Sikkim
Best for : adventure trips, treks, motorcycle rides
Sikkim's warm and hospitable people, serene monasteries, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultural heritage make it an enchanting destination for travelers seeking a unique blend of nature, spirituality, and adventure.
Stunning Mountain Views
Sikkim is home to majestic peaks, including the third highest mountain peak in the world, Kanchendzonga. The state offers panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and alpine meadows, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Popular destinations like Gangtok, the capital city, and Pelling provide stunning vistas of the Himalayas.
Enchanting Monasteries
Sikkim is deeply rooted in Buddhism, and the state is dotted with monasteries or gompas that exude tranquillity and spiritual charm. The Rumtek Monastery, one of the largest and most significant monasteries in Sikkim, showcases stunning Tibetan architecture and houses precious Buddhist relics. Other notable monasteries include Pemayangtse Monastery in Pelling and Tashiding Monastery in Yuksom.
Biodiversity and National Parks
Sikkim is renowned for its rich biodiversity and protected areas. The Khangchendzonga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a treasure trove of alpine meadows, glaciers, and diverse flora and fauna. It is also home to the elusive snow leopard and the red panda. The state's wildlife sanctuaries, such as the Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary and Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, offer opportunities for wildlife spotting and nature walks.
Cultural Heritage
Sikkim's cultural heritage is a blend of Tibetan, Nepalese, and indigenous traditions. The state celebrates various festivals, including Losar (Tibetan New Year), Saga Dawa (Buddha's birth, enlightenment, and Parinirvana), and Bumchu Festival. Travelers can witness colourful masked dances, traditional music performances, and participate in local festivities.
Adventure Activities
Sikkim offers a range of adventure activities for thrill-seekers. Trekking is a popular activity, with routes like the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek and the Singalila Ridge Trek offering stunning vistas. Other activities include river rafting in the Teesta and Rangit rivers, paragliding in Gangtok, and mountain biking through picturesque trails.
Organic Farming and Tea Gardens
Sikkim is known for its focus on organic farming and sustainable agriculture. Travelers can visit organic farms to learn about eco-friendly practices and taste fresh produce. The state also has tea gardens, particularly in places like Temi and Namchi, where visitors can enjoy scenic views and learn about tea production.
How to reach
To reach Sikkim, you have a few different transportation options depending on your starting location and preferences. Here are the most common ways to reach Sikkim:
By Air: The nearest airport to Gangtok is Pakyong (PYG), however only a few flights connect here and flights are subjected to weather conditions. A convenient access point is Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in West Bengal. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared shuttle to reach Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. The journey from Bagdogra Airport to Gangtok takes approximately 4-5 hours by road. Alternatively, you can avail a 20-min helicopter ride from Bagdogra airport to Gangtok which runs twice daily, if the weather permits.
By Train: The nearest major railway station to Sikkim is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), also located in West Bengal. From there, you can take a taxi, or book seats in a bus or take a shared jeep to reach Gangtok, which is about 120 kilometres away. The journey by road from New Jalpaiguri to Gangtok takes around 4-5 hours. Sikkim is ready to get its' own railway station at Rangpo in 2025.
By Road: If you prefer traveling by road, you can reach Sikkim by hiring a taxi or taking a bus from various nearby cities. Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal are common starting points for road journeys to Sikkim. The major entry point to Sikkim by road is through the town of Rangpo, which is about 70 kilometres from Siliguri. Other entry points are – Melli (for West Sikkim), Reshi (for East Sikkim) and Rammam (for entering Sikkim from Darjeeling).
Entry for foreigners
Foreign nationals require to obtain an Inner Line Permit to enter Sikkim. These are available at all entry points, airports, and at the SNT bus station, Siliguri (WB).
Travel circuits in Sikkim
Sikkim can be divided in four main circuits, read more about them here - NORTH , EAST , WEST , and SOUTH.
Additionally you can check the adjoining regions of North Bengal.