KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Spring and autumn are the best seasons to explore scenic Sikkim.
- Sikkim offers custom tour packages for all types of travelers.
- Travel by air, rail, or road to reach Sikkim easily.
- Permits like ILP and Nathula Pass are essential for specific regions.
- Don’t miss local food like momos, thukpa, and sel roti.
Over 1.4 million travelers poured into Sikkim last year (Ministry of Tourism, 2023), making tourism ever more relevant to Sikkim residents and to visitors wanting authentic experiences of nature and culture.
Heading to Sikkim? Check Sikkim Tourism & Custom Sikkim Tour Packages available for all styles of travelers, this guide reveals how Sikkim will meet the needs of travelers of every genre.
Get expert tour help when planning your Sikkim vacation with these top-rated Sikkim tour packages By Sikkim Tourism. Let’s see how to get there, what to do, what to eat, and what to buy from Sikkim.
How to Reach Sikkim?
A trip to Sikkim is much like a journey, with winding roads, changing skies, and whispers of the mighty Himalayas at each turn. To begin your journey into the wonder of Sikkim, take a train, road, or flight to Siliguri. All the major cities across India are directly connected to Siliguri, either by rail to NJP or Bagdogra airport.
By Air
Flights to Pakyong Airport, the nearest to Sikkim, are limited in availability throughout the year. So, you can always consider the best alternative, which is Bagdogra Airport, just about 140 km away from Sikkim and takes about 5 hours to reach via NH 10.
By Rail
NJP is the nearest railway station to Sikkim, connecting it with all major Indian states. It is nearly 137 km from NJP to Sikkim via NH 10 and takes about 5 hours to reach the destination.
By Road
You can travel to Sikkim from Siliguri, Kalimpong and Darjeeling by accessing it by road. Siliguri is 130.7 km from Sikkim, taking around 4 hours and 35 minutes via NH 10. From Darjeeling, the distance covered to reach Sikkim is approximately. 75 km, via Naya Bazaar-Legship-Rishi Rd, which takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes to reach. You can hire readily available private cabs, state-run vehicles, or board a shared vehicle to reach Sikkim.
When is the Best time to visit?
Sikkim enchants its guests throughout the year and entices them with picturesque scenery and a poetic natural canvas. The magic of the Spring season, between March and May, is spelled across the region with the elegant rhododendron blossoms, just like a symphony of scarlet floral beauty, embracing the earth beneath the clear skies.
Autumn, between October and early December, dazzles with a burst of colours, with autumn foliage, golden forests, and a speck of snow dust on the mountain peak, right beneath the cobalt-blue skies.
The winter season sets on during late December to February, which covers Sikkim in snow, especially in the higher altitudes. Snow chasers often travel to Gurudongmar and Lachung during early December’s first week to experience and enjoy the snow.
However, weather conditions deteriorate from June to September, bringing frequent heavy rainfall along with dangerous and unpredictable landslides. This causes rampant roadblocks and jeopardises tourist safety. So, the best time for tourists to visit and explore Sikkim is either in Spring or Autumn, when they can experience its sublime beauty. Take a look at the infographic below for a better understanding.
What to pack for the trip?
It is advised that you pack for the Sikkim trip to experience the wonders, and let yourself be open while the new experiences wrap you in their embrace. Don’t simply pack with the fluctuating weather in mind.
↠ Layered Clothes (thermals and waterproof windcheaters, fleece jackets to avoid unpredictable weather conditions)
↠ Waterproof, sturdy, and lightweight pair of shoes
↠ Proper woollens (gloves, caps, socks, mufflers) for higher altitudes
↠ Personal medications and other necessities (sunscreen, moisturiser, sanitiser)
↠ Essential documents for Travel (ID proof- Voter card/Passport), passport-size photographs
↠ Tech gear like a power bank, extra batteries, flashlight
↠ water bottles, sunglasses
Information on the Permits you shall need
Here are a few exclusive permits that will be your golden pass to explore the splendid beauty of Sikkim. Take a look at them:
↠ Inner Line Permit- important for foreign nationals while entering Sikkim
↠ Nathula Pass Permit (only Indians allowed, organised in advance)
↠ Proper Documents
↠ Some Additional Tips: Carry a photocopy of IDs and permits, loose cash
Where to Stay in Sikkim?
Do not be puzzled by this. From snug hideaways to lavish stays with cloud-kissing rooms, great views accompany each pick! Here is a short list of accommodations:
For a Budget stay in Sikkim, and seeking comfort and experiencing local life, without burning a hole in the pocket, you can opt for:
↠ Zostel Gangtok– A lively hostel offering dormitory and private rooms, ideally suited for solo travellers.
↠ OurGuest Homestay (Ravangla)– This homestay provides guests with a cosy and authentic stay experience, featuring an incredible view of the surrounding nature.
