How to Travel to Sikkim

Sikkim, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, is one of India’s most stunning destinations. It offers breathtaking landscapes, serene monasteries, adventure activities, and a rich cultural heritage. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip to Sikkim.

1. How to Reach Sikkim

By Air ✈️

• Nearest Airport: Pakyong Airport (PYG) (30 km from Gangtok) – Limited flights from Delhi and Kolkata.

• Major Airport: Bagdogra Airport (IXB), West Bengal (125 km from Gangtok) – Well connected to major Indian cities.

• From Bagdogra to Gangtok:

  • Taxi: ₹3,000 – ₹4,000 (4-5 hours).

  • Shared Jeep: ₹300 – ₹500 per person.

  • Helicopter (Pawan Hans): 35-minute flight, ₹4,000 per person (subject to weather conditions).

By Train 🚆

• Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (NJP), West Bengal (~125 km from Gangtok).

• From NJP, take a private taxi (~₹3,000-₹4,000) or a shared cab (~₹400) to Gangtok.

By Road 🚖

• From Siliguri/NJP/Bagdogra:

  • Private taxi: ₹3,000 – ₹4,500.

  • Shared jeep: ₹300 – ₹500.

  • Bus service available from Siliguri to Gangtok.

• From Darjeeling (98 km):

  • Private taxi: ₹3,000 – ₹3,500.

  • Shared taxi: ₹300 – ₹500.

• From Kalimpong (75 km):

  • Private taxi: ₹2,500 – ₹3,000.

  • Shared taxi: ₹200 – ₹400.

2. Best Time to Visit Sikkim ⏳

3. Best Places to Visit in Sikkim 🏔️🌲

Gangtok – The Capital City 🏙️

• MG Marg: The heart of Gangtok, perfect for shopping & cafes.

• Tsomgo Lake: Stunning glacial lake (40 km from Gangtok).

• Nathula Pass: Indo-China border (requires a permit).

• Rumtek Monastery: One of the most important monasteries in Sikkim.

• Hanuman Tok & Ganesh Tok: Panoramic views of Gangtok and Kanchenjunga.

North Sikkim – Paradise for Nature Lovers 🌿

• Lachen: Gateway to Gurudongmar Lake (one of the highest lakes in the world).

• Lachung: Famous for Yumthang Valley (Valley of Flowers).

• Zero Point: Snow-covered area, perfect for winter lovers.

Pelling – Stunning Himalayan Views 🏔️

• Pemayangtse Monastery: Historic Buddhist monastery.

• Khecheopalri Lake: Sacred lake known for its pristine beauty.

• Rimbi & Kanchenjunga Waterfalls: Stunning natural waterfalls.

Zuluk & Silk Route – Offbeat Adventure 🚗

• Zuluk Loops: Thrilling zigzag roads with breathtaking views.

• Thambi View Point: Offers mesmerizing sunrise views over Kanchenjunga.

Namchi – Culture & Spirituality 🙏

• Char Dham: A replica of India’s four holy shrines.

• Samdruptse Statue: Tallest statue of Guru Padmasambhava.

4. Permits for Traveling in Sikkim 📜

For Indian Citizens:

• No permit is required to visit Gangtok, Pelling, and Namchi.

• Restricted areas (Nathula, Tsomgo Lake, Lachen, Lachung, Gurudongmar Lake, and Zuluk) require an Inner Line Permit (ILP).

• Permits can be obtained through tour operators or at Gangtok’s Tourist Office by providing an ID proof and passport-size photo.

For Foreigners:

• Restricted areas require a Protected Area Permit (PAP).

• Not allowed at Nathula Pass but can visit Tsomgo Lake and North Sikkim with permits.

5. Transportation in Sikkim 🚖

• Private Taxis: Available but expensive (~₹2,500 – ₹5,000 per day).

• Shared Cabs: Most common and affordable transport (~₹300 – ₹500 per person).

• Rental Bikes/Scooters: Available in Gangtok (~₹700 – ₹1,500 per day).

• Local Buses: Limited service, mainly for locals.

6. Adventure Activities in Sikkim 🧗‍♂️🚴‍♂️

✔ Trekking: Goechala Trek, Dzongri Trek, Singalila Ridge Trek.
✔ River Rafting: Teesta River (best from March – June).
✔ Paragliding: Gangtok and Nathula area (~₹2,500 – ₹5,000).
✔ Mountain Biking: Silk Route and Yuksom-Pelling trail.
✔ Yak Safari: At Tsomgo Lake.

7. Local Food to Try in Sikkim 🍜🥟

• Momos: Steamed or fried dumplings.

• Thukpa: Noodle soup with vegetables or meat.

• Phagshapa: Pork cooked with radish & chilies.

• Chhurpi Soup: Traditional fermented cheese soup.

• Sel Roti: Sweet rice bread.

8. Shopping in Sikkim 🛍️

• MG Marg (Gangtok): Handicrafts, woolen clothes, Sikkimese tea.

• Lal Bazaar: Local organic products and souvenirs.

• Handloom & Handicrafts Emporium: Traditional Sikkimese art and crafts.

9. Suggested Itinerary for Sikkim 🗺️

5-Day Itinerary (Classic Tour)

✔ Day 1: Arrival in Gangtok, explore MG Marg.
✔ Day 2: Visit Tsomgo Lake & Nathula Pass.
✔ Day 3: Transfer to Lachung, explore Yumthang Valley.
✔ Day 4: Return to Gangtok, visit Rumtek Monastery & Tashi Viewpoint.
✔ Day 5: Explore Pelling, visit Kanchenjunga Waterfalls & Pemayangtse Monastery.

7-Day Itinerary (More Exploration)

✔ Day 1-2: Gangtok sightseeing & Tsomgo Lake.
✔ Day 3-4: North Sikkim – Lachung, Yumthang Valley, Zero Point.
✔ Day 5-6: Pelling, Kanchenjunga Waterfalls, Rabdentse Ruins.
✔ Day 7: Namchi & Ravangla, visit Buddha Park & Char Dham.

10. Travel Tips for Sikkim ✅

✔ Carry warm clothes as temperatures drop unexpectedly.
✔ Pre-book permits for Nathula & North Sikkim.
✔ Mobile network is limited in remote areas. BSNL, Airtel & Jio work best.
✔ Avoid monsoon due to heavy landslides.
✔ Always carry cash, as ATMs are scarce in remote locations.