Exploring the top 10 tourist places of Sikkim West Bengal

If you want to discover the hidden spots of the Himalayan ranges, Sikkim is one of the best places that include emerald valleys, snowcapped peaks and monasteries.  The North Eastern state invites you to enjoy organic delights and breathe pure air by spending a few days at the lap of the Himalayas. Also the state holds the surreal beauty of Gangtok to the mystical charm of Gurudongmar Lake. There are top 10 most visited places in Sikkim, West Bengal that you can visit and spend a vacation for a short time.

1. Gangtok

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In the lap of eastern Himalaya, Gangtok is located as the capital of Sikkim. In short , Sikkim seems to be a picture perfect destination with a blending of delightful natural beauty, panoramic views, misty hills and rich culture for tourists.

Best month to visit

The best time to visit Gangtok is at spring and early summer. Moreover, the weather seems to be pleasant from March to June and October to December. However, the autumn offers the tourists clear weather, blooming rhododendrons and a stunning view of snow capped mountains.

How to reach Gangtok

By Air: Nearest airport of Gangtok is Pakyong Airport. It is only 30 km far and alternatively tourists can use Bagdogra Airport. In addition to that, they can hire shared cabs or taxis to reach Gangtok within 4 to 5 hours.

By Rail: The most used railway station is NJP at Siliguri to visit Gangtok. Finally, rom there you can book shared cars or personal jeeps to reach the destination.

Nearby Attraction

Tourist can enjoy the Ropeway of Gangtok from Deorali to Tashiling. At the time of sunset the view seems to be more attractive. Therefore you should reach that place before time .

On the other hand, they can walk through the MG Marg and explore local shops, cafes and culture.

You can visit the Ganesh Tok and Hanuman Tok temple. Therefore you can enjoy the culture of this place.

Natural beauty to observe

Gangtok seems to be paradise for nature and mountain lovers. In addition to that, the city is draped with waterfalls, rolling hills and lush valleys. One of the most striking features of Gangtok is the view of Mount Kanchenjunga. Thus the place get more recognition among tourist as they prefer to enjoy the scenic beauty . In short, the Teesta River flow through the valleys, hat enhances the beauty of Gangtok Sikkim.

Tips for tourists

• They must carry original ID proofs and extra passport sized photographs.
• However, you should try local cuisine thukpa and momos.

2. Tsomgo Lake 

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The Tsomgo Lake is located at the altitude 12,310 feet in the Eastern Himalayan Region and this is the highest lake in India. Furthermore, one of the most breathtaking wonders of Sikkim is  Changu Lake. On the other hand, Lamas use the water of Changu lake to predict future as well as tell stories. So that, there is a cultural significance of this place.

Best month to visit

Between April and June, You can see the vibrant side of the lake as the ice melts and reveals the clear water.  In contrast, in between October to December, these lake areas became frozen. Therefore, it became famous among tourists.

How to reach Tsomgo Lake

From Gangtok, people can book a car and visit Tsomgo Lake by road. Therefore, it is 40 Km away from Gangtok and requires approx 2 to 3 hours to reach the location.

Nearby Attraction

The best place to visit Tsomgo Sikkim is the Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary. So that, it is known for some exotic plant and animal species.

At the Tsomgo lake side, tourist can enjoy a yak ride, henceforth prices may vary in between INR 200 to INR 600.

The Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir is located nearby Tsomgo Lake. Meanwhile, it seems to be one of the best places to see in Sikkim.

Natural beauty to observe

The Tsomgo lake areas are surrounded by snow-covered mountains, clear slides, green vegetation and snow-clad peaks. Furthermore,  tourists can enjoy the vivid colors of blue poppies in the valley of Sikkim in spring .

Tips for tourists

• The roads of Sikkim is extremely dangerous.  Also, tourists must choose experienced and local drivers.
• Most of the areas of Sikkim are cold. As well as, you should carry winter jackets, gloves and woolen sweaters.

3. Nathula Pass 

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The Nathula pass is one of the most visited Sikkim tourist destinations. Thus, the place is situated near the Indo China Border and this is located at an altitude of 4,310 meters above sea level. Furthermore, it is located 56 Km away from Gangtok and considered as a part of the old Silk Route.

Best month to visit

Tourists can visit Nathula pass between the month of May to November. so that, they can enjoy the mesmerizing views of Himalayan peaks.

How to reach Nathula Pass

Tourists should book a private cab or shared jeeps from only registered tour operators to reach the destination.

Nearby Attraction

Kurup village is almost 16km away from Nathula and tourists can enjoy the views of one of the World’s largest golf courses.

Jelep La Pass is famous tourist spot located near Kurup. Moreover, the place is highly restricted for tourists as the Military movements takes place at that region .

