The things to do in Sikkim include adventurous activities like river rafting, trekking and cultural activities such as monastery visits, village tours, and attending festivals. Then there are activities that take you closer to nature such as visiting Yumthang valley in North Sikkim or going for a hike in an alpine sanctuary. In Sikkim, one can explore Ravangla’s Buddha Park, explore, shop and eat at MG Marg, and go for a cycling trip on the serpentine roads or enjoy wandering in Temi Tea estate. If you want to learn about what are the things to do in Sikkim, here is a list of Sikkim activities along with their best time and costs (if applicable).
The Goecha La Trek is one of those Sikkim activities that will stay with you for the rest of your life. The Goecha La Trek is only fairly difficult and takes ten days to accomplish. The starting point of the trek is Yuksom is west. You will cross dense alpine forests, enchanting meadows, and glacial grounds to reach the viewpoint. The Goecha La Trek is ideal for all trekkers because it is more rewarding than demanding. The vista of Kanchenjunga will greet you in all its majestic stature when you reach the height of 15,100 ft at the end of the climb.
The best time for Goecha La trek is from October to November and the cost of Goecha La trek ranges from ₹20,000 to ₹40,000, depending on the trekking operators, group size, and trek package.
In the state of Sikkim, the Teesta is the most significant river. River Teesta runs across the whole state from Lhamo Lake, where it is formed, and has become Sikkim’s lifeblood. There are lots of rafting opportunities in Teesta, with spectacular rapids strewn along the river’s length. The river originates at So Lhamo Lake and goes across the whole state of Sikkim. The most popular rafting stretches are Makha and Singtan with Grade 1 rapids (ideal and accessible for beginners). The cost of river rafting in Sikkim is ₹900 per person and the ideal time to go for rafting in Sikkim is between March and May.
If you’re interested, all you have to do is locate a reputable rafting service in Sikkim, and they’ll take care of the rest. This is the pinnacle of adventure in Teesta river.
If you’re searching for exciting things to do in Sikkim, the Kanchenjunga base camp hike is the way to go. This rewarding and demanding walk is 90 kilometres long and takes around ten days to complete.
Starting in Yuksom, you will hike up to Bakkhim while taking in the spectacular views of the Himalayan range that will accompany you throughout your adventure. The Kanchenjunga base camp journey is difficult, but it is one that should be on every trekker’s bucket list. It’s located at a height of 5200 metres in the Himalayan range.
The cost of Kanchenjunga Base Camp hike is around ₹1,50,000 to ₹2,50,000 for all inclusive hiking packages. The best time for this hike is mid-September to mid-October, and mid-March to mid-June.
In recent years, Sikkim has become a hotspot for adventure sports. The state of Sikkim is ideal for paragliding because of its high altitude and lovely landscapes. As a result, the capital city of Sikkim draws a large number of paragliding visitors. You may get a paragliding service in Bojoghari hamlet or Tashi View Point. You may hire the essential equipment from them and glide over Sikkim’s lush woods and untamed rivers. The best time for paragliding in Gangtok is from May through October is the time to enjoy the best there.
Location: Bojoghari Village, and Tashi View Point.
Fees: ₹4,000 per person
Riding the cable car is one of Sikkim’s most thrilling adventure activities, suitable for people of all ages. If you want to get the most out of the journey, begin at Deorali, the lowest station, and ride all the way to the top. Find a seat near the window so you can take in the vista of the mountains and valley below.The lowest spot to ride the cable car is Deorali in Gangtok.
The price of Ropeyway in Gangtok is ₹110 per adult and ₹70 for each child under the age of six, and free for children under the age of three. Timings are from 9:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.
What to do on a Sikkim Darjeeling Bike Trip
Mt. Kanchenjunga’s dwelling is a heaven on earth, hidden from the rest of the world. Sikkim is a biker’s heaven, with beautiful hill villages, winding roads making their way through hills, clean meadows decorated with rhododendron blossoms, and spectacular views. So, take an exciting bike journey to Sikkim and be enchanted by the splendour of the valley of flowers, the 17,800-foot Gurudongmanar lake, and the tiny hamlets of Lachen. Get on your motorcycles for a high-octane journey across the state’s captivating magnificence.
