Sikkim Tour
Nestled amidst the eastern Himalayas in India lies the enchanting state of Sikkim, a gem of the northeastern region. Despite being one of India's smallest states, its significance is immense, bordered by the Tibetan Autonomous Region of China to the north and northeast, Bhutan to the southeast, West Bengal to the south, and Nepal to the west. The capital, Gangtok, sits gracefully in the southeast, surrounded by awe-inspiring landscapes.
Renowned for its biodiversity and diverse climates ranging from alpine to subtropical, Sikkim boasts the majestic Kangchenjunga, India's highest peak and the world's third-highest mountain. Khangchendzonga National Park, covering over a third of the state, adds to its natural allure.
Once an independent entity, Sikkim became an Indian protectorate in 1950 and attained statehood in 1975. Despite its small size, its strategic location along international borders renders it politically and strategically vital to India.
Sikkim's beauty is unparalleled in the northeastern part of India, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you're a mountain enthusiast or not, Sikkim's tranquil landscapes, highlighted by the benevolent presence of Kanchenjunga, provide a rejuvenating retreat, especially during the scorching heat of May.
As an ethereal gateway to the Himalayas, Sikkim beckons travelers with its breathtaking scenery, from lush green meadows to vibrant groves and serene waterfalls. Beyond its picturesque façade, Sikkim caters to every tourist, whether you're a nature lover, adventure seeker, or spiritual wanderer. And let's not forget the culinary delights that will tantalize your taste buds and evoke heavenly sensations.
In essence, Sikkim is a must-visit destination, offering a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and spiritual tranquillity.
Sikkim Backpacking Tour Batches
- 7th April to 14th April 2024
- 14th April to 21st April 2024 (Women Special Batch)
- 21st April to 28th April 2024
- 28th April to 5 May 2024
Sikkim Tour Cost
- Reaching Bagdogra Airport on your own: 29999/- per person (Inclusive of 5% GST)
- Mumbai to Mumbai by Indigo Airline: 49,999/- per person (Inclusive of 5% GST)
Mumbai to Sikkim and Sikkim to Mumbai time:
- Mumbai to Bagdogra by Indigo Airline
Departure from Mumbai : 08.10 Hrs
Arrival at Bagdogra : 10.55 Hrs
- Bagdogra to Mumbai by Indigo Airline
Departure from Bagdogra : 11.30 Hrs
Arrival at Mumbai : 14.30 Hrs
Sikking Backpacking Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Bagdogra to Gangtok (135 km / approx 4.30 hrs)
Arrive at Bagdogra airport or NJP railway station and proceed to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Enjoy a picturesque drive through the Himalayan hills, passing Tista Bazaar. Check into your hotel and spend the evening at leisure. Explore MG Road around the Mall to experience the charm of Gangtok's hill city life. Overnight stay in Gangtok.
Day 2: Gangtok to Lachen (120 km / 5 hrs / Alt. 8,500 ft)
After breakfast, drive to Lachen. En route, visit Kabi Lungchok, Shinghik for views of Kanchenjunga, Chungthang, and Vimala Falls. Reach Lachen, a base for the Green Lake trek. Overnight stay in Lachen.
Day 3: Excursion to Gurudongmar. Lachen to Lachung (50 km / 2 hrs)
Early morning, visit Thangu Village and Chopta Valley, then drive to Gurudongmar Lake close to the Tibet border. Return to Lachen for lunch and then drive to Lachung via Chungthang. Overnight stay in Lachung.
Day 4: Excursion to Yumthang. Lachung to Gangtok (24 km / Alt. 11,800 ft)
Early morning, visit Yumthang Valley and Yumesamdong. En route, visit Sulphur Hot Spring, Handicraft Centre, and Lachung Monastery. After lunch, drive back to Gangtok. Overnight stay in Gangtok.
Day 5: Excursion – Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir (Nathula Pass Optionally)
After breakfast, embark on an excursion to Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir. Optionally, visit Nathula Pass (permit required). Return to Gangtok in the evening and explore M G Marg for shopping and local delicacies. Overnight stay in Gangtok.
Day 6: Namchi - Ravangla / Overnight at Pelling
After breakfast, proceed to sightseeing at Namchi and Ravangla. Reach Pelling and overnight stay.
Day 7: Pelling Sightseeing
Explore Pelling and visit local monasteries, Pelling Sky Walk, and Chenrezig Statue. Overnight stay in Pelling.
