Exploring North Sikkim - 7 Day Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Monday, July 10 - Gangtok
    3 hours 30 minutes (70 miles) from Bagdogra Airport

    Start your North Sikkim adventure in Gangtok, the capital city. In the morning, visit the Enchey Monastery for a serene experience. Afternoon can be spent exploring the bustling local markets. In the evening, take a stroll along the MG Marg, the main promenade of Gangtok.

    • Enchey Monastery: Entrance fee: Rs. 50, Estimated time: 1 hour
    • Shopping at Local Markets: Cost varies, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
    • MG Marg: Free, Estimated time: 1-2 hours
  2. Day 2: Tuesday, July 11 - Lachung
    4 hours 30 minutes (74 miles) from Gangtok

    Embark on a scenic drive to Lachung. In the morning, visit the Seven Sisters Waterfalls and marvel at the breathtaking cascade. Afternoon can be spent exploring the picturesque valley of Yumthang. In the evening, relish a hot bowl of local delicacy, Thukpa.

    • Seven Sisters Waterfalls: Entrance fee: Rs. 30, Estimated time: 1 hour
    • Exploring Yumthang Valley: Entrance fee: Rs. 100, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
    • Thukpa at a Local Restaurant: Cost varies, Estimated time: 1 hour
  3. Day 3: Wednesday, July 12 - Lachen
    2 hours 30 minutes (47 miles) from Lachung

    Travel to Lachen, a charming village surrounded by snow-capped peaks. In the morning, visit the Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. Afternoon can be spent exploring the village and interacting with the locals. In the evening, enjoy a traditional dance performance.

    • Gurudongmar Lake: Entrance fee: Rs. 100, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
    • Exploring Lachen Village: Free, Estimated time: 1-2 hours
    • Traditional Dance Performance: Cost varies, Estimated time: 1 hour
  4. Day 4: Thursday, July 13 - Gurudongmar Lake
    2 hours 30 minutes (47 miles) from Lachen

    Embark on an early morning excursion to Gurudongmar Lake. After enjoying the pristine beauty of the lake, return to Lachen. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk around the village and savor a warm cup of butter tea. In the evening, engage in stargazing.

    • Gurudongmar Lake: Entrance fee: Rs. 100, Estimated time: 4-5 hours
    • Exploring Lachen Village: Free, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
    • Stargazing: Free, Estimated time: 1-2 hours
  5. Day 5: Friday, July 14 - Lachung
    2 hours 30 minutes (47 miles) from Lachen

    Return to Lachung and spend the day exploring the pristine beauty of the region. In the morning, visit the beautiful Lachung Monastery. Afternoon can be spent on a nature walk in the enchanting Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary. In the evening, relish a traditional Sikkimese dinner.

    • Lachung Monastery: Entrance fee: Rs. 20, Estimated time: 1-2 hours
    • Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary: Entrance fee: Rs. 50, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
    • Traditional Sikkimese Dinner: Cost varies, Estimated time: 1 hour
  6. Day 6: Saturday, July 15 - Gangtok
    4 hours 30 minutes (74 miles) from Lachung

    Head back to Gangtok and spend the day exploring the city's cultural heritage. In the morning, visit the Rumtek Monastery, a magnificent Buddhist monastery. Afternoon can be spent exploring the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Sikkimese dance performance.

    • Rumtek Monastery: Entrance fee: Rs. 50, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
    • Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: Entrance fee: Rs. 10, Estimated time: 1-2 hours
    • Traditional Sikkimese Dance Performance: Cost varies, Estimated time: 1 hour
  7. Day 7: Sunday, July 16 - Tsomgo Lake
    2 hours (40 miles) from Gangtok

    Conclude your North Sikkim journey with a visit to the mesmerizing Tsomgo Lake. In the morning, enjoy a yak ride along the lake. Afternoon can be spent exploring the nearby Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir. In the evening, indulge in some shopping for souvenirs in the local markets.

    • Tsomgo Lake: Entrance fee: Rs. 50, Estimated time: 2-3 hours
    • Yak Ride: Cost varies, Estimated time: 1-2 hours
    • Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir: Free, Estimated time: 1-2 hours
    • Shopping for Souvenirs: Cost varies, Estimated time: 1 hour

Recommendations

Are there any other local attractions, events, or experiences I should also consider? How about day trips? Any good ideas on how to get the most for my money and have a lot of fun?

While this itinerary covers some of the major highlights of North Sikkim, there are a few additional recommendations for you. Consider visiting the Khecheopalri Lake, a sacred and serene waterbody. Another day trip option is a visit to the beautiful Zuluk village, known for its panoramic views. To make the most of your trip, try engaging with local guides who can provide valuable insights and take you off the beaten path. Don't forget to try the local cuisine and experience the warm hospitality of the Sikkimese people!

For hotel and flight bookings, please check here.

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