Sikkim, located in the northeastern part of India, is a true travel gem for several reasons. Known for its natural beauty, unique culture, and friendly locals, Sikkim offers a one-of-a-kind travel experience that is hard to find anywhere else in the world with a plethora of options adding to the charm of Sikkim’s sightseeing experience.
One of the biggest draws of Sikkim is its stunning natural landscapes. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the lush greenery of its forests, Sikkim is a nature lover's paradise. It's also home to several lakes, rivers, and waterfalls that add to the region's natural beauty. Sikkim is also a great destination for adventure seekers. The region offers a range of outdoor activities, such as trekking, mountain biking, and river rafting. There are also opportunities for wildlife spotting and bird watching, adding something for every traveller looking to explore Sikkim’s sightseeing.
Perhaps one of the best things about Sikkim is its people. The locals are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature, making visitors feel right at home. They are also very proud of their culture and heritage and are happy to share it with visitors. The region is home to a mix of different ethnic groups, including the Lepchas, Bhutias, and Nepalese, each with their distinct traditions and customs. Visitors can experience this rich cultural heritage through local festivals, traditional dances, and delicious cuisine.
Would you like to explore beyond Sikkim’s famous places and truly experience the magic? We have compiled a list of the best places to visit in Sikkim to experience this gem at its serene best.
Best places to visit in Sikkim
1. Tsomgo Lake
Located at an altitude of 12,313 feet, Tsomgo Lake is a glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains, about 40 km from Gangtok. The lake is nestled amidst lush green hills and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The clear blue water of the lake reflects the surrounding landscape, making for a stunning sight. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake, take a ride on traditional yak-shaped paddle boats, or simply sit and take in the beautiful scenery. The lake is particularly beautiful during the winter months when it is frozen over, and visitors can walk on the ice.
Best time to visit: From March to May, October to December
Entry fee: INR 50 per person
How to reach: Hire a taxi from Gangtok, which is about 40 km away.
2. Yuksom
Yuksom is a small, charming town located in West Sikkim. The town is surrounded by beautiful hills and forests and is known for its tranquil atmosphere. Visitors can take peaceful walks through the town's winding lanes, explore the historic monasteries and temples, or trek in the surrounding hills. The town is particularly beautiful during the monsoon season when the hills and forests are lush and green, and the waterfalls are in full flow.
Best time to visit: From March to June, then September to November
Entry fee: NA
How to reach: Take a taxi or bus from Gangtok, which is about 125 km away.
3. Nathula Pass
Nathula Pass is a breathtakingly beautiful mountain pass located on the Indo-China border, at an altitude of 4,310 metres. The Pass is one of the best places in Sikkim, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape and explore the historic war memorial and the border trade market. The pass is particularly beautiful during the winter months when the mountains are covered in snow, making for a stunning sight.
Best time to visit: From May to November
Entry fee: No entry fee but visitors need a permit to visit this area
How to reach: Hire a taxi from Gangtok, which is about 56 km away.
4. Lachung, Lachen and Yumthang Valley
Lachung, Lachen, and Yumthang Valley are three beautiful destinations located in North Sikkim. The towns are surrounded by snow-capped mountains and are known for their beautiful waterfalls, hot springs, and alpine flowers. The Yumthang Valley is particularly beautiful during the spring months when the valley is covered in a carpet of wildflowers.
Best time to visit: From April to June, then from September to November.
Entry fee: There is no entry fee for Lachen and Lachung, but a permit is required to visit Yumthang Valley.
How to reach: Take a taxi from Gangtok.
5. Ravangla
Ravangla is a small town located in South Sikkim and is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas. Not a usual Sikkim tourist spot, the town is surrounded by lush green hills and is home to beautiful monasteries and temples. Visitors can take peaceful walks through the town's winding lanes, explore the local markets, or simply sit and take in the beautiful scenery.
Best time to visit: From March to May, then from October to December
Entry fee: NA
How to reach: Hire a taxi from Gangtok, which is about 65 km away.
6. Namchi
Located in South Sikkim, Namchi is a town renowned for its breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range. The area is enveloped by verdant forests and is adorned with exquisite monasteries and temples. You can indulge in tranquil strolls through the town's winding streets, discover the local markets, or simply relax and savour the gorgeous scenery, far from the hustle and bustle of Sikkim's tourist places.
