Sikkim 6N-7D Domestic Group Tour Package With Flight

Overview

Best time to visit Sikkim

Sikkim is a paradise and a place of retreat throughout the year. However, you may get a different tourism experience depending on the time of your visit. Hence, before you select your favourite plan from the offered Sikkim tour packages, decide on the dates. Here’s a season-wise explanation of the best time to go to Sikkim;

Sikkim in Summer

Sikkim travel experience during the summer season is quite pleasant. Summer in this Indian state starts in April and extends till June. The temperature fluctuates between five to twenty-five degrees. Summer is considered the best time to go to Sikkim for most types of tourism activities, such as casual exploration, adventure activities, visiting the renowned Sikkim attractions, etc. The temperature during the daytime remains quite warm, however, it varies from place to place. But you can expect cooler conditions during the nighttime. So, it is advised to carry a few woollen clothes for Sikkim tours in summer. Get attractive deals on Sikkim trip packages for the summer season on our page.

Sikkim In Monsoon

During the monsoon season, which starts around July and ends in September, Sikkim experiences heavy rainfall, and the climate stays cool. The entire environment is chilled and pleasant while the temperature remains between four to fifteen degrees. The natural beauty and elegance of the region grow tenfold during these months, thanks to the frequent rain showers. However, Sikkim travel during monsoon can be dangerous due to risks of landslides, roadblocks, slippery roads, etc. Hence, most avoid scheduling their Sikkim trip during these months. If you are visiting during this season, stick to Sikkim tourist places within West and South Sikkim. You can get some decent deals and discounts on hotels and transfers for Sikkim tours scheduled for these months. To get Sikkim packages for monsoon months, check out our page. Consider hiring a Sikkim tour guide when visiting during this season.

Sikkim In Winter

Winters here in Sikkim are cool and pleasing. It begins around October and stretches till the month of March. Though the climate stays extremely cold, which is quite favourable for most outdoor activities. You should know that winter is considered the best time to go to Sikkim to witness snow and participate in winter adventures. The best time to go to Sikkim during this season is the period between December and January. Witnessing the breathtaking snow-covered landscapes and frozen blue lakes is something you just can’t miss out on while on your Sikkim tour. For Sikkim travel in winter, pack sufficient warm clothes to last throughout the trip. Plan your trip with our SOTC Sikkim trip packages.

How to reach Sikkim?

Sikkim, an Indian state situated in the Himalayan ranges near the northeast, has appropriate transport facilities reaching all regions of Sikkim. You can choose to travel by air, road or rail. The most suggested way to reach Sikkim is by road, while you can even choose to travel by air and rail as per your preference and convenience.

Reach Sikkim by Road

Roads leading to Sikkim are well-connected to major cities like Siliguri, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Calcutta. Buses are easily accessible and reach out even to the interior and remote areas of Sikkim. You can opt for a public or private bus. For travelling within, you can also travel by jeep or taxi. The utmost efficient national highway in Sikkim is National Highway 31A. Besides making for a great road trip, this transport mode will help you make the most out of your Sikkim tour. Make sure to book transfers in advance for Sikkim travel during peak season.

Reach Sikkim by Air

Travelling to Sikkim by flight is the fastest and one of the most popular transport modes you can opt for. A popular choice is the Bagdogra Airport which is located at a distance of approximately 124 km from Sikkim. The airport is well-connected to other major international and domestic airports in India and Bangkok. Many airline companies function well and hence it is convenient for one to travel by air and easily reach Sikkim by air. On reaching the airport, you can hire a private car or a public taxi to reach Sikkim. Otherwise, individuals can consider the new Pakyong Airport in Sikkim, which is a seasonal domestic airport and the only airport in the state. For reference, a direct flight from New Delhi to Pakyong Airport takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes. You can find Sikkim trip packages featuring optional flights on our website.

Reach Sikkim by Rail

Travelling by train is one of the most popular modes of transport for the majority of Sikkim tours. There are plenty of trains that run from all over India to reach Sikkim. The nearest railway station to Sikkim is Siliguri which is 154 km away and Jalpaiguri which is at a distance of 188 km. On reaching Sikkim railway station, the further journey can be completed by bus or taxi. The road journey there usually takes around 4 to 5 hours, depending on the traffic conditions. Note that road travel is also the primary way for travelling to and between the major Sikkim tourist places.

Best places to visit in Sikkim

Having a clear idea about the places you want to visit and landmarks you want to see makes it much easier to choose from the wide range of offered Sikkim trip packages. Here are some of the best places you can consider adding to your Sikkim tour itinerary;

Gangtok

The state capital, Gangtok, is popularly referred to as the “Gateway to Sikkim”. Found in the majority of the Sikkim trip packages, it is one of the most famous places to see in Sikkim. The city is known for its beautiful scenic views, markets, restaurants, and pleasant weather. Popular attractions in and near Gangtok, such as M.G. Road, Nathula Pass, Rumtek Monastery, Himalayan Zoological Park, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, etc., are some of the most renowned Sikkim sightseeing places that tourists can check. The best month to visit Sikkim for Gangtok tours is March.

