Places to visit in Sikkim in August

Sikkim is a fairy tale destination that is a must-visit in the month of August. The state vouches for a holiday experience, which you will not forget for a long time. It is an ensemble of adventure, history, natural beauty, and a culture you will fall in love with.

To add to this thrill is the monsoons during the month of August. The rain drops are like music to the ears; this piece of melody is only found right here at Sikkim. The vacation will rejuvenate you owing to the high altitude lakes, green sprawls, gorgeous waterfalls and meandering rivers that are even more beautiful during August.

Suggested Read: Things To Do in Sikkim, How To Reach Sikkim & Best Time To Visit Sikkim

So, to help you with your itinerary, here is a list of places that you can visit in Sikkim in August.

1. Tsomgo Lake

Perched between the mountains at a dizzying height of 12400 feet above sea level is the Tsomgo Lake. A fun fact is that it is one of the few high-altitude lakes in India. The lake is popularly known as Changu Lake, and it is a part of every tourist’s itinerary in Sikkim in August.

During the monsoon season of August, the lake looks even more scenic. Its surrounding mountains are filled with greenery and it makes the environment even more picturesque.

Things to Remember

Do not forget to take an umbrella along.

Suggested Read: Popular Lakes in Sikkim

2. Lachung, Lachen and Yumthang

They say these three towns are a must-visit in Sikkim during August. Each city has a number of places that fall in the most loved tourist places of all times. In fact, during monsoons, the experience even better and the towns are even more pleasing.

Here is a list of the places that you can visit in these towns.

Valley of Flowers Yumthang

They say, if you visit the valley, early in the morning, you can catch the dew on the flowers. That sight is something that you can experience only during the monsoons. The colourful flowers bloom a thousand times more during this season and hence your visit will become a thousand times better. Read more

Khanda Waterfalls – Lachung

Visiting this waterfall during the month of August is a big plus point. The flow of the water increases due to the rains and it turns out to make your visit totally worth it. The milky white water is perfect to stand under the waterfall and have a natural shower.

Gurudongmar Lake – Lachen

A fun fact about the lake is that it is one of the fifteenth lakes that are based on a high altitude. Now all you have to do is image the view of the monsoon clouds from up there. This is the perfect spot for you to enjoy the rains and also take a dip in the lake. Read more

Things to Remember

Carry a pair of extra clothes if you wish to take a dip in the lake or bathe under the Khanda waterfalls.

3. Nathu-La Pass, Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple

The Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple is the most famous temple in all of Sikkim. The story has it that the temple is dedicated to Harbhajan Singh, an Indian Army soldier, who died on duty. But the fact is that his soul still remains in the area and still tends to help the Indian Army soldiers. It has been 50 years since this incident happened, but till date, his soul wanders in the surroundings of Nathu-La Pass.

A very good time to visit this temple is during the month of August. This is because Nathu-La pass is in close proximity to the temple and the view from the pass during monsoons is something you cannot miss out on in Sikkim in August.

Things to Remember

It is advisable to wear traditional clothes at the temple.

4. Goechala

Mostly known for its treks, Goechala is the most underrated place of Sikkim. It is situated on a height of about 4,940m above sea level and the fun fact is that it is in close proximity to the Himalayan Range.

Now, if you are wondering what the best time to visit the town is then it has to be the monsoons. During August the monsoon clouds enhance the view of the ranges and cover them up with a grey shade. The fact that the town is located on such a high altitude, works in our favour during the month of August. Especially, when it rains, the view is just mesmerising.

In fact, if you look at the 100 rupee note of India, you will see the mountains of Goechala on it.

Things to Remember

Goechala trek is one of the most famous treks, it is advisable to carry comfortable shoes and a rain kit along.

5. Namchi

Namchi, the culturally capital of the South District of Sikkim, is a popular town especially for its spiritual attractions. The town hosts a number of temples, which are a pride of the place.

It is believed that a number of tourists visit Namchi to seek blessings from these temples. Owing to this the town has seen a lot of development in the past years.

August is the perfect time to visit Namchi. This is because there are not many outdoor activities in the town and hence even if it is raining, you can be indoors at the temple and keep your prayers going.

Here is a list of the places that you can visit in Namchi.

Shirdi Sai Baba Temple

This temple is not only famous with the Hindus but also with the people of many other religions. Sai Baba was known to be a secular individual and hence the temple overlooks at a huge footfall each year, not only from local tourists but also from over the globe.

Char Dham Complex

The char dham complex consists of various temples in its compound. This huge complex is so huge that it is compared to the Char Dham Yatra of the Hindus.

Namchi Rock Garden

The rock garden in Namchi is very famous for the different type of plants and flowers that it houses. Apart from that, the garden also has a number of sheds and viewpoints within its boundaries.

Things to Remember

It is advisable to wear traditional clothes at the temple.

6. Zuluk

Surrounded by the Himalayan Mountains, this small village like town is nothing but a beautiful painting.

It is situated at a height of around 10,000 feet above the sea and very close to the Indo-Tibetan border. In fact, the town was once the Silk Route between the Tiber and Kalimpong via Jeep-La. There are also a number of places that you can visit in this small but very alluring place.

