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Create Your Own Perfect Sikkim Itinerary for 7 to 14 Days
Sikkim located in the North East India is the second smallest state in the country. It is one of my favourite states for many reasons – Lakes, Buddhist monasteries at the foothills of Himalayas, and delicious Tibetan food add to its charm.
With so much to see and experience, deciding on your Sikkim itinerary can be overwhelming, especially with many Sikkim tour packages suggesting just 3-5 days.
Honestly, you need at least 7 days to see the main attractions in Sikkim. Ten days is better, and 14 days is ideal.
I spent two amazing weeks in Sikkim, exploring both popular and hidden spots. As a woman travelling with a female friend, we found Sikkim perfect for solo female travellers. My spouse, Ashrith, was so captivated by the glacial lakes, like Gurudongmar, that he went on two bike trips to Sikkim.
With our personal experience we created this travel guide will help you craft a perfect Sikkim itinerary.
We have put together three Sikkim itinerary options for 7, 10, and 14 days. It includes a day-to-day itinerary with things to do, places to eat and sleep, and information on any extra permits you need to get from the Sikkim home department.
Table of Contents
Before you go ahead check this.
Indians don’t need any special permit to enter Sikkim. However, to visit certain areas, Indians need to obtain a Protected Area Permit (PAP).
These protected areas are usually the places that border China, Nepal, and Bhutan. Famous and beautiful spots like Gurudongmar Lake, Zuluk, and Nathula require a PAP for Indians. You can get it once you land in Gangtok or Rongli at the Home Department office.
All foreign nationals need a special permit called an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter Sikkim, even with a valid Indian tourist visa. Check this before you plan a trip to Sikkim. Not all places in Sikkim are open to foreign nationals.
This itinerary is doable using a private vehicle, either a bike or a car. I have detailed how to rent a car in Sikkim with a driver in a separate post.
These Sikkim itinerary options are suitable for those looking for a trip that doesn’t include any high-altitude trekking. If you are looking for high-terrain trekking like Goecha La or Green Lake, you need to spend a minimum of 18 to 20 days in Sikkim.
Some places in the below itinerary are at higher altitudes, so you should consider your health status and take necessary precautions. Kids under the age of 8 aren’t allowed in high-altitude areas. So, if you are travelling with kids, pick places where they are allowed.
You can choose any of these itineraries without hesitation. However, if you want to know about more places in Sikkim, I’ve got you covered in another story.
Although you have a defined itinerary, it is best to keep Plan B options when you travel in Sikkim. Sudden weather changes and landslides may hinder your plans.
For example, if your day trip to Nathu La and surroundings gets cancelled due to a roadblock, be ready to stay back in Sikkim and enjoy other nearby places.
Sikkim Itinerary for 7 Days
Gangtok, Nathula surroundings, Gurudongmar lake and Yumthang Valley.
Day 1: Gangtok
Arrive at Bagdogra Airport or NJP in Siliguri. Take a private taxi to Gangtok (4-5 hour journey).
The journey from Siliguri to Gangtok starts off a bit boring, but once you hit the curves, the turquoise waters of the Teesta River accompany you.
You also pass the beautiful arched Coronation Bridge, named to commemorate the coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth in 1937 and completed in 1941. You can stop by to admire this bridge.
There are plenty of small hotels and roadside shacks that serve lemon tea. If you feel sick due to the curvy roads, make sure to have one.
Once you reach Gangtok, check in at the hotel and rest for a while.
In the evening, keep it simple and head to MG Road, the most happening road in Gangtok.
It has plenty of cafes. I needed coffee during the February cold, so I picked “The Coffee Shop” for some good cappuccinos. For dining, go to Taste of Tibet, where you get real tasty affordable Tibetan food, including momos and thukpa. I loved the veg thukpa.
If you’re up for a karaoke night, head to Cafe Live & Loud. Ashrith partied here with live music and even karaoke. It is super fun to do karaoke in Gangtok.
Where to stay in Gangtok
It is best to stay close to MG Marg in Gangtok, but not right on the road, as it can get noisy at night. Staying nearby helps you enjoy a quieter area, and you can always walk up to MG Marg for cafes and food
Luxury: Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino – Most famous luxury hotel, with casino.
