Known for its spiritual aura and raw beauty, North Sikkim is home to iconic destinations like Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world, the flower-filled Yumthang Valley, and the serene villages of Lachen and Lachung. Life here moves at a gentle pace, deeply rooted in Buddhist traditions and mountain culture, offering travellers not just sightseeing, but soulful experiences. North Sikkim is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, romantic trips, and adventure seekers alike, a North Sikkim vacation is less about luxury and more about silence, scale, and serenity. It is a place where the mountains speak, the air feels sacred, and every moment leaves you humbled and inspired by the grandeur of the Himalayas.
About North Sikkim
North Sikkim is an elusive mountain destination especially tempting for travellers and tourists who wish to experience a pristine face of the mighty Himalayas that have still not been completely commercialised and is bereft of the usual cacophony and noise of modern civilization. North Sikkim presents nature in its purest form.
North Sikkim: Quick Facts for Travelers
Area: 7,096 square kilometres (about 2,740 square miles)
Capital: Gangtok
Airport: Pakyong Airport, akyong town, about 31 km from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Population: Approximately 650,000 (as of 2021)
Visa Required for Indian Travellers: No
Visa Required for Foreign Travellers: Yes (Restricted Area Permit or Protected Area Permit required for some regions like North Sikkim and Nathula Pass)
Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)
Time Zone: Indian Standard Time (IST)
Languages Spoken: Nepali, Sikkimese (Bhutia), Lepcha, Hindi, English
Climate Type: Varies with altitude – mostly temperate, alpine, and subtropical
Temperature: Summer (March to June): 10°C to 28°C and Winter (November to February): -5°C to 15°C
Humidity: Varies by region and season, but generally moderate to high, especially during monsoon (70% to 90%)
Seasonal Information:
Winter: Gets very cold in winters (especially in higher altitudes like North Sikkim; temperatures can drop below freezing)
Maximum Temperature: 22°C to 30°C (varies by season and altitude)
Minimum Temperature: -5°C to 18°C
Rainfall: Heavy rain occurs during monsoons (in the months of June to September)
Minimal rainfall: The autumn and winter seasons remain comparatively dry with very little rainfall (during the months of October to February)
Best Time to Visit: March to June (spring/summer) and October to December (autumn) — are ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and exploring high-altitude areas.
Indigenous Tribes: Sikkim is home to various ethnic groups, including Lepchas (indigenous to Sikkim), Bhutias and Nepalis (majority population). Each has a distinct culture, language, and traditions.
Forest Cover: More than 47% of the state is under forest cover. It includes national parks, sanctuaries, and protected high-altitude ecosystems.
Mobile Phone: Internet access is decent in Gangtok and nearby towns but expect poor or no internet in North Sikkim and high-altitude areas – you shouldn’t mind this digital detox in a beautiful mountain vacation to Sikkim
Local Etiquette: Respect local customs and monasteries (e.g., remove shoes before entering); you should always ask for permission before taking photos of monks or locals; do not litter or disturb natural sites
Transportation: Private taxis and shared jeeps are the primary modes of transport; Please keep in mind that self-driven vehicles are not allowed in North Sikkim without permits; public transport is limited; tour packages are advisable for travelling to remote destinations
Family-Friendly Destinations in Sikkim:
-
Gangtok: Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim and is clean, safe, and modern with great restaurants, shopping, and views. Top attractions in Gangtok can be listed as follows:
- MG Marg (pedestrian street)
- Cable car ride
- Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
- Flower Exhibition Centre
- Enchey Monastery
-
Lachung and Yumthang Valley: This valley is famous all across the world and is also known as the Valley of Flowers of Sikkim. This place is mesmerizing in spring but remains snow-covered in winter. It is ideal for light snow play, nature walks, and picnics. Permit is required for visiting this major tourist attraction of Sikkim.
-
Lachen and Gurudongmar Lake: This lake in Lachen is one of the highest lakes in the world. Great for older children (above 7–8 years) and adults. This place is however not recommended for infants or aged people or those sensitive to high altitudes. Permit is required for visiting this unique tourist attraction of Sikkim tour.
Why is North Sikkim Absolutely Safe for Family Trips?
