sikkim

Sikkim Tourism

Sikkim wins you over with its landscape, culture, wildlife, cuisine & hospitality.

Hill Stations

Surreal and serene, hill stations in Sikkim are every nature lover’s dream destinations.

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Lakes

Sikkim's lakes winning the hearts of tourists with their spectacular vistas.

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Trekking

Perfect for trekkers of every level, the treks in Sikkim are adorned with Rhododendrons and Orchids.

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About Sikkim Tourism

Sikkim is one of the most famous tourist destinations in North East India. Its marvellous landscape is dotted with high altitude lakes, rolling green mountains, colourful rhododendron groves, azure rivers, milky waterfalls, beautiful monasteries and unparalleled views of Mt. Kanchenjunga/Khangchendzonga, the third highest mountain in the world.

The state is divided into 4 districts: North, South, East and West. There are 4 district capitals: Gangtok (East Sikkim), Mangan (North Sikkim), Namchi (South Sikkim) & Gyalshing (West Sikkim). The main capital of the state is Gangtok. Each of these districts has something unique to offer to the tourists.

East Sikkim: Cable car rides, monasteries & Gangtok!

The top tourism attractions in East Sikkim are Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, Nathu La Pass & Zuluk. Gangtok attracts honeymoon couples in large numbers. It is beautiful and exciting, with a lot of activities on offer. You are treated to surreal views of Mt. Khangchendzonga. A sightseeing tour includes Buddhist monasteries, art & craft centers & cable car rides.

North Sikkim: Sightseeing overloaded!

North Sikkim is as fascinating as East Sikkim when it comes to tourism. It is also suitable for a family holiday for the numerous sightseeing opportunities involved. You could visit Lachung, a scenic village by the side of River Lachung. Yumthang is famous for being a valley of rhododendron flowers & hot springs.

North Sikkim also receives heavy snowfall during December. This is a good time to visit it to enjoy the snowfall. The temperature often falls below zero. The entire landscape is covered by snow. Everything is white!

Just near to Yumthang lies Zero Point, the last destination for civilians before China’s border. It’s also home to one of the highest lakes in the world, Gurudongmar Lake, at almost 17.800 feet. Khangchendzonga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in this district.

It’s both a national park and a biosphere reserve. You get to see rare Himalayan wildlife species like Himalayan Tahr, Himalayan Blue Sheep, Himalayan Black Bear, Tibetan Wild Ass & red panda.

West Sikkim: The embodiment of Sikkim’s beauty!

West Sikkim has its own treasure of travel attractions waiting to be explored. There’s tourist attractions like Pelling, a small hill town. Its landscape is dotted with monasteries, lakes and waterfalls. You are offered mesmerising views of Mt. Khangchendzonga.

Other places to explore in Pelling are the holy lake & Asia’s second highest suspension bridge. Other tourist places are Kaluk & Rinchenpong, both drawing visitors for their dreamy beauty. Yuksom, which serves as the base for Dzongri & Goecha La treks, is also situated in West Sikkim.

South Sikkim: Culture, nature and adventure!

A Sikkim tour is incomplete without visiting South Sikkim. Its surreal beauty ensures that it’s included in any Sikkim travel guide. It is home to Namchi, famously known as the cultural & religious hub of Sikkim. Two famous tourist sites are the 108 feet statue of Lord Shiva & 118 feet statue of Guru Padmasambhava. Ornithologists & bird watchers definitely visit Ravangla in South Sikkim.

Several rare bird species like dark-throated thrush, babblers & cuckoos can be spotted. Sikkim’s only tea estate, Temi Tea Garden, is situated here. Go camping in Sikip, visit a holy cave in Rabong and enjoy trekking with spotting wildlife at Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary.

