Sikkim – Backpacker’s Paradise
Nestled in the eastern Himalayas, Sikkim is one of India’s smallest states, known for its breathtaking beauty and serene landscapes. Located in northeast India, it is bordered by Tibet (China) to the north and northeast, Bhutan to the east, Nepal to the west, and West Bengal to the south. Its capital, Gangtok, is a vibrant hub for travelers and a gateway to this magical land.
Why Visit Sikkim?
Sikkim boasts diverse climates, from alpine to subtropical, and is home to Kangchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world and India’s tallest peak. With over 35% of the state covered by the Khangchendzonga National Park, Sikkim is a nature lover's dream. This state is also strategically important for India due to its location along international borders.
Sikkim is a perfect escape from the chaos of everyday life. Surrounded by lush green meadows, colorful forests, and crystal-clear waterfalls, the region offers peace and serenity. Whether you're a mountain enthusiast or just looking for a refreshing getaway, Sikkim has something for everyone.
Top Places to Visit in Sikkim
-
Tsomgo Lake
- Also called Changu Lake, this glacial lake is located 40 km from Gangtok at an altitude of 3,800 meters. Its pristine waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks, creating a mesmerizing view.
-
Kanchenjunga Base Camp
- Experience the magnificence of the world’s third-highest peak by trekking to its base camp. This adventure offers stunning views and a true essence of Sikkim's beauty.
-
Nathula Pass
- Connecting India to Tibet, Nathula Pass is a must-visit. Explore the cultural fusion of Tibetan and Indian influences and pick up unique souvenirs from local Tibetan shops.
-
Lachen, Lachung & Yumthang Valley
- Immerse yourself in the tranquility of these picturesque villages. Home to Tibetan nomadic tribes, these areas also lead to gorgeous lakes like Gurudongmar Lake and Tso Lhamu Lake.
-
Pelling
- Known for its monasteries and lush greenery, Pelling radiates positivity and spiritual energy, making it an essential stop on your Sikkim itinerary.
-
Teesta River
- Relax by the riverside or get your adrenaline pumping with water sports like river rafting and kayaking. The river’s views are an annual favorite for tourists.
Tour Packages
- Reaching Bagdogra on Your Own: ₹29,999/- per person (inclusive of 5% GST)
- Mumbai to Mumbai (Indigo Airlines): ₹49,999/- per person (inclusive of 5% GST)
Flight Details (Mumbai to Bagdogra)
- Departure: 08:10 Hrs
- Arrival: 10:55 Hrs
Flight Details (Bagdogra to Mumbai)
- Departure: 11:30 Hrs
- Arrival: 14:30 Hrs
Booking Tips
For flexibility and peace of mind, book refundable air tickets through trusted platforms like MakeMyTrip or Yatra. This is especially helpful in case of last-minute changes or cancellations.
Read More About Sikkim:
Check out our blog: Sikkim – Land Of The Mystic Thunder Dragon
Sikkim is a haven for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking peace and tranquility. Make it your next bucket list destination and experience the magic of the Himalayas!
Short itinerary for Sikkim Backpacking Tour:
Day 1: Bagdogra to Gangtok (135 km. / approx 4.30 hrs) / Overnight at Gangtok
Day 2: Gangtok to Lachen (120 kms./5 hrs./ Alt.- 8,500 ft.) / Overnight at Lachen
Day 3: Excursion to Gurudongmar. Lachen to Lachung (50 km/ 2 hrs) / Overnight at Lachung
Day 4: Excursion to Yumthang. Lachung - Gangtok (24 km./ Alt.- 11,800ft.) / Overnight at Gangtok
Day 5: Excursion – Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir (Nathula Pass Optionally) / Overnight at Gangtok
Day 6: Namchi - Ravangla / Overnight at Pelling
Day 7: Pelling Sightseeing / Overnight at Pelling
Day 8 : Pelling - Bagdogra
Day 1: Bagdogra to Gangtok (135 km. / approx 4.30 hrs) / Overnight at Gangtok
On arrival at Bagdogra airport or NJP railway station board your vehicle to Gangtok (5500 Ft /1677 Mts). From Tista Bazaar follows the winding roads and a picturesque drive through Himalayan hills to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Check into hotel and get refreshed for a free leisure evening. Recommend to roam in MG road around the Mall to enjoy the typical Hill City life of Gangtok and enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in hotel.