Yes, Sikkim is safe for family trips. Here’s why:
- Low Crime Rate: The islands have a very low crime rate, making them a secure destination for families. Offenders have limited opportunities to escape due to the islands’ remote location.
- Strong Military Presence: The presence of the Army, Navy, and Air Force enhances security and contributes to the overall safety of the region.
- Friendly Locals: The local population is known for their hospitality and helpfulness towards tourists, which adds to the safety and comfort of your trip.
- Adequate Health Care: There are sufficient health care facilities available for emergencies, ensuring that medical needs can be addressed promptly.
- Children Safety: The beaches are generally safe for children. However, it’s advisable to use insect repellent, sunscreen, and hats, and to bring plenty of water for kids.
Overall, Sikkim offers a safe and enjoyable environment for families, with a range of activities suitable for children and adults alike.
Itinerary – 1
North Sikkim Tour Packages starting at @ 16,000 per person
Tour Summary
- Day 1: Arrive in Gangtok , capital of Sikkim and Gangtok sightseeing.
- Day 2: Travel to Lachung, a scenic village in North Sikkim.
- Day 3: Visit the Yumthang Valley, known for its beautiful scenery and colourful orchards, and potentially Zero Point (Yumesamdong) for its snow-covered landscape, often called the “Zero Point”.
- Day 4: You’ll travel back from Lachung to Gangtok, concluding the tour.
Detailed Tour Itinerary
Day – 01
Arrive at Gangtok – Gangtok to Lachen Road Trip
Welcome to Sikkim!
Railway Station / Airport Pick-up & Hotel Transfer (approx. 130 km / 4hours drive)
- Upon arrival at the railway station or Bagdogra airport at Gangtok, Sikkim, our friendly representative will greet you.
- Enjoy a picturesque journey through winding mountain roads, tranquillity, rhododendrons, orchids for comfortable transfer to your pre-booked hotel.
- Check-in, relax, and refresh before beginning your Sikkim adventure.
MG Marg Stroll – Local Shopping and Cuisine
- Visit the famous market place.
- Walk through the street and shop for souvenirs and local artefacts. You will find religious paintings called Thankas, Nepalese dresses, Tibetan carpets, stuff made from bamboo and cane, alpine cheese, hand-woven jackets and even electronic items for shopping.
Return to Hotel for Overnight Stay
- After a busy and joyful day amidst mountain settings and natural beauty, return to your hotel.
- Enjoy a relaxing overnight stay in Gangtok.
Key Highlights: Sightseeing, scenic road journey, and local shopping.
Day – 02
Gangtok – Lachen (125 km / 6 hours approximately)
Mountain Adventure Begins!
Road Trip from Gangtok Hotel
- Start your day with a transfer from Gangtok to Lachen.
- Board a cab / taxi to proceed towards Lachen.
- Enjoy the scenic road trip towards a valley that is surrounded by towering snow-capped Himalayan ranges. Lachen is a peaceful small town with a minimal population. Cross some hot springs and green soothing meadows. Spotting some exotic flora and fauna such as wood snipe and hoary-throated barwing.
On arrival, check in at the hotel and head out for sightseeing.
Lepcha Village – A Glimpse of Rich Cultural Heritage of Sikkim
- Local sightseeing and a peep into the mountain rural, simple life.
- Explore local traditions and food
- Enjoy a nature walk through lush greenery and spot some exotic birds.
Return to the Lachen Hotel
- After a refreshing sightseeing adventure, return to the Lachen hotel.
- Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay.
Key Highlights: Quaint wooden houses with old-world charm, nature walks, wildlife spotting, rejuvenating trekking expeditions, and natural vitas of the wondrous hills.
Day – 03
Lachen – Gurudongmar Lake – Chopta Valley Excursion – Lachung
A Day in the Heart of Himalayas
Gurudongmar Lake
- Begin your day with an early morning 3-hour drive to a valley that is located at an altitude of 11, 800 feet.
- Enjoy the surreal beauty of the holy lake of Sikhs, Buddhists and Hindus, which is the second highest lakes in India.