Mid-range: The Nettle and Fern Hotel Gangtok – I stayed here and it was perfect, within 1.5 km walking distance from MG Marg.
Budget Hostel: Tag Along Backpackers is a good option to consider – newer and popular.
Modern Central Lodge is where Ashrith stayed here for 3 nights and had a comfortable, fun stay, but it doesn’t exist anymore.
Day 2: Explore in and around Gangtok
Have breakfast in one of the cafes or Tibetan food joints in Gangtok.
Then head to the Home Department Office in Gangtok and apply for the North and East Sikkim Protected Area Permit (PAP). Carry photocopies of all group members’ ID cards such as driving licences and voter IDs, along with passport-sized photos. This will be needed from Day 3 onwards.
Start your day by cycling or taking a cab to Ganesh Tok. Just 7 km from Gangtok, Ganesh Tok is a hilltop temple with stunning views of the city and Himalayas. It’s a peaceful spot for both spirituality and scenery lovers.
From Ganesh Tok, head to Hanuman Tok. Another temple with stunning views, but this one is managed by the Indian Army. Instead of priests, Indian Army officials hand over prasad here!
There is also Tashi Viewpoint and Gangtok ropeway, which I find to be overrated and overcrowded- Skip it.
Have lunch at Solpon, another Tibetan restaurant where I loved Tibetan laphing, thick noodles.
In the afternoon, head to Rumtek Monastery, religious important and peaceful place in Sikkim.
Day 3: Nathu La circuit
With your permit which you applied and collected on Day 2 in Gangtok, explore Nathu La and the surroundings. Prepare for higher altitude, and leave early to avoid traffic and crowds.
Nathu La: Nathu La is a mountain pass on the Indo-China border, located at an altitude of 14,140 feet. It is part of the historic Silk Route and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. The pass is open to Indian nationals with permits – It is one of the most famous tourist places in Sikkim, expect the crowd.
Tsomgo Lake: Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, is a glacial lake situated at 12,313 feet above sea level. It is renowned for its clear blue waters and picturesque surroundings, often reflecting the nearby snow-capped mountains.
The lake is sacred to locals and a popular tourist destination in Sikkim – Less crowded and more peaceful.
Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir: You may have visited many temples in India. But Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir is unique – It is a shrine dedicated to a revered Indian Army soldier, believed to be a guardian of the region. Located between Nathu La and Jelep La passes at 13,123 feet, the temple is visited by both soldiers and civilians, who pay homage and seek blessings from the spirit of Baba Harbhajan Singh.
Day 4: Gangtok to Lachen
Leave Gangtok after breakfast and head towards Lachen in North Sikkim (118 km, 5-6 hours). The roads are winding, scenic, and rugged, so be prepared with motion sickness medicine if needed.
The journey is never boring?you’ll either be navigating bumpy roads, gazing at Kanchenjunga, or passing through charming villages and waterfalls.
Your first stop is the Seven Sister Waterfalls, where seven beautiful cascades tumble down the cliffs. It’s perfect for a quick photo op. Enjoy some lemon tea and continue ahead.
As you climb higher, the scenery gets prettier. At Chungthang, where you can either head to Lachen or Lachung, enjoy the impressive Chungthang Dam holding the bright turquoise waters of the Teesta River.
A few kilometres ahead, relax by the Teesta River, dipping your feet in the cold water. The mountain air is tempting, but keep your windows up to avoid ear pain at higher altitudes.
By late evening, reach Lachen and check into a cozy homestay or budget hotel. Don’t expect much luxury in Lachen, as it’s one of the remote places in Sikkim still developing.
When Ashrith visited Lachen in 2015, many of the homestays didn’t even have a name and would take in guests as they came. But now it is a bit different and you can find a few of them online. The homestay hosts are usually very kind and cook delicious food.
Where to stay in Lachen
Budget Hotel: Rufina Lachen Deezong – This is where I stayed for a night. The rooms are comfy, and they provide extra blankets and heaters if needed (Lachen gets very cold). The food is great, especially the sel roti and saag sabzi.
Mid-Range Hotel: Summit Panghen Metok Hotel Lachen – This is also a great option if you can spend a bit more for added comfort.
