Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Sikkim

Thursday, December 21: Arrival in Gangtok

Morning: Start your Sikkim adventure by exploring the Enchey Monastery, a serene Buddhist shrine offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Afternoon: Visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology to delve into the rich Tibetan culture and history of Sikkim.

Evening: Take a leisurely stroll along the MG Marg, the main street of Gangtok, lined with shops, eateries, and vibrant ambiance.

  • Enchey Monastery: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: Cost: INR 20, Time spent: 2 hours
  • MG Marg: Cost: Free, Time spent: As desired
Friday, December 22: Rumtek Monastery and Tsomgo Lake

Morning: Embark on a scenic drive to Rumtek Monastery, one of the most significant monasteries in Sikkim, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas.

Afternoon: Continue your journey to Tsomgo Lake, a stunning glacial lake nestled amidst snow-capped mountains, where you can enjoy yak rides and serene surroundings.

Evening: Return to Gangtok and spend the evening exploring the local markets for handicrafts and souvenirs.

  • Rumtek Monastery: Cost: INR 20, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Tsomgo Lake: Cost: INR 200 (permit fee), Time spent: 3 hours
  • Local Markets: Cost: As desired, Time spent: As desired
Saturday, December 23: Pelling Exploration

Morning: Travel to Pelling, a picturesque town known for its stunning views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range. Visit Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim.

Afternoon: Explore the Rabdentse Ruins, an ancient capital of the former kingdom of Sikkim, with remnants of ancient palaces and a serene forested trail.

Evening: Enjoy the sunset view from the Singshore Bridge, one of the highest suspension bridges in Asia.

  • Pemayangtse Monastery: Cost: INR 20, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Rabdentse Ruins: Cost: INR 50, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Singshore Bridge: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Sunday, December 24: Yuksom and Khecheopalri Lake

Morning: Journey to Yuksom, the ancient capital of Sikkim, and visit the Dubdi Monastery, the first monastery established in the state.

Afternoon: Proceed to Khecheopalri Lake, a sacred lake believed to fulfill wishes, surrounded by lush forests and prayer flags.

Evening: Return to Pelling and spend the evening exploring the local cuisine and street food.

  • Dubdi Monastery: Cost: INR 20, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Khecheopalri Lake: Cost: INR 30, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Local Cuisine Exploration: Cost: As desired, Time spent: As desired
Monday, December 25: Lachung and Yumthang Valley

Morning: Start your journey towards Lachung, a charming village nestled in the mountains, known for its natural beauty.

Afternoon: Explore the enchanting Yumthang Valley, also known as the Valley of Flowers, with its stunning alpine meadows and hot springs.

Evening: Experience the warm hospitality of Lachung and enjoy a traditional Sikkimese dinner.

  • Lachung: Cost: INR 2000 (approx. for a shared taxi), Time spent: 4 hours (travel time)
  • Yumthang Valley: Cost: INR 300 (permit fee), Time spent: 3 hours
  • Traditional Dinner: Cost: As desired, Time spent: As desired
Tuesday, December 26: Gangtok Exploration

Morning: Return to Gangtok and visit the picturesque Banjhakri Falls, surrounded by lush greenery and a park with traditional sculptures.

Afternoon: Explore the Flower Exhibition Center, showcasing a wide variety of exotic flowers, including rare orchids found in Sikkim.

Evening: Head to the Tashi Viewpoint to witness a mesmerizing sunset over the snow-capped Himalayas.

  • Banjhakri Falls: Cost: INR 50, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Flower Exhibition Center: Cost: INR 20, Time spent: 1 hour
  • Tashi Viewpoint: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Wednesday, December 27: Departure from Gangtok

Morning: Explore the beautiful Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre, one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in Sikkim, known for its stunning architecture and serene ambiance.

Afternoon: Say farewell to Sikkim and depart from Gangtok with unforgettable memories.

  • Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre: Cost: INR 20, Time spent: 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path experiences, visit the serene Tinkitam village near Pelling, where you can witness traditional village life and enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Another hidden gem is the Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, located near Ravangla, offering nature trails and the chance to spot various bird species and wildlife. These attractions are budget-friendly and provide unique insights into the local culture and natural beauty of Sikkim.

For hotel and flight bookings, check prices on Kayak.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version