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Things to do in Sikkim
Sikkim is blessed with fresh air, sylvan mountains and valleys, and snow-capped mountain peaks. Top activities in Sikkim include shopping, sightseeing, river rafting, and trekking. This state in the Himalayas is fascinating to explore, far from the hassles of city life. To make the most of your vacation, if you are thinking about visiting Sikkim, don’t forget to include these activities in your itinerary. Sikkim offers a wide range of activities that can make the trip truly memorable. Sikkim offers experiences for all types of tourists, including singles, couples, and families. If you want to know how to reach Sikkim from any location in India, you can travel by car, train, or air to get to Sikkim. Here are some of the top things to do in Sikkim:
1. Trekking in the Goecha La Trek
One of the best places to visit in Sikkim is the high mountain pass of Goechala, also known as Goecha La, which rises to a height of approximately 4,940 meters above sea level. With the pass situated near some of the highest mountains in the Himalayas, it’s a great place for any trekker visiting Sikkim. The stunning view of the southeast face of Mount Kanchenjunga is the best feature of this location.
The back of the Indian 100 Rupee note features an image of the breathtakingly beautiful view from the pass. This location, which serves as the foot of Kanchenjunga’s summit, is breathtaking and definitely worth a visit.
2. Yak Riding close to Tsomgo Lake
One of the most well-liked activities in Sikkim is the yak ride. Yaks are incredibly gentle animals, despite their difficult looks. Tsomgo is a glacier lake, and in the winter, the surrounding area remains completely covered in snow. From the adjacent market area, you can rent a yak and take in the scenery from the back of it. This is one of the best things to do in Sikkim.
3. Travel by Cable Car in Gangtok
When it comes to Sikkim, and especially Gangtok, the months of March through June and September through November are the best times to visit if you want to enjoy a cable car ride. There are clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and generally mild and pleasant weather during these times.
Riding a cable car is always a lot of fun. The view from the ride is breathtaking, and the one in Gangtok is situated between two mountains. Up to 24 people can ride in the cable cars. For the best view, you must be near the windows, so be sure to arrive among the first people inside. There are three stations where you can get a lift.
4. Rafting in Teesta
The main river in Sikkim, the Teesta, is appropriately referred to as the region’s lifeline. The river near the Teesta Bazar region makes for the ideal background for rafting activities in Sikkim. Adventure seekers have to participate in this thrilling activity. This is top things to do in Sikkim for those who are familiar with swimming and those who do not have two options. The tourists who go river rafting in Teesta are always accompanied by professional rafters who work there. This river is also not dangerous at all.
5. Monastery Rumtek
Witness some of the rarest Buddhist artworks and mural paintings in this three-story religious center, a sight to behold. This magnificent monastery is magnificent. Gyalwa Karmapa, the 16th Karmapa of the center, rebuilt the Rumtek Monastery in 1960. The monastery, which is part of the Kagyu group, was initially constructed in the 12th century but was discarded. An amazing collection of hand-painted murals, 1001 small gold artwork, and other artwork, the monastery also offers numerous viewpoints that provide views of Gangtok below. This tourist destination in Sikkim offers an abundance of captivating experiences for its guests.
6. Sikkimese Nightlife
Sikkim has a vibrant nightlife, despite its unassuming appearance. Gangtok is generally a well-liked location to spend the hours after dark. Pubs, bars, casinos, and nightclubs are just a few of the many places to enjoy yourself at night. The fact that Gangtok is home to India’s first physical live casino should come as no surprise.
You can try your luck at a lot of different casinos. The inexpensive local drinks from the mountain state of Chaang are very attractive. Enjoyable meals and snacks enhance the enjoyment. Experience the nightlife; it’s one of the best things to do in Sikkim, for sure.
7. Riding in the Mountains
Mountain biking is among the top activities in Sikkim. Adventure seekers from all over the world are drawn to the breathtaking scenery and the exciting mountain bike routes. Bike tours offer breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, the beauty of the hills, and an insight into Sikkimese culture. Although you can go mountain biking all year round, the most popular months are April and May, as well as mid-September to October. Depending on your level of fitness, there are over seven fascinating routes to choose from. The majority of routes that go to Temi, Yumthang, and other isolated places begin in Gangtok, Rumtek.
8. Paragliding in Gangtok
Paragliding is fast becoming the most popular adventure activity in Gangtok and among the best places to visit in Sikkim. The thrill and the exciting feeling of freedom are two things that make gliding a preferred sport for adventure enthusiasts.The paragliding points in Gangtok have trainers who will fly with you if you are new to it. The paragliding experts can rent and fly the glider on their own. The view from the sky is mesmerising.
