NORTH SIKKIM

Start your day with a visit to Enchey Monastery, a serene and historic Buddhist monastery offering stunning views and spiritual insights.Continue to the Directorate of Handicrafts & Handloom, where you can see traditional Sikkimese crafts, including intricate handwoven carpets, paintings, and wood carvings.Visit the Do Drul Chorten Stupa, one of the most important stupas in Sikkim, known for its massive prayer wheels and serene atmosphere. Head to the Flower Exhibition Centre, where you can marvel at a variety of seasonal flowers, including orchids, rhododendrons, and other exotic blooms. Explore the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, a treasure trove of Tibetan culture and history, featuring rare manuscripts, artifacts, and thangkas. End the afternoon with a visit to Banjhakri Falls, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and dotted with sculptures depicting local folklore.

Enjoy some free time to wander through Gangtok’s local markets in the evening. This is a great opportunity to shop for souvenirs, try local snacks, and experience the vibrant local culture. Return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Gangtok.

Morning: Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before departing for an excursion to Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir. This journey covers approximately 40 kilometers and takes around 2 hours, passing through the Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary. This sanctuary is home to diverse wildlife, including the red panda and blood pheasant, and features stunning views of rhododendrons and other alpine flora.

Tsomgo Lake: Situated at an elevation of 3,753 meters (12,310 feet), Tsomgo Lake is a beautiful oval-shaped lake, approximately 50 feet deep. It is often covered in snow and is a habitat for Brahmini ducks and various migratory birds, making it a picturesque and serene spot.

Baba Mandir: Nearby, visit the sacred Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, a revered site dedicated to a legendary Indian soldier. The site holds significant religious importance for locals and visitors alike.

Optional Visit: Depending on the weather and border conditions, you may have the option to visit Nathu La Pass, located about 20 kilometers from the lake. This pass leads to the border with China and offers spectacular views. However, access is subject to conditions such as ice and security regulations.

Return to Gangtok: After the excursion, return to Gangtok in the evening. You can spend your free time exploring MG Road (Mall) or shopping at local centers.

Overnight: Stay at your hotel in Gangtok.

Begin your day early with a departure from Gangtok, heading towards Lachen, a charming town in North Sikkim known for its scenic beauty. The journey typically takes around 6-7 hours, offering stunning views along the way. En Route: Seven Sisters Waterfalls: Stop at this breathtaking waterfall, which cascades down the rugged cliffs in seven distinct stages. It’s a popular spot for photos and enjoying the natural beauty.

Singhik Viewpoint: Another picturesque stop, providing panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga and Siniolchu peaks. The viewpoint offers a great opportunity to appreciate the grandeur of the Himalayas.

Arrive in Lachen, a peaceful town set amidst the mountains. Check into your hotel and relax after the journey. Spend your evening at leisure, soaking in the tranquil ambiance and picturesque landscapes of Lachen. You might explore the town or simply enjoy the serene mountain views.

Overnight stay in Lachen, preparing for the next day’s adventures.

Remember that its a long day, so depart from Lachen very early in the morning for Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world, located at an altitude of 5,430 meters (17,800 feet). The drive to Gurudongmar Lake takes approximately 3-4 hours and offers breathtaking views of snow-covered mountains and rugged terrain.

Gurudongmar Lake: Upon arrival, witness the stunning beauty of Gurudongmar Lake, known for its crystal-clear blue waters and spiritual significance. The lake is considered sacred by Buddhists, Sikhs, and Hindus, and it’s surrounded by a landscape of stark beauty. Due to the high altitude, it’s advisable to spend a limited amount of time here to acclimate to the thin air. After visiting the lake, return to Lachen for a brief rest and refreshments.

Depart for Lachung, a picturesque village located approximately 2-3 hours from Lachen. The journey offers scenic views of valleys, rivers, and alpine landscapes. Upon arrival in Lachung, check into your hotel. Lachung is known for its beautiful surroundings, including snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and vibrant rhododendron forests. Spend the evening at leisure in Lachung. You can explore the village, interact with the local community, or simply relax and enjoy the serene environment.

Overnight stay in Lachung, preparing for the exploration of Yumthang Valley the next day.

Start your day with a visit to Yumthang Valley, often referred to as the “Valley of Flowers.” The valley is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, especially during the spring season when rhododendrons are in full bloom, painting the valley in vibrant colors. Besides the floral beauty, the valley offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains and lush green meadows.

Optional: Consider visiting the hot springs near Yumthang Valley, known for their therapeutic properties. The naturally warm waters are believed to have healing benefits and provide a relaxing experience amidst the cold mountain environment.

After exploring Yumthang Valley, return to Lachung for a brief stop. Refresh and prepare for the journey back to Gangtok.

Begin the drive back to Gangtok, which takes approximately 6-7 hours. The journey offers scenic views and the chance to reminisce about the stunning landscapes of North Sikkim. Upon arrival in Gangtok, check into your hotel. The evening is free for you to relax and unwind after the day’s journey.

Overnight stay in Gangtok, where you can enjoy the comforts of the city after your adventure in the high-altitude regions.

After breakfast, prepare for your departure from Gangtok. Our representative will assist you with the transfer to New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) or Bagdogra Airport (IXB). The drive takes approximately 4-5 hours, offering one last chance to enjoy the scenic views of Sikkim’s rolling hills and lush landscapes.

Upon arrival at NJP Railway Station or Bagdogra Airport, you will depart with cherished memories of your remarkable journey through North Sikkim, filled with breathtaking landscapes, cultural insights, and unique experiences.

Safe travels and we hope to welcome you back for more adventures in the future!