Sikkim, a small northeastern Indian state, is famous for its stunning landscapes, mountain views, monasteries, and vibrant culture. Located in the Himalayas, it offers a unique experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here is a 5-day itinerary that allows visitors to explore the capital city, Gangtok, and serene spots like Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, and Pelling, highlighting the region’s beauty, culture, and spirituality.
Day 1- Arrival and exploring Gangtok- On the first day of your journey, you will arrive in Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, typically accessed through Bagdogra Airport or New Jalpaiguri railway station. Expect a 4-5 hour scenic drive through mountains and valleys to reach the city. After checking into your hotel, take time to acclimatize to the altitude of 5,410 feet. In the afternoon, explore MG Marg, a lively pedestrian street filled with cafes, shops, and local vendors, perfect for experiencing the local culture. Following this, visit Enchey Monastery, famous for its views of Mount Kanchenjunga and its peaceful atmosphere ideal for meditation. The monastery houses variety of Buddhist artifacts and sculptures. In the late afternoon, visit Tashi Viewpoint, a short distance from the town center, to enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range, especially beautiful during sunset. End the day with a traditional Sikkimese dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes such as momos, thukpa, and phagshapa, while experiencing the welcoming nature of the Sikkimese people.
Day 2- Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, and Baba Mandir- On Day 2, visit Tsomgo Lake, situated 40 km from Gangtok at 12,400 feet. The trip features beautiful views of the Himalayas, and the glacial lake is known for its sacredness and stunning scenery, particularly appealing to photographers. Activities include yak rides and exploring the nearby Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary. In the afternoon, head to Nathula Pass at 14,140 feet, an important border post on the Indo-China border and historically part of the Silk Route. Indian visitors require a special permit to access Nathula, which should be arranged beforehand. At Nathula Pass, visitors can observe Chinese soldiers on the opposite side of the border and, on clear days, catch a glimpse of Tibet amidst the cold, snowy landscape. The next stop is the Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, a shrine honoring an Indian soldier believed to protect local troops, which holds significant spiritual meaning for devotees. After a day filled with adventure at Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass, tourists return to Gangtok in the late afternoon, where they can explore MG Marg for shopping or enjoy some relaxation at their hotel.
Day 3- Way to pelling and sightseeing- On Day 3, you will travel from Gangtok to Pelling, a peaceful town in West Sikkim renowned for its views of the Kanchenjunga range. The journey takes about 4-5 hours, during which you will see beautiful landscapes, rivers, and traditional villages. Stop at Ravangla, a town at 7,000 feet, to visit the Buddha Park, featuring a 130-foot statue of Lord Buddha surrounded by gardens, ideal for reflection. Afterward, continue to Pelling, check into your hotel, and enjoy the serene atmosphere and picturesque views of Kanchenjunga.
Day 4- Pelling Sightseeing- Start your day at Kanchenjunga Waterfalls, located about 25 km from Pelling, where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and refreshing atmosphere created by the gushing water and lush greenery. In the afternoon, visit Khecheopalri Lake, a revered sacred lake for Buddhists and Hindus, known for its tranquil waters that remain clear of leaves due to birds. This serene location is perfect for reflection and relaxation. Conclude your day at Singshore Bridge, Asia’s second-highest suspension bridge, offering stunning views of the valleys and hills, making it an exciting spot for both adventure enthusiasts and photographers. After returning to your hotel in Pelling, you can relax and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the town.
Day 5- Pelling to Gangtok- On the final day of your trip, you will drive back to Gangtok from Pelling, enjoying scenic landscapes and making stops at lesser-known attractions. First, visit Rimbi Waterfalls, a beautiful spot surrounded by greenery. Then, explore Temi Tea Garden, Sikkim’s only tea estate, where you can learn about the tea-making process and enjoy fresh Sikkimese tea. Arriving in Gangtok in the late afternoon, spend your last evening shopping for souvenirs or relaxing at a cafe, reflecting on your experiences in Sikkim.
Additional tips- When visiting Nathula Pass and North Sikkim, you need to arrange permits in advance through your travel agent or hotel. Due to high altitudes, it’s important to take precautions against altitude sickness, including proper acclimatization and hydration. The best times to visit Sikkim are from March to June and September to November, offering pleasant weather and clear mountain views. Regardless of the season, pack warm clothes for cold temperatures, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a rain jacket for the monsoon, and any medications for altitude sickness.
-Triparna