If you’re seeking adventure activities to do in Sikkim, a bicycle vacation along the Silk Route is one of the greatest options. The adventure begins at Sillery Gaon. From the NJP railway station, you may drive there.
Professional tour organisers can offer you with the bicycles and other equipment you require. The week-long journey provides some of the greatest views of Sikkim’s Himalayas. You will sleep at designated halts specified by the organiser where you may resupply your food and drink.An all inclusive cycling tour may cost around ₹10,000 – 30,000 per person. The estimated time to complete the cycling expedition is 7 – 8 days.
Location: East Sikkim, along the old Silk Route.
The 50-kilometer Dzongri Trek, which begins in Yuksom and ends in Gangtok, Sikkim, is one of the most popular hiking routes in the state. The trail’s topography is one of the reasons why this week-long walk has become so popular. Even the most experienced hikers will find the journey tough.
The Dzongri Trek, which starts above 4200 metres, offers not only excitement but also a vista that makes the effort worthwhile. The magnificent Himalayan vista is just the beginning of what it has to offer. The journey is made even more beautiful by the woodlands and the open sky. The best time to go for a Dzongri trek is from March to mid-June and September to November. It can take 6 to 7 days to complete the Dzongri trek.
Cost: ₹10,000 to ₹15000 is the standard trek package cost for Dzongri trek.
The Tsomgo Lake is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Gangtok, Sikkim’s capital. The lake, also known as Changu Lake, is built up entirely of glacial water. Tsomgo Lake, at an elevation of 12310 feet, may be reached by hiring a car from Gangtok.
The lake is 35 kilometres from Gangtok city, so getting there early will make your vacation much more memorable. The lake is surrounded by mountains, and the surrounding lands remain snow-covered during the winter. The scene’s overall splendour is amazing. One can visit this lake during summer, autumn, and winter. One needs a cab service to visit Tsomogo Lake for which they charge ₹3500 – ₹7000, depending on the car you choose.
Please note that visitors are required to obtain a Protected Area Permit through registered Sikkim tour operators or local hotels in Gangtok.
The Rumtek Monastery is one of the most entertaining things to do in Sikkim since it is a magnificent sight to behold. The monastery is 23 kilometres from Gangtok and is easily accessible by automobile. This is a serious religious and religious studies institution.
The Rumtek Monastery is a significant Buddhist religious and cultural site. Every year, Buddhists and spiritual people from all over the world come to our monastery. You will see a large number of religious objects, artifacts, Tibetan murals, ceremonial objects and rare Buddhist relics of paramount significance. The location is Dharma Chakra Center.
Summer hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., while winter hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Imagine leaping from a height of 200 metres and plummeting with the chilly wind on your face and a breathtaking view below you. If that thrills you, then bungee jumping off Sikkim’s tallest bridge is the way to go.
The Singshore Bridge is hung at a height of 198 metres, and bungee jumping for visitors is organised by qualified professionals. The view of the beautiful green mountains in the background adds to the pleasure.It is located in Uttarey Village, 5 kilometres from Pelling. The cost is ₹3000 to ₹5000 per participant.
Best Time: All year, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
If you’re looking for things to do in Sikkim, a trip to Gurudongmar Lake could be precisely what you’re looking for. This lake is India’s second highest lake. The Gurudongmar Lake, with a height of 17100 feet, is likewise one of the world’s highest lakes. Aside from that, the lake is a stunning sight, too beautiful to ignore. Summer and fall are the best times to visit Gurudongmar Lake.
The lake may definitely enchant you when there are mountains in the backdrop and pleasant weather. When you visit Sikkim, you should definitely see the dawn from the lake. Please note that due to being at extremely high altitude, one needs to acclimatise well, stay hydrated, and use a prescription-based diamox medicine a day earlier before ascent.
Location of Gurodomgar Lake: On the way to Lachen, 121 kilometres from Gangtok.