Natural beauty to observe

The high altitude of Nathula is responsible for providing an adventure to the tourists as they can drive through rugged slopes, sheer cliffs and hairpin bends. So that, you can see dotted wildflowers, mosses and shrubs in summer. The Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary contains a rich variety of species such as Red panda, Himalayan Musk Deer, Snow Leopard and Tibetian Wolf.

Tips for tourists

• Tourists should take medicines for headache and breathlessness issues . Along with, tourist may experience hypoxia, due to the decrease of oxygen within the blood.
• Likewise, Nathula is a strict military Zone. Tourists should maintain the army protocols as well as respect the procedure of checking.

4. Yumthang valley

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Yumthang valley is situated at the North Sikkim district and India’s one of the most known destinations. In addition to that, it is the place where you can experience the untouched beauty of nature, green meadows and seasonal wildflowers.

Best month to visit

The best month to visit Yumthang Valley is in March to early June. If people want to enjoy snow , they can visit late December to February.

How to reach Yumthang Valley

You can hire a local cab or private car to reach Lachung.

People can stay one night at that place.

Tourists should go 25Km from Lachung to reach Yumthang valley.

Nearby Attraction

Lachung is one of the nearest villages from the Yumthang valley . Therefore, one can get a peaceful ambience, Mountain View and hospitality.

Zero Point is 25 Km far from Yumthang , hence, it is  situated nearby areas of the Indo China border.

At the nearby places of Yumthang, the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is located. As a result, travelers can enjoy multiple species of wild flowers, Birds and animal species.

Natural beauty to observe

The Yumthang valley contains high peaks and mountains, glacial streams, and gentle valleys.  Similarly, the valley is full of colorful poppies, rhododendrons, and primulas in spring.

The forest contains some plant species Pine, Silver Breach and Fir. So that,  people can visit the protected areas of Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary.

There you can find some animal species such as Himalayan, Monal, Blue Sheep and Musk deer.

Tips for tourists

• Tourists must follow the guidelines of the local government and maintain responsible tourism.
• You must not throw any plastic bottles or packets in nature.

5. Gurudongmar lake

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The Gurudongmar Lake is located at the altitude of 17,800 feet at North Sikkim and one of the highest freshwater lakes in the globe. In the same way, the place is known for spiritual significance and surreal beauty.

Best month to visit

Tourists can visit the Gurudongmar Lake from April to June . In addition to that, the snow melts at that time and tourists can access the roads to reach their destinations.

How to reach Gurudongmar Lake

From Gangtok, travellers must hire private cars to travel to Lachen along with plan to stay one night at that place. Furthermore, the next morning, they can travel by the same car to reach the lake.

Nearby Attraction

Thangu Valley alpine meadow located near the Gurudongmar Lake, thus the presence of the vibrant wildflowers enhance its scenic beauty.

Lachen is the Himalayan Village that offers cultural insight because multiple number of Buddhist Monasteries are present at that location.

Natural beauty to observe

Gurudongmar Lake contains an awe inspiring glacial view and is surrounded by high peaks. Although, a minimal vegetation can be seen at the high altitude. As well as you can easily observe wildlife such as pigeons, Himalayan Marmots and Tibetan Wolves.

Tips for tourists

• Tourists must avoid this place in between July to September. Landslides occur at this place for heavy rainfall.
• Tourists can experience breathing issues. They should carry portable oxygen.

6. Pelling

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One of the best places in West Sikkim is Pelling. So that, the place is mostly appreciated by tourists for breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga range.

Best month to visit

Climate of Pelling is pleasant for most of the year.  Henceforth, the best time to visit Pelling is in between March to May. Although, you can visit that place at post monsoon.  In that case,  time preferred by tourists from September to November to visit at Pelling.

How to reach Pelling

The most preferable way to reach Pelling is to hire a private car or book a private taxi from the New Jalpaiguri railway station . Hence, it will take 5 to 6 hours to reach that place.

Nearby Attraction

One of the most popular attractions of Pelling is the Rimbi Waterfall, moreover tourists can enjoy nature, after visiting that place.

India’s first glass skywalk is situated at the Sanga Choeling Monastery at peeling. Additionally, the skywalk provides the mesmerizing views of Eastern Himalayas to the tourists.

The oldest Monasteries of Sikkim is Pemayangtse. So that, It is known for the delightful views of Himalayas.

Natural beauty to observe (landscape and wildlife)

Nature lovers are always fond of such places where they can enjoy bird watching and butterfly sightings. You can visit the nearby Wildlife Sanctuary, specifically known as Barsey Rhododendron sanctuary. Also, it is a few hours away from Pelling.

Tips for tourists

•  you need to book cars, accommodations in advance.
• Tourists should keep enough cash as ATMs may not be found in remote areas.

