East Sikkim Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, the top things to do, and the local culture and customs of East Sikkim in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to East Sikkim

East Sikkim, located in the eastern part of India, is one of the four districts of Sikkim. It is a mesmerizing destination where you can experience the majestic Himalayas, culture, heritage, and adventure. East Sikkim is blessed with beautiful mountains, lush green valleys, serene lakes, and ancient monasteries. The district consists of four tehsils: Gangtok, Pakyong, Rongli, and Khamdong.

List of Places to Visit in East Sikkim

East Sikkim has an abundance of tourist destinations that showcase its scenic beauty and rich heritage. Here is a list of the best places to visit in East Sikkim:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Rumtek Monastery
  2. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
  3. Tsomgo Lake
  4. Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple
  5. Hanuman Tok
  6. Ganesh Tok

Natural Attractions of East Sikkim: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Nathula Pass
  2. Menmecho Lake
  3. Kupup Lake
  4. Zuluk Loop
  5. Jalapahar and Tashi Viewpoints
  6. Mt. Katao

Hiking/Biking Routes of East Sikkim

East Sikkim is a trekker’s paradise. The district offers several trekking and biking routes that lead through stunning landscapes and hidden valleys. The most popular hiking and biking routes in East Sikkim include:

  1. Goechala Trek
  2. Dzongri Trek
  3. Tholung Trek
  4. Green Lake Trek
  5. Silk Route Cycling
  6. Kasturi Orar Round Trek

Best Things to Do in East Sikkim: Activities and Tours

East Sikkim is a perfect destination for adventure activities and tours. Here are some of the best things to do in East Sikkim:

  1. River Rafting in Teesta
  2. Yak Safari in Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass
  3. Helicopter Tour of Sikkim
  4. Paragliding in Gangtok
  5. Cable Car Ride in Gangtok
  6. Gangtok Ropeway Ride

Week-Long Itinerary for East Sikkim

Here is a week-long itinerary for East Sikkim to help you make the most of your trip:

Day Plan
Day 1 Arrive in Bagdogra Airport and transfer to Gangtok
Day 2 Visit Rumtek Monastery and Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
Day 3 Trek to Nathula Pass via Tsomgo Lake
Day 4 Explore Zuluk Loop and Kupup Lake
Day 5 Visit Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, Hanuman Tok, and Ganesh Tok
Day 6 Enjoy a Yak Safari, Cable Car Ride and paragliding in Gangtok
Day 7 Depart from Bagdogra Airport

Food and Drink Scene of East Sikkim

East Sikkim has a unique blend of Nepalese, Sikkimese, Tibetan, and Bengali cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages of East Sikkim:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Momos
  2. Thukpa
  3. Phagshapa
  4. Churpee
  5. Sel Roti
  6. Gundruk

Local Beverages

  1. Tongba
  2. Chaang
  3. Sikkim Tea

Where to Stay in East Sikkim: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

East Sikkim has a wide range of accommodation options with different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in East Sikkim:

  1. Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino
  2. The Elgin Nor-Khill
  3. Summit Golden Crescent
  4. Lemon Tree Hotel Gangtok
  5. Zostel Gangtok

What to Buy in East Sikkim: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

East Sikkim has an excellent range of handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs that are perfect for taking home as a memory of your trip. Here are some of the best things to buy in East Sikkim:

  1. Thangkas
  2. Dhokra Artifacts
  3. Sikkimese Carpets and Rugs
  4. Tea
  5. Local Spices

Local Culture and Customs of East Sikkim

East Sikkim is predominantly Buddhist, and the local culture reflects this. The people of East Sikkim are friendly, hospitable, and respectful of their beliefs and customs. When you visit East Sikkim, it’s essential to respect the local culture and traditions.

Best Time to Visit East Sikkim

The best time to visit East Sikkim is from March to May and October to mid-December. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear, providing excellent views of the mountains.

Do’s and Don’ts of East Sikkim

Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting East Sikkim:

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and traditions
  2. Dress modestly when visiting temples and monasteries
  3. Carry enough cash as ATM availability may be limited
  4. Carry warm clothes

Don’t:

  1. Disrespect local culture and beliefs
  2. Engage in public displays of affection
  3. Litter
  4. Drink tap water

Safety and Health

East Sikkim is a relatively safe destination for tourists. Here are some essential safety and health tips to keep in mind when visiting East Sikkim:

Safety in East Sikkim

  1. Avoid trekking alone in remote areas
  2. Keep your valuable things safe and secure in hotels
  3. Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night

Health in East Sikkim

  1. Carry your necessary medications
  2. Consume only bottled water
  3. Eat cooked and hot foods

Getting to East Sikkim: Transportation Options and Logistics

East Sikkim is well-connected by air, rail, and road networks. Here are some of the transportation options to get to East Sikkim:

Airports Near East Sikkim

The nearest airport from East Sikkim is Bagdogra Airport, which is about 120 km away.

Bus Stations Near East Sikkim

New Jalpaiguri railway station is the nearest major railway station to East Sikkim. Frequent bus services are also available from major cities to Gangtok.

Other Options

Cabs and taxis are available from nearby towns and cities, including Siliguri, Darjeeling, and Kalimpong.

How to Get Around in East Sikkim

East Sikkim has a well-established transportation network that connects all the major tourist destinations. Here are some of the transportation options within East Sikkim:

  1. Shared Taxis and Jeeps
  2. Private Taxis and Cabs
  3. Bus Services
  4. Ropeways

Where to Go Next from East Sikkim: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

East Sikkim can be your gateway to explore the nearby destinations and excursions. Here are some of the best places to visit near East Sikkim:

  1. Darjeeling
  2. Pelling
  3. Kalimpong
  4. Lachung
  5. Yumthang Valley

Conclusion

East Sikkim is an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and cultural enthusiasts. The stunning mountains, serene lakes, ancient monasteries, and vibrant culture make it an alluring tourist destination. We hope that this comprehensive tour guide of East Sikkim helps you plan your trip and make the most of your journey.



    Gangtok