Sikkim Family Friendly Itinerary

  • Day 1: Gangtok
    From Bagdogra Airport to Gangtok: 3 hours (77.1 km)

    Start your trip at one of the most visited places of Northeast India, Gangtok. Visit the iconic MG Marg, which is a pedestrian street loaded with restaurants, cafes, and shops selling traditional items. Try delicious local cuisine and go shopping for souvenirs in Lal Bazaar. End the day at Enchey Monastery which was established in the 1900s and has a peaceful atmosphere thanks to its location on a hill.

  • Day 2: Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir
    From Gangtok to Tsomgo Lake: 1 hour 30 minutes (40 km)
    From Tsomgo Lake to Baba Mandir: 25 minutes (12 km)

    Visit the famous Tsomgo Lake also known as Changu Lake, which remains frozen in the winter. Next, make a stop at the Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, also known as Baba Mandir. It is a significant pilgrimage centre and a must-visit place while in Sikkim. It is said to have the power to fulfill wishes.

  • Day 3: Zero Point & Yumthang Valley
    From Gangtok to Yumthang Valley: 5 hours (145 km)
    From Yumthang Valley to Zero Point: 1 hour (23 km)

    Head out to the Yumthang Valley, also known as the 'Valley of Flowers', famous for its vibrant and colorful flowers. Visit the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, which is home to 24 species of rhododendrons. Next, drive to Zero Point, also known as Yumesamdong, which is the last motorable point on the Yumthang Valley. Enjoy an excellent view of snow-covered mountains and landscapes.

  • Day 4: Pelling
    From Gangtok to Pelling: 4 hours (127 km)

    End your trip by visiting the beautiful town of Pelling. Start with a visit to the Pemayangtse Monastery which is one of the oldest and most visited monasteries of Pelling. Next, visit the Rabdentse Ruins, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and served as the second capital of the former Kingdom of Sikkim. Finally, visit the Kanchenjunga Falls which is located near a popular bridge and offers a great view of the waterfall.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • MG Marg (1-2 hours, free)
  • Lal Bazaar (1-2 hours, free)
  • Enchey Monastery (1-2 hours, free)
  • Tsomgo Lake (2-3 hours, INR 300 for permit)
  • Baba Mandir (1-2 hours, free)
  • Yumthang Valley (3-4 hours, INR 1500 for permit)
  • Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary (2-3 hours, INR 50)
  • Zero Point (2-3 hours, INR 3500 for permit)
  • Pemayangtse Monastery (1-2 hours, INR 50)
  • Rabdentse Ruins (1-2 hours, INR 50)
  • Kanchenjunga Falls (1 hour, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 4650

Transportation

It is recommended to book a taxi for the entire trip as it is more convenient and comfortable. The cost will be around INR 8000-9000 per day, including fuel.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, visit Nathula Pass or the Rumtek Monastery. If you have less time, you can skip Pelling or the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary. Remember to apply for permits to visit restricted/protected areas.

Airports

The nearest airport to Sikkim is the Bagdogra Airport (IXB) which is located about 125 km away from Gangtok.

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