Sikkim is a very beautiful and a small state of India which is known for its plants, animals, rivers, mountains, lakes and waterfalls. Sikkim is a major tourist destination in India with peaks, sacred lakes, ancient monasteries, orchid nurseries and stunning trekking routes making Sikkim the perfect place to vacation. Sikkim is the most attractive state of India which is full of its excellent natural beauty resources, gorgeous mountains, beautiful waterfalls and some amazing landscapes.
If you are a nature lover and full of aesthetic sense then this state is a very good place for you to visit. If you are planning to visit Sikkim and want to know about the best tourist places in Sikkim, then here we are going to tell you about the places to visit in Sikkim.
History of Sikkim
If you are a history lover and want to know about the history of Sikkim before visiting the famous tourist place of Sikkim, then the history of Sikkim takes us back to the time when Lepchas were the original inhabitants of this state. It is said that in the 9th century the Buddhist saint Guru Rinpoche passed through the country and introduced Buddhism to this state. But here Buddhism took its distinctly Sikkimese form four centuries later when three Tibetan monks, dissatisfied with the rise of the reformist Gelukpa, moved to Yoksum in western-Sikkim. For centuries this region had been lost to Nepalese and British. After independence from British rule in 1947, Sikkim remained an independent country. On 26 April 1975, 28 years after independence, Sikkim became the 22nd state of India, which is today rich in many beautiful and attractive tourist destinations.
Best Places To Visit In Sikkim
If you are planning to visit this charismatic state, then we are going to introduce you to such tourist places of Sikkim which are famous all over India for their natural beauty and attractions and lakhs of tourists visit these tourist places every year.
Gangtok
Situated at an altitude of 1437 meters above the Shivalik hills on the Eastern Himalayan range, Gangtok is one of the major tourist destinations in Sikkim, which refreshes the mind and heart of the tourists visiting here. Let us tell that from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, one can see spectacular views of Kangchenjunga, one of the highest peaks in the world. Also the winding roads and hills of Gangtok are very attractive which makes it one of the most attractive places in Sikkim for adventure lovers to visit. Gangtok is also the third best place for white water rafting in northern India which compels tourists to come here. It is a very special place for adventure lovers as well as tourists looking for peace.
Places to Visit in Gangtok
Nathula Pass, MG Road, Tashi View Point, Hanuman Tok, Reshi Hot Springs, Himalayan Zoological Park, Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, Ganesh Tok, Tsuk La Khang Monastery
Best time to visit Gangtok
Although the weather at this hill station is pleasant throughout the year. But the best time to visit this charming city is from October to December, while in the months of March to June, Gangtok experiences a pleasant climate in summer, so this time is also a good time for sightseeing in Gangtok.
Yuksom
Yuksom, one of the major tourist places in Sikkim, is a beautiful place located in the western region of Sikkim and is known for its natural beauty. Situated amidst mountains covered with lush green vegetation, Yuksom also serves as a base camp to reach Mount Kangchenjunga. If you are looking for places to visit in Sikkim with your friends, then you can pick Yuksom for your trip. The major attractions of this city include historical monuments, ancient monasteries, serene waterfalls and lakes, which you can visit here as well as you can enjoy many adventure activities here. Yuksom is also a very special place for tourists interested in the religious and historical importance of Sikkim as the first Dabdi monastery in the state of Sikkim was established in Yuksom.
Top tourist Places in Yuksom
Khechopalri Lake, Tashiding Monastery, Dabdi Math, Kangchenjunga National Park, tashi tenka, Katok Monastery
Best time to visit Yuksom
Yuksom has pleasant weather throughout the year, so you can visit the city anytime. However, the best months to visit this place are the months of March, April, May and June.
Tsomgo Lake
Tsomgo Lake is one of the highest lakes in India, situated amidst mountains at an altitude of 12,400 feet above sea level on the Gangtok – Nathu La highway. Popularly known as Changu Lake, Tsomgo Lake is a part of every tourist who visits Sikkim. Situated amidst snow-capped mountains and alpine forests, Lake Bakai is a wonderful place that you must visit during your visit to a major tourist destination in Sikkim. Tell De Tsomgo Lake Tsomgo Weather and Best Time to Visit
Lake Tsomgo Weather and Best Time to Visit
The time between April and May is the best time to visit Lake Tsomgo , during which the temperature ranges between -1°C and 18°C and the lake is covered with flowers of rhododendrons and orchids. Whereas from January to March, the entire Changu Lake is frozen, and the temperature drops to -20 °C.