Day 2: Gangtok to Lachen (120 kms./5 hrs./ Alt.- 8,500 ft.) / Overnight at Lachen
After an early breakfast, we will proceed to Lachen. The route meanders through small villages with valleys upto forest grove of Kabi Lungchok. Shinghik comes next with its promises of one of the most glorious views of Kanchenjunga. Situated at an altitude of over 4000 ft Singhik offers a desired break to the travelers on the way to Lachen. We will have our lunch on the way. Visit Chungthang- the confluence of Lachen Chu and Lachung Chu (river) and Vimala falls water falls on your way to Lachen. Reach Lachung in the late afternoon. Lachen is also a base for the popular Green Lake trek
Day 3: Excursion to Gurudongmar. Lachen to Lachung (50 km/ 2 hrs) / Overnight at Lachung
Early morning drive to Thangu Village (4100m / 13450ft), a remote high-altitude village of Tibetan Nomads and also proceed further to Chopta Valley (4000m / 13124ft) to get some breathtaking view of alpine valley of frozen rivers. From Chopta Valley drive for another 30 kms in 1.5hr to Gurudongmar Lake (5225m / 17143ft) close to Tibet Border, the one of the highest and biggest freshwater lakes in Sikkim and back to Lachen for a late lunch.
Check out from Lachen and drive further to Lachung via Chungthang. En-route visit Chungthang confluence of Lachen Chu and Lachung Chu and Vimala Waterfalls. Check in at hotel. Check in at hotel and enjoy a comfortable overnight stay.
Lachung - Another remote high-altitude village of Tibetan and Bhutia people in North Sikkim with towering rocky snow peaks, vibrant rhododendron valley, lush green yak pastures, perennial waterfalls, hot springs and the base for exploring alpine valley of Yumthang and Yumesamdong close to the Tibetan plateau.
Day 4: Excursion to Yumthang. Lachung - Gangtok (24 km./ Alt.- 11,800ft.) / Overnight at Gangtok
Early morning drive to Yumthang Valley, an alpine flower valley in North Sikkim. Enjoy the scenic landscape and hot Spring and drive further for 30 kms to Yumesamdong (4725m / 15503ft) or Zero Point close to Tibet Border, one of the highest motorable roads in Sikkim. Full day excursion to Yumthang Valley. The valley is covered with snow during January to March & with rhododendrons during April & May. Enroute visit Sulphur Hot Spring having medicinal values. Lunch at hotel in Lachung. After lunch visit Handicraft Centre & Lachung Monastery. Later drive back to Gangtok, In the evening arrive at Gangtok and check into the hotel. Overnight at hotel in Gangtok.
Day 5: Excursion – Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir (Nathula Pass Optionally) / Overnight at Gangtok
After breakfast we will check out from hotel and embark for a memorable excursion tour to Tsomgo Lake (12,400 ft. /39 km), one of the highest altitudes Himalayan Lake. This beautiful oval shape lake almost 1 km long with its average depth 50 ft is situated in east Sikkim Himalaya. From here we will drive further 15 km to Baba Mandir. We’ll further drive to Nathula pass (12,000ft.) (depending on the availability of permit,extra chargable) towards China border depending upon the accessibility of the route.In the evening visit to M G Marg, the busy market of Gangtok, for shopping and having Sikkimese delicacy at the local restaurant.Overnight at hotel in Gangtok.
Day 6: Namchi - Ravangla / Overnight at Pelling
After our breakfast we will proceed for sightseeing at Namchi and Ravangla. Reach Pelling. Overnight at Pelling.
Day 7: Pelling Sightseeing / Overnight at Pelling
Pelling is a small hill town in the district of West Sikkim, India. Pelling is nestled at an altitude of 2,150 m (7,200 feet). The town is located at a distance of 10 km from the district headquarters of Geyzing and 131 km from Gangtok. Places to visit in and around Pelling include the local monasteries. One of the major attractions at Pelling is the Pelling Sky Walk and Chenrezig Statue - A new attraction near Sanga Choeling is the gigantic 137 feet statue of Chenrezig (Avalokitesvara) and a transparent Sky Walk made of glass that leads to the statue. It was opened in November 2018 and since then it has attracted significant footfall.
