Places To Visit In Sikkim: The Jewel of the Himalayas

"Wonders do come in small packages!"

If you need proof of this old adage, you must book your tickets to Sikkim immediately. Tucked away in the lap of the magical Eastern Himalayas, Sikkim is India's second-smallest state, yet it packs a punch with its prismatic beauty and mesmerizing charm.

Serving as the gateway to the North-Eastern corridor of India, Sikkim isn't just about snow-capped peaks; it is a biodiversity hotspot boasting alpine meadows, thousands of varieties of wildflowers, and a rich, peaceful Buddhist culture. Whether you are an adventure seeker looking for high-altitude treks or a peace seeker looking for spiritual solace in monasteries, this charismatic state has it all.

Ready to explore? Here is our curated list of the 15 best places to visit in Sikkim to ensure your holiday is nothing short of blissful.

1. Gangtok: The Vibrant Capital

Believe it or not, resisting the alluring charm of Gangtok is impossible. As the capital city, Gangtok acts as the perfect base for your Sikkim holidays. It is a unique blend of modern urbanization and deep-rooted tradition.

• Why Visit: Whether you are looking for lush forests, gurgling rivers, or just a great shopping vibe at MG Marg, Gangtok has it all. Adventure lovers can enjoy cable car rides and river rafting nearby.

• Travel Tip: Avoid the monsoon season (July-September) due to potential roadblocks. If you love crowds, stay near MG Marg; for peace, look for hotels on the outskirts.

• Key Highlights: Rumtek Monastery, Enchey Monastery, Tashi View Point, and the Ban Jhakri Falls.

2. Yuksom: The Historic Hamlet

Located in West Sikkim, Yuksom is where the history of the state began. It was the first capital of Sikkim and the coronation place of its first Chogyal (King) in 1641. Today, it is known for its rustic appeal and pristine beauty.

• Why Visit: It is the "Meeting place of Three Lamas" and serves as the trailhead for the famous Dzongri-Goecha La trek.

• Travel Tip: The weather is pleasant year-round, but March to June offers the best views of the flora.

• Key Highlights: Dubdi Monastery (oldest in Sikkim), Norbugang Park, and the Kathok Wodsallin Monastery.

3. Tsomgo Lake (Changu Lake): The Glacial Wonder

Located just 38km from Gangtok at an altitude of 12,400ft, Tsomgo Lake is one of the highest lakes in India. The drive to this oval-shaped lake is as enchanting as the destination itself.

• Why Visit: The lake changes colors with the seasons—sapphire blue in spring and frozen white in winter. The reflection of the nearby peaks in the turquoise water is a photographer's dream.

• Travel Tip: You need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) to visit. As oxygen levels are lower here, walk slowly to acclimatize.

• Key Highlights: Yak rides on the frozen lake (winter), Primula flowers (summer), and the migratory Brahminy ducks.

4. Nathula Pass: The Silk Route Experience

Once a part of the historic ‘Old Silk Road’, Nathula Pass connects Sikkim with China's Tibet Autonomous Region. Standing at a towering height of 4,310m, it is one of the highest motorable passes in the world.

• Why Visit: To witness the border gates of India and China and to experience the thrill of high-altitude travel.

• Travel Tip: The pass is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Photography is strictly prohibited near the border gates. Indian nationals need a valid permit.

• Key Highlights: Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, splendid views of the Chumbi Valley, and the war memorial.

5. Pelling: The Best Views of Kanchenjunga

If you are an ardent fan of the Himalayan Range, Pelling is non-negotiable. Located at 7,200ft, this town offers the closest and most spectacular views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world.

• Why Visit: Beyond the mountain views, Pelling is a hub for history and culture, featuring ancient ruins and premier monasteries.

• Travel Tip: The Skywalk at Pelling is a new attraction that shouldn't be missed. Visit between May and July for clear skies.

• Key Highlights: Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, Khecheopalri Lake (Wish-fulfilling lake), and Kanchenjunga Falls.

6. Lachung: The Snow Destination

Lachung, a picturesque mountain village in North Sikkim, is often described as the "most picturesque village of Sikkim" by early British explorers. Located at 8,610ft, it is divided by the Lachung Chu River.

• Why Visit: It is the base for visiting Yumthang Valley. The village itself is dotted with apple orchards, pine forests, and waterfalls.

• Travel Tip: Bring plenty of woolens and cash, as ATMs are scarce. The roads can be rough, so hire a sturdy vehicle.

• Key Highlights: Lachung Gompa, Carpet Weaving Centre, and the pristine fruit orchards.

7. Ravangla: The Buddha Park

Nestled between the Maenam and Tendong Hills, Ravangla is a scenic town in South Sikkim. It is famous for its breathtaking landscapes and the massive golden Buddha statue that dominates the skyline.

