15 Best Places to Visit in Sikkim For First-Time Visitors

Are you planning a trip to Sikkim soon? If yes, then you cannot miss out on visiting these best places to visit in Sikkim!

Sikkim is a gorgeous place to visit in North East and offers a vibrant and unique landscape. It is the second smallest state in India, but this doesn’t dim the beauty and charm that exudes out of every corner of this wonderful state.

From magical lakes to breathtaking mountain peaks, you will find all sorts of amazing places to visit here.

That’s not all, the people here are quite lovely too and will make you fall in love with this place. So, whether you are a mountain lover or a nature enthusiast, Sikkim is the perfect destination for all kinds of travelers.

If you are confused about where all you can go in Sikkim, then check out this list of the 15 best places to visit in Sikkim.

15 Best Places to Visit in Sikkim For First-Time Visitors

Gangtok, North Sikkim

Gangtok, Sikkim’s capital and one of the best places to visit in Sikkim is one of India’s cleanest hill stations.

It is a well-known center for Tibetan Buddhists and the starting point for getting permits to hike and trek to other Sikkim locations.

But that’s not all: Gangtok’s mall road is a popular shopping destination. It is also one of the most popular tourist attractions in Sikkim because, at night, the entire street is illuminated with golden lights.

You will likewise find authentic Sikkimese food here which makes it such a pleasant visit. In addition, you can get to the well-known Tsomgo Lake, the Nathula Pass, and the northern Sikkim region from this location.

Lingdum Monastery (Ranka Monastery)

Lingdum Monastery, one of the best places to visit near Gangtok, is rarely visited because few people are aware of it or care about it.

Additionally, because it is not included in the standard sightseeing packages, the taxi drivers won’t tell you about this monastery when you hire a private taxi.

But if you’ve always been interested in monks’ lives and want to learn more about Buddhist culture, you should definitely plan a trip here.

At this monastery, you can take in the views of the mountains and enjoy the prayer chants that are always playing.

Ban Jhakri Falls

Another of the top places to visit in Sikkim, particularly in Gangtok is the Ban Jhankri Falls which is situated inside Ban Jhakri Park.

Relax and take in yet another gorgeous fall in Sikkim at this ideal location. Despite not being in the same natural setting as the Kanchenjunga waterfalls, the waterfall is still breathtakingly beautiful.

You can also dress up as a Sikkimese at a few nearby food and souvenir stands. For just 100 INR, you can even have your pictures taken in traditional attire.

Tip Top Viewpoint

Last, but not least, you need to visit the Tip Top Viewpoint, also popularly known as the Tashi Viewpoint.

This is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim as you get to observe the various surrounding mountains. And although it is freezing cold at this point, a good hot cup of coffee can do wonders while you enjoy an amazing view that complements it.

Where to Stay in Gangtok

Since Gangtok is one of the top places to visit in Sikkim, you will find several accommodation options here.

Here are a few options for different budget ranges:

• For a budget-friendly stay, I would recommend staying in Tagalong Backpackers (for backpackers and solo travelers) and Muscatel Bellevue.
• For mid-range stays, you can check out Bamboo Retreat, Netuk House, and Enchanted Forest Farmstay.
• For a luxury stay, you can consider Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino, Sikkim Villa Tosca – A Boutique Aparthotel, and The Elgin Norkhill – Resort and Spa.

Rumtek Monastery, North Sikkim

Located at a distance of 22 km from Gangtok is the Rumtek Monastery which is also one of the best places to visit in Sikkim.

At an elevation of approximately 5000ft, this monastery is the largest and most important Buddhist monastery in Sikkim. The monastery houses thousands of witness monks who enjoy a normal lifestyle here and study more about Buddhist rituals and cultures.

With beautiful architecture and colors, this monastery will leave you speechless but that is nothing compared to the view offered from the top of the monastery.

From the terrace, you can enjoy a gorgeous view of Gangtok City and fall in love with it.

Dzongu, North Sikkim

Occupied by the Lepcha people group, Dzongu Valley is another of the most astonishing spots to visit in Sikkim as it offers the most stunning views of the Kanchenjunga mountain.