- Get thrilled by the proximity of the Tibet border and the surrounding snow-covered.
Cold Desert Visit
- Behold the land where the Himalayan rain-shadow area merges with the Tibetan plateau.
- Reach an altitude of about 20,000 to 25,000 feet and let the sheer beauty of the rock face bewilder you.
Visit Chopta Valley
- Enjoy the picturesque serenity of Chopta Valley located at an altitude of 13200 feet.
- Enjoy the adventurous water sports if you are in season.
- Relish authentic Sikkim delicacies.
Visit Thangu Valley
- Enjoy the relaxing vibes of a small and cosy village
- Stay mesmerized by the cover of vibrant alpine flowers.
- Attempt the spectacular hiking trails in the valley if you are adventurous enough.
- Indulge in nature lovers and photo enthusiasts.
Visit the Lachung Monastery
- Explore the ancient Nyingma Buddhist gompa located at a stupendous height of 9,600 feet.
- The monastery is famous for hosting mask dances each year.
- Plan your trip around winter to behold its mesmerising sights of ‘Chaam’. This traditional dance will prove to be striking with performers wearing vibrant colourful clothes and heavy masks. It is absolutely breathtaking and calls for photography (with permission).
- Upon arrival at Lachung, transfer to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.
Key Highlights: Scenic road journey, Nyingma Buddhist gompa, holy Gurudongmar Lake, frozen snow-capped peaks, thrilling water sports at Chopta valley, mesmerizing mask dance, photography and local food exploration.
Day – 04
Lachung – Yumthang Excursion – Gangtok
Morning Breakfast & Yumthang valley visit
- Check out from the hotel and drive to reach Yumthang Valley or more famously known as ‘The Valley of Flowers’.
- Travel 11,800 feet above sea level to reach this mesmerizing valley.
- Don’t miss the famous hot spring that is popular owing to its curative properties for skin diseases.
Visit Singhik and Mangan
- Explore these extremely scenic towns on your way to Gangtok.
- The weather permitting and the sky without clouds will offer you. some of the most stunning views of Himalayan ranges.
- From here you can spot the peaks of Kanchenjunga, Pandim, Simvo, Kabru, Jopuno and Mt. Siniolchu.
- After having taken in enough of the valley’s beauty, start your journey towards Gangtok. Overnight stay at Gangtok hotel and spend the night in the warmth of a cosy room.
Key Highlights: Scenic road journey, frozen snow-capped peaks, mesmerizing valley beauty, photography and exclusive Kanchenjunga view.
Day – 05
Departure from Gangtok
Morning at Leisure & Check-Out
- Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel.
- Take in the last glimpses of the pristine Gangtok beauty before departure.
- Complete the check-out process at the hotel.
Transfer to Airport
- Our team will escort you to New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJR) or Bagdogra Airport.
- Say goodbye to Sikkim, carrying treasured memories of your island adventure.
Fly Back with Beautiful Memories
- Depart with unforgettable experiences of serene mountain streams, thrilling Himalayan peaks, and breathtaking landscapes.
- We look forward to welcoming you again for another Sikkim getaway!
End of a Memorable Sikkim Tour!
All North Sikkim Tour Inclusions
- Welcomes drink
- 24 hour on call assistance during your stay.
- Accommodation on twin sharing basis in hotels mentioned.
- Daily Breakfast except day of Arrival (lunch / dinner)
- All transfers & sightseeing by 01 A/C or non-A /C Private Car.
- All Entry Tickets, Permit Fees, and Cab Transfers Included.
- Assistance at all arrival and departure point.
All North Sikkim Tour Exclusions
- Domestic / International air fare and ship fare.
- Lunch and Dinner are not included in the package.
- Tipping and portage payable to the driver, bellboy, room service or waiter.
- Any expense of personal nature like telephone bills, laundry bills, mini bar, etc
- Vehicle charges on leisure days for sightseeing not included in the itinerary.
- Medical and travel insurance.
- Camera tickets not included. Guests must purchase them directly at sightseeing locations.
- Optional activities such as water sports, hiking, trekking, etc.