Aside from being a gorgeous tourist attraction, the Tsomgo Lake also provides one of Sikkim’s most unique experiences: the opportunity to ride a Yak. Yaks are calm creatures that are ideal for a tour around the lake. By the conclusion of your trip, you’ll have fallen in love with them. It is around 40 kilometres from Gangtok.
Riding a Yak costs ₹450 to ₹700 for 1 hour for adults and for kids, the cost is ₹300 to ₹400. You can bargain the price of yak safari. If you want a souvenir photo, you can take a picture with a decorated yak for ₹100 – ₹150.
Set off on the Dzongri Goechala Trek, which is regarded as one of Sikkim’s best hiking locations. This state, which is located in the Himalayan Mountains, has several natural attractions. It attracts many visitors due to its rich culture, attractive terrain, and biodiversity.
The Goechala Trek to Dzongri is a beautiful one, with awe-inspiring snowy peaks all around. When you visit, your eyes will be treated to a kaleidoscope of colours ranging from green to gold to blue. The breath-taking vista of Kanchenjunga, the world’s third tallest peak, is the major point of Goechala, a high mountain pass. It also acts as a basecamp for those brave enough to attempt the climb to the peak. The maximum altitude of the trek is 4948 m. It is moderate to strenuous and ideal for experienced trekkers. The cost of Dzongri – Goechala Trek in Sikkim starts from ₹13,000/- onwards.
You must explore the magnificent Nathula Pass while enjoying the things to do in Sikkim. The Nathula Pass, at an elevation of 14140 feet, is a frigid location that is always blanketed in white snow. The China border is fairly near from this location, and troops from both nations can be seen guarding their own boundaries. What’s interesting about Nathula Pass is it was an ancient Silk Route trading post between India and China.
Don’t forget to shop in Sherathang, the local market area, while you’re in Nathula Pass. You’ll discover traditional items to take home with you. Gangtok is 52 kilometres away from Nathula Pass. May through October is the best time to visit. From Wednesday through Saturday, it is available to the public. The cost of the permit is Rs. 200 per person.
In Sikkim, there are many fascinating things to do, and hang gliding is one of the greatest. As adventure sports become more popular in Sikkim, more people are seeking new ways to experience the thrill of pushing their limits. Hang gliding is one of the activities in Sikkim that does this. Even if you’ve never tried hang gliding before, an expert pilot can help you enjoy the exhilarating pastime.
Where to do handgliding in Sikkim: Yumthang and Jorethang are the two locations. The cost is Rs. 2500 per person. You’ll have to pay extra for video recording.
Best time: Mid-May through mid-October, early morning to late afternoon.
With our guide, you may see all of the tourist attractions in West Sikkim during your vacation to this wonderful location.
There’s no better way to get a bird’s eye perspective of an area than from above. One of the ways to do so is to take a helicopter flight. A helicopter ride is one of the most exciting things to do in Sikkim for thrill lovers. Sikkim appears much prettier from above, with its river running under it and mountains within touching reach.
If you are visiting East Sikkim, you should check into the famous sites to visit in East Sikkim in order to make your Sikkim vacation more captivating. The cost of a 15-minute to 75-minute trip ranges from Rs. 18000 to Rs. 90000, depending on the duration.
When to do helicopter ride in Sikkim: All year, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m.
The Singalila National Park is a great site to explore, with breathtaking scenery and a diverse range of species. The park’s highest peak is at 12000 feet, and you may hike up there to enjoy it even more. The Singalila National Park is located on a renowned trekking route between Sandakphu and Phalut. If you enjoy trekking, Gangtok offers some of the greatest adventurous trekking trips in the world. Singalila Ridge is located in the Darjeeling District. March through May and October to early December are the best months to visit.The cost of admission is Rs.100, and the cost of a vehicle safari is Rs.100 per person. A photo camera will set you back Rs. 100, while a video camera would set you back Rs. 400.
Sikkim is a spiritually devoted state. When it comes to spiritualism and religion, the North Lha-RI-Nying Phu is a sacred site. The cave is a sacred spot that attracts visitors from all over the world. Exploring the cave is a thrilling journey that you will never forget.
