Four-Day Itinerary for North Sikkim in August 2023

1. Day 1: Lachung
   from Gangtok (65.8 miles) - approximately 4 hours

   In the morning, we will drive to Lachung, a remote hill station known for its scenic beauty. We will visit the Yumthang Valley, also known as the Valley of Flowers, which is a popular tourist attraction. After lunch, we will visit the Lachung Monastery, which is a historic Buddhist monastery. In the evening, we will return to our hotel and enjoy the local cuisine.

2. Day 2: Lachen
   from Lachung (26.5 miles) - approximately 2 hours

   In the morning, we will drive to Lachen, which is a small town located at an altitude of 2750 meters. We will visit the Gurudongmar Lake, which is one of the highest lakes in the world and is considered sacred by both Hindus and Buddhists. After lunch, we will visit the Lachen Monastery, which is a picturesque monastery located on a hilltop. In the evening, we will return to our hotel and enjoy the local cuisine.

3. Day 3: Gangtok
   from Lachen (67.1 miles) - approximately 4 hours

   In the morning, we will drive to Gangtok, which is the capital of Sikkim. We will visit the Rumtek Monastery, which is a stunning monastery that is home to hundreds of monks. After lunch, we will visit the Enchey Monastery, which is a beautiful monastery that is located on a hilltop. In the evening, we will explore the local markets and enjoy the nightlife.

4. Day 4: Nathula Pass
   from Gangtok (26.2 miles) - approximately 1.5 hours

   In the morning, we will drive to Nathula Pass, which is a mountain pass that connects India with China. We will visit the Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, which is a shrine that is dedicated to an Indian soldier who died near the Nathula Pass. After lunch, we will visit the Tsomgo Lake, which is a beautiful alpine lake that is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. In the evening, we will return to our hotel and enjoy the local cuisine.

Recommendations

If you have time, you should also consider visiting the Pelling, which is a small town located in the western part of Sikkim. The town is known for its stunning views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range. Some good day trip options include visiting the Darjeeling, which is a popular hill station in West Bengal, and the Kalimpong, which is a small town located in the Darjeeling district. To maximize your fun, you should try to participate in the local festivals and events, such as the Gangtok Winter Carnival and the Sikkim Food and Culture Festival.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Lachung (1 day, $100)
• Lachen (1 day, $100)
• Gangtok (1 day, $75)
• Nathula Pass (1 day, $50)
• Total Estimated Costs: $325

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