Day 8: Pelling to Bagdogra
Check out early morning and drive to Bagdogra for your onward journey. Fly back home with cherished memories.
Travel suggestions:
- Ensure that you land/arrive into Bagdogra latest by 11 am as we will depart from the airport by 11.30 am on Day 1
- Take a flight/train post 11.30 am on Day 8
Please note that at any given point of time if the event has participants count which is 6 or less in number the event might get automatically converted into a customised one, i.e there shall be a local representative from Treks and Trails that will greet you directly at the starting point.
What is included in the tour
- Stay in comfortable, clean and hygienic triple sharing accommodation / home stays
- Internal travel during the trip, inclusive of the pickup and drop facility to the Bagdogra Airport
- Breakfast and Dinner provided during Sikkim backpacking trip
- All permits, entries etc.during Sikkim backpack tour
- Services of an expert Treks and Trails buddy during Sikkim backpacking trip
- 5% GST
Please Note : Booking refundable air tickets through reputable platforms like Make My Trip or Yatra Portal is indeed a wise choice, especially for flexibility in travel plans. It's important to prioritize peace of mind, particularly in the face of potential last-minute changes or cancellations.
What is NOT included in the tour
- Travel cost of arrival to Bagdogra Airport on Day 1
- Travel cost of departure from Bagdogra Airport on Day 8
- Nathula Pass & Zero Point Permit
- Day 1 Breakfast, Day 8 Breakfast
- Food during the transit to and from Bagdogra Airport
- Any personal expenses made during the Sikkim backpack trip
- Any other item that is not specified under cost inclusions
- Valid Identity Proof (Passport / Voter ID Card), along with 5 Photocopies for each document.
- 5 Passport Size Color Photographs
- Water Bottles
- A light-weighted Haversack or Backpack, and a smaller Day Sack
- Good pair of trekking shoes, and a pair of flip-flops
- Woolen Gloves, woolen socks, Monkey Cap/Balaclava, Neck Scarf
- Thermal Inners
- Snow Jackets and Fleece Jackets
- Waterproof gloves and windcheater/poncho
- Personal clothing (Dressing Moderately is mandatory to visit Monasteries and Dzongs)
- Cap, sunglasses, scarf
- Camera, Binoculars (Optional)
- Toiletries – Sunscreen, Moisturizer, Light towel, Lip balm, Wet wipes, Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Hand Sanitizer
- Extra Polythene Bags (To segregate used/ unused garments, wet/ dry clothing)
- Any medicines that you consume normally, post consulting a doctor
- Mosquito repellent
- Snacks & Biscuits to munch on (Optional)
- Enerzyl Powder or Glucon D powder
Cancellation Policy
In case you need to cancel your plans for the trip due to avoidable/unavoidable reasons, please do notify us via email.
The cancellation charges will be as follows:
- Before 60 days prior to date of departure: 20% of the tour cost
- 60 to 46 days prior to date of departure: 50% of the tour cost
- 45 to 30 days prior to date of departure: 70% of the tour cost
- Less than 30 days prior to date of departure: No refund
- No show No Refund
- Event Tickets cannot be transferred to another date against cancellation
- Event Tickets cannot be transferred to another person against cancellation
IMPORTANT:
- Remember to consult your physician if you have any heart or breathing issues before making this trip.
- You may carry Popcorn and/or Camphor from Gangtok before heading over to High Altitude areas such as Lachen, Gurudongmar, Lachung, Yumthang, Yumesamdong & Nathula where the layer of Oxygen is very thin.
- Please refrain from clicking pictures while on the way to Gurudongmar from Lachen and at Nathula due to presence of our Indian Army base and various security issues.
- Please make sure you report at the start location as per the itinerary. No refunds would be entertained by Treks and Trails. Consult your Treks and Trails buddy in advance in case of any changes.
- Consuming liquor or any kind of Alcoholic substance is prohibited. Carrying any kind of substance that’s illegal is not allowed. Smoking is strictly not allowed. Anybody found smoking or consuming alcoholic drinks will be expelled from the event without refund.
Disclaimers:
- Any customization in arrival and departures may lead to additional cost.
- All sightseeing is subject to weather conditions, political conditions in the destination.
- Customization would not be adjusted with any inclusions such as missed sightseeing, stay, meals etc.
- Due to delay by participants if any destination gets missed same will not be covered.
- If any of the points remains closed without prior intimation, we will try to cover it up with another destination if feasible.
