“Travel” is the one-word solution for almost all of life’s problems. And if that trip is to Sikkim, the land of natural scenic beauty, then you can be sure, your problems and your stress are about to take a very long hike. These days it's very hard to find someone who hasn't traveled to or at least heard of Sikkim. It is after all a very popular travel destination and people mostly visit Gangtok in october. If you are planning a trip there and don't know where to start, you've come to the right place. Sikkim is the second smallest state in India. However, just because it's small, doesn't mean it's lacking in any way. It is bordered by Tibet to the north and northeast, Bhutan to the east, Nepal to the west, and West Bengal, another state of India, to the south. Sikkim is notable for its biodiversity with alpine and subtropical climates. Its Climate is mostly due to its geographical location as it resides in the eastern region of the Himalayas. Besides that, ‘Kanchenjunga’ the highest mountain peak in India and the third highest mountain peak in the world is located in Sikkim. The Largest City in Sikkim is Gangtok and is also its capital. This blog will Prepare you for a 5-day and 4-night Sikkim Tour.
Introduction
Day 1
Arrival at Gangtok
The first step is to reach Siliguri from wherever you are currently. After you arrive, it's time to set off for Gangtok. You can go to Gangtok by various means. It's important to note that you cannot enter Sikkim without an Inner Line Permit from Rangpo Check Post. So you’ll have to spend some time there and it is necessary to inform the driver in advance. Keep in mind that the Rangpo check post is open from 8 am to 8 pm. So you should plan your trip around that. After reaching Gangtok you will find many hotels. Also you can book hotels through Tripadvisor, make my trip before reaching there. Otherwise Simply book in person, which one fits your budget and your needs, then freshen up. Around this time, you should probably head out for some food. So walk around and explore the MG Marg road. Do some quick gangtok shopping, if you want. Aside from the exploration, there's one more thing you will have to check off your list on your first day. Since you will be visiting Sangulek on your second day, you need to get permission for Tshangu Lake with the help of an agency. Now that you've got the permission, you are free to roam around Gangtok. Take your time and explore the busy streets, local markets and try out some local food. Once you are satisfied, head back to your hotel to prepare for the next day.
Day 2
Gangtok - Tshangu lake - Gangtok / Gangtok City Tour
Feel free to allocate the entirety of your second day for your visit to Tshangu Lake. It is possible to visit Sangu Lake on your own but it is highly recommended for new visitors to contact an agency. You can use the same agency you got your permission from and take one of their Package Deals. If you are up for it, there is yak riding, and a ropeway can be arranged however, it will be at your own expense. Or you can go on a Gangtok city tour. For city tours, packages are to be taken through agencies as well. The spots are -
- • Hanuman Tok,
- • Ganesh Tok,
- • Lasha Falls,
- • Tashi View Point,
- • Gunzang Monastery,
- • Bakthang Falls,
- • Ropeway,
- • Chorten Stupa Museum,
- • Plant Coordination,
- • and Banjhakri Falls.
You can also experience paragliding through numerous paragliding organizations. There are different packages for this as well. most of which will largely depend on the time and area of paragliding. After coming back from the day tour, at night you go out to enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Gangtok, and maybe even do a little shopping while you're at it. People always share their gangtok shopping experience. So, Don’t miss the chance. And of course, you will have to prepare for your next day. So, take some time out of your tour to book a package from an agency for a 2-day trip to Lachung.
Day 3
Gangtok - Lachung
As Sikkim is mostly a restricted area, you pretty much have to travel through a travel agency and they will arrange your permits. Their 1 night and 2-day package to North Sikkim includes visiting both Lachung and Yamthang Valley. Various sightseeing spots on the way should also be included in the package. Not to mention the first-day lunch, dinner, overnight stay at Lachung Hotel, second-day breakfast, lunch, and return to Gangtok. Since it includes so many things, the price is a bit hefty. [Another important thing to note is that this package includes permission up to Lachung and Yamthang Valley only. If the weather is favorable and permission is obtained, it is possible to travel to Zero Point and Katao if the driver agrees to it. In that case, the driver needs to be paid extra depending on your negotiation skills.] So, on your 3rd day, after finishing breakfast, start for the Lachung and enjoy the roadside beauty and various spots. This journey will take roughly 6 to 7 hours so make sure you are well prepared for the long ride. You should reach your destination by nightfall so finish your dinner and get ready for the next day’s enchanting beauty.
Day 4
Lachung - Yamthang Valley - Lachung - Gangtok
Wake up to the beautiful ice-cold weather in Lachung. Pack your bags and Get started for Yamthang Valley, if the weather is on your side, don't miss the Zero Point and Katao. It may cost you a bit extra, but it's definitely worth it. Once you've had your fun, spend the night at your designated hotel, and in the morning go back to Lachung. Take breakfast and leave for Gangtok.
Day 5
Departure from Gangtok
Well, it's been quite the journey but it's time to say your goodbyes. From Gangtok, you will be going back the same way you came. take a jeep to Shiliguri and from there, back home.
Conclusion
This itinerary provides a glimpse into the captivating experiences that are waiting for you in Sikkim. From exploring historical landmarks to stunning Lakes, this journey offers something for everyone. Remember, this is just a starting point for anyone planning their next trip to Sikkim, You should feel free to customize it based on your interests and time..
Want to explore the Beauty of Leh Ladakh? See Ladakh Tour plan.
Tips for your trip
- When planning a visit to Sikkim, one must check the weather forecast.
- Group (5-8) will cost less.
- One can never plan to go to Sikkim alone.
- Necessary medicines (cold, cough, headache, vomiting, gastric), inhalers, or nebulizers for patients with respiratory problems, and chocolate can also be kept.
- An umbrella or raincoat should be carried.
- It is good to keep 10 to 15 photocopies of photos, passports, and visas.
- Thermal inner, thick hand socks, woolen foot socks, ear cap, good jacket should be taken.
- If you exchange currency and buy a sim from the border, there won’t be any trouble later. Out of all the other sim cards, Vodafone seems to have a good network coverage in Sikkim.
Share this itinerary with your friends and family