Day 8 : Pelling - Bagdogra
Check out from Pelling early morning around 4.30 AM and start towards Bagdogra as we have flight at 11.30 am to catch. Time to fly back home through same route for your onward journey with happy memories to cherish
Travel suggestions:
-
Ensure that you land/arrive into Bagdogra latest by 11 am as we will depart from the airport by 11.30 am on Day 1
- Take a flight/train post 11.30 am on Day 8
Please note that at any given point of time if the event has participants count which is 6 or less in number the event might get automatically converted into a customised one, i.e there shall be a local representative from Trikon that will greet you directly at the starting point.
What is included in the tour
- Stay in comfortable, clean and hygienic triple sharing accommodation / home stays
- Internal travel during the trip, inclusive of the pickup and drop facility to the Bagdogra Airport
- Breakfast and Dinner provided during Sikkim backpacking trip
- All permits, entries etc.during Sikkim backpack tour
- Services of an expert Trikon buddy during Sikkim backpacking trip
- 5% GST
Please Note : Booking refundable air tickets through reputable platforms like Make My Trip or Yatra Portal is indeed a wise choice, especially for flexibility in travel plans. It's important to prioritize peace of mind, particularly in the face of potential last-minute changes or cancellations.
What is NOT included in the tour
- Travel cost of arrival to Bagdogra Airport on Day 1
- Travel cost of departure from Bagdogra Airport on Day 8
- Nathula Pass & Zero Point Permit
- Day 1 Breakfast , Day 8 Breakfast
- Food during the transit to and from Bagdogra Airport
- Any personal expenses made during the Sikkim backpack trip
- Anything apart from the inclusions
- Experience the highest and biggest freshwater lake, Gurudongmar in Sikkim
- Enjoy the scenic alpine flower valley, Yumthang in North Sikkim
- Learn about the Buddhist culture and traditions at Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Sikkim
- Experience one of the largest and oldest Rumtek Monastery, Sikkim
- Enjoy the picturesque Tsomgo Lake, one of the highest altitude Himalayan Lake.
- Experience the border gate between India and China at Nathula Pass
- What is Sikkim known for?
Sikkim is known for its natural beauty, with a landscape that includes the Himalayan mountain range, forests, and lakes. It is also known for its cultural diversity, with a mix of Tibetan, Nepali, and Indian influences, and for its Buddhist monasteries and temples..
- How can I get to Sikkim?
You can fly to Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri (WB), then take the taxi to Gangtok. Alternatively, you can take the train to New Jalpaiguri then take the taxi to Gangtok.
- What are the best places to visit in Sikkim?
Some popular places to visit in Sikkim include Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, and the surrounding areas of Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, and Yumthang Valley. Other attractions include the Pelling town, known for its views of the Himalayas, and the Rumtek Monastery, one of the largest and most important monasteries in Sikkim.
- What is the best time to visit Sikkim?
The best time to visit Sikkim depends on what you want to do. The winter months, from November to February, are the best time to visit if you want to experience the colder weather and go sightseeing. The summer months, from April to June, are the best time to visit if you want to experience the warmer weather and go trekking or hiking.
- Where are the best pilgrimage sites in Sikkim?
There are many religious places in Sikkim which are sacred sites for people from all faiths and religions. Some of the most famous religious places in Sikkim include Gahesh Tok, Siddheshwara Dham and numerous places of worship across faiths throughout the state.
- What should I pack for a backpacking trip to Sikkim?
Some essential items to pack for a backpacking trip to Sikkim include comfortable clothing and shoes, a raincoat or umbrella, a flashlight, insect repellent, sunscreen, and any necessary medications. You should also bring a water bottle and snacks, as well as a first aid kit. It is also a good idea to bring a power bank or portable charger for your electronic devices. Other items to consider packing include a map or GPS device, a multi-tool or Swiss Army knife, and a camping or backpacking stove if you plan on spending time in the wilderness.
