Sikkim Tourism provides an exciting and delightful offer to escape into serenity, in one of India’s most picturesque states, which is a fantastic and seamless blend of nature with spirituality and adventure. The scenic beauty of this state is one of the finest to captivate any traveller. The pristine lakes with their shimmering crystal-clear water, the lush green crawling meadows and valleys or the ancient monasteries, all wanting to share stories. Planning a trip to Sikkim involves discovering and relaxing, and watching some of the most exotic wildlife and floral species.
About Sikkim and Sikkim Tourism
Sikkim is an enchanting state in India which is popular for its mesmerising view of the mountains with snow-capped peaks, dramatic landscapes and lush green meadows and valleys. This Northeastern Indian state is also home to numerous ancient monasteries, serene lakes and a rich biodiversity, which is a bliss to experience. Sikkim tourism offers tourists to experience this bliss, away from their homes and close to nature’s tranquillity. Overall, a trip to Sikkim remains etched in one’s memory for a lifetime, when a right dose of delight is experienced throughout the journey.
Best Time to visit Sikkim
What is interesting about planning a trip to Sikkim is selecting the right or the most ideal time to ensure that the best of Sikkim is experienced, delighting the soul. Seasons play a great role in deciding on the experience of a trip. The months of March to May which welcomes the Spring season are considered ideal for experiencing and witnessing the Flower Valley which is blanketed with crimson rhododendrons and magnolias.
The moderate temperature during these months, ranging from 10 to 20°C is also perfect for treks and other activities like paragliding and river rafting. The months of October and November are also considered best for tourists as the Autumn season is a gift to visitors due to the clear blue sky, which makes the sight of the majestic Himalayas nothing short of majestic. Also, this season is ideal for trekking through the trekking trails due to the pleasant temperature. The landscapes in Sikkim during this season also get to beguile you.
How to Reach Sikkim?
Your journey to Sikkim commences once you reach NJP rail station/Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri, West Bengal. It is nearly 120 km distance between Sikkim and Siliguri, which can be covered in approximately 5 hours via NH 10, considering breaks in between the journey. You can avail shared taxis or go on a private vehicle.
Top Attractions of Sikkim
Gurudongmar Lake
This lake offers some of the most stunning views of the landscape, as it is located at 17,000 ft which is known to be the highest altitude in the world for the location of any lake.
Baba Mandir
This temple is more of a memorial which is dedicated to Baba Harbhajan Singh, who is believed to be the guardian spirit, protecting this region and is greatly revered by both tourists and locals.
Yumthang Valley
This location provides glimpses of stunning visuals of the alpine and rhododendron forests with rhododendron blossoms, scenic beauty of the landscape and hot springs. It also popularly known as the Valley of Flowers.
Nathula Pass
The spectacular views of the Indo-China border are caught from this high-altitude mountain pass which connects India with Tibet.
MG Marg
This city is the heart of Sikkim with vibrant streets, cafes and local restaurants serving local delicacies, which is a perfect spot for experiencing Sikkimese culture.
Buddha Park
This park in Ravangla features a majestic 130-foot-tall Lord Buddha statue with a manicured flower garden, which makes walks around the park more peaceful.
Sky Walk
Pelling’s Skywalk is India’s first glass skywalk which gives tourists a thrilling experience of viewing the surrounding scenic beauty from such an impressive height.
Exciting Outdoor Activities while in Sikkim
You must experience the magical combination of Sikkim’s natural beauty with its thrilling adventure, which will surely leave you with unforgettable memories.
Here are some of the unmissable outdoor activities which you must try when in Sikkim:
Paragliding in Gangtok
The stunning Gangtok valleys allow you to get some of the most scintillating aerial views of the jaw-dropping dramatic landscapes of the city and the entire Himalayan range, alongside experiencing the fresh burst of wind that brushes against the skin.
River Rafting in the Teesta River:
This is an exciting outdoor activity to experience the thrills of rafting in the white water of the Teesta River, with water gushing and making the boat rise above with the river current.
Yak Safari in Tsomgo Lake:
A yak safari near Tsomgo Lake is going to be a unique experience as you will witness the amazing scenic beauty from over 12,000 ft altitude, which is peaceful and thrilling at the same time.
Bird Watching in Kanchenjunga National Park
You can discover some of the exotic birds and animal species alongside floral beauties when in Kanchenjunga National Park, which is also considere widely as a paradise for bird watching, especially catching glimpses of the Himalayan monal or blood Pheasant.
Sikkim Package
It is a great decision to opt for the right Sikkim package which offers a comprehensive way of exploring the magical side of Sikkim and getting every opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of Sikkim, its natural beauty and the adventurous activities. Sikkim packages are design in a manner so that tourists can experience the delight of exploring the popular serene monasteries, capture distinct landscapes and viewpoints and walk across the vibrant local markets to shop for souvenirs for their close ones. Whether you are in search of experiencing the ancient monasteries, or the local delicacies and exploring the lakes, a Sikkim package assures you to have the best of all, in a more organised manner.
Permits and Regulation Information
Inner Line Permit
All Indian and foreign tourists must get this permit while on their visit to Sikkim, which is obtaine from the Sikkim Tourism Office or police checkpoints.
Restricted Area permit
All foreign nationals who visit Sikkim must obtain this special permit, available at the Immigration Office, Sikkim Tourism Office or police checkpoints, to get access to some of the restricted areas in Sikkim.
Registrations at checkpoints
Visitors must register at different forest or military checkpoints when travelling to Sikkim, especially to get access to some of the restricted areas across Sikkim.
Some Travel Tips
Here are some of the travel tips that are important to adhere to for a hassle-free and delightful tour experience to Sikkim.
Documents: (Carry these following documents)
Photo ID proof (4 passport-size photographs)
Driving License
Indian Visa
Other foreign national visas for foreign travellers
Health precautions:
Physical Fitness
Emergency/first-aid kit
Remain hydrated
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol consumption
Permit Compliance:
ILP
PAP
All permits must be arrange in advance to make the travel hassle-free.
Book your accommodations in advance.