- Expenses occurred due to bad weather, Flight cancellation, strike or any political unrest to be paid by guest (to be borne by the clients directly on the spot)
- 5% GST not included
Hotel Category (Budget)
| Hotels at Gangtok |
The Di-Lac Retreat |
Evara Hills Gangtok |
Rhenock House (a luxury Villa) |
Hotel Rendezvous |
| Hotels at Lachen |
Summit Gangchen Hotel |
Rufina Blue Pine |
Khenkim Regency |
Summit Panghen Metok Hotel |
Booking Policy
Budget, Standard & Premium Tour Packages
- Extend an advance payment of 25% of Total Tour Package Cost as booking fees
- Rest of the 75% balance Amount to be paid on the day of Arrival.
Deluxe & Luxury Tour Packages
- 50% of Total Tour Package Cost
- Remaining 50% Balance Payment Due One Week Prior to Tour Commencement.
Cancellation Policy
If the Client is willing to amend or cancel his/her booking because of whatsoever reasons including death, accident, illness, or any other personal reasons including non-payment of the balance payment, the Company is liable to recover Cancellation
Charges from the Client: If you want to cancel your booking, you must notify us in writing.
Cancellations are subject to the following charges:
- Program Rescheduling: No Charges Applied!
Itinerary – 2
North Sikkim Package Tour @ 10,999/-pp
Tour Summary
- Day 1: Arrive in Gangtok , capital of Sikkim and Gangtok sightseeing.
- Day 2: Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake Excursion and Baba Mandir
- Travel to Lachen, a scenic village in North Sikkim.
- Day 3: Visit the Yumthang Valley, known for its beautiful scenery and colorful orchards, and potentially Zero Point (Yumesamdong) for its snow-covered landscape, often called the “Zero Point”.
- Day 4: You’ll travel back from Lachung to Gangtok, concluding the tour.
Tour Itinerary
Day – 01
Arrive at Gangtok – Gangtok to Lachen Road Trip
Welcome to Sikkim!
Railway Station / Airport Pick-up & Hotel Transfer (approx. 130 km / 4hours drive)
- Upon arrival at the railway station or Bagdogra airport at Gangtok, Sikkim, our friendly representative will greet you.
- Enjoy a picturesque journey through winding mountain roads, tranquillity, rhododendrons, orchids for comfortable transfer to your pre-booked hotel.
- Check-in, relax, and refresh before beginning your Sikkim adventure.
MG Marg Stroll – Local Shopping and Cuisine
- Visit the famous market place.
- Walk through the street and shop for souvenirs and local artefacts. You will find religious paintings called Thankas, the Nepalese dresses, Tibetan carpets, stuff made from bamboo and cane, alpine cheese, hand-woven jackets and even electronic items for shopping.
Return to Hotel for Overnight Stay
- After an busy and joyful day amidst mountain settings and natural beauty, return to your hotel.
- Enjoy a relaxing overnight stay in Gangtok.
Key Highlights: Sightseeing, scenic road journey, and local shopping.
Day – 02
Today, you shall enjoy the mesmeric visits to the Tsomgo Lake and Baba Harbhajan Mandir.
The second day of this Gangtok Lachen Lachung holiday package starts with a healthy breakfast at the hotel, followed by some sightseeing expedition in Gangtok.
The Tsomgo Lake Visit
- The Tsomgo Lake is known to be a sacred lake by the locals in Gangtok.
- There is a small temple situated at its bank. After a three-hour picturesque drive, you will reach an altitude of 12,400 feet where the beauty of the glacial lake will mesmerize you.
- The lake is believed to sport changing colours with changing seasons.
Baba Harbhajan Mandir
- The next visit is to the famous Baba Harbhajan Mandir that carries significant historical relevance in the life of the people of Sikkim.
- It is a memorial dedicated to an Indian soldier who had lost his life on duty. It is believed that his soul still wanders and protects the Nathula border that connects India to China and the people of the army who serve this region.
- It is set at a height of 13,200 and the place offers surreal views of the mountain tops as the beauty of Himalayas unfold in front of your eyes. Enjoy a ride on yaks and ponies here as you breathe in the fresh mountain air.