Pelling

The quaint town of Pelling is one of the most famous Sikkim places to visit for family tours. It is a renowned hill station, nestled at an elevation of 7,200 feet, just 115 kilometres from Gangtok. Tourists love to visit Pelling for the alluring views of the Himalayas. Popular landmarks in and near Pelling, like the Sangacholing Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, Kanchenjunga Falls, etc., are some of the most notable Sikkim places to visit. Look for Sikkim trip packages featuring Pelling on our page. September is the best month to visit Sikkim for Pelling tours.

Tsomgo Lake

Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, is a popular glacial lake in the East Sikkim District. It is one of the most beautiful Sikkim famous places you can visit, located at an elevation of 12,313 feet. The clear, turquoise water of this massive lake, with the backdrop of snow-capped, arid peaks, makes a visual delight that you just can’t miss out.  You can easily find the Tsomgo Lake included as a standard part of the itinerary in most popular Sikkim trip packages.

Yumthang Valley

Next on the list of must-visit places you can add to your Sikkim itinerary is Yumthang Valley, also known as Sikkim Valley of Flowers Sanctuary. It is a renowned tourist attraction in the state, where you can witness smooth-flowing streams, vast meadows, dense pine and silver fir trees, yaks roaming freely, hot springs, and tons of beautiful species of flowers (between February and June). Make sure to look for Sikkim holiday packages that include a visit to this site.

Kanchenjunga National Park

The Kanchenjunga National Park is a national park and biosphere reserve known for being India’s first “Mixed Heritage” site on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It has been named after the world’s third-highest peak, Kangchenjunga (8,586 metres). Its breathtaking scenic beauty, unique biodiversity and trekking adventures make it one of the most popular tourist places that you can add to your Sikkim itinerary. If you are interested in this park, consider looking for Sikkim holiday packages that include a visit to this site. Some consider early winter the best season to visit Sikkim for Kanchenjunga National Park tours.

Gurudongmar Lake

The famous Gurudongmar Lake in Sikkim is one of the highest lakes in the country. Located at an elevation of 5,430 metres, it is a must-visit attraction that you should add to your Sikkim itinerary. The Lake is known for its astonishing panoramic views, tranquil atmosphere and religious significance. You can find this lake under sightseeing in the most popular Sikkim holiday packages. Note that winter is the best season to visit Sikkim if you want to witness the frozen Gurudongmar Lake.

Things to do in Sikkim

When choosing from the available Sikkim holiday packages, look for planned trips that feature fun activities to enhance your vacation experience. Here are some fun things and adventures you can consider during your Sikkim tour;

Take a yak ride at Changu Lake

Tsomgo Lake, also called Changu Lake, is among the top Sikkim tourist attractions. Tourists visiting this lake can consider going on a Yak ride. Costing between INR 100 and INR 300, it is a fun way to explore the lake site and its surrounding region. The best time to go Sikkim for Yak rides is the summer season.

Ride the Gangtok Cable Car

Taking a ride on the famous Gangtok Ropeway is a fun activity you can add to your Sikkim itinerary. It features a 2-kilometre-long round-trip journey, offering magnificent scenic views from a bird’s vantage point. You can contact a local Sikkim tour guide to learn more about this activity. Experience cable car rides and other fun activities on your vacation with the professionally designed Sikkim holiday packages by SOTC.

Stroll the streets of Lachen and Lachung

Tourists looking for leisurely activities to do in Sikkim can consider strolling the streets of Lachen and Lachung. The incredible vibe, tranquil ambience and hospitable approach of the locals in these two locations are truly unparalleled. The best time to go Sikkim for Lachen and Lachung tours is the period between October and June. You won’t really need a Sikkim tour guide for a Lachen and Lachung trip.

Make a wish at the Khecheopalri Lake

The Khecheopalri Lake in Khecheopalri Village is a sacred lake and one of the best places to visit in Sikkim. Also called the “wish-fulfilling lake”, visiting this beautiful lake to make a wish is one of the most popular things tourists like to do while on their Sikkim trip. A trail leading to this lake makes for an interesting trek that you can consider adding to your Sikkim itinerary. Sitting by the lakeside and spending some peaceful time with your loved ones is also one of the coolest Sikkim things to do. The Sikkim best time to visit Khecheopalri Lake is the period between February and March. Explore Khecheopalri Lake and other scenic tourist attractions in the state with Sikkim packages by SOTC.