Considering the location of the town, it is best to visit it during August. The rains create fog and that makes this high altitude town even more beautiful. The mountains start to look like a fridge from where the icy-cold winds are come running towards you. This makes Zuluk an important place to visit in Sikkim in August.

Things to Remember

The road to Zuluk has 32 hairpin turns. So, if someone has motion sickness, it is best to be prepared.

7. Ravangla

This lesser known village is located in between the Eastern Ghats of the Himalayas. The highlight of the town is that it is situated 8000feet above sea level and during the month of August, the view from here is to die for.

The monsoon clouds surround the area and the light drizzle and cool breeze add to its natural beauty.

For you to have a memorable experience here is a list of some must-visit places in the village.

Rayong Sunrise View Point

Just like the name suggests, this viewpoint is famous for its sunrise and sunset views. Located in the southern district of Sikkim, the picturesque view from here is unmatchable.

Temi Tea Garden

If you are a tea lover, then you cannot miss out on this garden. This garden of tea plantings is spread over an area of 177 hectares land that produces fine quality tea leaves. Read more

Ralang Monasteries

It is said that Ravangla houses some of the most beautiful monasteries. And it is true in every form, be it from the architecture or to the history, it rich and eye-catchy. At the Ralang Monastery, you must look out for the paintings.

Things to Remember

Do try the tea prepared at the Temi Tea Garden.

8. Pelling

Known to be the second largest tourist hub of the state, Pelling will not disappoint you in anyway. The town was a small place initially, filled with dense forest but as time passed by, it has now grown into a city of utmost importance.

In fact, during the monsoons, in August, the climate of the city is very warm and welcoming. There are still some dense forests in the outskirts of the city, due to which the cool breeze keeps you cosy and relaxed at all times.

Here is a list of the places that you can visit in Pelling.

Khecheopalri Lake

The locals say that if you sprinkle the lake water on yourself and wish for something, it comes true. Also, another story says that even though the lake is surrounded by forests all around, there are no leaves seen afloat on the lake. To actually witness this miracle, it is best to go have a look for yourself. Ream more

Khangchendzonga Waterfalls

The waterfall is very famous amongst tourists, owing to the chilling water gushing right through the mountains. The waterfalls also provide you with a really beautiful view of the Himalayan Range.

Kanchenjunga Waterfalls

This waterfall originates from the glacier of Mt. Kanchenjunga. It is situated at an hour’s drive from Yuksom and it is the 3rd highest peak in the world.

Things to Remember

Carry an extra pair of clothes, if you want to take a bath under the natural showers of the waterfall.

9. Gangtok

The capital of Sikkim offers a wide range of tourist attractions.

The city is a base for trekkers and adventure enthusiasts who wish to explore the Himalayan Range. In fact, the beautiful hill roads of the city are an add-on to its natural beauty.

Talking of the best time to visit the city, would be August. The rains enhance the charm of the city and make the surroundings look even more appealing. Hence it is said to be an important place to visit in Sikkim in August.

Here is a list of some of the most visited tourist spots in the city.

M.G Marg

Known as the shopping hub of Gangtok, this road is like an open mall. You will find every local item you wish to purchase, at this spot. In fact, even the cafes and restaurants on this road are very famous. Do try the momos in any of the cafes, they are totally worth it.

Rumtek Monastery

Filled with unique murals and handmade paintings, this monastery is one of the most famous monasteries in Gangtok.

Thangu Valley

Shrouded under a valley of snow all throughout the year, the valley is a charmer. It attracts tourists from throughout the world and is also a base for many trekkers.

Things to Remember

If you wish to explore the trekking trails, carry comfortable shoes and a trekking kit along.

10. Yuksom

Yuksom is a quaint town situated in the West District of Sikkim. The town houses a number of Monasteries and is topped with stunning picturesque views and vistas all around.

During the monsoons, the entire town looks like a carpet of green bushes and trees. Hence it is advisable to visit the town during August, to enjoy the cool breeze and a spectacular view of the mountains.

To enhance your experience, here is a list of places that you can check-out in Yuksom.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp

Very famous amongst the adventure junkies, this base camp is situated on a height of 14,000feet above sea level.

Tashiding Monastery

One of the oldest monasteries in the state, the highlight of the place is its backdrop of the Himalayan Peaks. You will also appreciate its architecture. Read more

Dubdi Monastery

This monastery is located on a hilltop and is surrounded by forests. In fact, if you are an adventure lover you can even hike uphill.

Things to Remember

Most places in the town of Yuksom are located up hill, to avoid any kind of leg injury while trekking, it is best to wear comfortable shoes and a trekking kit.

11. Khangchendzonga National Park

Known for its exotic Red Panda, the national park is the largest wildlife park in all of Sikkim.

The park is also known as the Kanchenjunga Biosphere Reserve and in addition to the flora and fauna, its trekking tales are also something to look out for. The trails lead to a number of places like; Yuksom, Dzongri, Zemu Glacier and even Goechala.

In August, most of the animals take shelter at the lake, and it becomes easy to spot them. So it is best advisable to visit the park in August when the rains are not heavy.

Things to Remember

During monsoons, it is advisable to carry some rain cover like raincoats and umbrellas.

This brings us to an end of the list of places that you can visit in Sikkim in August. We hope you have a wonderful vacation and make some even better memories. Bon Voyage!!