Dzongu is a lush, serene, and beautiful location that is bounded in the southeast by the Teesta River and in the northeast by the Tholung Chu River.

The majority of the houses here are made of wood, and their specialty is handwoven clothing, cane, and bamboo products. There is a lot of vegetation here.

Dzongu has a dreamlike setting because it is covered in a thick canopy of jungles.

When you visit, you can hear the chirping of the birds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. This valley is about 20 to 25 kilometers from Mangan, and a permit is required.

One of the best places to visit in Sikkim for stunning views and quiet time is this offbeat location, which has very few tourists.

Lachung, North Sikkim

Lachung is a charming little village in the north of Sikkim, close to the border with Tibet.

It is one of the most magical places to visit in Sikkim. Lachung, which is home to the Lachung monastery that was built in the 19th century, is a magical location that will make your Sikkim trip one to remember.

Although snowfall does not occur frequently in this area, it does occasionally occur, and when it does, the locations end up covered in a thick layer of snow, giving the impression of a magical Christmas Eve!

Lachung is surrounded by apple orchards and has rows of wooden houses and pine trees lining its narrow lanes.

It also serves as the starting point for the Yumthang Valley, where you can find several rhododendron species. Additionally, this valley’s hot springs, waterfalls, and pine forests draw a lot of visitors.

Where to Stay in Lachung

If you are taking a package, then you don’t need to find separate accommodation in Lachung.

Here are a few options to consider:

• For a budget-friendly stay, you can check out OurGuest Bichu Homestay and Hotel Green Tara.
• For a mid-range stay, you can consider OurGuest Lachung Homestay, Summit Alpine Resort, and Summit Khangri Karpo Retreat and Spa.
• For a luxurious stay, you can stay at Etho Metho Hotel by RightClique and Jewel Kongchen Retreat & Spa.

Yumthang Valley, North Sikkim

Yumthang Valley, also known as Sikkim’s “Valley of Flowers,” is at an elevation of 3,564 meters.

It is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim, the valley is filled with natural hot springs and meadows. Throughout the late spring months, you can observe the blossoming of a few assortments of blossoms, turning this spot very beautiful.

The Himalayan mountains surround this valley, which gets a lot of snow every year.

Additionally, the valley’s proximity to the well-known Teesta River lends it a dreamlike and magical quality. We had such a strong desire to visit this location, but it was closed when we were there.

So, if you get the chance, don’t miss out on visiting this beautiful location.

Where to Stay in Yumthang Valley

There are no hotels or homestays in Yumthang. Visitors need to stay in Lachung and make a day trip to Yumthang Valley and Zero Point.

Lachen, North Sikkim

If you want to spend some time at the Gurudongmar lake, Lachen is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim.

Lachen, which translates to “Big Pass,” is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sikkim and is also promoted by the government. This town requires a permit, but it is well worth it.

You can visit Gurudongmar Lake as well as Kanchenjunga National Park, trek to the valleys and hills nearby, visit monasteries, see wildlife, and more from this location. Because of this, it is one of Sikkim’s best tourist spots.

Where to Stay in Lachen

If you are taking a package, then you don’t need to find separate accommodation in Lachung.

Here are a few options to consider:

• For budget-friendly accommodations, you can check out Hotel Eco Nest and Delight Lachen Heritage.
• For mid-range accommodations, you can check out Delight The Fortuna Lachen, OurGuest Dhatup Homestay, and Rufina Blue Pine.
• For a luxury stay, you can check out Summit Panghen Metok Hotel.

Gurudongmar Lake, North Sikkim

Gurudongmar Lake, at 17,800 feet, is one of the world’s highest lakes and one of the most beautiful places to visit in Sikkim.

This Sikkim holy lake is quite mystical and must be visited due to the numerous legends that surround it.

During the winter, this lake freezes, and you’ll find a lot of Yaks, blue sheep, and other animals there, circulating the lake at that point.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit Gurudongmar Lake. I can assure you that this location will undoubtedly be the trip’s highlight.

Tragically, the lake was shut during our time in any case, but we will surely return to visit this mysterious lake soon.

