Exciting Adventure in Gangtok, Lachung, Pelling, and Nathu La
Thursday October 5: Arrival in Gangtok
Welcome to Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim! In the morning, visit Enchey Monastery, a serene Buddhist monastery nestled in the hills. Afternoon is the perfect time to explore the bustling MG Marg, the city's main promenade, lined with shops and cafes. In the evening, enjoy a cable car ride to get panoramic views of Gangtok.
Enchey Monastery: Cost Estimate: ₹100, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
MG Marg: Cost Estimate: Free, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Cable Car Ride: Cost Estimate: ₹110 per person, Time Spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Baker's Cafe, known for its freshly baked goods and aromatic coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
For lunch, head to The Square, a trendy restaurant offering a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Taste of Tibet, a charming restaurant serving authentic Tibetan delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about ₹600 per person.
Friday October 6: Excursion to Tsomgo Lake and Nathu La
Embark on an adventurous journey to Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, located at an altitude of 12,400 feet. Spend the morning enjoying the breathtaking beauty of the lake and its surrounding snow-capped mountains. In the afternoon, continue the adventure by visiting Nathu La, a high-altitude pass on the Indo-China border. Witness the stunning views and learn about the history. Please note that Nathu La requires special permits, so make sure to arrange them in advance.
For breakfast, head to Taste of Tibet, a cozy restaurant that offers a variety of Tibetan and Indian breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, try The Kitchen, a popular restaurant known for its delicious Chinese, Indian, and Tibetan dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, indulge in authentic Sikkimese cuisine at The Royal Plaza, a elegant restaurant with a warm ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Saturday October 7: Journey to Lachung
Today, embark on a scenic drive to Lachung, a picturesque mountain village. In the morning, make a stop at Singhik View Point to admire the panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, including the mighty Kanchenjunga. In the afternoon, visit the Yumthang Valley, also known as the Valley of Flowers, famous for its vibrant alpine flowers. Spend the evening exploring the local culture and interacting with the friendly locals.
Singhik View Point: Cost Estimate: Free, Time Spent: 1 hour
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Live & Loud. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options such as fluffy omelettes and crispy toast. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to The Cliff Restro. This restaurant serves a range of mouthwatering dishes including flavorful Indian curries and tasty momos. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Indulge in a delectable dinner at The Taste of Tibet. This restaurant offers a delightful spread of Tibetan cuisine, including savory thukpa and aromatic momo. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday October 8: Exploring Lachung
Today, get ready for an adventurous day in Lachung. In the morning, hike to the beautiful Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, home to numerous species of rhododendron flowers. Afternoon is the perfect time to visit the enchanting Lachung Monastery, known for its intricate architecture. In the evening, relax and unwind in the natural hot springs of Yumthang.
Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary: Cost Estimate: ₹100, Time Spent: 2-3 hours
Lachung Monastery: Cost Estimate: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Yumthang Hot Springs: Cost Estimate: ₹50, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A perfect place for breakfast is The Apple Orchard Café, offering a delightful menu with fresh fruits and homemade pastries. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For a delicious lunch, head to The Taste of Tibet, where you can enjoy traditional Tibetan dishes like momos and thukpa. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Indulge in a sumptuous dinner at The Golden Dragon Restaurant, known for its authentic Chinese and Indian cuisine. The average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Monday October 9: Journey to Pelling
Today, embark on a scenic drive to Pelling, a charming hill station in West Sikkim. In the morning, visit the majestic Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Sikkim. Afternoon is the perfect time to explore the famous Khecheopalri Lake, considered sacred by both Buddhists and Hindus. In the evening, enjoy the stunning sunset views from the Pelling Skywalk.
Pemayangtse Monastery: Cost Estimate: ₹100, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Khecheopalri Lake: Cost Estimate: ₹50, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Pelling Skywalk: Cost Estimate: ₹30, Time Spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Red Panda Café, known for its cozy atmosphere and wide selection of freshly baked goods. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to The Cliff Restro & Lounge, offering a diverse menu of local and international dishes with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at The Elgin Mount Pandim Dining Room, a fine dining restaurant serving delectable Sikkimese and international cuisine in an elegant setting. Average cost for a meal is about 1000 INR per person.
Tuesday October 10: Exploring Pelling
Today, indulge in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Pelling. In the morning, hike to the stunning Kanchenjunga Falls, a majestic waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Afternoon is the perfect time to visit the Rabdentse Ruins, the ancient capital of Sikkim, and soak in the historical significance. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Pelling Rock Garden and enjoy a peaceful stroll amidst the beauty of nature.
Kanchenjunga Falls: Cost Estimate: Free, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Rabdentse Ruins: Cost Estimate: ₹50, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Pelling Rock Garden: Cost Estimate: Free, Time Spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
Head to Sonam's Kitchen for a cozy breakfast spot offering mouthwatering pancakes and delicious sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a delightful lunch experience, try Melting Point Restaurant which serves a variety of Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, enjoy a scrumptious dinner at The Elgin Mount Pandim's Pangolin Restaurant, known for its delectable local and international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 700 INR per person.
Wednesday October 11: Return to Gangtok and Departure
Today, bid farewell to the beautiful landscapes of Pelling and head back to Gangtok. In the morning, visit the famous Rumtek Monastery, one of the largest monasteries in Sikkim, known for its intricate artwork. Afternoon is the perfect time for some last-minute souvenir shopping at the Cottage Industry Emporium. In the evening, catch your flight back home, carrying unforgettable memories of your adventurous journey in Sikkim.
Rumtek Monastery: Cost Estimate: ₹100, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Cottage Industry Emporium: Cost Estimate: Varies, Time Spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
The Breakfast Club: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Breakfast Club, known for their mouthwatering pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
The Lunch Box: Enjoy a hearty lunch at The Lunch Box, a popular eatery offering a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Spice Garden: Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at Spice Garden, a restaurant specializing in traditional Sikkimese and North Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
If you're seeking more adventurous experiences, consider going for a thrilling river rafting trip in the Teesta River. The white-water rafting expeditions offer an adrenaline rush and a chance to witness the stunning landscapes from a different perspective. Another hidden gem is the Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can go for scenic hikes and spot various species of flora and fauna. Don't miss the opportunity to try the local delicacies like momos, thukpa, and gundruk soup for a true taste of Sikkim.