Sikkim Family Friendly Itinerary for November 2023

1. Day 1: Rumtek Monastery
   25 minutes (10.5 km) from Gangtok

   In the morning, explore the beautiful Rumtek Monastery, home to some of the most significant Tibetan Buddhist artifacts in the world. Afterward, head to the nearby Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden for a relaxing afternoon walk amidst the beautiful flora and fauna. In the evening, take a stroll around the Gangtok Market and enjoy some local street food.

2. Day 2: Tsomgo Lake
   1 hour 22 minutes (39.6 km) from Gangtok

   Embark on a scenic drive to Tsomgo Lake, a glacial lake nestled amidst towering mountains. Indulge in some yak riding and enjoy the stunning views of the breathtaking landscape. Afterward, visit the nearby Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple and learn about the fascinating history of this revered Indian Army soldier. In the evening, head back to Gangtok and enjoy some delicious momos at MG Marg.

3. Day 3: Pelling
   4 hours 28 minutes (117 km) from Gangtok

   Take a scenic drive to Pelling and visit the famous Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest and most significant monasteries in Sikkim. Afterward, head to the Rabdentse Ruins and explore the ancient capital of Sikkim. In the evening, visit the Kanchenjunga Falls and bask in the beauty of this natural wonder.

4. Day 4: Yuksom
   1 hour 30 minutes (45.7 km) from Pelling

   Head to Yuksom, the first capital of Sikkim, and visit the famous Dubdi Monastery, known for its unique architecture and stunning views of the Himalayas. Afterward, embark on a scenic hike to the beautiful Khecheopalri Lake, a sacred site for both Hindus and Buddhists. In the evening, explore the charming village of Yuksom and indulge in some local cuisine.

5. Day 5: Namchi
   4 hours 8 minutes (88.2 km) from Yuksom

   Take a scenic drive to Namchi and visit the famous Samdruptse Monastery, home to the world's tallest statue of Guru Padmasambhava. Afterward, head to the nearby Char Dham, a pilgrimage site that features replicas of the four most sacred Hindu shrines. In the evening, take a stroll around the local markets and indulge in some shopping.

6. Day 6: Gangtok
   2 hours 20 minutes (72 km) from Namchi

   Head back to Gangtok and visit the Enchey Monastery, known for its serene ambiance and stunning architecture. Afterward, embark on a thrilling cable car ride to the majestic Tashiling Secretariat and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape. In the evening, explore the local nightlife scene and enjoy some live music performances.

Recommendations

Sikkim offers a plethora of exciting activities that you can enjoy with your family. If you have more time to spare, consider taking a trip to the Nathula Pass, where you can experience snowfall and enjoy some adventure sports. You can also visit the Temi Tea Garden and learn about the fascinating history of tea production in Sikkim.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Rumtek Monastery (2 hours, free)
• Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden (1 hour, INR 10)
• Gangtok Market (2 hours, variable costs)
• Tsomgo Lake (5 hours, INR 2500)
• Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple (1 hour, free)
• MG Marg (2 hours, variable costs)
• Pemayangtse Monastery (2 hours, INR 20)
• Rabdentse Ruins (1 hour, INR 50)
• Kanchenjunga Falls (2 hours, free)
• Dubdi Monastery (2 hours, INR 50)
• Khecheopalri Lake (3 hours, INR 300)
• Samdruptse Monastery (2 hours, INR 30)
• Char Dham (1 hour, INR 50)
• Enchey Monastery (1 hour, INR 20)
• Tashiling Secretariat (2 hours, INR 50)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 2970