• Why Visit: It is a paradise for bird watchers, home to rare species like the dark-throated thrush and verditre flycatchers.

• Travel Tip: The weather is volatile; always carry an umbrella.

• Key Highlights: Buddha Park (Tathagata Tsal), Ralang Monastery, and the Temi Tea Garden nearby.

8. Rumtek Monastery: The Dharma Chakra Centre

As one of the largest and most significant monasteries in Sikkim, Rumtek is a masterpiece of Tibetan architecture. It serves as the seat of the Kagyu lineage of Buddhism.

• Why Visit: To witness the Golden Stupa and ancient relics. It is a place of profound peace and spiritual energy.

• Travel Tip: It requires a bit of an uphill walk from the taxi stand, so wear comfortable shoes.

• Key Highlights: The Golden Stupa, ancient thangkas (scrolls), and the morning prayer rituals by the monks.

9. Namchi: Culture and Spirituality

In the local dialect, Namchi translates to ‘Top of the Sky’. Located 92km from Gangtok, this South Sikkim capital has evolved into a major pilgrimage and cultural tourism hub.

• Why Visit: Namchi offers a replica of the four Dhams of India (Char Dham) and a gigantic statue of Guru Padmasambhava.

• Travel Tip: Visit in October to witness the Namchi Mahotsav, a vibrant tourism and culture festival.

• Key Highlights: Solophok Chardham, Samdruptse Hill (118ft statue), and the rock garden.

10. Do-Drul Chorten: The Stupa of Peace

Built in 1945 by Trulshik Rinpoche, this is the biggest Stupa in Sikkim. It is a significant religious spot located in Gangtok.

• Why Visit: To spin the 108 Mani Lhakor prayer wheels and soak in the spiritual vibrations.

• Travel Tip: It is located near the Tibetology Institute, so you can combine both visits.

• Key Highlights: The golden top of the stupa and the serene complex capable of housing hundreds of monks.

11. Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden

Located near Rumtek Monastery, this lush garden is home to rare and exotic species of plants, trees, and orchids indigenous to the Eastern Himalayas.

• Why Visit: It’s a perfect picnic spot for families and a treasure trove for botany enthusiasts.

• Travel Tip: Visit from March to May to see the orchids in full bloom.

• Key Highlights: Dense oak forests, a small lake, and a greenhouse for orchids.

12. Zuluk: The Winding Roads

Touching a height of 10,000ft, Zuluk is an offbeat destination on the ancient Silk Route. It is famous for the "Zig-Zag Road," an engineering marvel with 32 hair-pin bends.

• Why Visit: For the Thambi View Point, which offers a sunrise view over Kanchenjunga that rivals Tiger Hill in Darjeeling.

• Travel Tip: You need a special permit. Accommodation is mostly limited to cozy homestays, offering a local experience.

• Key Highlights: Thambi View Point, Kupup Lake (Elephant Lake), and the Nag Temple.

13. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

Established in 1958, this institute in Gangtok is a research center for Tibetan language and culture. It houses one of the world's largest collections of Tibetan artifacts outside Tibet.

• Why Visit: To see relics from the 11th century, ancient manuscripts, and thangkas.

• Travel Tip: Closed on Sundays and public holidays.

• Key Highlights: The museum of Tibetan iconography and the library of ancient tomes.

14. Yumthang Valley: The Valley of Flowers

Located in North Sikkim, Yumthang sits at an elevation of 3,500m. In spring, the valley floor is carpeted with primulas and rhododendrons, creating a riot of colors against the backdrop of snow-peaks.

• Why Visit: It is often compared to the valleys of Switzerland. Just ahead of Yumthang is "Zero Point," where the road ends and civilization stops.

• Travel Tip: Closed December-March due to snow. April to May is best for flowers; November is best for clear mountain views.

• Key Highlights: Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary and the Hot Springs.

15. Gurudongmar Lake: The Sacred Water

At 17,800ft, Gurudongmar is one of the highest fresh-water lakes in the world. The water is crystal clear, reflecting the massive glaciers surrounding it.

• Why Visit: It is a place of surreal beauty and spiritual significance. Legends say Guru Padmasambhava blessed the lake, and a portion of it never freezes, even at -20°C.

• Travel Tip: Consult a doctor before visiting due to low oxygen. Do not run or exert yourself. Children below 5 are usually not allowed.

• Key Highlights: The sacred water (believed to solve fertility issues) and the stark, cold desert landscape.

Ready to Plan Your Sikkim Getaway?

Sikkim is not just a destination; it's an emotion. From the bustling streets of Gangtok to the silence of Gurudongmar, every corner tells a story.