Play with snow in Yumthang Valley

The Sikkim best time to visit Zero Point in Yumthang Valley to experience snowfall is the period between February and March. In addition to playing with snow, you can consider casual shopping or trying out hot noodles and momos from the small stalls in the area. Make lifelong memories playing in the snow on your vacation with the Sikkim holiday packages by SOTC.

Trek to Gurudongmar Lake

Trekking is one of the most fun and exciting things to do in Sikkim. There are tons of famous Sikkim places that you can consider for this activity, such as the Gurudongmar Lake trek. Enjoying the fascinating surrounding views while covering the trail and finally getting to see the lake will give you a sense of accomplishment like no other. Gurudongmar Lake is a popular inclusion in most Sikkim packages. Other popular Sikkim best places to visit for trekking are Goecha La, Kanchenjunga base camp trek, Tholung, etc.

Food to eat in Sikkim

Trying out the delicious local cuisine is an essential aspect of all Sikkim tours and holidays. Here are some tasty and famous dishes that you can try while on your Sikkim tour;

Thukpa

While on your Sikkim trip, try Thukpa, a famous item in the Sikkimese cuisine. Thukpa is basically a noodle soup dish prepared with ingredients like egg noodles, oil, onion, ginger, lemon juice, meat, mushroom, and a few other chopped vegetables and local spices. Depending on where you try it, you can get both veg and non-veg options for Thukpa. Trying out different types of Thukpa is a common part of most Sikkim tours. Gangtok is one of the best places in Sikkim for trying out Thukpa.

Momos

One of the most famous dishes that make tourists visit Sikkim is momos. Originating from Tibet, they are a type of dumpling featuring a soft outer shell made of white flour dough and water and an inner filling made of cheese, vegetables, meat, etc. Usually offered in two versions, steamed and fried, momos are best served alongside some green chutney or spicy sauce.

Taste the brilliance of authentic Sikkimese cuisine on your vacation with the Sikkim holiday packages by SOTC. Yumthang Valley is one of the best places in Sikkim for trying out steamed momos.

Gundruk

Another famous local dish you can consider trying while on your Sikkim tour is Gundruk. It is a dish of Nepalese origin, popular among vegetarians. Gundruk is a highly nutritious dish made from a variety of ingredients, like the leaves of radish, mustard, cabbage, etc. It is prepared in an earthen pot, cooked along with tomato sauces and some local spices.

Find great deals on Sikkim holiday packages that come with meals, accommodations, Sikkim sightseeing, etc., as standard, on our website.

Dal Bhaat

The most simple and widely popular local Sikkimese dish is Dal Bhaat. As the name suggests, it is a dish containing two main components, Bhaat (rice) and dal (flavoured soup made by cooking lentils with some spices). When you opt for Dal Bhaat in restaurants in Sikkim, you will usually get a Thaali combo featuring a few other vegetable side dishes and some chutney. You can ask your Sikkim tour guide to know where you can get the best Dal Bhaat in the area.

Phagshapa

It is a popular food item in the cuisine of Sikkim, prepared by cooking pork fat strips, which are then stewed alongside some dried chillies and radishes. Its mouthwatering taste will make you crave a few more servings with each bite. To enjoy your days surrounded by mountains, greenery and peace, opt for the Sikkim packages by SOTC.

Must visit restaurants in Sikkim

Most popular Sikkim travel packages by SOTC include meals, offering the utmost comfort and convenience to tourists on their holidays. If you are looking to dine out during your Sikkim trip, here are some well-known restaurants and cafes that you can consider;

Valhalla – The Rooftop Restaurant

One of the most renowned Sikkim restaurants you can consider visiting for some good food and dining experience is Valhalla – The Rooftop Restaurant. Located in Namchi, the restaurant is well-known for its incredible ambience, food quality, jolly music, and, of course, the rooftop dining experience.

Parivar Restaurant

The Parivar Restaurant in Gangtok is a great place to grab some delicious food in Sikkim. Serving Indian, Asian and vegetarian-friendly dishes, the restaurant is quite popular among locals and tourists in the region. The lip-smacking dishes, hospitable staff and elegant ambience of the place are some of its main highlights. Some popular dishes you can try at this restaurant in Gangtok are Dal Makhani, Chapati, Butter Paneer Masala, etc.

Taste of Tibet

Taste of Tibet is one of the most famous restaurants in Gangtok, Sikkim. Serving a variety of Tibetan and Chinese dishes, the restaurant is known for its comfortable and spacious seating arrangement, food quality, prompt service and budget-friendly menu. Some of their most famous dishes are Pork Dry Fried, Chicken Chilli Boneless, House Special Chopsuey, Chicken Thenthuk, etc.