North Lha-Ri-Nying Phu is a site to visit because of its hard terrain and natural beauty. The trekking route is fairly difficult, but it is all part of the experience. It’s near the Tashiding Monastery on Tashiding’s northwestern outskirts.
The fee per participant is Rs. 4500.
Best time: March to June and October to November are the best months to visit.
In Sikkim, there are a few activities that are both instructive and pleasant. One of those things is undoubtedly a visit to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology. When you visit Sikkim, you will undoubtedly be interested in learning more about Tibetan culture.
This institute is the most important centre for Tibetan language and cultural research. It also contains a library and a museum, both of which house some of the most historically significant papers. The Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is also noted for its traditional architecture. It’s one of the most gorgeous Tibetan structures you’ll ever see.
Location of Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: Deorali, Gangtok.
Gangtok, Sikkim’s unique capital, is a Buddhist paradise. Gangtok is an ideal of neatness and one of the few such places in India, in keeping with the Zen belief that spirituality can only find its way via clear and spotless surroundings. The breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Kanchenjunga only contribute to the Gangokian ambiance. This region is not only known for having the top tourist attractions in Gangtok, but it is also known for its unique food, of which Momos and Kinema are good examples. Gangtok is known for its delicious food, gorgeous Buddhist monasteries like Rumtek and Enchey, and evocative scenery.
The state capital of Gangtok, located in the eastern Himalayan range, mixes a contemporary resort town design with traditional spiritual beliefs and a stunning natural heritage. Holidays in Gangtok are set against a backdrop of mountain scenery, with most of the attention on the monasteries, shrines, and temples of this ancient hub of Tibetan Buddhist pilgrimage. Momo (stuffed dumplings), a local delicacy, also connects Gangtok to Tibet. Use Gangtok as a jumping-off point for seeing the rest of the state and beyond, with tour operators providing a variety of day tours and longer journeys. Read on to learn more about the finest tourist attractions in Gangtok.
MG Marg is India’s first pedestrian-only boulevard and the social epicentre of Gangtok’s lively culture. Most Sikkim tour itineraries either begin or end with nudging tourists to explore MG Marg on their own. It’s a place of relaxation, shopping and gobbling delectable food. The entire lane features street food stalls, bakeries, cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, and handicrafts stores. It’s a place where both locals and tourists enjoy their leisure time, especially during the evening.
Despite being such a busy pedestrian street, there is a laid-back charm to the place. One can simply grab a coffee and sit back on a bench relishing the cold evening breeze with warm sips of coffee. Please note that littering, spitting, and smoking on MG marg is strictly not allowed. The nearby attractions from MG Marg are: Enchey Monastery, Flower Exhibition Centre, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology.
For most hikers, the Singalia trek is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The sheer length of the path makes even the most experienced hikers think twice before doing it. The Singalia trip takes approximately a month to complete. You can try the Sandakphu-Phalut Trail (Classic Route) if you have limited experience in trekking.
The physical hurdles, on the other hand, are well worth it in comparison to what the hike has to offer. In those 15 days, you will see the most beautiful sections of Sikkim as you go via Pelling, Chiwa Bhanjyang, Pare Megu, Tikip Chu, Lamuney, and Thangshing.
The cost is between ₹12,000 and ₹35,000 per individual.
Best time: The journey is best done during the winter months.
The Khangchendzonga National Park has been designated as a national park for the past 40 years. Tourists go to this location in droves to witness the vast array of fauna and flora on display. However, since UNESCO designated it as a World Heritage Site in 2016, the number of tourists has grown dramatically.
This simply adds to Khangchendzonga National Park’s beauty. They have a rare collection of medicinal plants, which you will learn about as you stroll through the park with your guide. It is one of the most beautiful destinations to visit in North East India.
Entry Fee: ₹200 for Indians and ₹400 for foreigners
Best Time: March to May and September to mid-December are the best months to visit Khangchendzonga National Park.
