Most Visited places in Sikkim
“Wandering through the most visited places in Sikkim.”
Northeastern India is home to the beautiful state of Sikkim. It’s famous for its stunning biodiversity, hilly terrain, and rich cultural heritage. Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan surround Sikkim, adding to its unique charm. One of the main attractions in Sikkim is its breathtaking scenery, including the third-highest mountain in the world, Kangchenjunga.
Not only is Sikkim a paradise for hikers and adventure seekers but it’s also known for its vibrant festivals and serene Buddhist monasteries. So, whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience or a peaceful retreat, Sikkim has it all. You can find the most visited places in Sikkim in our blog.
Here are some must-visit places in Sikkim:
Gangtok
Nestled in the beautiful Himalayas, Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is a fascinating blend of modernity and tradition. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Sikkim, and it also serves as a gateway to other enchanting areas of the state.
Top Attractions in Gangtok:
MG Marg
The bustling MG Marg is the main street of Gangtok, exclusively for pedestrians. It has shops, cafes, and eateries, creating a vibrant atmosphere. You can shop for unique trinkets and locally-made handicrafts.
Don’t miss the chance to savor delicious regional cuisine at the various restaurants. And the best part? The road is car-free, perfect for strolls and ensuring a clean and peaceful environment.
Changu Lake, or Tsomgo Lake
Tsomgo Lake, a gorgeous glacier lake located about 40 kilometers from Gangtok, is famous for its spiritual significance and serene beauty. It’s the perfect spot to find some inner peace and marvel at the breathtaking snow-capped mountains surrounding it.
Don’t miss the chance to go on a fun yak ride or explore the local vendors selling unique trinkets and souvenirs. Additionally, the lake serves as the starting point for an exciting hike up Nathula Pass.
See: Tourist places to visit in Mussoorie
The Rumtek Monastery\
Situated approximately 23 kilometers from Gangtok, the Rumtek Monastery is a true gem and one of the largest and most important monasteries in Sikkim.
Its rich architecture and vibrant culture make it a treasure trove of Tibetan Buddhism. Inside, you’ll discover historical documents, sacred relics, and traditional artwork that will transport you to another world. And the best part? The monastery offers a stunning view of Gangtok that will leave you in awe.
Hanuman and Ganesh Tok
If you’re in Gangtok, you can’t miss these two awesome temples perched atop hills nearby. You get stunning panoramic views of Gangtok and the surrounding mountains from both spots. Ganesh Tok is famous for its vibrant prayer flags fluttering in the breeze and its cute little temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Hanuman Tok, on the other hand, is maintained by the Indian Army, so you can expect a serene and spotless atmosphere. It’s a place of worship for Lord Hanuman.
Tibetology Institute of Namgyal
This place is all about delving into the depths of Tibetan religion and culture to preserve and study it. What makes it special: You’ll find a treasure trove of Tibetan artwork, ancient manuscripts, and precious relics in its museum.
It’s a major hub for experts in Tibetan Buddhism, who come here for intense research and discussions. And hey, don’t forget to take a leisurely walk in the peaceful gardens right next to the institute. It’s pure bliss.
Chorten Stupa Do Drul
This cool Buddhist stupa in Gangtok is pretty famous for its religious and historical significance. When people visit the stupa, they can spin the 108 prayer wheels that surround the building. It’s a peaceful spot where you can reflect and meditate.
The Enchey Monastery
Perched on top of a mountain, this 200-year-old monastery offers breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga range. The monastery is a sacred place for the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It’s adorned with beautiful murals and holy objects. The main attraction here is the annual Cham dance festival.
Pelling
The charming town of Pelling in West Sikkim is famous for its rich cultural heritage and stunning views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range. It provides a quieter, less crowded alternative to Sikkim’s larger tourist spots.
Main Attractions of Pelling are:
- Pemayangtse Monastery is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Sikkim.
- Rabdentse Ruins: The remnants of the second capital of the old Sikkim kingdom.
- Singshore Bridge: Offering breathtaking views, this suspension bridge is among the tallest in Sikkim.
- Kanchenjunga Falls: A popular tourist spot, Kanchenjunga Falls is a spectacular waterfall about 25 kilometers from Pelling.
- Khecheopalri Lake: Known for its peace and spiritual importance, Khecheopalri Lake is sacred to both Buddhas.
- Rimbi Waterfalls and Rimbi Rock Garden: Located near Pelling, this beautiful spot is famous for its rock garden and flowing waterfalls.
- Darap Village: Close to Pelling, Darap is a typical Lepcha village that offers a deep dive into the local customs and lifestyle.
- The Chenrezig Statue one of the tallest statues of the deity, and the skywalk connected to it are new attractions that offer stunning views.
Nathula Pass
Located in the north part of the Sikkim region of India just at the border of China and India, Nathula Pass holds an historic and strategic impression. Even today it acts as a trade artery between China and India and was part of the earlier silk route. Some of the major emphasis and/or attractions inherent with the Trade Market and the Border Gates of Nathula Pass:
The principal attractions of the place are the Indo-China border gates where the tourist may find the position of Chinese and Indian soldiers. A popular sport of the place is Yak riding where one can uniquely glimpse the Tibetan panorama at Nathula Pass.
Tsomgo Lake
Tsomgo Lake or Changu Lake is a glacial lake situated in the Indian state of Sikkim, particularly at the elevation of 3,825 meters. In its context, it is well known for its quiet characteristics, outstanding architectural design, and historical and cultural interest.
The snowy surrounding hills are well reflected in the lake’s water to portray an almost mirror image. By the shores, some shops retail and sell local food items, drinks, artworks, and other trinkets.
