Imagine driving past entire hillsides draped in shades of red, pink, yellow, purple and white under a picture-perfect blue sky. If you happen to be in Yumthang Valley, Sikkim, between March to May, there is a good chance of catching this hill state in full bloom. Home to over 5000 species of flowering plants, the Flower Exhibition Centre in Gangtok is worth a visit.
The Rumtek Monastery, built in 1966, is an important Buddhist monastery in this region. It holds countless invaluable artefacts – precious metal statues, gem-studded cenotaphs and a golden stupa that acts as a reliquary for the ashes of the 16th Karmapa who founded the Rumtek complex.
From there, drive to Pelling, 36kms from Gangtok, for a view of the snow-capped peaks of Mount Kanchenjunga (the third highest mountain in the world). For the more adventurous traveller, Sikkim is also a good spot for river rafting, kayaking, paragliding and trekking.
The Dzongu Valley is a protected region inhabited by the Lepcher community and perfect for relaxing, taking short walks through mustard fields, picnics, swimming and trying your hand at fishing.
April and May are great time to visit the rhododendron sanctuary both in western and northern Sikkim. Inner line permits are required, and for North Sikkim a separate permit and local guide are a must. Here, a varied range of accommodations are available but please note that large patches of hill roads are in poor condition.
Derived from the Tibetan word for ‘hillside’, Gangtok is perched in layers on a mountain ridge facing the majestic Kanchenjunga snow peaks. It is a bustling cosmopolitan city with some rare views. With its strong Tibetan ancestry and Nepalese population, Gangtok is an amalgamation pot of religions, cultures, food and lifestyle.
Highlights are the revolving wheels of the Rumtek Monastery and the red pandas at the Himalayan Zoological Park. Even the music here shows its multiplicity with tribal music mixed with Nepalese and Western rock!
This small hill town draws tourists for its view of the majestic snow-peaked Himalayas and the Kanchenjunga. A short walk and you could be wandering through the beautiful surrounding forests, still untouched by the State’s drive to tourism. There are also some monasteries and gorgeous waterfalls nearby, including the stunning Kanchenjunga Falls.
Dzongu is a reserve for the aborigines of Sikkim, the Lepchas, and only recently opened to visitors. It is a great place to find untouched virgin forests and sparkling clear rivers! Unwind and spend your days relaxing and pursuing outdoor activities. We organise treks and picnics here. Permits are required for visiting this area.
The nearest place to stay is Lachung, a small town with a few hotels and good homestays. It is a good way to adjust to the latitude by spending an hour or so walking through the town and taking in the sights. Yumthang is a day trip from here. There are no places to stay in the valley. Places to visit is zero point and the rhododendron sanctuary. The typical flowering season is from end of April till early June. Permits are required for visiting this area.
Once part of the historic Silk Route, the Nathula Pass is a scenic route through the Himalayas that connects Sikkim with China’s Tibet Autonomous Region. This is one of the highest motorable roads in India with the stunning backdrop of Himalayas to keep you company.
On the way to Nathula Pass falls the stunning Tsomgo Lake that mirrors the changing colours of the surrounding hills. Considered sacred by the locals, it is one of India’s few high altitude lakes. The surrounding Alpine forests also make it a very picturesque destination with rhododendrons, poppies and irises blooming in the summer.
Rinchenpong, a hamlet tucked in the midst of the undulating mountains of West Sikkim is an ideal location to laze and experience the sounds of silence and enjoy nature at its best. It sits at an altitude of 5576 feet. An isolated place providing an opportunity to glimpse the beautiful Mount Khangchendzonga in 180 degree view and the lush green slopes. It is known for the Reesum Monastery and trekking routes.
Lovely trails through rustic villages and old chestnut trees make it ideal for a walking holiday, some leading to view points that offer panoramic views and others to waterfalls and old villages. Great for bird sightings too.
Located at approximately 9000 ft it is also a good point from where one can acclimatise. Lachung is a unique destination that has not been tainted by modernization. It is a popular destination for those who enjoy spending time outdoors. A trip to Lachung is a must if you want to see the best of Sikkim! Nature’s splendour and glory abound in this small town. Here, you can enjoy peace while also participating in adrenaline-pumping activities. It is the entry point to the Yumthang valley and a popular destination to see the rhododendrons flower.
Lachen is a town in Mangan District in the Indian state of Sikkim. The name Lachen means “big pass”. The Sikkimese government promotes it as a tourist destination. The town forms the base to the Chopta Valley and Gurudongmar Lake. An annual yak race, the Thangu, is held there in summer. Unlike other places in India, Lachen has a unique form of self-governance, Dzumsa.Every household is a member of this traditional administrative system, which is in charge of governing and organising a village.
It is one of the popular destinations in south Sikkim. Rabong more popularly known as Ravangla is situated at 7000 feet above sea level on the foothills of the Maenam Hill in South Sikkim. A ridge between the two highest green hills in the state, the legendary Tendong and Maenam hills, the place is known for its scenic landscape and picturesque beauty. Ravangla is a unique town, with a myriad range of flora & fauna, small villages surrounding the main town where you can see the local lifestyle, splendid views, old monasteries, and cultural celebrations. There are many trails to enjoy rustic walks that offer lovely views and a treat for plant lovers.
Yuksom is one of the small states of Sikkim and famous for its breathtaking views of snow capped mountains and landscapes. This place is for those seeking respite from the fast paced life so here you go for the perfect destination to unwind and chill. It is also popular as the ‘gateway to Khangchendzonga’ and gives you the clear picture of historical beauties via experiencing the view of monasteries and Buddhist heritage. Heritage walk and rustic forest walks can be combined here.
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