Sikkim Nature Itinerary - July 2023

1. Day 1: Gangtok
   From Bagdogra Airport, drive for 4 hours (80 km) to Gangtok

   Begin your trip with a visit to the Enchey Monastery, followed by a trek to the Ganesh Tok viewpoint for a panoramic view of Gangtok. In the afternoon, explore the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology to learn about Tibetan culture and history. In the evening, stroll through the MG Marg main market and try some local cuisine.

2. Day 2: Tsomgo Lake
   From Gangtok, drive for 1 hour (35 km) to Tsomgo Lake

   Start your day with a drive to the stunning Tsomgo Lake, located at an altitude of 12,310 ft. Take a yak ride around the lake and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir and learn about the legend of the Indian soldier who still guards the border. Return to Gangtok in the evening.

3. Day 3: Lachung
   From Gangtok, drive for 6 hours (118 km) to Lachung

   Travel to Lachung, a picturesque alpine village located in North Sikkim. Visit the Yumthang Valley, known as the "Valley of Flowers," which blooms with a variety of Himalayan flowers in summer. In the afternoon, visit the hot springs of Yumthang and rejuvenate yourself in the natural hot water. Spend the night in Lachung and enjoy the local food.

4. Day 4: Lachen
   From Lachung, drive for 2 hours (50 km) to Lachen

   Travel to Lachen, another beautiful village in North Sikkim located at an altitude of 9,000 ft. Drive to Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world, and marvel at its crystal clear waters. In the afternoon, visit the Lachen Monastery and learn about the local culture. Spend the night in Lachen and enjoy the starry sky.

5. Day 5: Pelling
   From Lachen, drive for 7 hours (132 km) to Pelling

   Travel to Pelling, a scenic hill station located in West Sikkim. Visit the Khangchendzonga National Park and take a trek to the Khecheopalri Lake, a sacred lake for the Buddhists. Enjoy the panoramic view of the Khangchendzonga range from the Pemayangtse Monastery. Spend the evening at the Rabdentse Ruins, the ancient capital of Sikkim.

6. Day 6: Ravangla
   From Pelling, drive for 2 hours (60 km) to Ravangla

   Visit the Buddha Park in Ravangla and marvel at the 130 ft tall statue of Lord Buddha. Take a walk through the beautiful Temi Tea Garden and learn about the tea production process. In the afternoon, visit the Ralong Monastery and witness the traditional Cham dance. Return to Gangtok in the evening.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, you may consider visiting the Rumtek Monastery, the largest monastery in Sikkim, or the Tashi Viewpoint, which offers a stunning view of the Himalayas. You can also take a trip to the nearby state of Darjeeling and explore the world-famous Darjeeling tea gardens. To maximize your fun, try the local Sikkimese cuisine and enjoy a traditional Sikkimese folk dance performance.

For booking hotels and flights, please visit https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.