Exploring Family-Friendly Sikkim - A 6-Day Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Gangtok
    0 minutes from Gangtok

    Begin your journey with a visit to the bustling capital city of Gangtok. Explore the Enchey Monastery, known for its peaceful ambiance, colourful prayer flags, and stunning views of the city. Later, head to the MG Road, filled with cafes, shops and an array of local street food. A perfect start to your vacation.

  2. Day 2: Lachen
    117 km (5 hours) from Gangtok

    Drive to the beautiful town of Lachen, famous for its snow-clad peaks, glistening lakes and lush green valleys. Stop en route and visit Phodong Monastery, a beautifully-carved ancient structure that houses some of the rarest Buddhist artefacts. In Lachen, take a gentle stroll around the town, take in the scenic beauty and learn about the local customs and cultures.

  3. Day 3: Gurudongmar Lake
    60 km (1.5 hours) from Lachen

    Embark on a scenic drive to one of the highest altitude lakes of India - Gurudongmar Lake. Located at an altitude of 5,430 meters, this stunning paradise is surrounded by high peaks and is considered highly sacred by Sikhs and Buddhists. Spend some leisure time by the lake and take in the picturesque mountain scenery.

  4. Day 4: Pelling
    120 km (4.5 hours) from Lachen

    Travel to the quaint town of Pelling, nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas. En route, take a break and visit the Rock Garden, an ideal picnic spot with waterfalls and rock formations. In Pelling, visit the Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest and most significant in Sikkim, and enjoy the stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range from Singshore Bridge, the highest suspension bridge in Sikkim.

  5. Day 5: Namchi
    75 km (2 hours) from Pelling

    Drive to Namchi, a charming hill station popular for its lush tea gardens, ancient monasteries, and exotic wildlife. Visit the Samdrupste Hill to see the 45m high statue of Guru Padmasambhava, considered the patron saint of Sikkim. Later, visit the Namchi Helipad, which offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountain ranges.

  6. Day 6: Ravangla
    40 km (1.5 hours) from Namchi

    Take a leisurely drive to the scenic hamlet of Ravangla, a well-known spot for trekking, hiking, and mountain biking. Visit the Ralang Monastery and Buddha Park, which features a 130-foot high shining statue of Lord Buddha. Also, stop at Rayong Sunrise View Point, which provides stunning sunrise views of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga mountain range.

Time and Costs Estimate

  • Enchey Monastery (1 hour, Free)
  • MG Road (2 hours, INR 500-1000 per person)
  • Phodong Monastery (1 hour, Free)
  • Gurudongmar Lake (2 hours, INR 6000-7000 per vehicle)
  • Pemayangtse Monastery (2 hours, INR 50 per person)
  • Singshore Bridge (1 hour, INR 20 per person)
  • Samdrupste Hill (1 hour, INR 50 per person)
  • Namchi Helipad (1 hour, Free)
  • Ralang Monastery and Buddha Park (2 hours, INR 50 per person)
  • Rayong Sunrise View Point (1 hour, INR 20 per person)
  • Total Estimated Costs (per person): INR 6500-7500

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can add a visit to the peaceful town of Yuksom and explore the stunning Khecheopalri lake. Alternatively, take a ride in the picturesque Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. If you have less time, skip one of the destinations or keep a day for relaxation and exploration of local markets.

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