Go Chang’atten to taste the thukpa (noodle soup) and momo (dumplings) which are sold by the food vendors. Tsomgo Lake is photogenic too since it is colored beautifully and is positioned to offer magnificent sceneries that take the glamour of photography to another level.
Yumthang Valley
Coveted for its beauty, Yumthang Valley is affectionately known as the “Valley of Flowers” and is situated in North Sikkim. It is famous for beautiful landscapes, ecosystems that range in color and density, and overall calmness, making this place irresistible for both tourists who look for sports activities and those who appreciate the tranquility of nature.
The mountain ranges with high snow-clad peaks like Mount Pandim surround this valley. The view of icy peaks in the background topped by pure white snow and the background that comprises a clear sky makes wildlife photography more appropriate in this region.
Gurudongmar Lake
A gem of Sikkim is Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes on earth. It is surrounded by this raw natural beauty and the snow-capped mountain ranges that dominate the landscape of this magnificent lake.
Religiously, it is very much relevant for Buddhists, Hindus, and Sikhs. Gurudongmar Lake–the second-highest lake in India is especially famous for its crystal clear water along with heights of mountain zones and extremities of desert-like terrain
Ravangla
Located in south Sikkim, Ravangla is a small and quiet town that provides splendid views of the Eastern Himalayan range. For those looking for peace, adventure, and cultural encounters, this place is ideal.
Buddha Park, a popular destination in Ravangla, is the location of the majestic 130-foot statue of Lord Buddha. The town is therefore likely to fit anyone’s description depending on the interest of the individual; whether interested in a peaceful retreat, the rush of the mountains, or the variations of Sikkim culture.
Zuluk
Zuluk is one such village, situated in East Sikkim, often termed a paradise for traveling enthusiasts with enchanting beauty, historical importance, and serenity at its best. Located on the famous Silk Route, it offers the world one of the kind breathtaking natural beauty and rich heritage.
Due to the presence of more than 32 hairpin bends, a trip to Zuluk is more famous for its teaser roads where one gets a feel of a new kind of touring.
Thambi View Point, a popular viewpoint next to Zuluk, offers a mesmerizing view of the Eastern Himalayas and the famous zigzag road. Trekkers who want to explore difficult terrains can have a good time in Zuluk as there are many trekking routes available now.
Namchi
Namchi is now a developing Municipal town of South Sikkim which is famous for its cultural background having many religious importance and beautiful sites. Namchi is a town steeped in culture and traditions and boasts several attractions that remain central to its tourist offerings to date.
Attractions
Siddheshwara temple, or Char-dham: The expansive pilgrimage complex known as Char Dham houses exact duplicates of India’s four holiest sites: Rameswaram, Puri, Dwarka, and Badrinath are the four prominent spiritual destinations of the country.
Samdruptse Hill: Namchi continues to be an important tourist spot that boasts of a 45-meter high statue of Guru Padmasambhava, the patron saint of Sikkim that overlooks the town standing atop Samdruptse Hill about 7 kilometers on the approach to Namchi.
Temi Tea Garden: As the only established tea garden in Sikkim, Temi Tea Garden offers high-quality organic tea. It is located in Sikpetam about 18 kilometers away from Namchi town.
Ngadak Monastery: Namchi is home to several Monastery where one of the oldest and historical ones is the Ngadak Monastery which was built in the 17th century and is now a leading Monastery of Sikkim is still located at Namchi the hills around the Monastery provide the best atmosphere to carry out session of Meditation.
Rock Garden: Namchi Rock Garden also famously referred to as Rose Garden is one of the nature Jewel that has been best endowed area designed for the beauty of nature which has some varieties of flowers and trees that one can be able to have a natural view of the nature.
Namchi is a consummate destination for all types of tourists: the quiet place-seekers who would prefer a natural setting, the thrill seekers who would want to venture into the hills, and the art and history enthusiasts who would love to tour Sikkim.
Lachung and Lachen
The picturesque towns of Lachung and Lachen are located in the North Sikkim area in the northern part of India. These areas are popular for their powder, for the pure native Sikkimese culture, and as generic approaches to the truly stunning views.
Lachung’s Attractions and Highlights
Yumthang Valley: Yumthang is also called the ‘Valley of Flowers’. It is a beautiful valley surrounded by mountains where snow tops can easily be sighted.
Point Zero (Yumesamdong): The last paved road up to some distance near the Indo-China border is to the zero point which is approximately 26 kilometers away from that of the Yumthang Valley.
Lachung Monastery: This spectacular Buddhist temple complex is located in the heart of the area of Lachung.
Shingba Sanctuary for Rhododendron: The Yumthang Valley Sanctuary was established in Sikkim and recognized for the presence of numerous rhododendron species.
Lachen Attractions and Highlights
Gurudongmar Lake: Gurudongmar Lake, is one of the world’s highest lakes, at 5,183 meters (17,000 ft) above sea level.
Valley of Thangu: Near Lachen, Thangu Valley is a picturesque valley that serves as a starting point for high-altitude trekking and is renowned for its breathtaking scenery.
Lachen Monastery: A significant Buddhist monastery is situated in the Lachen village.
Chopta Valley: Chopta Valley, which is close to Lachen, is renowned for its stunning scenery and abundant wildlife.
A variety of lodging choices are available in Lachung and Lachen, ranging from budget hostels to cozy hotels and homestays. It is best to make reservations in advance, particularly during the busiest travel seasons. In addition to serving Indian and Tibetan food, local restaurants serve a range of native Sikkimese cuisine. Sample the regional specialties, such as yak cheese, thukpa, and momos.