Sikkim Holiday Packages by Destinations

kerla

Gangtok

8+ Packages
Lachung

Lachung

11+ Packages
Lachen

Lachen

9+ Packages
Pelling

Pelling

7+ Packages
yuksom

Yuksom

9+ Packages
Legship

Legship

9+ Packages
Aritar

Aritar

9+ Packages
geyzing

Geyzing

9+ Packages
Ravangla

Ravangla

9+ Packages
Namchi

Namchi

9+ Packages
Mangan

Mangan

9+ Packages

Best Selling Sikkim Tour Packages

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View Packages

8 Nights - 9 Days

Best of Sikkim Tour

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View Packages

6 Nights - 7 Days

Eastern Mystery Tour

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3 Nights - 4 Days

Best of Gangtok

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4 Nights - 5 Days

Gangtok with Pelling Tour

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4 Nights - 5 Days

Darjeeling Gangtok Tour

Treasures of Sikkim Tour
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7 Nights - 8 Days

Treasures of Sikkim Tour

Sikkim Tour Packages by Theme

Family Tours

Family Tours
Honeymoon Tours

Honeymoon Tours
Trekking Tours

Trekking Tours
Religious Tours sikkim

Religious Tours

Adventure Tours sikkim

Adventure Tours
Buddhist Tour sikkim

Buddhist Tour

Best Time to Visit Sikkim

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Summer Season in Sikkim

Summer Season in Sikkim

Summers in Sikkim last from March to June. Temperature ranges between 5°C to 25°C.

Monsoon Season in Sikkim

Monsoon Season in Sikkim

Monsoon arrives in July and lasts till August. Temperature ranges between 4°C to 15°C.

Winter Season in Sikkim

Winter Season in Sikkim

Winters start from November and last till February. It can be extremely cold. The temperature ranges between 4°C to 7°C.

Best Places to Visit in Sikkim

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Gangtok, sikkim

Gangtok

It offers a little of everything: culture, nature, entertainment & Tibetan food. Visit monasteries & views of Mt. Khangchendzonga from Tashi View Point

Pelling, Sikkim

Pelling

Views of Mt. Khangchendzonga will leave you captivated. Waterfalls, breathtaking views and plenty of adventure opportunities.

Ravangla, Sikkim

Ravangla

It is a haven for bird watchers and ornithologists. Spot birds like dark-throated thrush, babblers & cuckoos. You can also go on several treks

Namchi, Sikkim

Namchi

Visit Namchi, because it looks like a portrait. Attend the Namchi Mahotsav in October. It’s also home to the 108 feet statue of Lord Shiva & 118 feet statue of Guru Padmasambhava

Yuksom, Sikkim

Yuksom

It's the origin of several treks & is blessed with exceptional beauty. You will find the oldest monastery here.

Lachung, Sikkim

Lachung

Mountains, waterfalls, orchards, rivers: this is Lachung’s landscape! Visit it for adventure, honeymoon vacation, natural beauty & Saga Dawa festival (in June).

Aritar, Sikkim

Aritar

A small town in East Sikkim, Aritar is blessed with lush forests, glacial lakes, snow covered mountains, and quaint monasteries. The place is perfect for trekking and other adventure activities.

Legship, Sikkim

Legship

The gateway to West Sikkim, Legship is situated on the bank of Rangit River. It is abundant in natural beauty, adventure sports, treks, and has immense religious significance

Geyzing, Sikkim

Geyzing

The district headquarters of West Sikkim, Geyzing is primarily a Buddhist centre but is a delightful destination for nature lovers as well.

Mangan, Sikkim

Mangan

The district headquarters of North Sikkim, Mangan is also called the Cardamom Capital of India. It is a quiet place and is ideal for adventure activities like paragliding, rock climbing, and mountain biking.

Lachen, Sikkim

Lachen

A small village which is called the twin sister of Lachung, Lachen is situated in North Sikkim. It is the base for Gurudongmar Lake, Chopta Valley and numerous treks.

Yumthang Valley, Sikkim

Yumthang Valley

You should visit Yumtnang Valley for its exotic, wild and rare flowers. But visit it during the monsoons to see it in its fullest glory.

Zero Point, Sikkim

Zero Point

Located at 15,300 feet, Zero Point’e real name is Yumesamdong. It’s called Zero Point because the road ends here. The Indo Chinese border is quite close.

Top Things to Do in Sikkim

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River Rafting Sikkim

Adventure

Seekers of adventure can try paragliding in Gangtok, white water rafting in Teesta, yak ride in Tsomgo Lake, besides several trekking opportunities.