Where to Stay near Gurudongmar Lake

There are no hotels or homestays close to Gurudongmar Lake. You have to stay in Lachen and then plan a day trip to Gurudongmar Lake.

Katao, North Sikkim

One of the offbeat places to visit in Sikkim while exploring Northern Sikkim, Katao is a small village that is located around 24 km from Lachung. This is one of the least visited places in Sikkim but should definitely be on your list if you love snow and quiet surrounding.

Usually, this place is covered with a thick layer of ice which makes it difficult to reach the actual village and only army vehicles will be able to cross these snow-laden roads. However, the journey itself is wonderful and everyone should experience it once.

You can go to this place by just paying 200-250 INR more to your driver who is taking you on the North Sikkim package. Just ask him to make a few hours’ stop at this beautiful village. Trust me, it will be the best 200 INR you have ever spent.

Where to Stay in Katao

Since Katao is one of the least known places to visit in Sikkim, there are no hotels or homestays available to book online. So, your best option would be to book a stay in Lachung or look for a local stay after reaching Katao.

Ravangala, South Sikkim

Ravangla, another of Sikkim’s awe-inspiring destinations, will undoubtedly take your breath away.

This place is unique and quite magical thanks to the colorful Tibetan flags, cloudy blue skies, and lush green mountains. The 130 feet-tall Buddha statue is one of the best features of this town.

Ravangala, in South Sikkim, is best known for its Buddha Park, where you can walk among the Tibetan flags, huge prayer wheels, and green trees while the statue stands head and shoulders above everything else.

You will find a prayer room where you can sit and meditate for a while beneath the statue.

In addition, there are a number of exquisite Buddha statues and paintings in this location that provide additional information about the Buddha and depict his life.

One of the best places to visit in Sikkim, Ravangla is one of the few places that combines life, spirituality, and beauty.

Where to Stay in Ravangala

Since Ravangala is one of the most well-known places to visit in Sikkim, you will find several good accommodation options available here in different budget ranges.

Here are a few options to consider:

• For a budget-friendly stay, you can check out Rain Drop Guest House, Hilltop Rabong Resort, Seven Mirrorlake Homestay, and Dokhampa Homestay.
• For a mid-range stay, you can check out Vamoosetrail Soshing and Tinkitam Farms.

Namchi, South Sikkim

Namchi, a popular pilgrimage center for Buddhists, is one of the top places to visit in Sikkim.

In the native Tibetan language, Namchi means ‘Top of the Sky’ and when you visit this place, that is exactly what you will feel.

Here, you will come across a tea garden named Temi Tea, which stretches across a large distance and makes this city look extremely magical and surreal.

If you just want to get lost in the natural beauty then this is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim. And, you can enjoy a cup of chai from one of the many roadside vendors along with the scenic views.

Apart from that, you can attain peace by visiting the Char Dham and the Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir.

Shirdi Splashed with golden color from the outside, Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir looks immensely beautiful amidst all the green and you can meditate in the prayer room.

Similarly, Namchi’s Char Dham looks quite amazing with its huge Lord Shiva statue. There is also a café inside Char Dham where you can sit and enjoy spending some time here.

Where to Stay in Namchi:

Namchi is one of the top places to visit in Sikkim so, you will find a few good accommodation options available here in different budget ranges.

Here are a few options to consider:

• For a budget-friendly stay, check out Hotel Oak Namchi, Capital O 69881 Hotel Lasso Regency & Spa, and 4seasons Homestay.
• For a luxury stay, check out Summit Sobralia Resort & Spa and The Temi Bungalow South Sikkim.

Zuluk, East Sikkim

Zuluk, a small village in Sikkim, is situated at a height of approximately 10,000ft. and is one of the offbeat places to visit in Sikkim that will make anyone fall in love with it.

This is one of the top places to visit near Gangtok and is famous for the Silk Route. The village offers a great vantage point to view the mighty Kanchenjunga mountain.

Apart from looking magical, Zuluk is also one of the best places to visit in Sikkim for all adventure lovers. Crossing over 32 hairpin bends to reach this village is no easy feat but the result is worth it. You would need a permit to visit Zuluk.