7. Lachung

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You need to stay at Lachung for 1 day. Thus, People can explore the scenic beauty of that place.  In addition to that, the charming village is known for its majestic landscape, rich culture and Tibetan architecture.

Best month to visit

You should visit Lachung, specifically in between March to May to enjoy the view of colourful orchids, poppies and wildflowers.

How to reach Lachung

Most of the cases tourists prefer to book packages from well known tour operators. Because those agencies are trustworth along with able to provide best food and accommodation packages. Although, you can directly contact the local car services at Gangtok for booking private cars to reach the location.

Nearby Attraction

The Bhim Nala waterfallis the tallest waterfall in Sikkim, hence you can stop there for a photo-shoot.

On the way to zero point , you can visit the Tung Thu La viewpoint to see sunrise.

The Lachung Monastery is known for Cultural significance and religious importance.

Natural beauty to observe 

The nearby areas of Lachung are rich in biodiversity. So that, you can enjoy dense coniferous forests, hillsides and orchids. Some mostly visible wildlife such as Snow pigeons, Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant are the most common birds that can be seen in that region.

Tips for tourists

• Tourists must carry essentials such as medicines, cash, snacks and toiletries as there are a limited number of shops available.
• You need to travel with a government registered tour operator for safety purposes because such agencies have the knowledge of the regulation better than the private one .

8. Rumtek Monastery

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The Rumtek Monastery is famous for spirituality. Henceforth it enhances the significance of Tibetian Buddhist culture in India. It is located 23 Km far from Gangtok and one of the largest monasteries.  So that it depict peace, architectural grandeur and spirituality.

Best month to visit

You can visit Rumtek at spring and autumn, along with from March to May and October to December.

How to reach Rumtek Monastery

The most convenient way to reach Rumtek is to hire a taxi or cab from Gangtok. Additionally, the average time of the journey is minutes 30 minutes to  1 hour.

Nearby Attraction

You may reach less crowded place situated near Rumtek.  It is at Lingdum Monastery.

Other falls Ban Jhakri Falls, are surrounded by gardens and greenery. As a result, the place is appropriate for a family outing.

 Natural beauty to observe

It offers the stunning beauty of Himalayas, deep green valleys, Kanchenjunga range and clear skies. Moreover, the Eastern Himalayan biodiversity is great for nature lovers and bird watchers. As they can easily observe sunbirds, thrushes, Himalayan Monal and warblers. Furthermore,  towards Rumtek, you can enjoy Teesta Viewpoint.

Tips for tourists

• There are small forest trails specifically found at the adjacent hiking areas which are ideal for hiking.

9.Namgyal Institute of Tibetology 

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The Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is situated at the centre of Gangtok. Which is responsible for preserving the culture of Mahayana Buddhism. Although, the institute provides in-depth knowledge about Sikkim’s cultural and spiritual connection with Tibet.

Best month to visit

The best time to visit Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is between March to May.

How to reach Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

You can easily book a taxi or cab from Gangtok and reach Deorali within 20 to 30 minutes.

Nearby Attraction

The Himalayan Zoological Park is a great attraction for tourists. You can see wildlife such as Himalaya bears, snow leopards and pandas.

The Ridge Park is perfect to walk.  Along with you can view the peak of Mt Kanchenjunga.

Natural beauty to observe

The Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is surrounded by hilly terrain and lush greenery. In short, tourists can enjoy oak and pine trees, native Himalayan plants and orchids. Additionally, birdwatchers can observe some species such as bulbuls, sunbirds and Hill Mynas.

Tips for tourists

• The Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is usually open from 10 AM to 4 PM. It closes on public holidays and every Sunday. You must visit according to the schedule.

10. Ravangla 

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Ravangla is one of the famous hill towns located at South Sikkim. That offers peaceful alternatives to the tourists to stay and enjoy scenic beauty.

Best month to visit

If you visit between March and May, You can enjoy wild flowers and pleasant weather. If you want to gain experience of snowfall and heavy winter, you can visit December to February.

How to reach Ravangla

Ravangla is around 65 Km far from Gangtok and requires approx 3 to 4 hours to reach there. Just book a private taxi or rental car from Gangtok.

Nearby Attraction

Buddha Park is a great attraction that contains a 130ft high statue of Buddha.

Maenam wildlife sanctuary is the place that you can visit to enjoy nature.

The Temi tea garden is the only Tea testing centre where you can taste the most flavorful tea in Sikkim.

Natural beauty to observe

The natural beauty of Ravangla is breathtaking and surrounded by the dense temperate forests. Flowers, orchids, Rhododendron, and wild orchids mostly cover the slopes of mountains.

Tips for tourists

• You can do activities trekking at Borong Trail and connect yourself with nature.
• Exploring the local market of Ravangla to buy woolen goods, souvenirs and handmade organic products. It is an exciting activity for tourists.