Fitness & Health:
Though this is a fun-filled trip, it demands good amount of physical fitness because of its high altitude and thinner oxygen levels. If you are under medication, please carry your medicines. During the trip, your Treks and Trails buddy will have over the counter medication for temporary treatment, so do give a heads up to them if you need any medical assistance.
FAQ
1. How to reach Sikkim?
Most people coming to Sikkim prefer to fly. There are very few trains that come here and if there are any they are not daily. Most people use buses to get around but it is more expensive than the other ways of traveling.
Reach Sikkim by Flight
The nearest airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra Airport (IXB).This airport is known as the Siliguri Airport. It's about 120 KM from Bagdogra Airport and will take over 4 hours driving on the road due to it being in the mountains. Sikkim has its own airport as well, which is only 30 KM away from Gangtok. Its name is Pakyong Airport ,but this airport has very little connectivity of flights with major cities like Delhi, Kolkata ,Mumbai ,Bangalore ,etc.
2. Why do Indians require permits to visit Nathula, Gurudongmar Lake, and other Sikkim protected areas?
Due to the fact that Nathula and Gurudongmar lake are close to the international border of China, Bhutan and Nepal Tourists from all over the world need permits to visit these areas.
3. Can I drive by my private car?
Sikkim is the most uncompetitive market to enter. They not allow private vehicles on public roads located in protected areas of their state.
4. What is the best season to visit Sikkim?
The best time to visit Sikkim is from March to June and from October to December
Summer: April to June ( Best season to visit Sikkim)
5. How many minimum days are required to explore Sikkim?
There are many fantastical destinations in Sikkim that attract tourists from afar: Gangtok, Lachen, Lachun, Yumthang Valley, Nathula Pass, Gurudongmar, Namchi and Pelling to name but a few. You’re bound to get lost in the sheer beauty of these destinations and can easily spend at least 8-10 days exploring each location. North Sikkim is very famous amongst tourists because it takes a minimum of 6 days to cover all the famous locales.
6. What is the local food of Sikkim?
Sikkim cuisine is a pure blend of Tibetan, Nepalese, and native Sikkimese food. The Sikkimese people are fond of rice as their main food. Some famous dishes include momos (dumplings), thukpa Tibetan noodle soup), gundruk (leafy dish),sha phaley, gundruk (leafy dish),sha phaley, Pork curry, Chhurpi –a fermented dairy product, Ring shaped Nepalese bread and Sishnu Soup.
7. What is Sikkim famous for?
Sikkim is known for its peaceful nature, simplicity and pleasant climate throughout the year.Sikkim is famous for Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world at 8586m, beside this it offers a tremendous variety of plants and wildlife with a diverse mix of rich culture and traditions. Apart from this Sikkim has been blessed with verdant valleys, refreshing air, serene ambiance and snow-clad peaks.
8. Is Jio network available in Sikkim?
Jio works well in Sikkim. In areas where Jio is supported you will get 4G internet connectivity and a calling network.
P.S. There is no network connectivity at Changu Lake and Nathula Pass.
9. Do we need Passport for Sikkim?
Passport is not necessary for Indian nationals to visit Sikkim. If a person has a voter ID card or driving license then they can get the required permits.
10. Does Sikkim receive snowfall?
Yes, Sikkim receives snowfall during the winter. Typically, snowfall starts in December and lasts into February. The temperature can fall as low as -7 degrees Celsius at this period. Although there is snowfall in the lower parts of the state, it is heavier in the higher elevations of the Himalayan range. Tourists travel to Sikkim mostly to experience the snow-covered landscapes and participate in winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.
11. Best places to visit in Sikkim Gangtok
Sikkim is a picturesque state in India's northeastern area, with Gangtok as its capital city. Here are some of the finest locations to visit in Gangtok, Sikkim:
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Gangtok: The capital city of Sikkim is known for its picturesque views, monasteries, and vibrant nightlife.
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Nathula Pass: This mountain pass connects India and Tibet and provides breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
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Tsomgo Lake: This glacial lake, also known as Changu Lake, is located at an elevation of 12,400 feet and is recognized for its tranquil beauty as well as the Brahminy ducks that inhabit the area.
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Rumtek Monastery: This is one of Sikkim's most prominent monasteries, notable for its exquisite architecture and spiritual significance.
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Hanuman Tok: This temple honors Lord Hanuman and provides magnificent views of the nearby mountains.
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Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park: This park is the home to a wide range of animals and birds, including the critically endangered red panda.
12. What are the most popular things to do in Sikkim?
Here are some of the most popular things to do in Sikkim:
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Trekking: Sikkim is home to some of the most beautiful trekking trails in the Himalayas, offering breathtaking views of the mountain ranges.
