Overview
If you are a first time traveller to Sikkim, here is a quick list of top places that are worth your time and money. From Gangtok’s attractions to North Sikkim’s hamlets, read about the places in Sikkim to add in your itinerary.
Table of Contents
Introduction: Sikkim
Top 7 Places to visit in Sikkim for First Time Travell
- Gangtok
- Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir
- Pelling
- Namchi
- Ravangla
- Lachen
- Yumthang Valley
Introduction: Sikkim
Sikkim, located in the north east India, is a gorgeous state snuggled in the Himalayas. Sharing its borders with Nepal and Tibet Autonomous Region of China, Sikkim is famous for its alpine landscapes, glacial lakes, and incredible biodiversity. It is also home to Kanchenjunga, the highest peak in India and third-highest in the world.
An erstwhile kingdom, modern Sikkim is formed of diverse indigenous communities of Lepchas, Bhutias, and Nepalis. The predominant religions practiced in Sikkim are Hinduism and Buddhism. You will find many temples, shrines and monasteries across Sikkim, marking its presence as a state for spirituality and pilgrimage.
There is a lot to discover in Sikkim and if you are a first time traveller the list of “places to visit in Sikkim” can seem overwhelming. This blog narrows down the top 7 places that are worth exploring if you are a first time traveler to Sikkim.
Top 7 Places to visit in Sikkim for First Time Travellers
1. Gangtok (Sikkim’s Capital)
A modern and commercial hub with an air of ease and relaxation sums up the description of Gangtok for you. Located at an elevation of 1,650 m (5,410 ft), Gangtok is a major tourist spot on every Sikkim itinerary.
Attractions to See and Around Gangtok:
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- Tashi View Point – offers scenic views of the mount Kanchenjunga.
- Flower Centre Exhibition – has a variety of flowers including orchids, roses, succulent plants, and cacti.
- Rumtek Monastery – the largest monastery in Sikkim, known for its murals, paintings, and religious artifacts
- Ban Jhakri Park – A recreation park with a three-step waterfall, landscaped garden, and statues.
- Gangtok Ropeway Ride – A popular cable car ride of 15 to 20 minutes, offering views of Gangtok city.
- Gangtok Zoo – Located 3 km from Gangtok, this famous zoo is known for Red Panda.
2. Tsomogo Lake & Baba Mandir
Covered together on a single trip, Tsomogo Lake & Baba Mandir are two attractions that are ideal to visit for first time travellers. The former is a glacial lake (at 1240 ft.) holding a spiritual significance for the natives. The lake’s water colour changes with the change of season. The latter is a shrine dedicated to Indian soldier Harbhajan Singh who passed away while patrolling the international borders.
3. Pelling
For an up and close view of Kanchejunga, Pelling is the best place to visit in Sikkim. One can enjoy sunlit views of mountain peaks, Khecheopalri Lake, Rabendeste Ruins, and features many monasteries, gompas, and stupas. Pelling’s Rimbi Waterfall and Kanchenjunga Falls also elevate its beauty.
Other Attractions in Pelling:
- Pelling Skywalk
- Pemayangtse Monastery
- Sangachoeling Monastery
- Tashiding Monastery
4. Namchi
The beautiful headquarters of South Sikkim, Namchi is peaceful, green, clean and majestic. It is located 78 km from Gangtok and is at an elevation of 5500 ft. This town hosts an annual Namchi Mohatsav which is held in October showcasing handicrafts & hand-loom stalls, folk dance performances, flower exhibitions, and local food.
Attractions in Namchi:
- Samdruptse Statue
- Solophok Rose Garden
- Siddhesvara Dham (Char Dham)
- Namchi Central Park
- Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary
5. Ravangla
Just near Namchi, you will find Ravangla or Rabong from where you get views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Pandim, Mt. Siniolchu, Mt. Kabr. It is a peaceful town which attracts wildlife lovers, nature enthusiasts, photographers and trekkers.
Attractions in Ravangla
- Buddha Park (Tataghata Tsal)
- Ralang Monastery
- Bonn Monastery
- Maenam Hill
- Temi Tea Garden
6. Lachen
Lachen (known as Big Pass) in local language is a hill state and high-elevation town in the Mangan district of Sikkim. It sits at an elevation of 9,600 feet at the confluence of Lachen and Lachung river, tributaries of the Teesta. This beautiful hamlet of North Sikkim is known for its glacial lakes, stunning valleys, and tranquil vibes. The best time to explore Lachen is from October to May.
Top Attractions of Lachen:
- Gurudongmar Lake (a sacred lake 17,800 feet)
- Thangu Valley
- Chopta Valley
7. Yumthang Valley
Watch the beautiful rolling meadows, alpine flowers, and grazing yaks in the peaceful Yumthang Valley. It is located at an elevation of 11,693 ft and is 150 km away from Gangtok. The area comes alive in spring when the valley gets covered with rhododendrons, primulas, poppies, iris and other flowers. You can also visit a hot spring which is located nearby.
Travel Tip: Yumthang valley is closed between December and March due to heavy snowfall.
Tips for First Time Visitors
- Use the services of a local tour guide who can explain about the places you are visiting.
- Book accommodations (if available) in advance to all the places you will be covering
on your first-time Sikkim trip.
- Be respectful towards local communities and practice responsible tourism.
- If you feel confused or unsure about how to plan Sikkim trip, connect with Sikkim a local travel planner: https://sikkimtourism.org/