Day 5: Gurudongmar Lake and Lachung at night
On Day 5 of your Sikkim itinerary, you’ll visit the most glorious and remote place in Sikkim?Gurudongmar Lake. This North Sikkim gem is the main reason many Indians plan trip to Sikkim. And they are absolutely right.
But let me tell you, it is the most difficult and challenging part of the trip.
You’ll need to leave your Lachen guesthouse as early as 3 am! The 50 km journey to Gurudongmar Lake takes about 5 hours. You start your journey at Lachen (8,500 ft) and your endpoint, Gurudongmar Lake, is at 17,800 ft!
Be prepared with high-altitude sickness medicine and stay awake to watch the amazing scenery throughout the journey.
You have to cross at least 3 military checkpoints on the way?with your valid PAP, it doesn’t cause any problems. But if the weather worsens with snowfall or storms, they might send you back from any of these checkpoints. Ashrith was sent back from the last checkpoint, just about 10 km from Gurudongmar Lake, due to extreme snowfall at the lake.
Due to the low oxygen levels, you can only spend about 30 minutes at the lake. If you aren’t too tired, you can touch the holy lake or sit and enjoy the stunning view of the blue glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains and the brown cold desert.
On the way back, stop at Thangu Valley for breakfast and some tea, then stop at Chopta Valley for stunning views. You can either head directly to Lachung or return to your hotel, eat lunch, and rest before heading to Lachung?it’s up to you. Lachen to Lachung is just 50 km and takes about 2 hours.
Heads up: If you have high altitude sickness like me, it is best to spend 2 days in Lachen before heading to Gurudongmar on the third day.
You really need to take it slow. Lachen is a small hamlet where you can spend some leisurely time wandering in the village. If you spend 3 days in Lachen, you will have to skip Lachung. Prioritise your health before anything else.
Where to stay in Lachung
Budget Hotels:
- Divine’s The Elite Zong: A great budget option for a comfortable stay.
- Apple Valley Cottages: Another affordable choice with good amenities.
- Gyaltsen Resort (Not Recommended) : I stayed here for 2 nights. They rent snow gum boots for Yumthang Valley, but the rooms weren’t tidy or clean, so I don’t recommend this resort.
Mid-Range Resorts:
- Yashshree Lachung: Offers better facilities, their restaurant is famous.
- Jewel Kongchen Retreat Spa: Known for its serene environment and excellent service.
Day 6: Yumthang Valley
Yumthang, a snow paradise in winter, turns into a floral carpet in spring. In either season, you’ll be delighted.
After breakfast, rent gum boots from your host and head to Yumthang Valley from Lachung. Enjoy numerous viewpoints along the 25 km journey.
At Zero Milestone Yumthang, play in the snow by the Lachung River. Make a snowman?I made one with a moustache.
I loved wandering around the valley, walking on the snow, and crossing paths beside stupas and giant prayer flags. It’s just you, nature, snow or flowers, and a flowing river at Yumthang.
If the weather and roads are favourable, visit Zero Point, a flat ground with a river and snow-covered rocky mountains, dotted with hot springs.
Spend as long as you want and return to Lachung. In spring, don’t forget to visit Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary.
There are a few local food joints, though not many options. So, it’s better to eat at your hotel. You can wander around the village and visit Lachung Monastery in the evening.
If you need to catch a flight or train from Siliguri the next afternoon, head to Gangtok and stay overnight so that you can reach Siliguri early on the 7th day. Otherwise, stay back in Lachung.
Day 7: Return Journey
Depending on your flight or train schedule from Siliguri back home, plan to leave Lachung accordingly. The journey from Lachung to Siliguri is about 200 km and takes around 7 hours.
Sikkim Itinerary for 10 Days
Gangtok, Nathula surroundings, Gurudongmar lake and Yumthang Valley, Pelling and Ravangla
Day 1-6
Follow the 7-Day Sikkim tour Itinerary from Day 1 to 6
Day 7: Lachung to Pelling
Leave Lachung post breakfast for Pelling in West Sikkim (175 km, 6 to 7-hour journey). Windy roads and mountain scenes are part of this journey too. The best part of Pelling is you don’t have to worry about PAP!