↠ Tag Along Backpackers (Gangtok) is an affordable, friendly and clean homestay, hich is a great option for young travellers
Standard Accommodation Options:
Those looking for standard accommodations with reliable service and comfort at an excellent value for money can choose from these options. Here are some of the options:
↠ Retreat Crystals (Pelling)– is a comfortable mid-range hotel offering great views and modern amenities
↠ Bamboo Retreat Hotel (Gangtok) is a peaceful stay amidst nature. This boutique retreat emphasises wellness and sits nestled amidst lush greenery and organic farmland surroundings.
↠ Cherry Resort (Temi Tea Garden) is an ideal stay amidst the lush tea gardens
If you are seeking a lavish, premium stay with amazing landscapes, then check these options out!
↠ The Chumbi Mountain Retreat (Pelling) offers tourists marvellous, grand and luxurious suites with traditional Sikkimese decor, with the grand Kanchenjunga view
↠ The Golden Crest (Gangtok) is a modern hotel with elegant decor and spacious rooms, and upscale modern amenities
↠ Summit Swiss Heritage Resort (Gangtok) is a premium resort with a colonial-style architecture that offers tourists luxury with a grand touch of heritage.
Best Places in Sikkim to Explore
Exploring Sikkim reveals its tapestry of vibrant verdant valleys, misty mountain peaks and the timeless tales woven quietly into stories. Every corner of Sikkim gives you the feeling of entering a magical wonderland!
Take a quick look at these amazing places across Sikkim!
East Sikkim
The Eastern region of Sikkim will welcome you with a unique blend of natural beauty with modernity, making it stand out from the rest due to its versatility and blend of natural beauty. With breathtaking high-altitude views on one side and vibrant markets and serene monasteries on the other.
The major attractions of East Sikkim are Nathula Pass, Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake, Zuluk, Yumthang Valley, Rumtek Monastery and Baba Mandir.
West Sikkim
Western Sikkim showcases majestic landscapes, rich historical sites, graceful cultural significance, heritage charm, and picturesque, quaint villages. The west of Sikkim is also a great region for trek bases for Goechala Trek.
The major attractions of West Sikkim are: Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, Skywalk in Pelling, Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, and Khecheopalri Lake.
North Sikkim
North Sikkim will mesmerize you with its dramatic and vast landscapes, with mountainous and rugged terrain. The weather in this region remains unpredictable because of the constantly shifting elevation across its diverse terrain. The entire North Sikkim is filled with alpine meadows. The experience of a unique culture and raw natural beauty quenches the thirst of travelers.
The major attractions of North Sikkim are- Zero Point, Gurudongmar Lake, Lachen, Lachung and Yumthang Valley.
South Sikkim
South Sikkim is indeed a paradise for nature and cultural enthusiasts, welcoming visitors with its utmost serenity and lush greenery. This region of Sikkim leans more towards spirituality, while also revealing the breathtaking charm of its natural surroundings. South Sikkim has diversity to offer, from the serenity of the monasteries to the thrills of the adventurous activities and uncovers the stories buried in history.
The major attractions of South Sikkim are Ravangla, Namchi, Samdruptse, Maenam Hill and Temi Tea Garden.
Things to Do in Sikkim
While waiting to know all the things to do in Sikkim, it’s best to journey through Sikkim’s ultimate adventurous and scenic playground. Here you will find yourself landing on scoops of fantastic treks, foodie hunts, and serene religious vibes from the monasteries and temples, to amp up your Sikkim tour.
Trek through the Scenic Trails
Every step you take through the scenic trek trails is just like a wonderful postcard moment recorded with the Himalayan range in the backdrop, while navigating through the emerald ridges, on misty mornings.
Explore Monasteries
You will feel an amazing serenity brush against your soul while you step into the peaceful monasteries, and the swirling incense, which soothes your soul when inhaled. It is also a hypnotic feeling when you calmly hear the gonging beats played by the monks.
Relax amidst serenity in Yumthang Valley
This Valley, especially during the spring season, is carpeted with floral beauty amidst the crisp mountain air, with crimson, vibrant rhododendron blossoms all over the meadows.
Soak in the Hot Spring
Don’t wait to take a plunge into the steamy, mineral-rich hot spring, which will make you feel rejuvenated. While soaking in this hot spring, you can also relish the majestic sight of the snow-dusted peaks.
Witness the scintillating beauty of Gurudongmar Lake
The scintillating beauty of Gurudongmar Lake, located at an impressive height of 17,800 ft, is icy sapphire in its tone. Which becomes even more stunning with the glistening sunrays that cast their glow, especially during the morning hours.
Experience the thrilling Cable Car Ride
The cable car ride in Sikkim is considered the longest ropeway in India. It soars high up, through the pine-laced valleys and makes one feel like a bird mid-air, catching the splendid views of the surrounding, with the plummeting cliffs.
Local Markets in Sikkim and Things to Buy
The local markets around Sikkim seem to be like a living gallery for tourists, filled with diverse cultures, vibrant colours, local handicrafts, and rich traditions of culture, where each corner of the markets possesses soulful treasures.
Here is a short list of popular markets to explore in Sikkim with their specialities.
MG Marg (Gangtok)
MG Marg in Gangtok is the heartbeat of Sikkim, with vibrant ambience, chic cafés, boutiques, and pedestrian-only streets. The special things you can buy from this market include traditional Sikkimese clothes, Tibetan carpets, prayer flags, thangka paintings and premium-quality Darjeeling tea.
