5-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary to Lachung, Lachen, Yumthang
Monday, December 25: Arrival in Gangtok
Morning: Arrival at Bagdogra Airport and transfer to Gangtok. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Himalayas, taking in breathtaking views along the way. Visit the bustling MG Road in the afternoon, lined with shops and eateries. Spend the evening exploring Gangtok's local markets, where you can find traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.
Transfer to Gangtok: Cost varies, approximately 4-5 hours
MG Road: Free, 2-3 hours
Local Markets: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Gangtok is Cafe Live & Loud, known for its delicious omelettes and pancakes. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 200 per person.
For lunch, head to The Coffee Shop, a cozy restaurant offering a variety of cuisines including Indian, Tibetan, and Continental dishes. The average cost for a meal at The Coffee Shop is about Rs. 300 per person.
In the evening, try the traditional flavors of Sikkim at Taste of Tibet, a local favorite for dinner. Enjoy mouthwatering momos and thukpa here. The average cost for a meal at Taste of Tibet is about Rs. 250 per person.
Tuesday, December 26: Lachung
Morning: Depart from Gangtok and head towards Lachung, the picturesque mountain village. Enjoy the scenic drive through snow-capped mountains, waterfalls, and valleys. Visit the Seven Sisters Waterfall en route. In the afternoon, explore Lachung's natural beauty and visit the Lachung Monastery. Enjoy a peaceful evening admiring the stunning mountain views.
Transfer to Lachung: Cost varies, approximately 6-7 hours
Seven Sisters Waterfall: Free, 30 minutes
Lachung Monastery: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious and hearty breakfast, head to Yarlam Restaurant. Enjoy traditional Tibetan and Indian dishes like momos and thukpa. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a tasty and satisfying lunch, try The Cliff View Restaurant. Indulge in mouthwatering local delicacies like gundruk and sinki, along with Nepali and Indian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a delightful dinner experience, dine at Hotel Tenzing Retreat. Savor a variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Tibetan dishes while enjoying the cozy ambiance. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Wednesday, December 27: Yumthang Valley
Morning: Embark on a day trip to Yumthang Valley, also known as the Valley of Flowers. Experience the enchanting beauty of alpine flowers, hot springs, and snow-clad mountains. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the natural splendor. In the afternoon, visit the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary and immerse yourself in the vibrant colors of blooming rhododendrons. Return to Lachung in the evening.
Yumthang Valley: Cost varies, approximately 3 hours each way
Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Himalayan Café, a cozy restaurant known for its hearty breakfast options. Enjoy delicious pancakes, omelettes, and freshly baked bread. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For lunch, dine at Yumthang Restaurant, located near the Yumthang Valley. They offer a variety of local dishes like momos, thukpa, and traditional Tibetan butter tea. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For dinner, visit Snow Lion Restaurant, a popular spot in Lachung known for its warm ambiance and authentic North-Eastern cuisine. Try their specialties like pork curry, bamboo shoots, and sticky rice. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Thursday, December 28: Lachen
Morning: Depart from Lachung and head towards Lachen, another charming mountain village. Enjoy the scenic drive through the picturesque landscapes of North Sikkim. In the afternoon, visit the Lachen Monastery, known for its serene ambiance and stunning views. Spend the evening resting and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
Transfer to Lachen: Cost varies, approximately 2-3 hours
Lachen Monastery: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Himalayan Cafe, a cozy restaurant offering a wide range of breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and traditional Tibetan bread. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, visit The Orchid Restaurant, a popular eatery known for its delicious Indian and Chinese cuisine. Enjoy their mouthwatering momos and thukpa. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For dinner, try The Snow Lion Restaurant, a charming place serving traditional Sikkimese dishes like gundruk curry and local fish. The restaurant has a warm ambiance and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Friday, December 29: Gurudongmar Lake
Morning: Embark on a memorable journey to Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. Enjoy the awe-inspiring views of the Himalayas and the pristine blue lake. The journey will take you through rugged terrains and beautiful landscapes. After spending quality time at the lake, return to Lachen in the afternoon. Spend the evening relaxing and soaking in the tranquility.
Gurudongmar Lake: Cost varies, approximately 3-4 hours each way
Restaurants
Cafe Himalaya: Start your day at Cafe Himalaya, a charming breakfast spot in Lachen. Enjoy a variety of freshly baked pastries and aromatic coffee while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
Hotel Snow View: For a satisfying lunch, head to Hotel Snow View in Lachen. This restaurant offers a range of delicious local dishes, including momos, thukpa, and traditional Tibetan cuisine. The average cost for a lunch meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
Yarlam Resort Restaurant: Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at the Yarlam Resort Restaurant in Lachen. This fine dining restaurant serves a delectable array of Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients. The average cost for a dinner meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a family-friendly experience off the beaten path, consider exploring the Kabi Longstok, a historic site where the blood brotherhood treaty between Lepcha and Bhutia tribes was signed. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the serene Tashi Viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains. Families can also visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology to learn about Tibetan culture and history through its fascinating exhibits.