Monastery in sikkim

Monasteries

See the Buddhist art & culture at famous monasteries like Pemayangtse, Rumtek, Enchey, Phodang and Lacheng.

Lakes in sikkim

Lakes

Visit Sikkim’s lively, sacred & pristine lakes which are Gurudongmar, Cholamu, Khecheopalri & Tsomgo.

Shopping in sikkim

Shopping

Go shopping in Sikkim for prayer flags, Tibetan woollen carpets, scrolls, Tibetan paintings, prayer wheels, incense sticks, Yak Cheese and Chang.

Wildlife in sikkim

Wildlife

Spot Sikkim’s rich Himalayan wildlife at Khangchendzonga National Park, Singba Rhododendron Sanctuary & Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary

sikkim cuisine

Cuisine

Try the famous dishes in Sikkim like phagshapa, thukpa, thenthuk, momo, sel roti and the local drink called chang.

village tourism sikkim

Village Tour

Enjoy homestays with the locals. Take a peek into their daily lifestyle. Visit traditional village healers. Attend cultural programs. Cross cane & bamboo bridges.

Top Tourist Attractions in Sikkim

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Nathula Pass, Sikkim

Nathula Pass

One of the highest motorable passes in the world, Nathu La Pass is the top attraction in Sikkim.

Gurudongmar Lake sikkim

Gurudongmar Lake

One of the highest lakes in the world, Gurudongmar Lake is considered sacred by Buddhists, Sikhs and Hindus.

Siddheswara Dham Sikkim

Siddheswara Dham

Perched on Solophok Hills, Siddheswara Dham is the top Hindu pilgrimage in Sikkim.

Budda Park Ravangla sikkim

Budda Park

Also known as Tathagata Tsal, Buddha Park is situated near Ravangla and is the top Buddhist attraction in Sikkim.

zuluk sikkim

Zuluk

A small town in East Sikkim, Zuluk is known for offering incredible views of the Himalayas including Mt. Kanchenjunga.

tsomgo lake sikkim

Tsomgo Lake

A beautiful glacial lake in East Sikkim, Tsomgo Lake or Changu Lake is a must-see place near Gangtok.

Khangchendzonga National Park sikkim

Khangchendzonga National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Khangchendzonga National Park is a high-altitude national park that is home to several alpine animals.

Temi Tea Garden sikkim

Temi Tea Garden

The one and only tea estate in Sikkim, Temi Tea Garden in Ravangla is quite a popular place to visit in Sikkim.

Khecheopalri Lake sikkim

Khecheopalri Lake

A sacred lake in Sikkim, Khecheopalri Lake is an important part of Buddhist pilgrimage Circuit in the state.

Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple sikkim

Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple

Named after Sepoy Harbhajan Singh, the temple near Gangtok attracts tourists for its unique legend.

samdruptse hill sikkim

Samdruptse

Adorned with a 45m tall statue of Guru Padmasambhava, Samdruptse is a popular Buddhist place in Sikkim.

How to Reach Sikkim

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By Air

By Air

The nearest airport to Sikkim is the Bagdogra Airport, at 124 kilometers. From there, it’s a 2 hours ride via taxi/private vehicle.

By Train

By Train

The nearest railway station, NJP, is almost 148 kilometers away. Taxis/private vehicles can be hired outside the station.

By Road

By Road

Travelling to Sikkim by road is an adventure in itself. Sikkim is connected to Siliguri via NH 31A. You can also reach Sikkim from Darjeeling, Kolkata, Kalimpong and Bagdogra.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How to get to Sikkim?

Sikkim is well-connected by airways and roadways. Pakyong Airport connects Sikkim with some major cities in India.

You can fly to Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri (WB), then take a taxi to Gangtok. Alternatively, you can take a train to New Jalpaiguri (WB) then take a taxi to Gangtok.

Q. Can I obtain a permit for Nathula Pass online?

There might be some update regarding online permits in the future, but currently permits are not issued online. You can obtain a permit when you reach Gangtok.

