7-Day Family-Friendly Low Budget Itinerary for North Sikkim

Tuesday, January 16: Gangtok

Start your trip in the capital city of Gangtok. In the morning, visit the Enchey Monastery, a tranquil Buddhist temple nestled in the hills. In the afternoon, explore the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, showcasing Tibetan culture and history. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk through the bustling M.G. Marg, a pedestrian-only street lined with shops and eateries.

• Enchey Monastery: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: Estimated cost - INR 10 per person, Time spent - 2 hours
• M.G. Marg: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Flexible

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Baker's Cafe, a cozy bakery that offers a variety of freshly baked goods and tasty breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 rupees per person.
• Lunch at Taste of Tibet, a popular local restaurant serving authentic Tibetan cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 400 rupees per person.
• For dinner, try The Square Restaurant, a vibrant eatery known for its delicious Indian and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 600 rupees per person.

Wednesday, January 17: Lachen

Embark on a scenic drive to Lachen, a picturesque village. In the morning, visit the Lachen Monastery, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, take a short hike to the breathtaking Green Lake, known for its turquoise waters. As the evening sets in, explore the local markets and try traditional Sikkimese cuisine.

• Lachen Monastery: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Green Lake Hike: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Local Markets: Estimated cost - Flexible, Time spent - Flexible

Thursday, January 18: Gurudongmar Lake

Embark on an early morning excursion to Gurudongmar Lake, located at an altitude of 17,800 feet. Marvel at the spectacular views of the frozen lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. In the afternoon, visit the Chopta Valley, known for its alpine vegetation. As the evening sets in, relax and enjoy the tranquility of the scenic landscape.

• Gurudongmar Lake: Estimated cost - INR 6,000 for a shared vehicle, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Chopta Valley: Estimated cost - INR 500 for a shared vehicle, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Friday, January 19: Lachung

Head to the charming village of Lachung. In the morning, visit the Yumthang Valley, also known as the Valley of Flowers, famous for its colorful blooms. In the afternoon, soak in the hot springs of Yumthang and rejuvenate amidst nature. As the evening sets in, savor a traditional hot meal and enjoy the cultural performances.

• Yumthang Valley: Estimated cost - INR 2,500 for a shared vehicle, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Yumthang Hot Springs: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Local Cultural Performances: Estimated cost - INR 300 per person, Time spent - Flexible

Saturday, January 20: Zero Point

Embark on an adventurous journey to Zero Point, a high-altitude area offering breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks. In the morning, enjoy a thrilling drive through the rugged terrain. In the afternoon, have a picnic amidst the pristine landscapes. As the evening sets in, experience the serenity and tranquility of the mountains.

• Zero Point: Estimated cost - INR 3,500 for a shared vehicle, Time spent - 5-6 hours
• Picnic lunch: Estimated cost - INR 500 per person, Time spent - Flexible

Sunday, January 21: Yumthang and Gangtok

Return to Yumthang Valley for more exploration. In the morning, visit the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, showcasing a variety of rhododendron species. In the afternoon, enjoy a nature walk along the Lachung River. As the evening sets in, make your way back to Gangtok and relax at your hotel.

• Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 100 per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Lachung River Nature Walk: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, January 22: Tsomgo Lake and Departure

On your last day, visit the stunning Tsomgo Lake, located at an altitude of 12,313 feet. In the morning, admire the crystal-clear waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains. In the afternoon, shop for souvenirs at the nearby Baba Mandir Market. Bid farewell to North Sikkim and catch your flight back home.

• Tsomgo Lake: Estimated cost - INR 2,000 for a shared vehicle, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Baba Mandir Market: Estimated cost - Flexible, Time spent - Flexible

Restaurants

• Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Live & Loud. This cozy restaurant offers a variety of options including omelettes, pancakes, and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
• For lunch, head to The Rolling Pin. This family-friendly restaurant serves delicious Indian and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• Enjoy a delightful dinner at Taste of Sikkim. This restaurant specializes in local Sikkimese cuisine, offering dishes like momos, thukpa, and gundruk. Average cost for a meal is about ₹400 per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

As a hidden gem, make sure to visit Chungthang, a small town that serves as a major transit point for North Sikkim. Explore the pristine beauty of Naga Falls and Bhim Nala Falls nearby. Locals love the serene ambiance and breathtaking landscapes of Dzongu, a protected reserve and cultural hotspot of the Lepcha community. Experience the rich Lepcha heritage, interact with friendly locals, and enjoy traditional food.

Check hotel and flight prices on KAYAK.