Sikkim Trip for Senior Citizens

We plan, because We Care!

How We Organise Trips for Senior Citizens with Care

While organising trips that would cater specifically to the needs of seniors. The trips are planned with special care to suit your pace of travel in a hill station also keeping under consideration your preferences for cuisine.
Most the tour plans that are specially customised by us for you take every small detail into cognisance. Thoughts are given to make your travel experience easy so that you don’t have to worry about a thing. So you can leave all your worries for us and just pack your bags. If you are travelling from distance, you can simply think of reaching Bagdogra and dream of a leisure vacation in Sikkim with just enough money for shopping. Everything else shall be taken care of by us.
A Sikkim Trip for Senior Citizens are tailored to focus on comfort, ease of travel and a relaxing experiences while still allowing you enough breathing space to take in the beauty and culture of the region and enjoy the beauty of the mountain lands breathing in the fresh .

Points to Be Taken Care of When Sikkim is for Senior Citizens

The main concern should be that that the whole Sikkim trip for senior citizens be a one stop solution for all kinds of needs. The trip also has to be customise keeping old age under consideration. There would be several factors dominating the scenario. Since this is a hill station, the primary challenge would be transportation and movement in and around. There are a lot of tour packages specifically designed taking the age factor into consideration.

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• The To and From air ticket should be made available in the tour package, which should be optional. The people staying in the nearby states might just opt for train or bus or even private cab to go to Sikkim at their own pace. Thus flight would be an option only for senior citizens planning to visit Sikkim from states located further away.
• Baggage Allowance as per the airline policy should be made clear to them via personal communication. Most of the senior citizens would be concerned about carrying a lot of woollens since Sikkim is a hill station which would also depend on which season they are travelling. Temperature conditions should be communicated effectively in the website and even during personal conversation by the operators to the clients or guests. This will help them pack the essentials and not to lug around extra luggage.
• Travel arrangements by comfortable A/C or non A/C small cars or Tempo Travellers or Mini Buses or big buses should be arranged. The mode of transportation will depend on the size of the tour group and preferences.

Accommodation should be arranged in comfortable hotels on twin/triple/single sharing basis on the preference of the guests and also the budget. Views should ideally be pleasant given the fact that most senior citizens would be spending a lot of time in the hotel or resort. Stairs and too much of up and down or long walks within the property is not recommended since for senior citizens too much walking will not be advisable especially after dark. Moreover properties with prompt room service should be selected and provided to them. Hotels or homestays with easy access (ground floors or elevators) and basic facilities like healthcare and restaurants nearby should be chosen.

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• All meals starting from morning tea and coffee, breakfast, lunch, evening tea/coffee with cookies or snacks, dinner and water bottles per person per day are good to be included as part of the trip arrangement.
• Guide and driver tips, hotel and restaurant tips should be explained to them.
• Permits/entrance fees of all sightseeing places which are to be visited and included in the Sikkim itinerary should be arranged beforehand and taken care of by the travel partner. That will ensure minimum hassle for the senior citizens.
• It is an added frill to offer accompanied local guide/s services wherever and whenever required. This will ensure that all their immediate concerns get addressed.
• The tour services that are empathetic to old-age needs from day 01 from the meeting point till the dropping point on the last day of trip is best suitable.
• Places with moderate altitude and not too high should be included in the senior citizen itinerary for Sikkim to avoid altitude sickness or other height related physical discomfort.
• Vehicles should be comfortable with a driver who is familiar with senior citizens needs to ensure that the rides are less jerky while driving around and smooth routes are chosen over bad roads. Places that are risky or congested should be avoided altogether. Drivers who are local can only offer such considerate travel arrangements.
• As an extra mindful arrangement, travel insurance for guests up to 70 years of age should be taken care of or at least communicated clearly in the planning phase of the Sikkim trip.
• It will be good to break journeys between locations to prevent fatigue.

Things to Consider Before Sikkim Trip By Senior Citizens

Health Checkups: Ensure that all necessary medicines are carried along with prescriptions. Check with your doctor about traveling to high altitudes if required.

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Recommended Itinerary for Senior Citizens

An itinerary that is relaxed and allows enough time for the visitors to enjoy a Sikkim trip at their own pace is to be thoughtfully curated.

Day 1: Arrival in Gangtok

Gangtok: Start in Sikkim’s capital, a serene hill town with easy accessibility and a wide range of senior-friendly attractions.

Do-Drul Chorten: A Buddhist stupa that’s peaceful and easy to access. It is a significant stupa in Gangtok, Sikkim, known for its tranquil ambiance. It houses important relics and is surrounded by prayer wheels that visitors can spin for good luck and spiritual blessings.

MG Marg: The main street of Gangtok, perfect for light walking, shopping, and dining. MG Marg is the main promenade in Gangtok, offering a lively, pedestrian-friendly area with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, free of traffic, where visitors can relax and soak in the town’s vibrant atmosphere.

Tashi View Point: Offers a panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga range, without requiring strenuous effort. It is a picturesque tourist attraction in Gangtok, known for offering stunning panoramic views of Mount Kanchenjunga and the surrounding peaks. It is an ideal place for viewing sunrise and sunset, with a peaceful ambience for visitors to enjoy nature’s beauty.

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Day 2: Tsomgo Lake

A half-day trip to the beautiful Tsomgo Lake, located at a moderate altitude. The area is accessible by vehicle, and a scenic spot for light walking and photo-taking. There are yaks for short rides if you are interested in the experience and feel adventurous enough to try.

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Day 3: Monasteries and Cultural Exploration

Rumtek Monastery: One of the largest monasteries in Sikkim with its calming atmosphere. A walk through the courtyard can be refreshing. Don’t miss this as it is one of Sikkim’s largest and most important monasteries, and is the seat of the Karma Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. Known for its serene atmosphere and stunning architecture, it houses sacred relics and provides a peaceful retreat for spiritual seekers and visitors alike.