After covering over 50% of the journey, you arrive at Temi?known for tea gardens. Have a pit stop here, with Sikkimese tea and some lunch.
Reach Pelling by late afternoon?where you will always have the sight of Kanchenjunga.
As Pelling is home to backpackers who spend a month here, it is home to super affordable cafes and local food joints?small kiosks.
Pick a cafe in the evening, sip tea or coffee while watching Kanchenjunga. Like most tourists, I chose Lotus Bakery?literally a hut converted into a bakery for this relaxing evening.
For the night, head to Hotel Kabur?one of the oldest hotels in Pelling where you can meet many backpackers. It isn’t just a place to eat, but you find people with a bowl of soup sitting there writing for hours together.
The cosy interiors, healthy local food, and numerous indoor game options create a welcoming atmosphere. My friend and
Where to Stay in Pelling
I recommend staying in Upper Pelling or on Pelling-Rimbi Road. You’ll be closer to hiking trails and cafes. Staying outside Upper Pelling is good if you don’t mind walking up and down every time you want to get to a food joint.
Hostels:
- Mochilero Ostello: Located on Pelling -Rimbi Road. My friend and I stayed here for two nights in a private room. The stay was comfortable and budget-friendly, with a nice atmosphere.
Mid-range hotels:
- Summit Newa Regency & Spa, Pelling – Located on Lower Pelling road, comfortable well rated hotel, but a bit far form famous food places.
- The Nettle and Fern Farmstay – If you want to be away from town, secluded in a farm, pick this
Luxury:
- The Elgin Mount Pandim Heritage Resort & Spa – One of the oldest hotels in Sikkim (since 1942), located closer to Pemayangtse monastery gives you a heritage vibe and pampering experience if you don’t mind spending.
Day 8 : Explore Pelling
Day two of your 10-day Sikkim itinerary is all about hiking in Pelling. So, pack some water and carry some nice bread from Lotus Bakery.
Pemayangtse Monastery Hike – Start your 2nd day in Pelling with the challenging uphill hike to Pemayangtse Monastery. The trail is about 2 km and a bit more challenging?you hike uphill a lot, so I took about an hour!
Wear clothes suitable for a monastery, covering your knees and shoulders, and bring your walking/hiking shoes. The trail is adorned with prayer flags and wheels.
The views of the Kanchenjunga range as you climb higher are simply awesome. Take it slow, and don’t hesitate to sit on the ground or a boulder to catch your breath until you reach Pemayangtse Monastery.
The monastery isn’t as huge as Rumtek, but it is definitely unique and more colourful. Built in the late 1640s, it is one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim. It has a central courtyard, with one end open to the valley and mountain view. The Buddhist murals inside are very detailed and colourful. You can observe a lot of woodwork in the interiors.
The top floor has an intricate wooden replica of the celestial abode of Guru Rinpoche, which is a must-see.
You can start coming down before lunchtime so you are in Pelling’s best restaurant, Hotel Kabur, for lunch. If you have already packed your lunch, have it on the trail itself because the next trail starts closer to the Pemayangtse Monastery hiking starting point.
Don’t worry about the noon sun. Unless it is a super bright day, the sun in Sikkim is never harsh. It is best to relax here than going to your room.
Hike to Rabdentse Ruins– Post lunch, take up the easy hiking trail to Rabdentse Ruins. Starting from Pelling, it’s just a short 2 km walk through dense forest. The trail is pretty easy and well-marked, so even beginners will find it enjoyable.
As you walk, you’ll hear birds chirping and see lush greenery all around.
Don’t forget to observe how local Sikkimese people arrange flat pebble stones one above the other with round pebbles on top?this is a practice among Sikkim folks to remember their departed loved ones. I did one too for my grandpa here.
I am not going to give a lot of hopes here saying “Rabdentse Ruins are the most grand palace ruins”?because they aren’t! You see only stone walls with no roofs! But it is definitely worth a visit and hiking trail is really cool.
The ruins, once the second capital of Sikkim, are spread over a hilltop with stunning views. If the weather isn’t cloudy, you can see Kanchenjunga here. I loved sitting there, imagining the history that took place.
