of its alluring beauty. The entire pass is covered with shimmering white snow at an altitude of 14140 ft. You’ll be awestruck by the magnificence of this location, and the highlight is that it’s one of the highest motorable passes in India. It was once a part of the Silk Route, but even now it has maintained its popularity as a famous tourist destination. It’s also the route that connects Sikkim to Tibet. Imagine trekking in this snowy paradise and admiring the view of the Kanchenjunga Mountain range; nothing can beat that. You might also come across several wildlife, such as Tibetan Gazelle, Snow Leopard, Tibetan Wolves, Yaks, and so on. You’ll need a permit to access this gorgeous beauty, though.

Best time to visit Nathula Pass: May to October

Distance from Sikkim: Approx. 165 km

Facts about Nathula Pass:

• It’s among the highest motorable roads in the world
• It was a part of the silk route
• This pass connects Sikkim with Tibet

Nathula Pass permit: You must visit the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department with a valid identity proof and two photographs to get a permit

Nathula Pass travel tips:

• Nathula Pass is closed on Monday, Tuesday, and Friday
• Carry motion sickness medicines due to the winding roads
• Make sure you get the permit a day before visiting
• Photography is prohibited
• Wear comfortable trekking shoes

How to reach Nathula Pass:

From Sikkim – You must travel to Gangtok, and then hire an SUV to Nathula Pass as only these cars are allowed to drive there

From Gangtok – You must take an SUV and reach Nathula Pass

From other destinations – Arrive at the Bagdogra Airport or Jalpaiguri Railway Station in West Bengal, take a cab to Gangtok and then go to Nathula Pass in an SUV

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7. Goechala: Get Ready for an Adventurous Twist

Goechala or Goecha La is a high mountain pass and offers some of the most spectacular views of the Himalayas. It’s in close proximity to these mountain ranges, so you can imagine the awestruck moment you’ll experience after visiting this attraction. This place is an ideal place for trekking, skiing, hiking, camping, and so much more. In fact, you might feel déjà vu, as if you’ve seen this place before. Well, you have seen it before at the back of the 100 rupees note. The soul-stirring view from here would forever be etched in your memory. Camping here, looking at the stars, and the glorious view of the mountains makes this the perfect getaway for couples. Therefore, whenever the topic of honeymoon in India begins, Sikkim would always be suggested as one of the most romantic places to visit.

Best time to visit Goechala: April to June or September to October

Distance from Sikkim: Approx. 32 km

Facts about Goechala:

• The view from Goechala is features on the back of a 100 rupee note
• It’s the base camp for Kanchenjunga summit

Goechala permit: Carry a valid identity proof and two photographs to submit for the permit

Goechala travel tips:

• Wear comfortable trekking shoes
• Carry warm clothes
• Keep a first aid kit handy
• Carry raingear even if it isn’t monsoon season
• Keep spare batteries and film roll for camera
• Get a trained guide, if possible

How to reach Goechala:

From Sikkim – You must reach Yuksom first via a cab or taxi and then trek to Goechala

From Gangtok – You'll have to board a bus or take a cab or taxi to Yuksom and then start the Goechala trek

From other destinations – You must first reach Sikkim by taking a flight to Bagdogra Airport or a train to Jalpaiguri Railway Station. From there you can take a cab or taxi to reach Yuksom and trek to Goechala

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8. Green Lake: An Exquisite Snowy Wonderland

Green Lake as the name suggests is of a soothing jade green color, which beautifully juxtaposes the white snow-capped mountains around it. The view of the Kanchenjunga Mountains from here is a sight to behold, and the journey to this lake is full of rocky terrains and vibrant flowers, such as blue poppies, and you’ll have to pass through the Kanchenjunga National Park. Green Lake is the base for climbing the Kanchenjunga Moutain range or the Zemu Glacier. It’s an ideal place for adventure junkies to visit because of the thrilling landscape.  The unexplored aspect of this place makes it even more exciting and invokes a curiosity to explore it. It’s one of the best places to visit in North Sikkim, a hidden gem in the laps of the Himalayas.

