6-Day Itinerary: Gangtok, Lachen, and Lachung

Sunday, October 22: Arrival in Gangtok

Morning: Start your trip by arriving in Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. Explore the city's famous attractions, such as the Enchey Monastery and Do Drul Chorten. Take a leisurely walk along M.G. Marg, the main street lined with shops and restaurants, and enjoy the charming ambiance.

Afternoon: Visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, a renowned research institute dedicated to the study of Tibetan culture and Buddhism. Take some time to browse through the extensive collection of artifacts and ancient manuscripts.

Evening: Experience the mesmerizing sunset view from the Tashi Viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

• Enchey Monastery: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• Do Drul Chorten: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
• M.G. Marg: Cost - Free (shopping and dining costs may vary), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: Cost - INR 10 (approx.), Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Tashi Viewpoint: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to The Coffee Shop, a cozy cafe known for its freshly brewed coffee and delicious pastries. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For lunch, try The Taste of Tibet, a popular restaurant serving authentic Tibetan dishes such as momos and thukpa. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
• End the day with dinner at The Roll House, a local favorite known for its mouthwatering rolls filled with a variety of fillings like chicken, paneer, and vegetables. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.

Monday, October 23: Excursion to Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir

Morning: Embark on a scenic drive to Tsomgo Lake, a glacial lake located at an altitude of 12,400 feet. Enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings and take a walk around the lake, admiring its pristine beauty.

Afternoon: Continue your journey to Baba Mandir, a sacred shrine dedicated to Baba Harbhajan Singh, a soldier of the Indian Army. Explore the temple and learn about the fascinating stories associated with it.

Evening: Return to Gangtok and spend the evening at leisure, exploring the local markets or trying out delicious local cuisine.

• Tsomgo Lake: Cost - INR 50 (approx.), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Baba Mandir: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Local Market: Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• A popular breakfast spot in Gangtok is Taste of Tibet, which serves delicious Tibetan dishes like momos and thukpa. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 200 per person.
• For lunch, head to The Coffee Shop, a cozy cafe known for its international cuisine and great coffee. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 400 per person.
• In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner at The Square, a well-known restaurant in Gangtok offering a wide range of Indian, Chinese, and continental dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about Rs. 600 per person.

Tuesday, October 24: Journey to Lachen

Morning: Depart from Gangtok and begin your drive to Lachen, a picturesque mountain village known for its natural beauty. Enjoy the scenic landscapes, passing through cascading waterfalls and dense forests along the way.

Afternoon: Arrive in Lachen and take a short hike to the beautiful Lachen Monastery, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Evening: Relax and unwind in the serene ambiance of Lachen, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the warm hospitality of the locals.

• Drive to Lachen: Cost - Varies (depending on mode of transportation), Time Spent - 5-6 hours
• Lachen Monastery: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, October 25: Excursion to Gurudongmar Lake and Chopta Valley

Morning: Embark on a thrilling excursion to Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world situated at an altitude of 17,800 feet. Witness the breathtaking beauty of the shimmering turquoise waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

Afternoon: Explore the enchanting Chopta Valley, famous for its alpine meadows, blooming rhododendrons, and scenic landscapes. Enjoy a picnic amidst nature's splendor.

Evening: Return to Lachen and spend a peaceful evening in the tranquil ambiance of the village.

• Gurudongmar Lake: Cost - INR 50 (approx.), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Chopta Valley: Cost - INR 50 (approx.), Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Thursday, October 26: Journey to Lachung

Morning: Bid farewell to Lachen and embark on a scenic drive to Lachung, another charming mountain village nestled amidst the Himalayas. Enjoy the picturesque views during your journey.

Afternoon: Upon arrival, visit the picturesque Yumthang Valley, also known as the "Valley of Flowers." Marvel at the colorful blooms and the snow-capped peaks that surround the valley.

Evening: Spend a rejuvenating evening in Lachung, relishing the crisp mountain air and serene ambiance.

• Drive to Lachung: Cost - Varies (depending on mode of transportation), Time Spent - 4-5 hours
• Yumthang Valley: Cost - INR 150 (approx.), Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Friday, October 27: Bhim Nala Falls and Return to Gangtok

Morning: Explore the picturesque Bhim Nala Falls, a stunning waterfall located near Lachung. Admire the cascading waters surrounded by lush greenery.

Afternoon: Bid farewell to Lachung and embark on your journey back to Gangtok. Enjoy the scenic drive and soak in the natural beauty one last time.

Evening: Arrive in Gangtok and spend the evening at leisure. Indulge in some souvenir shopping or enjoy a delicious meal.

• Bhim Nala Falls: Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Return Journey to Gangtok: Cost - Varies (depending on mode of transportation), Time Spent - 6-7 hours
• Shopping/Dining: Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Cafe Fiction in Gangtok. This cozy cafe offers a variety of delicious breakfast options such as fluffy pancakes and eggs Benedict. The average cost for a meal is about 300 rupees per person.
• For lunch, try the Tibetan cuisine at Thakali. This restaurant serves authentic Tibetan dishes like momos and thukpa. The average cost for a meal is about 400 rupees per person.
• For dinner, visit The Square Restaurant and Lounge. This trendy restaurant offers a mix of Indian and international cuisines. Enjoy their flavorful curries or grilled dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 800 rupees per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you're looking for off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals, make sure to visit the Tashi Viewpoint in Gangtok during sunrise. The breathtaking view of the sunrise over the Himalayas is truly mesmerizing. Another hidden gem is the Seven Sisters Waterfall, located near the road to Mangan. This majestic waterfall, formed by seven different cascades, is a sight to behold. For a taste of authentic local cuisine, head to Roll House in Gangtok and indulge in their mouthwatering momos and thukpa. These eateries are family-friendly and offer a true taste of Sikkimese flavors.