I am kind of obsessed with Restaurant Kabur. But as my friend insisted, we did try “Melting Point Restaurant”?which was indeed good. So, end your hiking day munching some noodles and samosas here.
Day 9: Explore Darap Village
One of the coolest things about Pelling is the quaint villages nearby. An offbeat thing to do is to visit rural areas to see Sikkim’s countryside. Take a shared or private taxi to Darap village, 14 km from Pelling.
Darap is a small village occupied by numerous ethnic communities like Limboo, Bhutias, and Tamangs. Slowly developing as a travel destination, it has traditional Sikkimese homes converted into cafes. Walking around the village is super fun.
From donkey stables to goats, and surrounded by Rimbi Waterfalls, the town is charming. I felt like I should have stayed at least for a night in Darap?they have plenty of eco-homestays in the middle of vegetable gardens!
Post-lunch, leave for Khecheopalri Lake, also known as the “Wish-Fulfilling Lake.” Thick forests surround the lake, and the water here is said to be so pure that you can drink it!
Come back to your abode in Pelling by late evening and head to one of the cool restaurants.
Day 10: Leave for Siliguri from Pelling via Ravangla
Even on your last day, there’s something to see on your way! Have an early breakfast in Pelling and head to Ravangla to visit the 130-foot Buddha statue, meditating in an open park surrounded by green mountains. Though built in 2013 purely for tourism, the park is so calm and serene that it’s one of the most peaceful places I have ever been to.
Grab some Maggi from nearby shops?they know how to make it the best.
Then, start your downhill journey from Ravangla to Siliguri (140 km, 4 to 5-hour journey) to Bagdogra Airport or NJP train station to get back home.
Sikkim Itinerary for 14 Days
Gangtok, Nathula surroundings, Gurudongmar lake and Yumthang Valley, Pelling, Ravangla, Yuksom and Zuluk SIlk Route.
Day 1-9
Follow the 10-Day Sikkim trip Itinerary from Day 1 to 9
Day 10: Pelling -Ravangla-Yuksom
Just like on Day 10 of the previous Sikkim itinerary, you will leave Pelling for Ravangla to enjoy Buddha Park. From Ravangla, post-lunch, head to Yuksom (60 km, 2.5-hour journey)?one of the prettiest, quietest, and most serene villages in Sikkim.
I knew what to expect in Gurudongmar or Zuluk, but Yuksom surprised me with its local community, food joints, and cafes. Apart from those who start the Goechala trek, hardly any tourists come here. So, it’s mostly trekkers, trek guides, and the local community!
India is indeed a crowded nation, but here at Yuksom, you really feel there are hardly any people. It doesn’t make it any less safe. Unlike Gangtok, you won’t be troubled by drunkards at night. It’s perfectly fine to explore Yuksom by yourself (it was only me and my female friend).
Once you check in at the hotel, spend the evening wandering and wondering how such small shed-like shops sell some high-end trekking gear.
For dinner, head to one of the restaurants. We had our dinner at Gupa Restaurant, where we could meet trekkers! Talk to those who are about to leave for the amazing Goechala trek or those who have already finished it! You never know, you might get inspired and come back here for the trek next year
Where to stay in Yuksom
Hotel Red Palace Hotel & Resort: This is the most famous hotel in Yuksom (owned by a famous Sikkimese actor, not Bollywood). Despite its name, it is a mid-range budget hotel with a beautiful garden and close to hiking trails. This is where I stayed, and it was comfortable and well-located.
Hotel Pemathang: You can try this if you prefer a smaller hotel. It is right by the main road, offering convenience and a more intimate setting.
Day 11: Hiking in Yuksom
You’ll spend the entire day hiking about 4-5 km. If you’re up for more adventure, you can visit a nearby waterfall in the afternoon.
Norbugang Coronation Throne: Kick off your day early with lemon tea and begin hiking to the most unique spot in Yuksom, the Norbugang Coronation Throne. This is where Phuntsog Namgyal was crowned the first Chogyal of Sikkim in 1642. There is a stupa, a giant statue of Rinpoche (Buddhist Guru), and a small Buddhist stone shrine covered with colourful prayer flags. It’s incredibly unique because it’s in the middle of the forest, like in the middle of nowhere!