Nathu La Pass
If you are going on a trip to the famous tourist places of Sikkim, then here is a place that you will never want to miss. We are talking about the international India-China border, for which you need a permit. Tell me, Nathula is a mountain pass in the Himalayan peaks that connects Sikkim to China. Nathu La, located on the Indo-Tibetan border at 14450 feet above sea level, is one of the highest roads in the world. Nathula is one of the three open trade border posts between India and China and is famous for its picturesque beauty and scenic surroundings.
The temperature here remains low for most parts of the year, and it becomes a tourist attraction during summers. But only Indian tourists are allowed here and foreigners are not allowed here. This border is such a place where after going you can see Chinese soldiers and their passing trucks along with Indian soldiers.
Weather in Nathula Pass & Best Time to Visit
Nathula Pass experiences heavy snowfall during winters during which the temperature of the region can drop to -25°C. If you really like snow, you can visit Nathula Pass in winters with thick woolens. May to mid-November is the summer season when the temperature is around 10 degree celcius which is the best time to visit Nathula Pass.
Yumthang Valley, North Sikkim
Located about 140 km north of Gangtok in Sikkim, Yumthang Valley is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Sikkim which is also known as “Valley of Flowers”. Situated at an altitude of 3564 meters, this stunning valley is a paradise for nature lovers as it houses the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary which can witness more than 24 species of Rhododendron flowers (state flower) blooming from February to mid-June. Yumthang Valley also has some hot springs, yak and lush green meadows, which remain the center of attraction for the tourists visiting here. If you are searching for famous tourist places of Sikkim to visit with your friends or family, then Yumthang Valley is also the perfect option for you.
Yumthang Valley Weather and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Yumthang Valley starts from the end of February and lasts till June during which you can experience the colorful flowers in the valley. Another good time to visit Yumthang Valley is from February to March when the Losar festival is celebrated.
Zuluk
Situated at an altitude of 10000 feet above sea level, Zuluk (also known as Duluk or Jhuluk or Zuluk) is a beautiful place in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas in Sikkim and is counted among the famous tourist places in Sikkim. The panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, dense forests and sparkling streams make it a very special tourist destination among tourists to visit in Sikkim. To better experience the mesmerizing places and exquisite landscapes of Zuluk, it is advisable to stay at homestays offered by locals rather than commercial hotels. Tourists can also see suffocated army personnel, jeeps and tents on the trails in Juluk. Overall, a visit to Zuluk is surely going to be an experience of a lifetime for you that will refresh the heart and mind.
Places to visit in Zuluk
Thambi View Point, Kupup Lake, Langthung, Tukla, Nathang Valley, Adi Baba Mandir
Best time to visit Zuluk
You can visit Zuluk during the summer months of August to September to experience the green valley blooming with vibrant flowers. While one can visit during the winter months to experience cooler temperatures and snowfall.
Pelling, West Sikkim
Pelling, a beautiful town in the West District of Sikkim, is the second largest tourist destination in Sikkim after Gangtok. Perched at an altitude of 6800 feet above sea level, Pelling is a beautiful town that offers breathtaking views of Khangchendzonga and the neighboring peaks. Pelling is one of the best places in Sikkim for nature lovers as well as adventure lovers, where tourists can spend a peaceful time roaming around, as well as enjoying engaging activities like trekking, mountain biking, rock climbing.
Best Tourist Places in Pelling
Pelling Helipad, Sanchaeling Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery, Darap Village, Rimbi River, Rimbi Waterfall
Best time to visit Pelling
Pelling can be visited at all times of the year. It is best to avoid traveling only during the monsoon season. Pelling is located at an altitude of 2000 m, with temperatures reaching up to 25 °C in summer and down to 1 °C in winter.