Best honeymoon destinations in Sikkim

Sikkim is one of the most sought-after honeymoon destinations in North East India. Sikkim honeymoon package trips allow newly married couples to enjoy the beautiful wonders this charming Indian state has to offer. Here are some well-known places for a honeymoon in Sikkim;

Lachung

The beautiful town of Lachung, included in many popular Sikkim packages, is a renowned hill station in the northeastern region of the state. The place offers a wide range of scenic attractions, making it a prominent honeymoon destination in Sikkim. Nestled far from the bustling lifestyle in a modern city, Lachung offers honeymooners a peaceful escape amidst nature. Couples visiting Lachung can also participate in a number of adventures, such as paragliding, trekking, river rafting, etc. So, consider looking for honeymoon special Sikkim travel packages that feature Lachung.

Rinchenpong

The small town of Rinchenpong is a very popular destination for honeymoon in Sikkim. Nearby tourist attractions like Rinchenpong Monastery, Sirijunga Temple, Poison Lake, Chayatal Lake, Singshore Bridge, Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, etc. are some of the most popular Sikkim famous places. If you are interested in visiting this town with your significant other, look for Sikkim honeymoon package options featuring this site.

Ravangla

The quaint town of Ravangla is located in Namchi district, around 25 kilometres from Namchi City. Lying at an elevation of 8,000 feet, the town is among the top Sikkim travel destinations for honeymoons. It is a great offbeat location where couples can enjoy some peaceful time with each other, surrounded by valleys, tea gardens, waterfalls, and densely forested hills, with the snow-capped mountain peaks providing the perfect backdrop. Look for honeymoon special Sikkim travel packages that feature Ravangla for the best tourism experience.

What to shop in Sikkim?

While looking for suitable Sikkim travel packages, consider making a list of things you want to purchase during your visit. Here are some regional products that you can buy when shopping in Sikkim;

Lord Buddha figurines

Miniature Lord Buddha figurines are some of the most popular things you can buy in Sikkim as souvenirs or gifts. These detailed figurines are made using a variety of materials, including copper with lost wax casting. You can find Lord Buddha figurines in Sikkim within various budget ranges, starting from just INR 200.

Where to buy: The shops and markets in Pelling are some of the best places where you can buy this. So, go with Sikkim packages featuring a short stay in Pelling.

Buddhist prayer flags

Another popular thing tourists like to buy when shopping in Sikkim is Buddhist prayer flags. These colourful flags are scribbled with Buddhist chants, with the idea of promoting peace, comfort and compassion. You can put these Buddhist prayer flags literally anywhere, including car windshields, bike handles, cafes, entrances of the house, etc. They are very affordable, starting at just INR 50. Find the best deal on your favourite Sikkim tour package price on SOTC.

Where to buy: You can find Buddhist prayer flags at almost all major souvenir shops and markets in the state.

Thangkas

Thangkas are beautiful miniature paintings on materials like silk, cotton and paper. These colourful paintings feature images depicting the lifestyle of Buddha and various phases of his life. Thangkas capture an essential aspect of the region and are great as home decor. Note that Thangkas are quite delicate and can cost a lot of money, depending on the quality you go for.

Where to buy: Sikkim best places to visit for buying Thangkas are Gangtok and Pelling.

Tibetan-style lanterns and wall hangings

Alongside Thangkas, the Tibetan-style lanterns and wall hangings are some of the most beautiful home decor items you can purchase while on your Sikkim tour. Usually, they are made of cardboard and coloured paper, making them quite delicate. So make sure you have the right way to carry them back home in one piece.

Where to buy: Look for these items in the souvenir shops and marketplaces across Gangtok, Sikkim.

Interesting facts about Sikkim

Here are some lesser-known facts about Sikkim that tourists may find interesting;

• As per reports, Sikkim is the least populated Indian state. This low population density makes it one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the country.
• The Dubdi Monastery, which is the oldest monastery in the state, is one of the most famous things to see in Sikkim. It was founded in 1701 by Chogyal Namgyal.
• India’s highest mountain peak, Kanchenjunga (8586 metres), is located on the Indo-Nepal border in Sikkim.
• The famous Teesta River in India originates from the state of Sikkim.
• In 2016, the Prime Minister of India declared Sikkim a fully organic state. The state took the initiative to go organic back in 2003.
• The Indian state of Sikkim is home to several magnificent, high-altitude lakes. Some examples are Tsomgo Lake, Gurudongmar Lake, Menmecho Lake, Tso Lhamo Lake, etc., which are popular things to see in Sikkim.
• Sikkim is one of the greenest states in the country, with a forest cover of approximately 47% of its geographical area.
• Sikkim is one of the three states in India that shares the most number of international borders, which is 3.