Update cookies preferences

Sikkim

Monasteries • Meadows • Mighty Kanchenjunga

Find Hotels Plan Itinerary

Best Time

Mar–May & Oct–mid-Dec

Languages

English, Nepali, Sikkimese, Lepcha

Capital

Gangtok

Famous For

Kanchenjunga, Tsomgo, Yumthang

Permits

PAP/RAP for certain areas

Getting There & Around

By Air

Pakyong Airport (PYG), near Gangtok, handles limited flights. Many travelers fly to Bagdogra (IXB, West Bengal) and drive ~4–5 hrs to Gangtok.

Bagdogra → Gangtok: ~4–5 hours by road

By Train

Nearest railheads are New Jalpaiguri (NJP) and Siliguri; continue by taxi/shared jeep to Gangtok.

NJP → Gangtok: ~120–125 km

By Road

Regular shared SUVs/ Sumos and private taxis run from Siliguri/NJP to Gangtok via Rangpo. Roads are scenic but winding.

Permit checks at Rangpo border

Local Transportation

Hired Taxis

Best for sightseeing (Gangtok, Tsomgo, Ravangla, Pelling). Book via hotel or registered operators.

Shared Jeeps

Common inter-town transport (Gangtok–Lachung/Lachen/Pelling). Fixed routes and seats.

Permits En Route

Expect checks for protected areas (Tsomgo, Nathula, North Sikkim). Carry ID and permits.

Self-Drive

Not recommended for first-timers due to mountain roads and weather variability.

Weather & Climate

Spring (Mar–May)

Cool–mild

Bloom season and pleasant trekking weather; one of the best times to visit.

Monsoon (Jun–Sep)

Wet & misty

Heavy rain and landslide risk; travel disruption possible.

Autumn–Early Winter (Oct–mid-Dec)

Clear & crisp

Great mountain views; another prime season.

Permits & Essential Tips

Protected/Restricted Area Permits

Required for certain regions:

  • Tsomgo (Changu) Lake & Baba Mandir – permit needed; foreigners allowed till Tsomgo.
  • Nathula Pass – permits for Indian nationals only via registered travel agencies.
  • North Sikkim (Lachung/Yumthang/Lachen/Thangu) – permits required; foreign visitors need PAP with registered guide.

Apply through Sikkim Tourism/registered agents; carry photo ID and passport photos.

Health & Safety

  • Altitude caution at Gurudongmar/Thangu; acclimatize and hydrate.
  • Check road/weather updates in monsoon.
  • Travel insurance recommended.

Culture & Etiquette

  • Be respectful in monasteries; follow photography rules.
  • Dress in layers; weather shifts quickly.
  • Keep permits handy for checkpoints.

Useful Contacts

  • Emergency: 108
  • Police: 100
  • Tourist Help (district contacts listed by Sikkim Tourism website)

See official Sikkim Tourism “Helpline” page for direct district numbers.

Must-Visit Attractions

Tsomgo (Changu) Lake

Tsomgo (Changu) Lake

Glacial lake at ~3,753 m, ~40 km from Gangtok. Frozen in winter, ringed by high peaks. Permit required for all visitors.

Scenic High Altitude Photography
~40 km from Gangtok (permit zone)
Rumtek Monastery

Rumtek Monastery

Seat of the Karma Kagyu lineage near Gangtok, known for vibrant murals and serene courtyards. About 23–24 km from Gangtok.

Monastery Culture Heritage
~23–24 km from Gangtok
Yumthang Valley

Yumthang Valley

“Valley of Flowers of the East” famed for spring rhododendrons and alpine meadows in North Sikkim. Permit required.

Nature Trekking Flowers
North Sikkim (permit zone)
Pelling & Kanchenjunga Views

Pelling & Skywalk

Popular base for Kanchenjunga views, ancient monasteries, and the glass skywalk near Chenrezig statue.

Scenic Adventure Views
West Sikkim

Local Cuisine & Food

Thukpa

Noodle soup with veggies/meat, perfect for chilly evenings.

Momos

Steamed dumplings—street staple and restaurant favorite.

Gundruk & Sinki

Traditional fermented greens used in soups and sides.

Butter Tea

Tibetan-style salty tea—an acquired taste and a must-try.

Where to Eat in Gangtok

MG Marg Cafés

Cluster of cafés and bakeries—great for coffee, momos, and Tibetan dishes.

MG Marg Budget–Mid

Local Homestays

Ask for home-cooked Nepali/Sikkimese meals for authentic flavors.

Gangtok & beyond Budget–Mid

Ravangla & Pelling

Try small eateries near Buddha Park and Skywalk for tea and snacks.

South/West Sikkim Budget

Monastery Cafés

Simple tea/snack stalls near monasteries; peaceful ambience.

Rumtek/Enchey/etc. Budget

Best Hotels to Stay

Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino, Gangtok

Mayfair Spa Resort

4.6

Ranipool, Gangtok

Spa & Pool
Mountain Views
On-site Dining
Check rates
Book Now
The Elgin Nor-Khill

The Elgin Nor-Khill

4.5

Gangtok

Heritage Hotel
Central Location
Restaurant
Check rates
Book Now
Netuk House

Netuk House

4.6

Gangtok

Traditional Homestay
Local Cuisine
City Views
Check rates
Book Now

Hotel Booking Tips

Book for Peak Months

Spring (Mar–May) and Oct–mid-Dec see high demand.

Try Homestays

Great value and cultural immersion—especially in North/West Sikkim.

Check Access

Some hotels require short uphill walks; ask about parking and road conditions.

Permit-Friendly

For North Sikkim day tours, choose hotels familiar with permit processes.

Suggested Itineraries

3–4 Days Gangtok Essentials

Great for first-timers focusing on Gangtok and nearby highlights.

Day 1

Arrive & Gangtok Stroll

  • Arrive IXB/NJP → drive to Gangtok
  • Evening: MG Marg promenade
  • Do Drul Chorten / Namgyal Institute (optional)
Day 2

Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir

  • Arrange permits via agent/hotel
  • High-altitude lake views; yak rides (seasonal)
Day 3

Rumtek & Viewpoints

  • Rumtek Monastery
  • Himalayan Zoological Park / Tashi View Point
Day 4

Departure

  • Souvenirs at MG Marg
  • Drive to IXB/NJP

Estimated Budget

Accommodation: Varies (season)
Food: Budget–Mid
Transport: Shared jeep or private taxi
Permits/Activities: As applicable

Gallery

Tsomgo Lake
Yumthang Valley
Rumtek Monastery
Gangtok City

Sikkim’s pristine lakes, monasteries and meadows

Frequently Asked Questions