Q. Is alcohol allowed in Sikkim?

Yes, alcohol is available almost everywhere in Sikkim. Liquors like whiskey, brandy, rum etc are cheap in price in Sikkim as compared to other parts of India. The bars in the state remain open till 11pm.

Q. In which month does it snow in Sikkim?

Sikkim receives snowfall in winters (October to March), while some places in the state remain covered in snow throughout the year. Winter is the best season to visit Sikkim to see snowfall.

Q. Is smoking allowed in Sikkim?

Smoking in public places is banned in Sikkim. If you are caught, you will be fined between INR 200 and 500.

Q. Where can I find snow in Sikkim?

The best places to visit to witness the Snowfall in Sikkim are:

  • Thangu Valley
  • Zero Point
  • Yumthang Valley
  • Gurudongmar Lake
  • Lachen Village
  • Chopta valley in North Sikkim

Q. What is the famous dish of Sikkim?

Sikkim is a place with few but delicious dishes. Some of the famous dishes of Sikkim include momos, thukpa and gundruk.

Q. What can I buy in Sikkim?

The best things to buy in Sikkim are:

  • Prayer Flags
  • Canvas Wall Hangings
  • Thangkas
  • Woollen Carpets
  • Chosees (Traditional Folding Tables)
  • Tea
  • Sikkimese Traditional Dress
  • Fruit Juice

Q. Which permit is required to visit Sikkim?

Sikkim is under a restricted area regime due to close proximity to countries like China. Thus, permits are required to enter Sikkim. There are two kinds of permits required - Restricted Area Permit (RAP) or Inner Line Permit (ILP) or Protected Area Permit (PAP). RAP is required by every international tourist and PAP is required by both domestic and foreign tourists to enter certain parts of the state like North Sikkim.

Q. Which are the neighbouring states and countries to Sikkim?

Nestled in the Himalayas, Sikkim has Tibet to its north, West Bengal to its south, Bhutan to its east, and Nepal to its west.

Q. What is the best time to plan a holiday to Sikkim?

The best time to plan a holiday to Sikkim is between March to May (summer) and October to December (winter). Monsoon months of June to September aren’t ideal to plan a holiday to Sikkim because heavy rains can lead to road blocks and landslides.

Q. Are any special permits required to visit Sikkim by international travellers?

Yes, to visit Sikkim foreigners must obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) previously known as Inner Line Permit. Those international tourists coming for the purpose of trekking also require to obtain a Protected Area Permit (PAP).

Q. Is any permission/permit required for the Indian nationals to visit Sikkim?

Yes, a Protected Area Permit (PAP) is required by Indian nationals to visit the entire North Sikkim district and some areas of East Sikkim district.

Q. For which areas in Sikkim permits are required?

International tourists require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to enter Sikkim. Domestic travellers require a Protected Area Permit (PAP) to enter North Sikkim and few areas of East Sikkim.

Q. What are the best family holiday destinations in Sikkim?

The best family holiday destinations in Sikkim are:

  • Gangtok
  • Pelling
  • Namchi
  • Ravangla

Q. What are the top places for a honeymoon in Sikkim?

The best places for a honeymoon in Sikkim are:

  • Gangtok
  • Lachung
  • Pelling
  • Ravangla

Q. What are the must-see popular cultural festivals in Sikkim?

The must-see popular cultural festivals in Sikkim are:

  • Losar
  • Saga Dawa
  • Pang Lhabsol
  • Losoong or the Sonam Losar
  • International Flower Festival

Q. What are the best winter holiday destinations in Sikkim?

The best winter holiday destinations in Sikkim are:

  • Gangtok
  • Ravangla
  • Pelling
  • Yumthang
  • Kaluk
  • Zuluk
  • Namchi

Q. Which places are good in Sikkim for summer vacation?

The best places for summer vacation in Sikkim are:

  • Gangtok
  • Yumthang
  • Lachung
  • Pelling
  • Ravangla
  • Namchi
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Why Choose TMI for Sikkim?