Rumtek Monastery
Rumtek Monastery is one of the largest and most important monasteries of Sikkim, situated on top of a hill, 23 km from Gangtok. This monastery is one of the major pilgrimage places of Sikkim which attracts thousands of tourists and pilgrims every year. The monastery belongs to the Kargiya sect of Buddhists, which originated in Tibet in the 12th century. The magnificent Rumtek Monastery houses a beautiful pilgrimage shrine and a monastery for monks who were established with the aim of spreading Buddhist teachings around the world. Whenever you come to visit Rumtek Monastery, you can get a breathtaking view of the entire Gangtok city located right in front of the hill. Apart from this, the architecture of the monastery is also attractive which makes it one of the best places to visit in Sikkim.
Best time to visit Rumtek Monastery
You can visit Rumtek Monastery at any time of the year.
Lachen, North Sikkim
Situated in the northern district of Sikkim, Lachen is one of the most beautiful towns which is an attractive tourist destination. The natural beauty and serene vegetation of Lachen are worth admiring which makes it a good place to visit in Sikkim. Lachen is a sparsely populated holiday destination, which is also famous as the gateway to Lachung Monastery, Gurudongmar and Tso Lamu Lakes. Apart from these, Lachen also serves as a base station for trekking in the North Sikkim region which includes the famous Green Lake and Kangchenjunga National Park trek.
Best time to visit Lachen The best time to visit
Lachen is between May and September, with the months of July and September experiencing light to heavy rainfall. Whereas during winters, the region gets quite cold, and the famous Gurudongmar Lake freezes completely, which is truly a sight to behold.
Gurudongmar Lake
Gurudongmar Lake, situated at an altitude of 17,100 feet above sea level in Sikkim, is one of the fifteen highest lakes in the world. It is also the second highest lake in Sikkim after Cholamu Lake at an altitude of about 18,000 feet. This lake full of natural beauty is one of the best tourist places in Sikkim that attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and crystal icy waters, Gurudongmar Lake is considered to be a very sacred lake which also has a ‘Sarva Dharma Sthali’ nearby, which is a very popular place of worship for all religions. Apart from this, the water of Gurudongmar Lake is believed to have healing power, which is why many tourists take the water back with them.
If you are searching for a good place to visit in Sikkim with your friends, then you can pick Gurudongmar Lake for your trip.
Best time to visit Gurudongmar Lake
The months of April to June are considered to be the best time to visit this place. The weather is quite pleasant during this time and during this time this lake can be easily visited. Whereas in winters, from November to January, extreme cold is encountered and during this time the lake is also completely frozen with ice which appears like an ice sheet.
Lachung, North Sikkim
Lachung is a small town in Sikkim surrounded by majestic mountains that entice tourists to come here every year. This beautiful city has many snow-capped mountains, sparkling streams, peaks, amazing waterfalls and much more that you can explore on your trip to Lachung. Along with this, the market of Lachung is full of exquisitely woven rugs and blankets, making the city ideal for shopping. If you are searching for places to visit in Sikkim with your family, then this place is the perfect place for you.
Weather in Lachung & Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Lachung is almost throughout the year as each season has its own beauty. However, summers and winters are preferred to visit here except during the monsoon season as heavy rainfall can spoil the outdoor activities.
Ravangala
Ravangla is a small town located in South Sikkim at an altitude of 7000 feet, marked with wonderful views of the high forested hills and village huts. Ravangla is one of the most famous tourist places in South Sikkim which is an ideal holiday destination. This place is known for its snow mountains, waterfalls, beautiful tea gardens, peaceful villages, ethnic culture, old monasteries. The natural beauty of this place is so amazing that every year a large number of tourists visit this place to admire its beauty.
Best places to visit in Ravangla
Buddhist Park, Ralang Monastery, Bon Monastery, drooling gompa, Rayong Sunrise Viewpoint, Ralong Hot Springs, Temi Tea Garden
Best time to visit Ravangla
The weather of Ravangla remains pleasant throughout the year except severe winters, so you can visit Ravangla at any time of the year. But the months of August and September are considered to be the most ideal time to visit this place, as during this time you can also witness the famous Pang Labsol festival held here.
