7-Day Sikkim Itinerary

Saturday, May 11: Explore Gangtok

In the morning, visit the Enchey Monastery and soak in the serene ambiance. In the afternoon, head to the Rumtek Monastery, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along MG Marg, the bustling street filled with shops and restaurants.

• Enchey Monastery: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Rumtek Monastery: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• MG Marg: Estimated cost - Varies, Time spent - 2 hours

Sunday, May 12: Visit Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir

Start your day early for a trip to Tsomgo Lake, a stunning glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. In the afternoon, visit Baba Mandir, a revered pilgrimage site dedicated to Baba Harbhajan Singh.

• Tsomgo Lake: Estimated cost - INR 400 for permit, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Baba Mandir: Estimated cost - INR 100 (optional vehicle charge), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, May 13: Explore Pelling

Head to Pelling and start your day with a visit to the Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Sikkim. In the afternoon, marvel at the majestic Kanchenjunga Falls. End the day with a peaceful walk through the Singshore Bridge, the highest suspension bridge in India.

• Pemayangtse Monastery: Estimated cost - INR 20, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Kanchenjunga Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Singshore Bridge: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour

Tuesday, May 14: Discover Yuksom

Travel to Yuksom and begin your day by exploring the Dubdi Monastery, the oldest monastery in Sikkim. In the afternoon, hike to the beautiful Khecheopalri Lake, known for its sacredness among Buddhists. Then, visit the Norbugang Park, an archaeological park showcasing Sikkim's history.

• Dubdi Monastery: Estimated cost - INR 10, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Khecheopalri Lake: Estimated cost - INR 50 (entry fee), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Norbugang Park: Estimated cost - INR 20, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, May 15: Explore Ravangla

Start your day in Ravangla by admiring the breathtaking views from Buddha Park, where you'll find a towering statue of Buddha Shakyamuni. In the afternoon, visit the Ralong Monastery, known for its exquisite murals. In the evening, relax at the Temi Tea Garden and enjoy a cup of fresh local tea.

• Buddha Park: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Ralong Monastery: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Temi Tea Garden: Estimated cost - Free (optional tea tasting), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, May 16: Discover Namchi

Visit the picturesque Namchi and start your day with a visit to the Ngadak Monastery, known for its unique architecture. In the afternoon, explore the Char Dham, a complex of temples featuring replicas of famous Hindu pilgrimage sites. End the day with a visit to the Samdruptse Hill to witness the majestic statue of Guru Padmasambhava.

• Ngadak Monastery: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Char Dham: Estimated cost - INR 50 (entry fee), Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Samdruptse Hill: Estimated cost - INR 50 (entry fee), Time spent - 1-2 hours

Friday, May 17: Explore North Sikkim

Embark on a journey to North Sikkim and visit the magnificent Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. Marvel at the natural beauty and serene surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the charming town of Lachen and enjoy the tranquility of the mountains. Return to Gangtok in the evening.

• Gurudongmar Lake: Estimated cost - INR 2000 (shared taxi), Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Lachen: Estimated cost - INR 1000 (shared taxi), Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Don't miss out on visiting Tashiding Monastery, a secluded and spiritually significant monastery nestled in the Himalayas. Also, venture off the beaten path to discover the beauty of Ravangla Bird Park, home to numerous species of colorful birds.