7-Day Itinerary for Sikkim, starting on Friday, December 29, 2023

Friday, December 29: Arrival in Gangtok

In the morning, arrive at Bagdogra Airport and transfer to Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. Visit the Enchey Monastery in the afternoon and enjoy panoramic views of Gangtok from Tashi Viewpoint in the evening.

• Enchey Monastery: Entrance Fee - INR 20, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Tashi Viewpoint: Free, Time Spent - 30 minutes

Saturday, December 30: Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir

Embark on a day trip to Tsomgo Lake, a glacial lake nestled amidst snow-capped mountains. Explore the nearby Baba Mandir, a revered shrine dedicated to an Indian army soldier. In the evening, stroll through the bustling MG Marg and indulge in local cuisine.

• Tsomgo Lake: Entrance Fee - INR 50, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Baba Mandir: No entrance fee, Time Spent - 1 hour
• MG Marg: Free, Time Spent - 2 hours

Sunday, December 31: Nathula Pass and Rumtek Monastery

Start the day with an exhilarating visit to Nathula Pass, located at an altitude of 14,450 feet and bordering China. Explore the Rumtek Monastery, one of the most significant monasteries in Sikkim, in the afternoon. In the evening, celebrate New Year's Eve at a local restaurant or attend a cultural event.

• Nathula Pass: Permit Required, Time Spent - 3 hours
• Rumtek Monastery: Entrance Fee - INR 10, Time Spent - 2 hours

Monday, January 1: Pelling

Travel to Pelling, a scenic hill station located in West Sikkim. Visit the Pemayangtse Monastery in the morning, offering stunning views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range. Explore the Rabdentse Ruins, the ancient capital of Sikkim, in the afternoon. Catch a mesmerizing sunset at the Sangachoeling Monastery.

• Pemayangtse Monastery: Entrance Fee - INR 20, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Rabdentse Ruins: Entrance Fee - INR 50, Time Spent - 2 hours
• Sangachoeling Monastery: Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Tuesday, January 2: Yuksom and Khecheopalri Lake

Visit Yuksom, the historical capital of Sikkim, and explore the Norbugang Park in the morning. Trek to the beautiful Khecheopalri Lake, considered sacred by Buddhists, in the afternoon. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Sikkimese dinner.

• Norbugang Park: Entrance Fee - INR 20, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Khecheopalri Lake: Entrance Fee - INR 20, Time Spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, January 3: Ravangla and Buddha Park

Travel to Ravangla and visit the Buddha Park, home to a towering statue of Lord Buddha. Enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains from the park. Explore the Ralong Monastery in the afternoon and witness the evening prayers. Return to Gangtok in the evening.

• Buddha Park: Entrance Fee - INR 50, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Ralong Monastery: Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Thursday, January 4: Departure from Gangtok

On the last day, explore the Do Drul Chorten Stupa in the morning, a significant Buddhist shrine. Visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, which houses a vast collection of Tibetan artifacts, in the afternoon. Depart from Bagdogra Airport in the evening.

• Do Drul Chorten Stupa: Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: Entrance Fee - INR 10, Time Spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Off the beaten path attractions in Sikkim include the Gurudongmar Lake, situated at an altitude of 17,100 feet, offering breathtaking views. Visit the Kheunpheling Carpet Centre in Gangtok to witness traditional carpet weaving. Explore the serene Tashiding Monastery, known for its spiritual significance. Don't miss the local delicacies like momos, thukpa, and chhang.

Check hotel and flight prices for your Sikkim trip here.