+91 72789 38003
Sundarban tour package: skysketchindiaholidays@gmail.com

Thinking about Sikkim Travel? Traverse through India’s Lost Kingdom

Did you know that there is a land of lost kingdoms in India? If you do not, then no need to worry. Sikkim, the 22nd Indian state is an underrated tourist destination. Filled with ethereal beauty, it is among the least explored places in the country. This is your ultimate Sikkim Travel guide.

About Sikkim

Sikkim is a well-hidden gem in India. Over the years, this state has been relatively successful in keeping its name undercover. However, in the present age of social media, it has attracted attention from many domestic, and international tourists. Up until the early 70s, Sikkim was a lone kingdom ruled by its monarchs, the Buddhist Chogyals. Their rule ended in 1975 when the citizens voted to become a part of India. Being so close to Buddhist influences, the local Sikkimese culture is a blend of Nepal and Tibet. The people have taken Nepali and Tibetan and created something uniquely Sikkimese with it. If you are in search of quiet mountains, clean streets, and a serene atmosphere, Skimm travel is the way to go.    

Why Sikkim Tour ?

Sikkim is bordered by West Bengal, Nepal, Bhutan, and China. In terms of size, Sikkim is tiny. But it has a lot of potential. In old texts, it is called the Indrakil (garden of Indra). Beautiful landscapes and breathtaking scenery can be seen in Sikkim. Travelers to this place can see rare wildlife, global cuisines, and many other things. Overall, it is the place where nature and modern technologies coexist and thrive in perfect peace. Truly a piece of paradise on the face of Mother Earth.

How to travel to Sikkim?

There are many ways to ensure Sikkim travel from Kolkata. Some of the most common ways are: 

Through Flight- Easiest and Most Convenient

  • Book direct flights from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata to Pakyong Airport
  • Alternatively, choose Bagdogra Airport which is the nearest airport to Gangtok 
  • Take a taxi from Bagdogra to Gangtok (travel duration- 4 to 5 hours)

Train Travel- The most cost-effective way

  • Secure tickets from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP)- the nearest railway station to Gangtok
  • Most convenient as NJP is connected to Kolkata, Mumbai, and Delhi
  • You can also book direct cabs from NJP to reach Gangtok

Journey by Road- Not the most convenient way, but perfect for adventurers

  • Board a bus from Kolkata to Siliguri and then a cab to Gangtok
  • The travel duration will be close to 12 to 14 hours

Sikkim travel places

Sikkim is abundant in terms of travel opportunities. This tiny state has a lot to offer. Here are some of the places that can be a part of your Sikkim travel experience: 

  1. Gangtok

Gangtok is the Sikkimese capital. Its location is in the eastern part of the Himalayas. Every year, this city attracts a lot of tourists as Mount Kanchenjunga falls within it. It is also known for its beautiful landscapes and adventure opportunities. 

Key facts:

  • Main attractions include Nathula Pass, Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo Lake, MG Marg, Tashi Viewpoint
  • The city is a melting pot of Nepali culture and Buddhist practices
  • Local food includes thukpa,phagshapa, chhurpi soup, and other dishes
  • You will need permits to travel to limited areas in Tsomgo Lake and Nathula pass

Gangtok is a must-have in your Sikkim travel plans!

  1. Yuksom 

Yuksom lies in west Sikkim. It is beautiful and has a lot of trekking opportunities. It is the home of the Kanchenjunga base camp. 

Key facts:

  • Yuksom was Sikkim’s capital 
  • The main attractions are the Dubdi Monastery, Tashiding Monastery, and Khecheopalri Lake
  • It is a hotspot for Buddhist culture
  • It is a hub of sustainable tourism

Yuksom is the best choice if you want to travel slowly.  

  1. Pelling  

Pelling is a notable town in Sikkim. It is a hill station. It offers a good view of the Himalayas. It has become popular for its natural qualities, and adventure activity choices such as mountain biking, and rafting. 

Key Facts:

  • Ideal for village tours
  • Liked by nature, and adventure lovers alike
  • Full view of the Kanchenjunga
  • The Rimbi River flows through this town

Pelling is a combination of calm and chaos.

  1. Lachung

Lachung ranks among the best snow destinations in Sikkim. It is located at an impressive 8,610ft and perfectly suits snow lovers. 

Key Facts: 

  • Unparalleled natural beauty
  • Snow-covered landscapes 
  • A hub of authentic Sikkimese culture
  • In case of breathing issues, avoid this place

These are only among the four key travel destinations of Sikkim. In order to get the best experience of the tourist destinations of Sikkim, connect with us- Skysketchindia Holidays.

