Sikkim, which stands in the lap of the Himalayas like a sleeping Buddha, is a wonderland of glorious views, multi-hued cultures, and sparkling nature. A quest to explore this fairyland state in only 7 days may appear as a tough challenge. However, the blog attracts the essence of the state with the correct Sikkim itinerary. Whether you are an adventurer, nature lover or a culture feaster, Sikkim beckons you to come and taste the whole gamut of curated treats/enjoyments. Come with us as we start our one-week expedition in this Himalayan gem.
Table of Contents
Sikkim Itinerary for 7 Days
Day 1: Arrival in gangtok
Having a first step in Gangtok Just like in any other exciting journey, arrival in Gangtok, which is known as a city of peace and harmony, is the first step of your Sikkim adventure.
Once you have checked-in to your hotel and refreshed yourself, then you may wish to take a relaxing walk on MG Marg, which is the central pedestrian street of Gangtok.
Squeezed in between SHOPS, shops grown like CAFES and the local RESTAURANTS, this pedestrian-only street gives you a view of the local lifestyle. Do not forget to pay a visit to a local restaurant and try some of the local dishes to round off a day in Sikkim.
How to Reach Gangtok?
- By Air: Bagdogra International Airport is the nearest airport to Gangtok. One can hire a taxi from the airport and reach Gangtok. Shared taxis are also available outside of the airport. It will take 4–5 hours to reach Gangtok.
- By Train: Both Siliguri and NJP railway stations are situated in Siliguri town. However, NJP is well connected to major cities in India. Shared and private cabs are available from both stations.
Explore one day trip to Gorubathan near by Siliguri with full of forests, Tea gardens and rivers.
Day 2: Gangtok Sightseeing
Start your day with a visit to popular Rumtek Monastery, it is the largest and most significant monastery in Sikkim. Contemplate the amazing architecture and inner peace that fills the atmosphere as you become apprenticed to Tibetan Buddhism.
Following, you set out to Enchey Monastery, which lies on a hill top at a vantage point above the Gangtok view. Admiring its magnificence, you would be captivated by its complex murals and holy artifacts as you relish the panoramic view of the mountains in the background.
During your afternoon, stop by the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, a profoundly distinguished research institute and museum where the researchers intent to study the way of Tibetan people’s life and other matters related to history. Analyze their diverse set of artifacts, documents and thangkas.
Finish your day with a trip to either Hanuman Tok or Ganesh Tok viewpoints for gorgeous sunset scenes of the Himalayan peaks.
Day 3: Excursion to Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir (Nathula pass)
Today, we drive to Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir which are the most famous attractions ousides the Gangtok town. At an elevation of 12,313 feet, Tsomgo (also called as Changu lake) is a glacial water melting place which is known for the beauty of it’s crystal clear waters and its scenic surroundings. You can wander around the lake or even consider yak ride which will be quite memorable.
The trip continues to the Baba Mandir, a holy place worshiped as a shrine of Baba Harbhajan Singh, a devoted Indian Army soldier. Get to know the Baba Harbhajan Singh legend, and make sure to visit this sacred place for paying your respects.
On the way back to gangtok checkout view of the wonderful Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary.
How to Obtain permits for Nathula Pass?
Nathula Pass is a politically sensitive and protective area and requires valid permits for visiting Nathula Pass and Baba Mandir. Tourist permits are issued by the tourism department, and vehicle permits are issued by police stations.Â
The best way is to ask your hotel staff; they have contacts with registered tour operators. Taxi drivers also take care of everything related to permits. You have to obtain this permit one day in advance, as you will have to start your journey in the early morning.
If you are visiting through any travel agency, then they will manage it on their own. Kindly visit the Official Website of Sikkim Tourism Department for detailed information related all permits required to visit in different parts of Sikkim.
Required Documents for Nathula Pass permits:
- ID cards such as Aadhar card, Voter ID card, or Driving license for Indian citizens.
- Passport copy for foreign citizens.
- Two passport size photograph.
If you are travelling by bike, then required documents are:
- Registration certificate of the bike.
- Insurance certificate.
- Pollution certificate.
- Driving license.