Optional Tour to Nathula Pass / Additional Charges / Special Permit
- If time permits and if you are enthusiastic enough and if the weather is favourable an optional tour to Nathula Pass can also be arranged.
- You shall be thrilled to walk down the steps that lead to the fenced Indo-China border.
- At the end of a day’s nature tour around Gangtok’s most popular tourist attractions, return back to the hotel in Gangtok for a comfortable overnight stay.
Key Highlights: Scenic road journey, mesmerizing Tsomgo Lake Visit, meeting Sikkim culture and tradition, and visiting Baba Harbhajan Mandir
Day 03
Gangtok – Lachen (125 km / 6 hours approximately)
Mountain Adventure Begins!
Road Trip from Gangtok Hotel
- Start your day with a transfer from Gangtok to Lachen.
- Board a cab / taxi to proceed towards Lachen.
- Enjoy the scenic road trip towards a valley that is surrounded by towering snow-capped Himalayan ranges. Lachen is a peaceful small town with a minimal population. Cross some hot springs and green soothing meadows. Spotting some exotic flora and fauna such as wood snipe and hoary-throated barwing.
On arrival, check in at the hotel and head out for sightseeing.
Lepcha Village – A Glimpse of Rich Cultural Heritage of Sikkim
- Local sightseeing and a peep into the mountain rural, simple life.
- Explore local traditions and food
- Enjoy a nature walk through lush greenery and spot some exotic birds.
Return to the Lachen Hotel
- After a refreshing sightseeing adventure, return to the Lachen hotel.
- Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay.
Key Highlights: Quaint wooden houses with old-world charm, nature walks, wildlife spotting, rejuvenating trekking expeditions, and natural vitas of the wondrous hills.
Day – 04
Lachen–Gangtok-Viewpoints
Morning Breakfast & Gangtok travel
- Check out from the hotel and drive to reach for the onward journey back to Gangtok. One the way, visit some beautiful spots.
Visit Singhik and Mangan
- Explore these extremely scenic towns on your way to Gangtok.
- The weather permitting and the sky without clouds will offer you. some of the most stunning views of Himalayan ranges.
- From here you can spot the peaks of Kanchenjunga, Pandim, Simvo, Kabru, Jopuno and Mt. Siniolchu.
- After having taken in enough of the valley’s beauty, start your journey towards Gangtok. Overnight stay at Gangtok hotel and spend the night in the warmth of a cosy room.
Key Highlights: Scenic road journey, frozen snow-capped peaks, Singhik viewpoint, mesmerizing valley beauty, photography and exclusive Kanchenjunga view.
Day – 05
Departure from Gangtok
Morning at Leisure & Check-Out
- Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel.
- Take in the last glimpses of the pristine Gangtok beauty before departure.
- Complete the check-out process at the hotel.
Transfer to Airport
- Our team will escort you to New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJR) or Bagdogra Airport.
- Say goodbye to Sikkim, carrying treasured memories of your island adventure.
Fly Back with Beautiful Memories
- Depart with unforgettable experiences of serene mountain streams, thrilling Himalayan peaks, and breathtaking landscapes.
- We look forward to welcoming you again for another Sikkim getaway!
End of a Memorable Sikkim Tour!
All North Sikkim Tour Inclusions
- Welcomes drink
- 24 hour on call assistance during your stay.
- Accommodation on twin sharing basis in hotels mentioned.
- Daily Breakfast except day of Arrival (lunch / dinner)
- All transfers & sightseeing by 01 A/C or non-A /C Private Car.
- All Entry Tickets, Permit Fees, and Cab Transfers Included.
- Assistance at all arrival and departure points.
All North Sikkim Tour Exclusions
- Domestic / International air fare and ship fare.
- Lunch & Dinner are not included in the package.
- Tipping and portage payable to the driver, bellboy, room service or waiter.
- Any expense of personal nature like telephone bills, laundry bills, mini bar, etc
- Vehicle charges on leisure days for sightseeing not included in the itinerary.
- Medical and travel insurance.
- Camera tickets not included. Guests must purchase them directly at sightseeing locations.
- Optional activities such as water sports, hiking, trekking, etc.
