North Sikkim Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, hiking and biking routes, where to stay, local food and drink, culture and customs, safety, and transportation options in North Sikkim.


Introduction to North Sikkim

North Sikkim is a district in the state of Sikkim, India’s northeastern part. Surrounded by the Himalayan range, North Sikkim is an ideal destination for mountain enthusiasts, adventure lovers, and nature lovers. The region boasts of breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, and verdant forests. You can also explore the region’s rich culture and immerse yourself in its warm hospitality.

List of Places to Visit in North Sikkim

Here are some of the famous places to visit in North Sikkim:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Lachen Monastery
  • Yumthang Valley
  • Singhik viewpoint
  • Chungthang Confluence
  • Gurudongmar Lake
  • Seven Sisters Waterfalls
  • Phodong Monastery

Natural Attractions of North Sikkim: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lachung
  • Zero Point
  • Katao
  • Tso Lhamo Lake
  • Green Lake Trek
  • Kanchenjunga National Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of North Sikkim

North Sikkim offers some of the best treks and biking routes in India. Here are some popular hiking/biking routes in North Sikkim:

  • Dzongu Trek
  • Green Lake Trek
  • Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
  • Tholung Monastery Trek
  • Silk Route Trail

Best Things to Do in North Sikkim: Activities and Tours

Here are some ultimate things to do in North Sikkim:

  • Relish the local cuisine
  • Visit the Buddhist monasteries
  • Go mountain biking
  • Explore the tea estates
  • Take in the scenic beauty on a trek
  • Experience the Yak safari
  • Indulge in Snow Skiing
  • Attend the Lhabab Duechen festival

Week-Long Itinerary for North Sikkim

Here is a proposed itinerary that will help you explore North Sikkim:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive at Gangtok and Relax
Day 2 Visit the Tiger Hill and drive to Yumthang Valley
Day 3 Explore Yumthang and Zero Point along with hot water springs
Day 4 Visit Gurudongmar Lake and check into a hotel at Lachen.
Day 5 Drive to Lachung and visit Rhododendron Sanctuaries
Day 6 Visit the Singba Rhododendron Sanctuary and the Green Lake Peak
Day 7 Return to Gangtok via the Silk Route Trail

Food and Drink Scene of North Sikkim

Sikkimese cuisine is an amalgamation of various cultural influences. The local cuisine is wholesome and features several unique dishes.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Thukpa
  • Phagshapa
  • Momos
  • Gundruk and Sinki
  • Chhurpi

Local Beverages

  • Tongba - fermented millet served in bamboo mugs
  • Chhang - a fermented rice beverage

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

North Sikkim offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors. From homestays to luxury resorts, you can stay amidst nature and enjoy the stunning views. Here are some of the popular accommodation options in North Sikkim:

  • Royal Demazong
  • Apple Orchard Resort
  • The Elgin Mount Pandim
  • The Norling Retreat
  • The Hill Castle

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

You can buy several souvenirs and local products during your visit to North Sikkim. Here are some popular items:

  • Thangkas (scroll paintings)
  • Sikkimese handwoven carpets
  • Hand-carved wooden items
  • Yak woolen items
  • Traditional Sikkimese clothes

Local Culture and Customs of North Sikkim

North Sikkim has a rich cultural heritage. The region’s inhabitants are predominantly of Tibetan descent, and their way of life reflects their Buddhist beliefs. The people of North Sikkim are known for their warm hospitality, and visitors can experience the homely environment.

Best Time to Visit North Sikkim

The best time to visit North Sikkim is from March to June and from September to December. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. The region experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which lasts from July to August. The winter season, from December to February, is ideal for travelers interested in snowfall and skiing.

Do’s and Don’ts of North Sikkim

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Dress modestly while visiting monasteries and religious places
  • Drink Plenty of water and carry adequate woollens during your visit
  • Hire a professional guide

Don’t:

  • Litter or pollute the environment
  • Disturb the fauna and flora
  • Wear excessive jewellery
  • Consume drugs or alcohol

Safety and Health

Safety in North Sikkim

North Sikkim is a safe and secure place to travel, and the local police and administration maintain strict law and order. Visitors are advised to take basic precautions while traveling, such as carrying identification documents and not venturing out alone at night.

Health in North Sikkim

Travelers must carry their medications while visiting North Sikkim, as medical facilities outside major cities are limited. Drinking water outside hotels and restaurants should also be avoided, and visitors should drink only bottled water.

Getting to North Sikkim: Transportation Options and Logistics

North Sikkim is well-connected to the rest of India by road, rail, and air.

Airports Near North Sikkim

The nearest airport to North Sikkim is Bagdogra airport. The airport is located in Siliguri and is around 28 Km from the city center.

Bus Stations Near North Sikkim

Gangtok Bus Stand is the main bus station in Sikkim, and several buses ply to nearby towns and cities from here.

Other Options

You can also travel to North Sikkim by shared taxis or private cars.

How to Get Around in North Sikkim

Once you reach North Sikkim, you can hire a taxi or take a shared taxi to reach various destinations. Travelers also have the option of hiring a bike or car and driving around themselves.

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

Here are some popular nearby destinations and excursions from North Sikkim:

  • Nathula Pass
  • Rumtek Monastery
  • Darjeeling
  • Ravangla
  • Pelling

Conclusion

North Sikkim is an enchanting destination for anyone who loves nature and adventure. The region’s stunning landscapes, thriving culture, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit location in India. Whether you’re looking to hike, bike, or simply relax, North Sikkim is the ideal location for you.

Youmthang Valley Youmthang Valley Gurudongmar Lake Gurudongmar Lake


    Lachen
    Yumthang Valley