Don’t forget to include a visit to Lachung in your list of things to do in Sikkim during your vacation. Lachung is a little hamlet 118 kilometres north of Gangtok. The mountain roads are a little difficult to navigate, and it takes around 6 hours to get there from Sikkim’s city.
The picturesque splendour of the highways, on the other hand, compensates for their poor state. Lachung, at an elevation of 8600 feet, is a haven away from the crowds, preserving its natural beauty and charm. Lachung’s tourist attractions are well-known for their breathtaking views.
Lachung is 118 kilometres from Gangtok. Shared cabs from Gangtok to Lachung coast ₹300 to 400 per person,
The best time to visit Lachung is between April and May. It’s also an excellent idea to go in early December.
In the state of Sikkim, Yuksom is an important trekking starting place. This little town is the starting point for the majority of Sikkim’s notable hiking routes. Trekkers from all over the world congregate here every year to begin their climb to the highest point on the planet. Yuksom is a lovely, green resort in and of itself.
The charming community boasts pleasant weather and a variety of tourist attractions. Norbugang Park, Tashi Tenka, Kathok Wodsallin Gompa, and Dubdi Gompa are just a few of the must-see attractions in the area. The best method to go about the hamlet is on foot.
March through June is the best time to visit Yuksom.
The Phodong Monastery is known for its architecture and religious significance. This holy site is one of the most prominent monasteries in the state of Sikkim. The Phodong Monastery was established about 300 years ago, but it has been restored several times since then to withstand the test of time.
Although the current structural design is relatively contemporary, the classical elements have been successfully preserved. Despite this, the Phodong Monastery remains one of the most beautiful structures in the state of Sikkim.
Phodong is roughly 40 kilometres from Gangtok. There is no entry fee to visit the monastery.
Timings: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
One of the best Sikkim Activities is a trip to Pelling. Pelling has developed into a rapidly developing town in recent years. Pelling is also Sikkim’s second most visited city, behind Gangtok, the state capital. March to May (Spring) and October to December (Autumn) is the best time to visit Pelling.
Pelling is surrounded by lush trees at a height of 6800 feet. Pelling is a lovely area to visit for a few days of relaxation and tourism, with some excellent hotels, markets, and restaurants. Visit the Khangchendzonga and Changey waterfalls while you’re there.
What to see: Sangachoeling Monastery, Yuksom, Kanchenjunga Falls, and a plethora of other fascinating sights.
If you are an adventure seeker, the Green Lake Trek is one of the activities in Sikkim that you will thoroughly appreciate. Despite being a fantastic experience for hikers, the Green Lake Trek is still relatively unknown. The Green Lake trek takes about 12 to 15 days to complete
However, that is perhaps one of the nicest aspects of it, since you will be travelling on less travelled paths, which adds to the adventure’s allure. The Green Lake, at an elevation of 16180 feet, presents hikers with ever-changing landscape and hard uphill hikes.
The cost is ₹75,000 to ₹1,20,000 per person for Indian nationals.
There are several things to do in Sikkim, and visiting the Pemayangtse Monastery is perhaps one of the greatest. This monastery, located in Western Sikkim, receives a large number of visitors and locals each year. If the architectural splendour of the Pemayangtse Monastery is one factor, the location is undoubtedly another. In the monastery, one can see a seven-tiered handcrafted wooden model of Guru Rinpoche’s celestial palace called Sangha Tholing, which took many years to complete.
This modest but religiously significant Buddhist temple gives a vista that will stay with you for a long time. The Pemayangtse Monastery, with the Himalaya as its backdrop, is a manifestation of Tibetan culture and religion. Pemayangtse is located near Pelling. Spring through summer is the best time to visit.
Timings: 7 am – 5 pm
Ticket Cost: ₹20/- per person
The Nathang Valley, at a height of 13500 feet, is one of those locations that may be mistaken for heaven. There was a time when Tibetan yak herders called it home. One of the most appealing features of this valley is how its colours change with the seasons.