- Expenses occurred due to bad weather, Flight cancellation, strike or any political unrest to be paid by guest (to be borne by the clients directly on the spot)
- 5% GST not included
Hotel Category (Budget)
| Hotels at Gangtok |
The Di-Lac Retreat |
Evara Hills Gangtok |
Rhenock House (a luxury Villa) |
Hotel Rendezvous |
| Hotels at Lachen |
Summit Gangchen Hotel |
Rufina Blue Pine |
Khenkim Regency |
Summit Panghen Metok Hotel |
Booking Policy
Budget, Standard & Premium Tour Packages
- Extend an advance payment of 25% of Total Tour Package Cost as booking fees
- Rest of the 75% balance Amount to be paid on the day of Arrival.
Deluxe & Luxury Tour Packages
- 50% of Total Tour Package Cost
- Remaining 50% Balance Payment Due One Week Prior to Tour Commencement.
Cancellation Policy
If the Client is willing to amend or cancel his/her booking because of whatsoever reasons including death, accident, illness, or any other personal reasons including non-payment of the balance payment, the Company is liable to recover Cancellation
Charges from the Client
If you want to cancel your booking, you must notify us in writing.
Program Rescheduling: No Charges Applied!
Sikkimtourism.org thoughtfully curates itineraries that combine the uniqueness of North Sikkim and the relaxing soulful vibes. The capital city of Gangtok will be the starting point of your North Sikkim tour. North Sikkim will win the traveller heart in you with traditional monasteries, natural beauty and serenity, unforgettable views of this part of the Himalayas, especially Kachenjunga and not to forget the taste of local cuisines. North Sikkim is known for both short vacations and long tours and is an ideal travel destination for solo travellers, couples and families. Pick your kind of tour package from our wide range of North Sikkim tour package holidays.
Spend a tranquil vacation amidst the peace and serenity in the heart of Himalayas. Enjoy the sounds and sights of nature with our North Sikkim tour packages. Explore the verdant mountain scapes, picturesque valleys, and soul-soothing nature that gives you a unique experience of a fulfilling North Sikkim vacation. Our assorted North Sikkim holiday itineraries cover all that is required for a peaceful and memorable holiday. Sikkimtourism.org’s North Sikkim itineraries allow you to explore this beautiful state and its hidden jewels. We also provide assistance to our customers in booking flights and finding the best accommodations as per their budget. At Sikkimtourism.org, we are committed to make your North Sikkim holidays a jovial and happy experience. Our tour representative will always be available with their guidance, making your vacation hassle-free. Those who want a personalised itinerary, contact us and our travel experts will create a customised North Sikkim package just for you with special highlights on the most famous tourist attractions of solely North Sikkim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any permit for visiting Lachen and Lachung?
Yes, all Indian tourists require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for visiting North Sikkim (Lachen, Lachung, Gurudongmar Lake, Yumthang Valley, etc.). Foreign nationals are not allowed to visit Gurudongmar Lake and some parts of North Sikkim on account or border security reasons.
How to get permits for visiting Lachen and Lachung?
Permits will be arranged by us (sikkimtourirsm.org). You need to submit an ID proof and passport-size photo.
Which is the best time for Gangtok, Lachen, and Lachung trip?
- Best months are from March to June (spring/summer) and October to mid-December (autumn).
- Winter season sees heavy snowfall from December to February – routes might get blocked due to heavy snowfall.
- Monsoon season (July–September) to be avoided due to landslides and slippery roads.
How many days are needed for a Gangtok–Lachen–Lachung trip?
A 5 to 7 day itinerary is ideal for a Gangtok–Lachen–Lachung trip.
Is it safe to travel to North Sikkim?
North Sikkim is generally safe. However, mountainous terrain and winding roads can be rough at places, especially in winters or monsoons. Choose experienced drivers and a registered tour operator. Go through reviews before choosing your travel operator.
Can I visit Lachen and Lachung in my private vehicle?
Self-driven private vehicles or private cars from outside Sikkim are not allowed beyond Gangtok for North Sikkim. Only vehicles from registered North Sikkim tour operators with permits can travel to Lachen and Lachung.
Are there ATMs or mobile networks in Lachen and Lachung?