Come back from the hike, have breakfast in one of the restaurants or at your guesthouse before heading out for the next hiking spot.
Kathok Lake: You might have visited many lakes in Sikkim, but Kathok Lake, a green pool surrounded by alpine trees and prayer flags, is the cleanest of all and full of fish.
Unlike Khecheopalri, Kathok Lake gets hardly any tourists. Locals come here to feed the fish, and the atmosphere is incredibly calming. There’s even a footprint attributed to one of the lamas who crowned the first Chogyal.
Dubdi Monastery: From Kathok Lake, a 3 km walk through the forest and a bit of uphill walking takes you to one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim, Dubdi.
It is located at about 7,000 ft, while Yuksom is at about 5,840 ft, so you do climb a bit. On the way, you meet locals going to work, women carrying loads of grass to feed their goats and cattle, and maybe a few hikers like you.
Come back in time for lunch. If you aren’t tired, head to Phamrong Falls, the highest waterfall in Sikkim, located 7 km from Yuksom. Book a private cab for half a day and ask the driver to wait till evening. Visit after the rainy season to see the waterfall in full glory. Climb the 200 steep steps to reach the viewpoint. For some reason, these 200 steps were the most difficult part of my day.
Come back to Yuksom and enjoy some momos and Wai Wai from the tea stalls.
Day 12: Yuksom to Zuluk
Leave post breakfast for Zuluk (150km, 6 to 7hr journey). On the way at Rongli, make sure to get PAP for next day Zuluk visit.
Where to stay in Zuluk
There are many villages in Zuluk where you can choose to stay. It is best to pick homestays near Phadamchen or Lingtham, which are away from Rongli. Rongli seems crowded and, for some reason, it doesn’t feel like Sikkim.
Most homestays here provide basic bed and breakfast. You can expect awesome views, friendly hosts who cook delicious food, and nearby waterfalls or rivers, but not a sophisticated polished stay experience. Many of the homestays aren’t listed on Booking.com or Agoda, so you need local references or booking through calls.
I booked Sisney Paradise in Lingtham online through their private website. I stayed here for two nights, and it was comfortable, and their food was good. The host even prepared some snacks early in the morning and packed them for us.
Blue Sky Homestay is also another popular place to stay in Zuluk.
Voyage Glenz Retreat in Padamchen is one of the newest options that looks a bit more sophisticated and polished.
Day 13: Silk route viewpoints
On day 13th, you’ll visit the second most beautiful place in Sikkim?the winding Silk Route viewpoints.
Leave early in the morning, around 4:30 am, for the Zuluk Silk Road View Point (30 km, can take up to 1.5 hrs). Carry some snacks in case you get hungry. Sunrise is the best time to see the place because the view is spectacular, and it tends to get foggy as the sun goes up. For the clearest view, aim to visit between sunrise and 7:30 am.
From Thambi View Point, you’ll get an amazing panoramic view of the zigzag roads of the Old Silk Route and the stunning Kanchenjunga range. At around 11,200 feet, the viewpoint is especially breathtaking at sunrise when the first light hits the peaks and the winding roads below.
From Thambi Viewpoint, go up 4 km to Lungthung Viewpoint for the stunning sight of the Kanchenjunga mountain range.
The last viewpoint before you head down is Nathang Valley. It is a small but beautiful village with probably 100 groups of houses in a barren valley filled with snow most of the time. Some of them serve tea and snacks like momos, but you can’t be sure of it. At the viewpoint, you will see the village surrounded by mountains from afar.
Start the descent and arrive at Phadamchen. The cozy village with rice field terraces lined with green mountains is a perfect place for breakfast.
Come back to your room and rest. The winding roads to Zuluk are more tiresome than any other roads you would have ever taken. If you aren’t tired, you can go hiking around the area in the evening. There are many waterfalls easily accessible by walking and even an eco-nature park with pine trees.
Day 14 : Zuluk to Siliguri
Post breakfast (or as per your flight/train schedule), leave for Siliguri, which is a 5-hour journey. Catch a train from NJP Station or a flight from Bagdogra Airport back home.
Which of these Sikkim itineraries would you follow and why? Let us know in the comment section below.