During the winter, the country is blanketed with deep snow. From April through January, the region is covered in green fields and wildflowers. Prayer flags flutter all year along the uphill routes, transforming Nathang Valley into a haven of calm and beauty that happens to be one of the loveliest places in Northeast India.
Location: Aritar, near Lungthung.
The Yumthang Valley of Flower receives its name from the fact that the region is always covered in seasonal flowers, with the exception of the winter season, when it is completely covered in snow. Yumthang Valley of Flower is one of Sikkim’s most appealing tourist destinations throughout the year. Youthanga also has a geothermal hot spring which is free to access for all.
Yumthang Valley of Flower is located at a height of 11800 feet and approximately 150 kilometres from Gangtok. When you’re there, don’t forget to stop by the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary.
Lachung is located in North Sikkim.
The best time to visit is between April and June. Due to snowfall, it remains closed during the winter.
There are several Buddhist stupas in Sikkim, but none are as significant as the Do-Drul Chorten. It is not just Sikkim’s biggest, but also one of its most religiously significant sites of worship.
According to folklore, a lama erected the Do-Drul Chorten in 1946 to ward off bad spirits that had previously wandered the region. The Do-Drul Chorten is placed on a mound, and the climb is very difficult, but you should consider taking on the challenge because it is undoubtedly an essential spot to see in Sikkim.
When visiting Gangtok, you must stay at one of the Gangtok resorts, which are known for their luxury and kindness. Tadong is a district in Gangtok. The cost is a voluntary contribution.
The name Namchi is arguably the most important location to visit in Sikkim in terms of religious and cultural activities. In the month of October, Namchi hosts a variety of cultural and religious events. The traditional food festival is a particularly popular one among them.
Make a point of visiting Namchi during the festival days if you want to sample Sikkim’s cuisine. Namchi Rock Garden, Samdruptse Monastery, Char Dham, and Namchi Helipad are some of the most well-known tourist attractions in this region. The view from the helipad is breathtaking.
March-May and September-November are the best months to visit.
Zuluk (at 10,000 ft). is one of the greatest unusual spots to visit. It was formerly a transit route for the famous Silk Route from Tibet to India. You may visit several Silk Route locations while staying in Zuluk. Another popular activity in Zuluk is viewing the dawn from Thambi View Point, which offers spectacular views of Mt. Kanchenjungha and its surrounding peaks. If you are lucky, you may spot Himalayan deer, wild dogs, etc.
Zuluk is surrounded by unspoiled wild woods and is brimming with natural wonders. If you’re looking for adventure, exploring Zuluk should be on your list of activities to do in Sikkim. The best time to visit Zuluk is in March
This one is obvious, but you have to try local dishes of Sikkim if you are planning to visit here. From brothy noodles soups to steamed dumplings and beyond, there is a lot one can discover in the culinary space of Sikkim. There are restaurants, cafes, and small street food stalls in Sikkim. Try items like Gundruk soup (fermented greens), Sha phaley (meat-filled pastries), Chang (fermented millet drink). And don’t forget to try momo, thukpa, Sikkimese noodles at MG Marg.
If you are planning to visit Sikkim, be a part of its unique cultural celebrations. Festivals in Sikkim are extremely delightful. One can attend Losar (Tibetan New Year) celebrated in February or March in which monasteries are lit up with colours, folk music, masked dance and celebration. In May and June, Sikkim celebrates Saga Dawa, it commemorates Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and passing. It is open to all visitors and quite unique to this region of India.
An experienced Sikkim tour operator, with a team of an experienced travel enthusiast ensure to give our clients well-designed Sikkim Gangtok tour packages.
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One needs at least 7 days to enjoy the major attractions of Sikkim including the ones in East, West, and North Sikkim.
The best things to do for first time visitors:
Contact a registered local Sikkim tour operator to access a permit for North Sikkim and Nathula Pass.
March to May and October to December is the best time to visit Sikkim.
Bajre Dara Trek and tendong Hill trek are the best trek for beginners in Sikkim.
Yes, Sikkim is safe for solo travellers as crimes are quite low and the people are friendly and hospitable.