Laal Bazaar (Gangtok)
This is a great market to witness the colourful chaos of fresh, organic spices and their aroma, with the buzzing life of the locals. Tourists enjoy shopping here as they get to experience the real Sikkimese experience in their local market. Special items you can get your hands on are fresh and organic veggies and fruits, local spices, yak cheese, and handcrafted bamboo items.
Namchi Bazaar (South Sikkim)
This Sikkim market perfectly blends spirituality and local charm, radiating rich traditional Sikkimese culture throughout. This bustling market is the heart of South Sikkim, which showcases a wide variety of stalls. Special items which tourists can explore in this market include Thangka paintings, items carved out of wood, colourful Tibetan masks, regional delicacies like sel roti and gundruk. It is also a scenic delight to get clear glimpses of Kanchenjunga while shopping in Namchi Bazaar.
Ravangla Market (South Sikkim)
Set against a serene, picturesque Himalayan backdrop, Ravangla Market is another key marketplace located in South Sikkim. It is filled with vendors selling organic fresh veggies and fruits, homemade cheese, paper and bamboo goods, alongside aromatic Darjeeling teas. You can also catch scenes of the relaxed lifestyle of the locals while shopping in this market.
Peeling Market (West Sikkim)
This is a vibrant marketplace in the West of Sikkim, which is popular among tourists for its handcrafted artefacts influenced by Tibet, colourful prayer flags, and handspun woollen items. You can also browse shops filled with unique regional jewellery, aromatic spices, and organic honey, while admiring Kanchenjunga’s breathtaking view.
Food to Try when in Sikkim
While exploring Sikkim, you must brace your taste buds to try out one of the most siple, yet finger-licking food from the local food shops. The hearty local delicacies are for all foodie buzz!
You must try these delicacies:
Thukpa
This spicy, steamy bowl of noodle soup will leave you warm from your hip to toes. This authentic Himalayan dish is filled with spicy Himalayan chilli flavour which is great to taste amidst a chilling evening on Sikkim street.
Steamy Momo
These tasty steamed dumplings, filled with minced veggies or chicken fillings, have now become a nation-favourite, loaded with juicy, buttery goodness, and every bite you take of these Sikkimese dumplings seems heavenly, especially for a momo-maniac!
Phagshapa
This crispy medley of fried radish and pork is wildly addictive among tourists. This is that meaty fuel which will give you all the power to conquer the rugged mountain trails of Sikkim.
Gundruk
This is a local dish made with fermented veggies, with a tangy flavour, and is packed with the taste of different spices. This green delicacy is bound to take you on a delicious ride of flavours.
Chhurpi
This Himalayan cheese is a local favorite, rock-hard in texture and something you really have to chew. Churpi seems to laugh at the strength of your jaws, which is a protein-packed fuel best consumed while trekking when you are grinding uphill.
Sel Roti
These tasty, crispy golden rings are very similar to the doughnuts and are an all-time favourite among tourists. These Nepali doughnuts are typically enjoyed with milk tea for a hearty Sikkim breakfast and an early-morning sugar rush.
Permits and Travel Essentials
Here is a short list of all the must-haves that are necessary to unlock different places of Sikkim:
↠ Inner Line Permit (ILP)
↠ Protected Area Permit
↠ Nathula Pass Permit- a special permit for Indians
↠ Personal Medical Kit
↠ Essential Documents- valid ID proof (voter card, passport), passport-size photo
DO YOU KNOW?
Sikkim is the proud winner of the prestigious title of being the “Cleanest State” in the year 2016 according to the criteria set by the guidelines of “Swachh Survekshan Gramin 2016”.
Pro Tips before your Sikkim Trip
You can make your Sikkim trip hassle-free and truly wonderful, with a little smart planning. Check this list out:
↠ North Sikkim trips and Permits need to be booked in sufficient time to avoid last-minute chaos
↠ Carry loose cash
↠ Keep a photocopy of ID proof and photographs
↠ Dress in layers
↠ Respect nature and local culture
Final Words on Sikkim Trip
Sikkim is a destination with its timeless beauty, woven in mountains, verdant valleys, mist, and serene monasteries. With fluttering prayer flags, thrilling trails, and sunrises that stitch memories meant to last a lifetime.
When is the ideal time to visit Sikkim?
The best time to visit Sikkim is in Spring (March-May) and Autumn (October-early December). The weather is pleasant, the skies are clear, and you can see nature’s spectacular beauty, especially the rhododendron flowers.
Do I need any permits to visit the places in Sikkim?
Yes, tourists, especially foreign nationals, are required to obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter Sikkim. Some regions, such as the Nathula Pass or North Sikkim require additional special permits, which must be arranged ahead of time.
What are the must- try foods in Sikkim?
You should try local favourites such as thukpa (spicy noodle soup), momos, phagshapa (pork dish), chhurpi (hard cheese), and sel roti – each providing a unique and delicious insight into Sikkimese eating culture.