9. Lake Khecheopalri
Khecheopalri Lake, which is considered precious by both Buddhists and Hindus, is one of the most beautiful places in Sikkim. There are stories that the valley, lake, and hill of Khecheopalri were blessed by Guru Padmasambhava. They are regarded as a land of hidden treasures in the local culture. A significant destination on the Buddhist circuit in Sikkim is the Khecheopalri Lake. Surprisingly, not a leaf is visible floating on the lake as birds consume them. There is a significant religious fair every March/April. After the cardamom crop is harvested in October, there’s a harvest festival called Cho-Tsho.
10. Experience the Helicopter Ride in Gangtok
By taking a helicopter ride, you can escape the difficult driving trip to Gangtok Valley and take in the breathtaking scenery. This activity is among the best things to do in Sikkim because it offers the unique experience of seeing the Gangtok Valley’s landscape from above. Only five people can ride this ride at a time, and it is provided by the Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation (STDC). Gangtok town can be reached in just 4 km by getting off at the Gangtok Helipad.
11. Gurudongmar Lake
Gurudongmar Lake is a calm and beautiful high-altitude Himalayan lake situated at 17,800 feet. This lake, which is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, is frozen in the winter and reflects the sky and clouds like a mirror in the summer. So winter and summer both are the best time to visit Sikkim. Situated approximately 174 kilometers from Gangtok, on the northern side of the Kanchenjunga mountain range, this location is highly recommended for visitors to Sikkim. Due to the lake’s proximity to the Chinese-Tibetan border, permits are required for entry.
12. Yumthang Valley of Flowers
Visiting Yumthang Valley is the best things to do in Sikkim because of its rolling fields, yaks that graze by the banks of the wild Teesta River, and its numerous hot springs surrounded by rising mountain peaks. About 128 kilometers from Gangtok, at an elevation of more than 11,000 feet above sea level, is covered with flowers. To ensure you don’t miss out on the greatest of Gangtok, you can reserve one of our Gangtok Tours from a vibrant selection of packages we have available. The springtime months of late March to mid-June are the best time to visit Sikkim if you want to enjoy the Yumthang Valley of flowers. The valley bursts into a riot of color during this time of year due to the full bloom of many wildflowers, such as orchids, primulas, and rhododendrons.
The Rhododendrons bloom and cover the valley in full glory in April and June. In addition to tigers and elephants, Balpakram National Park is home to leopards, hillock gibbons, barking deer, and golden cats. Owing to certain urban legends, this park is often referred to as “The Land of Spirits.”
13. Kanchenjunga Base Camp
At nearly 14,000 feet above sea level, the Kanchenjunga Base Camp is a haven for adventure seekers and one of the top tourist destinations in Sikkim. Views of the Kanchenjunga range, which together make up one of the most stunning sections of the Himalayas, are abundant from the base camp and are among the best places to visit in Sikkim. This location is worth a once-in-a-lifetime visit because the real thrill for visitors is getting up close and personal with the world’s third-highest mountain.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Sikkim provides a captivating fusion of breathtaking scenery, a wide variety of cultural experiences, and thrilling adventures. Sikkim offers something for every kind of traveler, whether it’s exploring the charming capital city of Gangtok, taking in the amazing views from high-altitude passes like Nathula, or just relaxing by lakes and valleys. Trekking opportunities provide a close-up look at the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, and the state’s monasteries, each with their distinct charm, add a spiritual element to the experience. With its varied and beautiful locations, Sikkim captivates tourists, from the admired Gurudongmar Lake to the energetic Yumthang Valley.
People also ask about Things to do in Sikkim
A few of the must-see locations in Sikkim are the Gurudongmar Lake, Rumtek Monastery, Yumthang Valley, Pelling, Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, and Gangtok.
There are several trekking options available in Sikkim, such as the Goechala Trek and the Singalila Ridge Trek. Your preferences and level of trekking experience will determine which trek is best for you.
Adventure sports like Teesta River white-water rafting are available in Sikkim. For adventure seekers, trekking and mountain biking are also popular activities.
Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the ideal seasons to visit Sikkim because of the pleasant weather and striking scenery. For those who love the snow, winter is a great season.
To get a taste of Sikkim’s rich cultural legacy, visit the Handicrafts and Flower Exhibition Centre in Gangtok, tour the monasteries, and take part in local festivals.
As these can change, it’s essential to confirm any applicable travel restrictions, licenses, or policies before making travel plans. Keep on top of the most recent information released by the local government.
Visiting Tsomgo Lake, touring the Himalayan Zoological Park, and taking in Pelling’s breathtaking scenery are all family-friendly activities. All ages can enjoy a variety of experiences that the area has to offer.