Best time to visit Green Lake: March to May or October to December

Facts about Green Lake:

• This is the base camp for those willing to climb Mt. Kanchenjunga or Zemu Glacier
• The lake is jade green in color; thus, the name

Green Lake travel tips:

• Wear comfortable trekking shoes
• Stay hydrated
• Carry warm clothes

How to reach Green Lake:

From Sikkim – You must take a cab or taxi to Gangtok, then reach Lachen via road and then go to Zema, the starting point of the trek to Green Lake

From Gangtok – Take a cab or taxi to Lachen, drive to Zema from there to start the Green Lake trek

From other destinations – Take a flight to Bagdogra Airport or a train to Jalpaiguri Railway Station, travel to Gangtok from there. Then take a cab or taxi to Zema for Green Lake trek

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9. Teesta River: Lose Yourself in the Serenity of this River

Teesta River should top the list of places to visit in Sikkim because this is the main river of the state, and it also divides Sikkim from West Bengal. This river’s originating from Teesta Kangse Glacier, at a height of 7068 m and flows for 309 km before merging with the Brahmaputra River. The sound of the river flowing, the lush greenery dotting the riverside enhances the entire experience of visiting this place. During winters, the entire river’s frozen, which is a beautiful sight as well. Teesta River is also among the excellent places to visit in Sikkim in December for indulging in river rafting, and you can also travel to the point where the river merges with one of its tributaries, the Rangeet River. It’s truly a spectacle to watch the river flow and overcome all the obstacles in its way. You’ll definitely be mesmerized as you spend some peaceful downtime here.

Best time to visit Teesta River: December to June

Distance from Sikkim: Approx. 195 km

Facts about Teesta River:

• The river stretches for 309 km before merging with Brahmaputra
• This river is the main source of living in Rangpo, Jalpaiguri and Kalimpong cities
• It divides Sikkim from West Bengal

Teesta River travel tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes
• Stay hydrated

How to reach Teesta River:

From Sikkim & Gangtok – Take a cab or taxi from Sikkim or Gangtok to reach this river

From other destinations – Book a flight to Bagdogra Airport or a train to Jalpaiguri Station, take a cab or taxi to reach the river

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10. Yumesamdong: Visit the Zero Point of Sikkim

We saved the best for last because this place deserves a spYumesamdongecial mention in the list of places to visit in Sikkim. You’ve seen nothing till you take a trip to Yumesamdong or Zero Point located at an altitude of 4,724 m. You can consider this place as the literal last stop on your holiday because there are no roads further ahead. The white snow sheet on the ground and clear blue sky are the highlight of this attraction. It’s one of the most favorite places to visit in India for every traveler. You can expect extremely low temperatures here, and the valleys, intimidating mountains, and the Lachung Village near this location are worth exploring. You can spend time immersing yourself in the cultural scene of Sikkim at this village, interact with the locals, or just enjoy the scenic beauty and tranquility cloaking you.

Best time to visit Yumesamdong: March to April

Distance from Sikkim: Approx. 203 km

Facts about Yumesamdong:

• This place is also known as Zero Point because it’s the hindmost frontier of civilization
• You’ll require an inner line permit because it’s near the Chinese border
• There are no roads leading further
• This place is covered in a blanket of snow throughout the year

Yumesamdong permit: To get a permit to access this location, submit two photographs and valid identity proof to the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department

Yumesamdong travel tips:

• Leave for Zero Point early in the morning
• Avoid visiting during December and January due to heavy snowfall
• People suffering from breathing issues shouldn’t go here
• Rent snowboats, gloves, and overcoats
• Keep cash in handy
• Keep necessary medicines
• Wear warm clothes

How to reach Yumesamdong:

From Sikkim – Take a cab to Yumthang Valley and reach Yume Samdong from there as it’s around an hour away

From Gangtok – Take a cab or taxi to Yume Samdong as no other vehicle’s allowed

From other destinations – Reach the Bagdogra Airport or Jalpaiguri Railway Station in West Bengal and take a cab or taxi to Sikkim. From there, reach Yume Samdong via road

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Now that you’re acquainted with some of the most jaw-dropping places to visit in Sikkim, you’ll agree that vacationing in this state is nothing less than being in paradise. The awe-inspiring views, majestic tourist attractions, and natural beauty, all combine to create a breathtaking symphony. Being an unexplored and undiscovered tourist destination, there’s a lot for you to take in and trust me, you’d wish you had visited this place earlier. So don’t think twice and book our India travel packages right away.

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