Where to Stay in Zuluk:

Zuluk is an offbeat destination and due to low internet connectivity, there are not a lot of online options available. However, there are several homestays available once you reach this village.

Gnathang, East Sikkim

Gnathang, or Nathang, is one of Sikkim’s most stunning destinations and is known as the “Ladakh of East India.” It is located at an elevation of 13,000 feet. This town is a part of the Old Silk Course and is encircled by beautiful mountains and snow-covered slopes.

This remote valley has a meandering stream that crosses it and is one of the remotest habitations in the Himalayas.

One of the best places to visit in Sikkim, Gnathang changes colors in different seasons so the valley looks golden in autumn, white in winter, and colorful in monsoon.

When you visit this place, you can explore the meadows around it and make the most of your time here.

Where to Stay in Gnathang

Gnathang is one of the least popular places to visit in Sikkim so there are no hotels or homestays available to book online. Stay in Zuluk or look for offline stay options after reaching Gnathang.

Tsomgo Lake, East Sikkim

One of the most enchanting and ethereal Sikkim Tourist Places to visit, Tsomgo Lake or Changu Lake looks even more magnificent when covered in snow.

Situated at a height of 12,400ft., this is one of the highest lakes in India and is one of the top places to visit near Gangtok. The snow covers this amazing place for at least 9 months a year and offers a classic magical setting to the place.

What’s even more interesting is that during the summers, the lake water turns the shade of turquoise and beautifully reflects the sky and the nearby peaks. During snowy months, you can enjoy playing in the snow and have the time of your life here.

Nathula Pass, East Sikkim

Another one of the top places to visit in Sikkim, Nathula Pass gives you a chance to touch the border between China and India, an opportunity quite scarce.

So, you will see Chinese soldiers at one end of the border and Indian soldiers on the other, guarding their own land. And sometimes (if you are lucky) you’ll witness them talking to each other.

In historic times, Nathula Pass was a part of the ‘Silk Road’ and it is also one of the highest motorable passes in the world.

While this pass is open to Indians, you will need a permit to enter this area. Also, foreigners aren’t allowed to enter the Nathula Pass.

Pelling, West Sikkim

If you are a true Himalaya lover, then Pelling would undoubtedly be for you one of the best places to visit in Sikkim.

Offering the most gorgeous views of the Himalayas and the Kanchenjunga, Pelling resembles a fairytale land and is one of the hardest places to leave in this state.

Pelling is a truly beautiful city in Sikkim with its historical palace, ruins, and hidden waterfalls. It offers you many magnificent places to visit which include the Kanchenjunga waterfalls, Wishing Lake, Sing Song bridge, Rabidentse’s ruins, Helipad area, and so on.

Kanchenjunga Waterfalls

Make sure that you check out the Kanchenjunga Waterfalls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls I have ever seen in India. Do you know what is the best part of this waterfall?

It is not visible from the main road. Yes, that’s right! You have to make your way a little inside the mountain to actually come across the waterfall and this is one of the reasons why this is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim.

You can easily spend a few hours sitting beside this waterfall and can eat or drink at the nearby stalls.

Khecheopalri Lake

Another one of those amazing place to visit in Sikkim is the Khecheopalri Lake, also known as the Wishing Lake. A place of worship, this place is surrounded by Buddhist flags that make this place both colorful and positive.

You will truly enjoy the sun setting behind the mountains while you stand near the lake to witness it.

Where to Stay in Pelling

Since Pelling is one of the most popular places to visit in Sikkim, you will find a few good accommodation options available here in different budget ranges.

Here are a few options to consider:

• For a budget stay, you can check out Khi Gha Thang, Hotel Snow View on Cloud Nine, and Udaan Olive Hotel & Spa, Pelling.
• For a mid-range stay, you can check out Yangthang Dzimkha Resort, Treebo Trip Pine Crest, and Jain Group Hotel Sonamchen.
• For a luxury stay, you can check out The Elgin Mount Pandim and Hotel Golden Sunrise & Spa.

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