Sikkim Family-Friendly 6-Day Itinerary in October 2023

1. Day 1: Gangtok
   32 minutes (20 km) from Pakyong Airport

   In the morning, visit the Enchey Monastery and witness the morning prayers. Then head to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology to learn about Sikkim's history and culture. In the afternoon, explore the Gangtok city and stroll along the MG Marg. In the evening, visit the Banjhakri Waterfall and Energy Park.

2. Day 2: Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir
   1 hour 50 minutes (39 km) from Gangtok

   In the morning, head towards the Tsomgo Lake, a serene and picturesque lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Visit the Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir and pay your respects. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Nathula Pass and the surrounding areas. In the evening, return to Gangtok and enjoy a hot bowl of traditional momos.

3. Day 3: Pelling
   4 hours (115 km) from Gangtok

   In the morning, begin your drive towards Pelling. Stop at the Khecheopalri Lake, also known as the "Wish Fulfilling Lake". In the afternoon, visit the Pemayangtse Monastery, which is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Sikkim. In the evening, enjoy the beautiful sunset view from the Sangacholing Monastery.

4. Day 4: Ravangla
   2 hours 15 minutes (64 km) from Pelling

   In the morning, drive towards Ravangla and visit the Buddha Park. Enjoy the panoramic views of the snow-covered mountains. In the afternoon, visit the Ralong Monastery, which is known for its traditional Tibetan architecture. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll through the small town of Ravangla and try some local delicacies.

5. Day 5: Yuksom
   2 hours 15 minutes (42 km) from Ravangla

   In the morning, drive towards Yuksom and visit the Dubdi Monastery, which is the oldest monastery in Sikkim. Then, go on an easy trek to the Khecheopalri Lake. In the afternoon, visit the Tashi Tenka, which is the coronation throne of the first King of Sikkim. In the evening, enjoy a bonfire night with traditional Sikkimese music and dance.

6. Day 6: Gangtok
   4 hours (132 km) from Yuksom

   In the morning, begin your drive back to Gangtok. On the way, stop at the Temi Tea Garden, which is one of the most scenic tea gardens in India. In the afternoon, visit the Rumtek Monastery, which is one of the largest and most important monasteries in Sikkim. In the evening, enjoy your last night in Gangtok by trying some local food and shopping for souvenirs.

Recommendations

Other attractions to consider are the Yumthang Valley, the Lachung Monastery, and the Singalila National Park. You could also take a day trip to the nearby city of Darjeeling and experience the famous Darjeeling tea, or explore the nearby state of West Bengal.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Enchey Monastery (1 hour, free)
• Namgyal Institute of Tibetology (2 hours, INR 10)
• Banjhakri Waterfall and Energy Park (2 hours, INR 50)
• Tsomgo Lake (4 hours, INR 2000 per vehicle)
• Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir (1 hour, free)
• Nathula Pass (2 hours, INR 500 per vehicle)
• Khecheopalri Lake (1 hour, free)
• Pemayangtse Monastery (1 hour, INR 20)
• Sangacholing Monastery (1 hour, INR 20)
• Buddha Park (2 hours, INR 50)
• Ralong Monastery (1 hour, free)
• Dubdi Monastery (1 hour, INR 20)
• Khecheopalri Lake trek (2 hours, INR 100)
• Tashi Tenka (30 minutes, free)
• Temi Tea Garden (1 hour, INR 20)
• Rumtek Monastery (1 hour, INR 50)
• Local food and shopping (2 hours, INR 500)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 3450 per person (excluding accommodation and transportation)