- What is the local language spoken in Sikkim?
The official language of Sikkim is English, and it is widely spoken throughout the state. However, there are also several local languages spoken in Sikkim, including Nepali, Bhutia, and Lepcha.
- What is the food like in Sikkim?
The food in Sikkim is a mix of Tibetan, Nepali, and Indian influences, with a focus on rice, vegetables, and meat dishes. Some popular local dishes include momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and churpi (dried cheese). There are also several local delicacies made from bamboo shoots, wild berries, and other local ingredients.
- What is the weather like in Sikkim?
The weather in Sikkim can vary depending on the time of year and the altitude. In the summer months, from April to June, the weather is generally warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. In the winter months, from November to February, the weather is cooler and dry, with temperatures ranging from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius. The monsoon season, from June to September, is characterized by heavy rainfall and high humidity.
- What kind of transportation is available in Sikkim?
There are several options for transportation in Sikkim, including buses, shared taxis, and private cars. There are also flights available from Kolkata to the city of Bagdogra, which is about 124 km from Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. If you are planning a road trip, it is a good idea to rent a car
- Can I hire a bike from Gangtok for ride to Gurudongmar Lake?
Yes, you can hire a bike from Gangtok for solo as well as group ride.
- How do I reach Gurudongmar Lake from Gangtok?
You can book a taxi from Gangtok or anywhere in Sikkim at a reasonable price.
- Can I issue permit for Nathula Pass online from my hometown?
There might be some update regarding online permit in future but currently permits are not issued online. You can issue a permit when you reach Gangtok.
- What are the available adventure sports for tourists?
Adventure activities in Sikkim to be enjoyed, are many. You can hike up to the lush mountain trails, feel the high adrenaline rush while fighting fierce river rapid, or can enjoy mountain biking on the paths created by former adventure junkies. Sikkim owns some of the best trekking trails in the country, offering stunning natural vistas and exotic wildlife spotting. Along with trekking, Kayaking, Canoeing, Mountain biking, hang gliding, River rafting and Mountaineering are some of the popular adventure activities in Sikkim.
- When is the best time to enjoy snowfall?
In summers Sikkim stays pleasant and lovely. The temperature stays between 5 degrees Celsius to 25 degrees Celsius. Nights of the summers can be chilling, so it is advised to pack in some woollen clothes as well. This is the best time to visit Sikkim’s Gurudongmar Lake, Yumthang Valley, Nathula Pass, Rumtek Monastery, Khangchendzonga National Park and others are the places to definitely visit.
IMPORTANT:
- Remember to consult your physician if you have any heart or breathing issues before making this trip.
- You may carry Popcorn and/or Camphor from Gangtok before heading over to High Altitude areas such as Lachen, Gurudongmar, Lachung, Yumthang, Yumesamdong & Nathula where the layer of Oxygen is very thin.
- Please refrain from clicking pictures while on the way to Gurudongmar from Lachen and at Nathula due to presence of our Indian Army base and various security issues.
- Please make sure you report at the start location as per the itinerary. No refunds would be entertained by Trikon. Consult your Trikon buddy in advance in case of any changes.
- Consuming liquor or any kind of Alcoholic substance is prohibited. Carrying any kind of substance that’s illegal is not allowed. Smoking is strictly not allowed. Anybody found smoking or consuming alcoholic drinks will be expelled from the event without refund.
Disclaimers:
- Any customization in arrival and departures may lead to additional cost.
- All sightseeing is subject to weather conditions, political conditions in the destination.
- Customization would not be adjusted with any inclusions such as missed sightseeing, stay, meals etc.
- Due to delay by participants if any destination gets missed same will not be covered.
- If any of the points remains closed without prior intimation, we will try to cover it up with another destination if feasible.
Fitness & Health:
Though this is a fun-filled trip, it demands good amount of physical fitness because of its high altitude and thinner oxygen levels. If you are under medication, please carry your medicines. During the trip, your Trikon buddy will have over the counter medication for temporary treatment, so do give a heads up to them if you need any medical assistance.