- Two passport size photo.
- ID proof of the rider and co-rider.
Safety Precautions for visiting Nathula Pass:
- It is observed that many tourists face breathing issues due to a lack of oxygen at such high altitudes. You must carry a portable oxygen cylinder if you have such problems at high altitude.
- If you are visiting with a child, you must take advice from a doctor.
- The temperature is very low at Nathula Pass, so you must wear heavy winter clothing.
- You must wear sunglasses as heavy snow falls at Baba Mandir.
Day 4: Gangtok to Lachung
Today, depart from Gangtok and head to a picture perfect mountaineer village Lachung – a humble home in Himalayas. The excursion travels through stunning landscapes with lush valleys, rocky landscape and cascading waterfalls.
After reaching Lachung, check into the hotel and then spend some time recharging by embracing the nature’s ripen setting. In the evening go for a leisurely walk around the village and talk to the friendly people and you will learn about their way of life.
Day 5: Yumthang Valley Excursion
Wake up early and begin your trip to Yumthang Valley, also known as Valley of Flowers with a memorable excursion. Situated at an altitude of 11,693 feet and surrounded by a beautiful blowing-fleece of flowers during the spring season, this is an embodiment of pure nature.
Discover the meadows, rivers, and hot springs which the kind nature spreads over the land, while breathing in the bliss of nature. However, the photograph should have the surrounding vivid scenery of snow-capped mountains in the backdrop which will last in the memories.
Spend a couple of hours Yumthang Valley and then go back to relax in Lachung during the rest of the day, reserving some time for yourself to enjoy nature’s tranquility.
Day 6: Lachung to Gangtok
Say goodbye to Lachung as you head back to Gangtok on the same route, reliving your remarkable trip through the magnified mountains and green valleys of Sikkim.
As soon as you get to Gangkot, spend the afternoon freely touring the Gangtok local trade and cultures independently. There is also time for some expedient souvenir shopping where you get to take some reminders from your grand Sikkim adventure.
The end of the day can better be spend at a local restaurant and a farewell dinner, where you will be sharing with each other the mind-blowing memories of the Sikkim tour.
Day 7: Departure
Although leaving Sikkim is your final lap of the expedition today, you have so many cherished memories to carry with you back home from this magical Himalayan kingdom during the past 7 days.
As you are looking back on what you have seen, you will understand that Sikkim is not a place to visit but a whole journey to yourself, to discovery, and to exploration. Until next time, Sikkim!
Conclusion:
This Sikkim itinerary is a perfect combination of cultural immersion, natural exploration and relaxation, meaning the trip will not be wasted in the 7-days duration and you will have the chance to experience Sikkim from different perspectives. What I may be very happy to say, enjoy every moment, and create these moments that will last forever!
FAQs about Sikkim Itinerary:
what is the best time to visit Sikkim?
The majority of time, Sikkim should be visited during the period from March to May (spring) and from October to mid-December (autumn). Such timeframes ensure great days without clouds skying views of the Himalayas.
Do I need any special permits to visit Sikkim?
Yes, for Indians, an Inner Line Permit (ILP) is compulsory for travel to certain areas in Sikkim. Foreign nationals would need RAP (Restricted Area permit) which can be acquired on arrival in Sikkim or through travel agencies.
How many days are ideal for a Sikkim trip?
There are many must-see attractions in Sikkim, such as Gangtok, Nathula Pass, Yuksom, Yumthang Valley, Pelling, Ravangla and Namchi, etc. You can cover any of three places in 7–10 days, which will give you an immense experience of Himalayan beauty. However, if you want to cover all the places, a 15-day itinerary will be good.Â
what adventure activities can I do in Sikkim?
Sikkim offers a mix of various adventure sports including trekking and hiking (examples are Goecha La Trek), river rafting in Teesta River, paragliding in Gangtok and mountain biking.
are there any cultural experiences to enjoy in Sikkim?
Yes, visitors can taste the culture of Sikkim through such festivals as Losar and Bumchu, dancing groups that have specific clothes according to tradition, visiting monasteries (Rumtek and Pemayangtse), and tasting local delicious dishes like momos and thukpa.