Discover the Best Tourist Places in Sikkim Your Ultimate Guide

As an avid traveler, I have always been fascinated by the natural beauty and cultural diversity of India. Sikkim, a small state located in the northeastern part of India, has always been on my bucket list. Known for its scenic landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant festivals, Sikkim is a paradise for tourists. In this blog post, I will be your guide to discovering the best tourist places in Sikkim.

Introduction to Sikkim

Sikkim is a landlocked state of India, nestled in the Himalayan mountain range. It shares borders with Tibet, Bhutan, and Nepal. Sikkim was a separate kingdom until 1975 when it became a part of India. The state is known for its rich biodiversity, with over 5,000 species of plants and animals. The state’s official language is Nepali, but several other languages like English, Hindi, and Tibetan are also spoken.

Why visit Sikkim?

Sikkim is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and cultural enthusiasts. The state has something to offer to everyone. The state’s picturesque landscapes, lush green forests, snow-capped mountains, and pristine lakes make it a perfect destination for nature lovers. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in activities like trekking, mountaineering, and river rafting. The state’s rich culture and vibrant festivals are a treat for cultural enthusiasts.

Sikkim tourism statistics

Sikkim has emerged as a popular tourist destination in India in recent years. According to the Sikkim Tourism Department, the state received over 16 lakh tourists in 2019, an increase of 5.5% from the previous year. The state’s tourism industry contributes significantly to its economy, providing employment to thousands of people.

Best time to visit Sikkim

Sikkim can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from March to May and from October to December. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, offering excellent views of the mountains. The monsoon season, from June to September, should be avoided as the heavy rainfall can lead to landslides and roadblocks.

Top tourist places in Sikkim

Gangtok - The Capital City of Sikkim

Gangtok is the capital city of Sikkim and a popular tourist destination. The city is known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas, serene monasteries, and bustling markets. Some of the must-visit places in Gangtok are the Rumtek Monastery, Enchey Monastery, Hanuman Tok, and MG Marg.

Darjeeling - The Queen of the Hills

Darjeeling, located in West Bengal but easily accessible from Sikkim, is known as the Queen of the Hills. The town is famous for its tea plantations, scenic views of the Himalayas, and colonial architecture. Some of the top attractions in Darjeeling are the Tiger Hill, Batasia Loop, Happy Valley Tea Estate, and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.

Pelling - The Scenic Hill Station

Pelling is a picturesque hill station located in West Sikkim. The town offers breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range and is known for its serene monasteries and waterfalls. Some of the must-visit places in Pelling are the Pemayangtse Monastery, Khecheopalri Lake, and the Sangachoeling Monastery.

Yumthang Valley - The Valley of Flowers

Yumthang Valley, also known as the Valley of Flowers, is located in North Sikkim. The valley is famous for its colorful flowers, snow-capped mountains, and hot springs. The best time to visit Yumthang Valley is from April to June when the flowers are in full bloom.

Nathula Pass - The Indo-China Border

Nathula Pass is a mountain pass located on the Indo-China border, at an altitude of 4,310 meters. The pass offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and is a popular tourist destination. Visitors need to obtain a permit to visit Nathula Pass, and it is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Tsomgo Lake - The Sacred Lake

Tsomgo Lake is a sacred lake located in East Sikkim, at an altitude of 3,780 meters. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can take a Yak ride around the lake and enjoy the beautiful views.

Rumtek Monastery - The Largest Monastery in Sikkim

The Rumtek Monastery is the largest monastery in Sikkim and is located in Gangtok. The monastery is famous for its intricate architecture, beautiful murals, and the Golden Stupa. The monastery is also the seat of the Karmapa, the head of the Karma Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism.

Sikkim tourism packages and tours

Sikkim offers several tourism packages and tours for visitors. These packages cater to different interests and budgets. Visitors can choose from adventure tours, cultural tours, nature tours, and more. Some of the popular tour operators in Sikkim are Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation, Sikkim Himalayan Adventure Tours, and Sikkim Tours and Travels.

How to reach Sikkim

The nearest airport to Sikkim is the Bagdogra Airport, located in West Bengal. The airport is well-connected to major cities in India like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bangalore. The nearest railway station to Sikkim is New Jalpaiguri, located in West Bengal. Visitors can also take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Sikkim.

Travel tips for visiting Sikkim

Before visiting Sikkim, visitors should obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) from the Sikkim Tourism Department. The permit is required to enter certain areas of the state, like Nathula Pass. Visitors should also carry warm clothes as the weather can get chilly, especially in the higher altitudes. It is advisable to carry cash as ATMs are not available in all areas of the state.

Conclusion

Sikkim is a hidden gem in India, waiting to be discovered. The state’s natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant festivals make it a perfect destination for tourists. In this guide, we have covered the top tourist places in Sikkim, the best time to visit, how to reach, and travel tips. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the beautiful state of Sikkim.

Book your Sikkim tour package today and experience the beauty of the Himalayas like never before.