ATMs are very limited. Withdraw necessary cash in Gangtok if you forget to carry for your Sikkim trip. Mobile network is patchy or almost no signal is found in Lachen/Lachung. BSNL and Jio work best in remote areas.
How is the accommodation in Lachen and Lachung?
In these remote mountain destinations, focus is on the pristine nature and conservation and thus the hotels or homestays are very basic. They are clean but not luxurious. Warm hospitality with essential amenities, and local food will win your heart. Power cuts and limited hot water are common in winter.
Should altitude sickness be a concern in North Sikkim?
Yes, altitude sickness can be a cause of concern especially at very high altitudes such as in Gurudongmar Lake which is at about 17,800 ft. You are advised to stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and don’t overexert yourself. Doctor should be consulted prior to visiting the higher altitude destinations if you have a history of respiratory or heart conditions.
What are the major attractions in Lachen and Lachung?
In Lachen, Gurudongmar Lake and Chopta Valley; Lachung offers mesmerizing Yumthang Valley, Zero Point, green pristine valleys and Hot Springs. On the way to Lachen and Lachung from Gangtok, you can visit Seven Sisters Waterfall, Singhik Viewpoint, and beautiful riverside villages if time permits.
North Sikkim Tour Cost Estimate (Per Person)
1) Budget Package for Standard Hotels
| Category |
|
Cost (INR) |
| Accommodation (3 nights) |
|
6,000 – 8,000 |
| Meals (Veg/Non-veg) |
|
1,500 – 2,000 |
| Transport (Innova / SUV) |
|
6,000 – 7,000 |
| Driver Allowance & Permits |
|
1,500 – 2,000 |
| Total (Approx.) |
|
₹15,000 – ₹19,000 |
2) Mid-Range Package for 3-Star Hotels
| Category |
Cost (INR) |
| Accommodation (3 nights) |
9,000 – 12,000 |
| Meals |
2,000 – 2,500 |
| Transport (Innova Crysta / Xylo) |
7,000 – 9,000 |
| Driver & Permits |
2,000 – 3,000 |
| Total (Approx.) |
₹20,000 – ₹26,000 |
| |
|
3) Premium Package for 4-Star Hotels + Comfort Transport
| Category |
Cost (INR) |
| Accommodation (3 nights) |
15,000 – 20,000 |
| Meals |
3,000 – 4,000 |
| Transport (SUV / Scorpio / Ertiga) |
9,000 – 12,000 |
| Driver & Permits |
3,000 – 4,000 |
| Total (Approx.) |
₹30,000 – ₹40,000+ |
Tour Price Depends on the Following
- Travel Season
- Peak (Apr–Jun, Oct–Nov): Higher rates
- Off-season (Monsoon, Winter): Lower but limited access
- Accommodation Type
- Guesthouse / Home stays → Cheaper
- Hotels → Mid-range
- Deluxe → Premium pricing
- Vehicle Type
- SUV / Scorpio / Innova Crysta: More comfortable for North Sikkim
- Sedan / Hatchback: Lower cost but not recommended for rough roads
- Number of Travelers
Shared cost per vehicle drops as group size increases.
Optional Add-Ons and Approx Costs
| Add-On |
Extra |
| Zero Point Excursion |
₹1,500 – ₹3,000 |
| Snow Jeep Ride (seasonal) |
₹1,000 – ₹2,500 |
| Travel Insurance |
₹600 – ₹1,200 |
Example Budget for a Couple
| Package Type |
Total Cost (Approx) |
| Budget |
₹30,000 – ₹38,000 |
| Mid-Range |
₹40,000 – ₹52,000 |
| Premium |
₹60,000 – ₹80,000+ |
Tips to Save Money/Budget Planning
- Book hotels and vehicle together as a package
- Travel in a group (shared vehicle costs)
- Avoid peak season if you have an option
- Pre-book permits & transport to avoid on-spot hikes
If you want, Sikkimtourism.org can customize exact pricing based on:
- Dates of travel
- Number of people
- Hotel choice (budget / mid / premium)
- Pick-up point (Gangtok / NJP / Bagdogra)
