On the northern side of India, Sikkim gives people the chance to hike, sightsee and discover a fascinating way of life. The presence of high snowy peaks, wide valleys, still lakes and many Buddhist shrines has helped keep Sikkim one of the prettiest and coldest places in all of India. If you’re drawn to adventure, nature or religion, you’ll find many things to see in Sikkim. We’re visiting parts of Sikkim to check out the breathtaking views found around this place.
1. Gangtok is the Cold, Fashionable and Cool Capital in Sikkim
You’ll notice that both old and new cultures are fused in Gangtok. Beside towering Mount Kanchenjunga, Gangtok’s location gives it both grand views and gardens, as well as shops, cafes and cultural attractions. Because it’s clean, has active markets and enjoys nice weather, Gangtok is a perfect place to start exploring Sikkim.
The Rumtek Monastery in Gangtok is one of the biggest reasons tourists come to see this region. You’ll discover the centre has a tranquil setting and introduces you to Tibetan Buddhist culture and its designs. Don’t miss out on the Tashi Viewpoint, since you’ll see amazing views of Kanchenjunga at sunrise.
Shoppers looking for true Sikkimese souvenirs will find plenty of them on MG Road, a popular street in Gangtok. The Enchey Monastery is a great place to visit as well, because it’s quiet, on a hill and offers an amazing view.
2. Nathula Pass – Helping You See the Beautiful Highlands
If you’re seeking adventure, Nathula Pass should be your first destination in Sikkim. At 14,140 metres, Nathula Pass lies on India’s border with China and lets you look at the striking Eastern Himalayas. Visitors to the pass notice the beautiful snowy rocks and flags waving.
Getting to Nathula Pass is charming since you travel along the edges of amazingly beautiful but hard mountain terrain. Visitors at Nathu La may observe the border with China and in some cases see soldiers from both countries. Winter brings a lot of snow, so the pass is often blocked to cars and forbidden to hikers, although plenty of people visit the site in the summer.
3. The Alps consider Tsomgo Lake a Sacred Lake
The peaceful Tsomgo Lake or Changu Lake, is found just 40 kilometres from Gangtok and is widely considered one of the most stunningly peaceful places in Sikkim. High in the mountains at 12,400 feet, this giant pool of water is lovely for fans of scenic landscapes. Most people from the area believe Tsomgo Lake has holy water and that it heals.
Guests at Tsomgo Lake may quietly explore or join a yak ride and stroll along its banks. The lake freezes over completely in winter and is very pretty, but come summer, the area is filled with colourful flowers, offering peace to anyone taking pictures.
4. Sharing its tiny village as a Base, Pelling can be used to trek up Kanchenjunga
Less than 115 kilometres from Gangtok is the lovely hill station of Pelling. The town is situated so guests can see the Kanchenjunga range and enjoy the sun welcoming each peak with a golden brightness each morning.
Pelling is home to beautiful monasteries and many things to see and do besides the lovely site. The Pemayangtse Monastery was built long ago and the Rabdentse Ruins show us where the first capital of Sikkim once stood.
People marvel that Khecheopalri Lake in Pelling is sacred and said to answer the hopes of visitors. If nature is what you’re after, you should choose Pelling.
5. Yuksom is the Site Where Kanchenjunga is First Mentioned
The western part of Sikkim is home to the significant and small village of Yuksom. Gangtok used to be the main seat of Sikkim and was where the nation’s first Chogyal was honoured with the royal name. A number of trekkers launch their climb to Kanchenjunga Base Camp from the town of Yuksom.
Many people know Yuksom for its graceful monasteries and the Dubdi Monastery is clearly visible sitting on a hill and offering incredible views of the surroundings. The village’s forest, waterfalls and rivers attract nature enthusiasts, pack animal adventure seekers and history fans.
6. Nature lovers will enjoy Lachung and Yumthang Valley above all else
Buried deep in Sikkim’s north, Lachung features breathtaking sights of mountains, mountainside fields and tall, hot wooded forests. You can drive to Yumthang Valley by taking Gate and using the valley’s nickname, Valley of Flowers.
Alpine flowers fill Yumthang Valley during spring and summer, making the area quite colourful.
Surrounding mountains reach high into the sky and because birds find shelter here, lovers of wildlife often visit the valley. Just a short distance from Lachung, Zero Point lets tourists admire unspoiled mountain scenery.
7. Ravangla – An Area Surrounded by Peace and Tranquility
Ravangla is found between Gangtok and Pelling and it’s great for those hoping to escape the busier parts of the country. The beautiful surroundings from Kanchenjunga’s mountains and the calm atmosphere make Gangtok into India’s top hill stations.
A large statue of Buddha and a relaxing spot for meditating draw many to Buddha Park in Ravangla.
Because the park is surrounded by greenery, it’s a great place for people to pause and think quietly. Visiting traditional communities in Ravangla teaches guests about Sikkim’s food, culture and traditions.
8. One of Sikkim’s Best Kept Secrets
The place of Zuluk, a quiet village in the east, is little-known by visitors to Sikkim. No matter where you stand in the village, you can see the Kanchenjunga range and travellers usually journey up the curving roads to reach it. People who love adventure will enjoy Zuluk for experiencing Sikkim’s beauty quietly.
The village once stood along the Silk Route, so travellers from India to Tibet or China would come through here. Tourists can find out about Zuluk’s rich background and take in the sight of rhododendron trees, as well as admire the many terraced fields and Nathang Valley, world-famous for great vistas and trails around it.
9. The Teesta River will give you both adventure and tranquility
Sikkim’s people have come to associate the Teesta River with clean streams, a beautiful view and opportunities for adventurous tourism. Because the river’s rapids change in difficulty, some people decide to go white-water rafting here. The Teesta River is known because it borders several forests and the top reaches of the Eastern Himalayas.
Having peace and quiet? There’s nothing better than enjoying time at the river. If you stop by Teesta Bazaar, you’ll find various pretty local items to choose from.
Conclusion
In Sikkim, you’ll find unusual scenes, fun for adventurers and a wide range of cultures. Travellers of any kind will discover lots to do in the lively Gangtok and the calm countryside of Lachung and Yumthang. Whether you see temples, hike along water or look at Kanchenjunga, you’ll be making unforgettable memories in Sikkim. Start your Sikkim adventure with the people travelling with you.
