Let us plan you a Perfect Sikkim

The main attractions in Sikkim are MG Marg, Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, Nathula Pass, Gurudongmar Lake, Yumthang Valley, Zero Point, Kaala Pathar, Namchi Char Dham, Buddha Park in Ravangla, and many monasteries.

There are two major tourist attractions in North Sikkim, namely Lachung and Lachen which are located at a distance of 120 km from Gangtok and it takes around 5-6 hours to reach these places from Gangtok as the roads are narrow.

No, Nathula Pass remains closed on Mondays and Tuesdays of every week for all tourists.

No, Indian Nationals do not require a permit to visit Sikkim. However, there are certain places (like Tsomgo Lake, Baba MAndir, Nathula Pass, Gurudongmar Lake, Yumthang Valley) for which all Indian tourists have to obtain an Inner Line Permit which is arranged by the local tour operator.

Sikkim is all-year round destination, except the rainy months of July and August. However, to get a clear view of the mountain range and snow, October to March is the best time to come. And in case you want a witness snowfall, then January to March are the best months. If you want to beat the heat, then most of the tourists visit in the months between April to June.

Pakyong Airport is the newest airport of Sikkim (around 30 km from Gangtok). However, there is very less flight connectivity at the moment and moreover the flights do get cancelled on a regular basis. Hence, it is recommended to book your flights to Bagdogra Airport (around 5 hours drive from Gangtok) which is well connected with all the major cities of India.

Sikkim is well connected by all modes of transport (air, rail, and road). The nearest airport is Pakyong Airport (30 km from Gangtok) and Bagdogra Airport (120 km from Gangtok). The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (120 km from Gangtok)

Yes, there is snowfall in the high altitude regions of Sikkim including Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Baba Mandir, Gurudongmar Lake, and Yumthang Valley. It snows usually between the months of December end to March.

To cover the important places in Sikkim, you require 7 to 8 days which would include Gangtok (including nearby places of Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, and Nathula Pass), Lachen and Lachung (including Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang Valley), and Pelling with Namchi and Ravangla.

Sikkim enjoys a cool and pleasant climate throughout the year. Hence, carrying warm woollen clothes is essential. The regional people of Sikkim observes some strict rules and dress codes, which must be respected. Make sure to dress appropriately and in full, especially when visiting the religious establishments.

Sikkim is a small state and that makes travelling to nearby towns possible. Moreover, it is surrounded by many picturesque destinations that you can easily cover along with Gangtok. The neighbouring towns of Darjeeling, Pelling, Lachung, Lachen and Kalimpong must be explored when you plan to visit Sikkim.

Hot spots for shopaholics include Mahatma Gandhi Road, Directorate of Handicrafts and Handlooms and the Lal Bazaar. Your shopping list must comprise of prayer flags and prayer wheels, Thangka paintings, singing bowls and tea.

Sikkim has a lot in store for adventure lovers. You can indulge in a thrilling river rafting experience in Teesta River, mountain biking and cycling, paragliding, trekking, rock climbing and wildlife safari among many other spine chilling activities.

Applicable to foreigners as well as Indian citizens, many of the sightseeing spots will require you to have permits to visit. These comprise of Tsomgo (Changu) Lake and Baba Mandir, Nathula Pass, Dzongri and Goecahala Tre, Thangu/Chopta Valley and Gurudongmar Lake. Indian nationals can easily apply for permits online and at the Police Check Post in Sikkim.

Among the innumerable sightseeing spots in Sikkim, one must visit the Gurudongmar Lake, Nathula Pass, Yumthang Valley, Lake Tsomgo, Rumtek Monastery and the Khangchendzonga National Park.

There is a scarcity of public transport vehicles such as buses and trains, unlike other metro cities. However, the option of shared vehicles can be freely explored. The best way, however, is to hire a cab from a trusted and government authorised tour operator to avoid any hassles.

Sikkim does have certain entry restrictions, however, if you are an Indian citizen, you do not need any visa to enter its boundaries. For foreign nationals, to obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) or the Inner Line Permit (ILP) is mandatory.

Although Sikkim now has its own small airport, the best way to reach is via the Bagdogra International Airport. The connectivity is better and major cities are connected via this airport. If you wish to travel by railways, the New Jalpaiguri station in Siliguri is the best way to reach Sikkim.

Between the months of March to May and October to December are considered to be ideal for visiting Sikkim. When the country experiences hot summers, Sikkim provides for a calming haven. In winter months, the views of the snow-capped mountain ranges will take your breath away.