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: Offers insights into the culture and history of Sikkim and Tibetan Buddhism. Suitable for a relaxed afternoon visit. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is a renowned centre for research on Tibetan culture, history, and religion. Located in Gangtok, it houses rare manuscripts, thangkas, and Buddhist artifacts, offering visitors a deep insight into Tibetan Buddhist philosophy and traditions.

Day 4: Relaxing Nature Walks

Take a gentle walk or visit around Banjhakri Falls or Flower Exhibition Centre in Gangtok, both offering scenic beauty and peaceful surroundings. Banjhakri Falls is a picturesque waterfall located near Gangtok, surrounded by lush greenery and traditional Sikkimese sculptures. It’s a serene spot, ideal for nature walks, picnics, and learning about local folklore, particularly related to the Banjhakri, the healing shaman of the region.

Day 5: Scenic Road Trip to Pelling

Pelling: A peaceful town offering views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. You can take short trips to Pemayangtse Monastery and Rabdentse Ruins, which are easy to access.
Stay in a resort with views of the mountain ranges. Pelling is a peaceful hill town in West Sikkim, famous for its stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga. Visitors can explore nearby monasteries, such as Pemayangtse, and the ancient Rabdentse Ruins, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Pemayangtse Monastery is one of the oldest and most significant monasteries in Sikkim. It belongs to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. This monastery offers a serene ambiance and stunning views of the Himalayas, housing ancient relics, statues, and sacred scriptures. On the other hand the Rabdentse Ruins will take you through a unique experience. These are the remnants of the former capital of the Kingdom of Sikkim, located near Pelling. These historical ruins are set amidst lush greenery and offer a glimpse into Sikkim’s royal past apart from providing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Day 6: Ravangla for Relaxation

Visit Ravangla, known for its giant Buddha statue in the Buddha Park. The environment is serene, ideal for meditation or light walking. You will feel an inner peace that will be calming and relaxing. Ravangla is a peaceful hill station in South Sikkim, known for its breathtaking views of the Himalayas and serene ambiance. The main attraction is the Buddha Park, which features a towering statue of Lord Buddha, offering a tranquil environment for meditation and relaxation. Buddha Park in Ravangla, Sikkim, features a massive 130-foot statue of Buddha, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and stunning Himalayan views. It’s a serene and spiritually uplifting site that attracts both pilgrims and tourists alike. Don’t miss out on this serene experience.

Optional Add-ons:

Yumthang Valley (North Sikkim): If you enjoy flowers and scenic beauty, let us tell you that Yumthang in April-May is full of rhododendrons and is mesmerizing. However, this area is at a higher altitude, so you need to consult your doctor if you are planning to visit this spot.

Home Stay Options for Senior Citizens

Some home stay options in Sikkim will be better-suited for senior citizens, keeping into consideration the basic factors of comfort, accessibility and a peaceful environment.

1. The Golden Pagoda Homestay (Gangtok): Offers comfortable rooms with easy access and a friendly atmosphere, making it suitable for senior citizens.
2. Vamoose Royal Villa (Gangtok): Provides cozy and accessible accommodations with personalized service in a serene setting.
3. Ravangla Buddhaloka (Ravangla): Features comfortable, accessible rooms and beautiful views, ideal for a peaceful retreat.
4. The Bliss Homestay (Pelling): Offers a comfortable stay with easy access and breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
5. Himalayan Homestay (Namchi): Provides a warm and welcoming environment with amenities that cater to senior citizens.
6. The Retreat (Gangtok): Offers comfortable, accessible accommodations with beautiful views and personalized service.
7. Karma Lakelands (Namchi): Provides a serene environment with easy access and supportive amenities.

When booking, make sure to inquire about specific accessibility features and amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.

Things to Consider While Choosing Homestay Option in Sikkim

For senior citizens looking for a comfortable and accessible home stay, you should consider some basic factors.

1. Accessibility: It has to be ensured that the property has features like ramps, grab bars and minimal stairs. Also, the rooms should not be far from the dining area. Moreover, room service should be available and prompt too.
2. Comfort: Basic amenities such as cozy bedding, a clean environment and a peaceful location are absolutely needed for the proper well-being of senior citizens. A window or a room with a view of the captivating mountains or rolling meadows, lush green forests and greenery would be soothing for the guests.
3. Safety: It is advisable that you check for safety measures for senior citizens so as to avoid any untoward incidents and facilitate a smooth and hassle-free stay. The homestay should have well-lit areas, secure locks and emergency contact options.
4. Local Assistance: Choose a home stay with hosts who are attentive and can assist with any special needs or preferences.

Choose a homestay only after analysing reviews on the property.

Conclusion

Sikkim is an ideal destination for senior citizens, offering a serene and rejuvenating escape with its stunning Himalayan landscapes, tranquil monasteries and soothing climate. The state’s well-maintained infrastructure, tourist friendly and hospitable locals ensure a comfortable experience, while destinations like Gangtok, Pelling and Ravangla provide accessible accommodations and easy sightseeing options. With its scenic beauty, peaceful ambience and diverse cultural experiences, Sikkim caters to the needs of senior travellers who majorly look for both relaxation and exploration within a safe and serene environment. The elderly people usually love the beauty of monasteries like Rumtek, Pemayangtse and Tashiding, which offer a tranquil atmosphere and spiritual solace, often accompanied by artistic architecture and art. The unique culture, food and hospitality of the local people is loved by the senior tourists and they bask in the glory of the warmth of nature. There are infinite options of food that they will relish and the peaceful ambience is especially welcoming for them.