  • Experienced

    Experienced

    An experienced Sikkim tour operator, with a team of an experienced travel enthusiast ensure to give our clients well-designed Sikkim Gangtok tour packages

  • Certified

    Certified

    We are certified by major tour and travel associations in India and world like IATA, IATO, TAAI, IMF & MOT (Ministry of Tourism, Govt of India).

  • Happy Customers

    Happy Customers

    TMI has received numerous accolades from its happy customers for its excellent services and best Sikkim holidays.

  • Local Offices

    Local Offices

    We have local office in Sikkim for our customers to find assistance anytime and anywhere

Sikkim Essential Information

Where to Stay in Sikkim?

You will find a variety of accommodation options in Sikkim. While Gangtok offers a variety of staying options including hotels and resorts ranging from budget to luxury, other destinations have hotels in budget and mid range categories, and offer basic accommodation facilities. The picturesque locations of the hotels, delicious Sikkimese cuisine & traditional architecture will win your heart.

Major Activities for Tourists in Sikkim

The northeast part of India is blessed by nature’s bounty. Sikkim bears testimony to that. The lakes, snow capped peaks, rivers, monasteries, orchids, waterfalls: it’s the way nature writes her poetry! Sikkim will fill every kind of tourist with beautiful memories. It will leave adventure seekers thrilled & spiritual seekers satisfied. It will be the perfect host to your romantic getaway. The monasteries will bring a smile as much as the positivity of the people. You will come across rare Himalayan wildlife & meditative lakes. Visit it once, and you will have many reasons for visiting it again.

A Few Important Travel Tips Before Visiting Sikkim

  • Prepare your trip after acquainting yourself thoroughly with its weather. While the summers can be pleasant, winters are quite harsh.
  • Carry antibacterial creams, sunscreen lotions, woolen garments and a first aid kit.
  • Foreigners require a Restricted Area Permit (RAP), previously known as Inner Line Permit, to visit Sikkim. International tourists who want to enjoy trekking are required to obtain a Protected Area Permit (PAP).
  • Indians too need to obtain a Protected Area Permit to visit the entire North Sikkim district as well as some areas in East Sikkim district.
  • Carry your identity proof with you at all times. You will be required to produce them at different checkposts.
  • It is advisable to read about Sikkim’s policy about birds and animals, visiting sacred places, eco-tourism and interacting with tribals.

Sikkim Visa Information

No separate visa is required to visit Sikkim. Foreign tourists are required to obtain a visa (e-visa or regular visa) to visit India. However, foreigners do require an Inner Line Permit or Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to enter Sikkim. The permits can be obtained and issued from all Indian Missions, Tourism Office located at New Delhi, Sikkim Tourism Office, Kolkata, and Siliguri on the strength of an Indian Visa.

Sikkim Restricted Area

Due to the fact that Sikkim is a border state that shares its boundaries with Tibet (China), and thus requires an Inner Line Permit to be entered by the foreigners. The Inner Line Permit is also called Restricted Area Permit.

There are regions like North Sikkim and some parts of West Sikkim that can only be visited with a Protected Area Permit (PAP). Even Indian nationals require the permit to enter the protected area in Sikkim.

Documents Required for Restricted Area and Protected Area Permits

  • Passport (photocopies with original)
  • Passport-size photo in addition, you can also carry
  • Voter's ID card (photocopies with original)

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Quick Links to Important Information in Sikkim

Popukar Lakes in Sikkim Top Hill Stations Sikkim Pilgirmage Tourism in Sikkim Sikkim Monasteries Heritage Places in Sikkim Village Tourism in Sikkim Sikkim Folk Dance Popular Hot Springs Sikkim Buddhist Circuit North Sikkim Tourism Places to Visit in South Sikkim West Sikkim Tourism Monsoon Season in Sikkim Sikkim Winter Season Summer Season in Sikkim

Sikkim Travel Information at a Glance

About Sikkim

Sikkim Destinations

Sikkim Tourism Packages

Sikkim Holidays by Interest

Top Things to Do in Sikkim

  • Yak Ride
  • Helicopter Ride
  • Bird Watching
  • Wildlife Safari
  • Paragliding
  • Trekking

Sikkim Attractions

Hotels in Sikkim

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