Start your trip by arriving in Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. Spend the morning exploring the Enchey Monastery, a 200-year-old Buddhist monastery known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology to learn about the rich history and culture of Tibet and Sikkim. Enjoy the evening by strolling through the bustling MG Marg, a pedestrian-only street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: INR 20 (estimated cost), 1.5 hours (estimated time spent)
MG Marg: Free, 2 hours (estimated time spent)
Restaurants
For breakfast, you can try Cafe Fiction, a cozy cafe known for its delicious pancakes and great coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
If you're looking for a place to have lunch, The Square Restaurant is a popular choice. They offer a wide variety of dishes including Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
In the evening, head to Taste of Tibet for a delicious dinner. This restaurant serves authentic Tibetan dishes such as momos and thukpa. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Thursday, August 17: Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir
Embark on a day trip to Tsomgo Lake, a glacial lake nestled at an altitude of 12,313 feet. Marvel at the stunning beauty of the lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Afterward, visit Baba Mandir, a sacred shrine dedicated to an Indian army soldier. Spend some serene moments in this peaceful location before returning to Gangtok.
A perfect spot for a hearty breakfast is Café Live and Loud. This popular restaurant offers a wide range of breakfast options, including pancakes, omelettes, and sandwiches. Prices for a breakfast meal here average around Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, head to Taste of Tibet, a charming restaurant known for its authentic Tibetan cuisine. Enjoy delicious momos, thukpa, and shabalay in a cozy atmosphere. The average cost for a lunch meal at Taste of Tibet is approximately Rs. 300 per person.
Indulge in a sumptuous dinner at The Square, a fine dining restaurant with a panoramic view of the city. From Indian curries to international dishes, this restaurant offers a diverse menu to cater to everyone's taste. The average cost for a dinner at The Square ranges from Rs. 500 to Rs. 800 per person.
Friday, August 18: Pelling
Travel to Pelling, a picturesque town known for its panoramic views of the Himalayas. Start your day with a visit to the Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Sikkim. Explore the Rabdentse Ruins, the ancient capital of Sikkim, and soak in the historical ambiance. In the evening, take a leisurely walk to the Singshore Bridge and enjoy breathtaking sunset views.
Singshore Bridge: Free, 1 hour (estimated time spent)
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Blue Sky Cafe, located in Pelling. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and sandwiches. The average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to The Crystal Palace, a popular restaurant in Pelling. Enjoy a wide range of dishes including Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan cuisines. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Melting Point Restaurant. Known for its spectacular views of the Himalayas, this restaurant offers a variety of international and local dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Saturday, August 19: Yuksom
Journey to Yuksom, the historical capital of Sikkim, and immerse yourself in its natural beauty. Begin your day with a trek to Khecheopalri Lake, a sacred lake surrounded by lush forests and prayer flags. Afterward, visit the Dubdi Monastery, the oldest monastery in Sikkim, located atop a hill offering breathtaking views. Spend the evening exploring the charming village of Yuksom and interacting with the friendly locals.
Exploring Yuksom: Free, 2 hours (estimated time spent)
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Café Fiction, a cozy restaurant known for its mouthwatering pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Taste of Sikkim, where you can savor authentic Sikkimese cuisine such as thukpa and momos. Enjoy the warm hospitality and the average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
In the evening, dine at The Orchard, a beautiful restaurant nestled amidst apple orchards. Indulge in their delectable farm-to-table dishes paired with fine wines. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Sunday, August 20: Gangtok
Return to Gangtok and spend the day exploring some hidden gems of the city. Start your morning with a visit to the Hanuman Tok, a hilltop temple offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Next, head to the Flower Exhibition Center to admire a wide variety of vibrant flowers and plants. In the evening, unwind at the Tashi Viewpoint, a popular spot to witness the mesmerizing sunset over the Kanchenjunga Peak.
Tashi Viewpoint: Free, 1 hour (estimated time spent)
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Baker’s Cafe, a charming bakery known for its fresh pastries and bread. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Savour authentic Sikkimese cuisine for lunch at The Local Kitchen. This restaurant offers a variety of local dishes made with fresh ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For dinner, try out Thakali Kitchen, a cozy restaurant that specializes in Thakali cuisine from Nepal. Enjoy delicious curries and traditional dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Monday, August 21: Rumtek Monastery
On your last day in Sikkim, visit the Rumtek Monastery, one of the largest and most significant monasteries in the region. Explore the intricate Tibetan Buddhist architecture and witness the spiritual rituals. Afterward, head to the nearby Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden to enjoy a peaceful walk amidst the diverse flora. End your trip with a visit to the Banjhakri Falls, a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
For breakfast, head to The Flying Squirrel Cafe, located nearby to enjoy a delicious spread of freshly baked pastries and artisan coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
For lunch, try out The Square Meal, a casual eatery known for its wide variety of local and international cuisines. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For dinner, indulge in a fine dining experience at The Olive Kitchen, known for its exquisite multi-course meals and elegant ambiance. The average cost for a meal is about 1500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For those seeking off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Tashiding Monastery, a serene and less crowded monastery offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Another local favorite is the Temi Tea Garden, where you can learn about tea production and enjoy a peaceful stroll through the scenic tea estate. Both attractions offer family-friendly experiences and a chance to explore the lesser-known treasures of Sikkim.
For hotel and flight bookings, you can check the prices at Kayak.