Best time to visit: From March to May, October to December
Entry fee: NA
How to reach: Hire a taxi or take a bus from Gangtok, which is about 78 km away.
7. Zuluk
Situated in East Sikkim, Zuluk is a charming village, renowned for its mesmerising views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range. The village is enveloped by luxuriant forests and is adorned with exquisite monasteries and temples. You can indulge in serene strolls through the village's twisting alleys, explore the local markets, or simply revel in the breathtaking scenery.
Best time to visit: From March to May, October to December
Entry fee: NA
How to reach: Hire a taxi from Gangtok, which is about 92 km away.
8. Teesta River
The Teesta River is a beautiful river that flows through Sikkim and West Bengal. The river is surrounded by lush green forests and is home to a wide range of flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy white water rafting on the river, take peaceful walks along its banks, or simply meditate and unwind in the best of Sikkim’s tourist places.
Best time to visit: From October to May
Entry fee: NA
How to reach: Hire a taxi or take a bus from Gangtok.
9. Gangtok
Gangtok is the capital city, nestled in the Eastern Himalayas. The city is known for its charming beauty, with stunning views of the snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, and colourful flowers. The beauty of Gangtok lies in its unique blend of modern and traditional cultures, where one can witness the influence of Buddhism and Hinduism in its architecture, food, and festivals. The city tops in Sikkim’s places to visit list and is frequented by travellers with the best places in Sikkim located at a convenient distance.
One of the most popular attractions in Gangtok is the Rumtek Monastery, one of the largest monasteries in Sikkim. The monastery is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings. Another must-visit place in Gangtok is the MG Marg, a pedestrian street lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. The street is a hub of activity, with street performers, local musicians, and cultural events happening throughout the day. Gangtok is also a great base for exploring nearby attractions, such as Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass.
Best time to visit: From March to June, September to November.
Entry fee: NA
How to reach: By road and air, with Bagdogra Airport being the nearest airport.
10. Pelling
Pelling is a small town nestled in the Himalayan ranges of West Sikkim. This picturesque town offers a panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga mountain range, lush green valleys, and serene lakes. The beauty of Pelling lies in its tranquil atmosphere, where one can spend time admiring the natural beauty of the surroundings. One of the major attractions in Pelling is the Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Sikkim. The town is also a starting point for treks to the nearby Singalila National Park.
Best time to visit: From March to May, October to December.
Entry fee: NA
How to reach: Hire a taxi or take a bus from Gangtok, which is about 120 km away.
11. Singalila National Park
Located in the Darjeeling district of West Bengal, Singalila National Park is a nature lover's paradise, a hidden gem in the list of Sikkim’s places to visit. The park is known for its diverse range of flora and fauna, including the elusive Red Panda. The park also offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range, including the majestic Kanchenjunga Peak. The trek to Sandakphu, the highest point in West Bengal, starts from the park.
Best time to visit: From March to June, September to November
Entry fee: For Indians is INR 100 per person, and for foreigners, it is INR 200 per person.
How to reach: Hire a taxi or take a bus from Darjeeling, which is about 30 km away.
12. Phodong Monastery
Phodong Monastery is located in the North Sikkim district and is one of the most important monasteries in Sikkim. The monastery was built in the 18th century and is known for its intricate architecture and beautiful murals. The monastery also houses a large collection of ancient Buddhist texts and scriptures. The beauty of the Phodong monastery lies in its serene atmosphere, where one can spend time meditating and admiring the architecture. The monastery is open to visitors throughout the year, and the best time to visit is during the festivals of Losar and Kagyat when the monastery comes alive with colourful festivities.
Best time to visit: From March to June, September to November
Entry fee: NA
How to reach: Hire a taxi from Gangtok, which is about 40 km away.
Sikkim is a true travel gem that offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Whether you're looking to soak in natural beauty, experience the rich culture, or embark on an adventure, the destination has something to offer everyone with a long list of Sikkim’s famous places. Seasonally too, cherry blossoms in Sikkim are something you don't want to miss when you're visiting the state.