Sikkim on a Shoestring Budget: 7-Day Itinerary in July 2023

1. Day 1: Gangtok
   10 minutes (3.2 km) from Rumtek Monastery

   Visit the Enchey Monastery in the morning. Soak in the art and architecture of the place. Explore the bustling market and taste local delicacies during lunch. Catch a glimpse of the stunning sunset from the Tashi Viewpoint.

2. Day 2: Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass
   3 hours (38.6 km) from Gangtok

   Get ready to be mesmerized by the breathtaking beauty of the Tsomgo Lake. Experience yak riding and indulge in some hot momos, and tea. Explore the Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir and Nathula Pass, where you can witness the Indo-China border. Return to Gangtok by evening.

3. Day 3: Yumthang Valley
   5.5 hours (135.7 km) from Gangtok

   Head to the picturesque Yumthang Valley, also known as the 'Valley of Flowers.' Enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayas, and the vibrant natural scenery. Take a dip in the hot spring, and relish some local delicacies. Return to Lachung for overnight stay.

4. Day 4: Lachung
   1 hour 30 minutes (47.2 km) from Yumthang Valley

   Start your day early and visit the Lachung Monastery, which is 200 years old. Next, explore the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, which is home to several species of the state flower of Sikkim. Spend the evening strolling around the quaint village and interact with the locals.

5. Day 5: Pelling
   6 hours (132 km) from Lachung

   Head to Pelling and visit the Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest and most significant monasteries in Sikkim. Explore the Rabdentse Ruins, which served as the second capital of Sikkim, and the Khecheopalri Lake, which holds great religious significance. Overnight stay in Pelling.

6. Day 6: Ravangla
   2 hours 30 minutes (72.7 km) from Pelling

   Visit the Buddha Park in Ravangla, which has a 130-foot tall statue of Lord Buddha. Next, head to the Ralong Monastery, which is famous for its scenic location. Take a walk through the quaint village and interact with the locals. Return to Pelling for overnight stay.

7. Day 7: Namchi
   2 hours (63.3 km) from Ravangla

   Visit the Samdruptse Hill, which has a 135-foot tall statue of Guru Padmasambhava. Explore the Char Dham, which is a replica of four revered Hindu pilgrimage sites. Take a stroll through the Rock Garden and enjoy the mesmerizing view of the tea gardens. Return to Gangtok for overnight stay.

Recommendations

Make sure to try the local delicacies like momos, thukpa, and gundruk soup. Visit the Tashiding Monastery, which is known for its stunning location and architecture. Take a trip to the Teesta River for some river rafting. Don't miss out on the local festivals if there are any during your visit.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Enchey Monastery (1 hour, free)
• Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass (10 hours, INR 2000)
• Yumthang Valley (12 hours, INR 4000)
• Lachung Monastery (1 hour, free)
• Pemayangtse Monastery (1 hour, INR 50)
• Buddha Park (1 hour, INR 50)
• Samdruptse Hill (1 hour, INR 100)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 6200

Check out https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo for hotel and flight prices.