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Visit Monasteries: Sikkim is home to many ancient monasteries that are rich in spiritual and cultural significance.
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Enjoy the Scenic Beauty: The state is known for its lush green hills, snow-capped peaks, and pristine lakes, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
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Experience Local Culture: Sikkim is home to many ethnic communities, each with their own unique culture and traditions. Visitors can experience the local culture by attending festivals, visiting handicraft markets, and trying local delicacies.
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Adventure Sports: Sikkim offers a wide range of adventure sports such as paragliding, river rafting, and mountain biking.
13. Weather and temperature in Sikkim year around
The weather and temperature in Sikkim vary depending on the season and elevation.
Summer (April–June): 20–25°C. Outdoor activities are good in warm weather.
Monsoon (July–September): 20–25°C. Heavy rainfall in the state makes hiking and other outdoor sports difficult.
Autumn (October–November): 10–15°C. Trekking and sightseeing are excellent in cool, clear weather.
Winter (December–March): 0–5°C. In the mountains, heavy snowfall makes travel difficult. However, skiing and other winter sports are preferable.
Note that higher elevations, like Nathula Pass, are always colder than lower elevations. Before traveling, check the weather forecast and pack accordingly.
14. How many days are ideal for Sikkim?
Sikkim is frequently cited as being among the most visually appealing locations in all of India. It will take you somewhere between 12 and 15 days to completely explore the state's most prominent tourist attractions.
15. Why is Zero Point famous?
Zero Point is a popular tourist destination in the state of Sikkim, India. It is located in the North Sikkim district and is known for its stunning views of the Himalayan mountain range. It is a popular spot for trekking and hiking, and is known for its beautiful scenery, including snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and dense forests. It is also known for its unique biodiversity and is home to many rare and endangered species.
One of the main reasons why Zero Point is famous is because of the panoramic views it offers of the Himalayan range, including Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak in the world. The place is also famous for offering a glimpse of the snow leopard, which is difficult to spot as it lives in remote and high altitude.
16. What are Sikkim's most beautiful and spiritual monasteries, trekking destinations, and villages?
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Sikkim Monastery: Sikkim is home to many ancient monasteries that are rich in spiritual and cultural significance. Some of the most popular monasteries in Sikkim include Rumtek Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery, and Tashiding Monastery.
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Kala Patthar: Kala Patthar is a popular trekking destination in Sikkim. It is located at an altitude of 18,190 feet and offers spectacular views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and other peaks of the Himalayan range.
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Pelling: Pelling is a small town located in the western part of Sikkim. It is known for its beautiful views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, waterfalls, and ancient monasteries.
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Lachung: Lachung is a small village located in the North Sikkim district. It is known for its beautiful views of the Himalayan range, traditional Tibetan culture, and the Yumthang Valley, which is known for its hot springs and rhododendron flowers.
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Namchi: Namchi is a small town located in the South Sikkim district. It is known for its beautiful views of the Himalayan range, ancient monasteries, and the Samdruptse Hill, which is known for its giant statue of Guru Rinpoche.
17. What are the popular dishes of Sikkim cuisine?
The cuisine of Sikkim is a unique blend of Indian, Tibetan, and Nepalese flavors. It is known for its use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, and is characterized by its spicy and flavorful dishes. Some popular dishes from Sikkim include:
Momos: These are steamed dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, and are a popular street food in Sikkim.
Thukpa: A hearty noodle soup that is often made with vegetables and meat or chicken.
Phagshapa: A traditional dish made of pork and radishes.
Dhindo: A thick porridge made of corn or millet flour, served with meat or vegetables.
18. What are the transportation options available to reach Sikkim by rail, road, and air?
Here are the ways to reach Sikkim via rail, road, and air:
Rail: The nearest railway station to Sikkim is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) in West Bengal, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From NJP, one can take a taxi or bus to reach Sikkim.
Road: Sikkim is well-connected by road to major cities in the neighboring states of West Bengal and Assam. Regular bus services are available from Siliguri, Kolkata, and Guwahati to Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim.
Air: The nearest airport to Sikkim is Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the airport, one can take a taxi or bus to reach Sikkim. There is also a new airport in Pakyong, Sikkim, which is well-connected to major cities in India and Nepal.
It's worth noting that visitors need to get the Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit certain parts of Sikkim. It can be applied online or in person at the Sikkim Tourism office in Gangtok.