Kanchenjunga National Park
Nestled in the lap of the mighty Himalayas, Kangchenjunga National Park is one of the major tourist destinations in Sikkim which is named after Kangchenjunga Peak, the third highest mountain peak in the world. Kangchenjunga National Park is a high altitude national park and the first “mixed-heritage” site in the country. Which has recently been included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Kangchenjunga National Park is also known as “Khangchendzonga National Park” situated at an altitude of 8586 meters. Spread over a vast area of 850 sq km, Kangchenjunga National Park is home to the most endemic and rare species of flora and fauna including the snow leopard and the Himalayan tahr. Unparalleled in biodiversity, this place is a paradise for trekkers with a diverse landscape and breathtaking views that remain a center of attraction for tourists and wildlife lovers.
Best time to visit Kangchenjunga National Park
The time between March to May and September to mid-December is the best time to visit Kangchenjunga National Park.
Adventure Activities of Sikkim
Sikkim is a state that offers you a variety of thrilling adventures with its scenic beauty and unique culture scenes. This tourist place is like a heaven for trek lovers and the Goichla trek here is the best. River rafting in the Teesta river here is another adventurous activity that will surely make your trip a memorable one.
Taking a yak ride near Tsongmo Lake will fill you up with excitement. Let us tell you that the biking route from Gangtok to Rangpo is probably the longest mountain biking route in Sikkim. People traveling through this route can see the beautiful landscape with the greenery here from the high mountains. Apart from all this, you must also include the cable car ride in your list as it gives you the opportunity to see the spectacular views of the city from the height.
Best Time To Visit Sikkim
The best time to visit Sikkim is from May to September. The maximum temperature during these months is between 28-30 degree centigrade. The weather of North Sikkim remains cold during these months. It receives light rain in the months of July and September. The temperature here in winters can drop to sub-zero which can make your journey difficult so we do not recommend you to visit Sikkim. If you are planning to visit Sikkim then the months of April and May are the best to visit here.
Local Food And Cuisine Of Sikkim
Sikkim is one such state in India which is famous for its famous tourist places as well as for its food, which tourists are forced to lick their fingers after eating. In Sikkim, you can find food similar to many ingredients, styles and elements from Nepal, Bhutan, Tibet and India. The cuisine found in this state is inspired by the cultures and religions around it.
Best place for shopping in Sikkim
Apart from seeing the beauty of nature, Sikkim is also a good place for shopping. Let us know which places are best for shopping in Sikkim.
MG Road
MG Road is quite a famous place in Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. You will find different types of shops on MG Road. Along with this, there are also a number of restaurants here. MG Road is famous for traditional Sikkimese cups, thangkaj paintings and choksi table designs. Apart from this, you can buy clothes, souvenirs, shoes etc. This place is considered to be the best for shopping in Sikkim.
Red Market
Located in East Sikkim, Lal Bazar is known as the ‘soul of the kitchen of Sikkim’. This place is considered to be the best for shopping for organic and agricultural products. Here fresh vegetables and grains grown by the local people are sold. Lal Bazaar is a better place for dry fish and exotic food shopping.
New Market
New Market is one of the most famous shopping places in Sikkim. New Market is a small market located in the core area of Gangtok. Mainly dry fruits, barfi and dried sweet mango peels are available in this market. Many tourists come here to shop for dried mango peels.
Old Market
Sikkim’s Old Market is famous for fashion wear and accessories. The Old Market is always buzzing with tourists. Here Dogra is very famous for jewelery and handicraft sets. Known for shopping for walnuts and almonds.
Directorate of Handicrafts and Handlooms
The Directorate of Handicrafts and Handlooms, located at the top of the Tibet Road, is famous for its distinct and large sales emporium. This is one of the best buying places in Sikkim if you are looking for authentic Sikkimese handcrafted items. You can buy wood carvings, decorative wall hangings, rugs, etc. made by local artisans.
Hotels in Sikkim
If you are searching about hotels to stay in your Sikkim trip, then let us tell you that Sikkim is a developed and important tourist state of India, which has all the budget hotels and homestay facilities available around every city and tourist places. You can choose to rest and stop in your journey.
How To Reach Sikkim
If you are planning to go to Sikkim then first you have to decide which mode of transport you want to travel to Sikkim, below we have given some special information about visiting Sikkim which will help you to make your trip better.
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