Permit concerns

An important aspect of Sikkim travel is the Protected Area Permit. As Sikkim shares international borders with China, Nepal, and Bhutan, certain areas within it are off-limits. You can get your protected Area Permit by applying to the Sikkim Tourism Office. Depending on your situation, you can also reach out to the Police Check Post of the area/ region you are visiting. While applying, do not forget to bring a valid physical fitness certificate. Permits are free for trekking in protected areas.   

Sikkim tour packages

Several Sikkim tour packages are available in the market. However, with us- Skysktchindia Holidays, you will get a Sikkim travel experience like no other. Our tour packages have been listed below: 

  • 3-night & 4 days tour of Sikkim

This is a package covering destinations like Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, and Baba Harbhajan Mandir. Plus, you will also get a chance to explore the local markets and go shopping.  

  • 5-night & 6 days tour of Sikkim

This package is enough for the ultimate Sikkim travel experience. Pelling, Khechopilari Lake, Rimbi Falls, Rubdentse ruins, and Peymeyangtse Monastery will be covered. It will also cover Nathula Pass, Baba Harbhajan Mandir, and Tsomgo Lake. 

  • North Sikkim Tour 

This package will be perfect if you want to explore north Sikkim. In this packager, you will be shown the Naga Falls, Chungthang, the meeting place of  Lachen Chu, and Lachung Chu. Sightseeing includes Gurudongmar Lake, Chopta, and Thangu Valley. This package is great for clicking your Sikkim tourist places photos.   

  • Silk Route Tour

As understood from its name, this package covers the famous silk route of Sikkim. This 5-day tour package covers places like Qkhola Falls, Padamchen, and Lingthan. Sightseeing opportunities are immense with places like Zuluk, and Kupup Valleys, Tamvi Viewpoint, Bhul-bhulia Road, Laxumanchok-Gnathang Valley, Jelepla Pass, Reshikhola (accessible from East Sikkim), and others.     

  • Yuksom To Dzongri Trek

This package is perfect for you if you are a seasoned trekker. This is a  5-day package. It covers places like Pelling to Yuksom, Yuksom to Tshoka, and Tshoka to Dzongri. Particular destinations include Dzongri Top, Kabru, Kanchenjunga, Ratong, Pandim, Narsing, and others.   

  • Uttarey To Gochela Trekking

This package is a tour of 6-days. Trekking locations include Uttarey to Chiwa Bhanjyang, Chiwa Bhanjyang to Ghairi, Ghairi to Dhor, Dhor to Pare Megu, and Pare Megu to Lam Pokhari. The average time limit to complete the trekking paths mentioned above is 5 to 6 hours.

The best time to visit Sikkim

To get the best experience out of your Sikkim travel, you can book your trip during these times: 

March to June (Spring to Summer)

  • Temperature: 10°C to 28°C
  • Attractions: Valleys, Clear Mountain views, rhododendrons
  • Perfect for: River Rafting, Trekking

September to November (Autumn)

  • Temperature: 5°C to 20°C
  • Attractions: Ideal for Kanchenjunga viewing, Lush landscape viewing 
  • Perfect for: Outdoor activities, General sightseeing

December to February (Winter)

  • Temperature: Some regions experience a drop of -5°C
  • Attractions: Tsomgo lake, Yumthang valley, Nathula pass
  • Perfect for: Snowfall viewing, Winter trekking

You should avoid Sikkim travel during the Monsoon months (July- September). Heavy rainfall in certain areas leads to the creation of roadblocks, and general travel issues. Keep in touch with us- SkysketchIndia Holidays, a leading Sikkim travel agency.

Sikkim travel essentials

There are certain travel essentials you must ensure before traveling to Sikkim. Be sure to keep all of these in mind!

General travel needs

  • Comfortable shirts and trekking pants
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Raincoat
  • Hiking shoes and boots
  • Wollen hiking socks
  • Portable Water bottle
  • First Aid kit
  • Travel towel 
  • Batteries, plug adapters, chargers
  • Sanitation supplies 
  • Bug spray
  • Sleeping bags

High Altitude Considerations

  • Hydration aids
  • Prescription medications
  • Medical aids such as inhalers
  • Moisturizers, lip balms, face masks
  • Space Blanket
  • Hand/toe warmers
  • Sleeping pads
Sikkim Tour essentials
affroadable sikkim tour package

Summary

Sikkim is the ideal tourist destination. Whether you are traveling solo, or with family, friends, and relatives- this place is always a good answer. Get in touch with Skysketindia Holidays. We will be your ultimate Sikkim travel guide.