7-Day Adventurous Itinerary for Sikkim in July 2023

1. Day 1: Nathula Pass
   47.2 km (1 hr 30 min) from Bagdogra Airport

   Drive up to Nathula Pass, one of the highest motorable roads, in the early morning to avoid crowds. Enjoy a panoramic view of the Himalayas with a hot cup of tea. Visit Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial before lunch. Spend the afternoon exploring the Gangtok city.

2. Day 2: Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir
   40.1 km (1 hr 20 min) from Gangtok

   Start your day with a visit to the sacred Tsomgo Lake. Enjoy a Yak ride and take stunning pictures. Spend your afternoon visiting the Baba Mandir, a memorial dedicated to an Indian army soldier. Return to Gangtok by late evening.

3. Day 3: Pelling
   117 km (4 hr 30 min) from Gangtok

   Drive to Pelling, a beautiful town situated at an altitude of 6,800 ft. Visit the Khecheopalri Lake, Pemayangtse Monastery and Rabdentse Ruins. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the town in the evening.

4. Day 4: Yuksom
   35.9 km (1 hr 20 min) from Pelling

   Drive to Yuksom, the ancient capital of Sikkim. Trek to the Dubdi Monastery, the oldest monastery of Sikkim, and explore the nearby Norbugang Park. Spend the evening soaking in the natural beauty of Yuksom.

5. Day 5: Darjeeling
   72.5 km (3 hr) from Yuksom

   Drive to the charming hill station of Darjeeling. Visit the Tiger Hill to witness the sunrise over the Kanchenjunga Mountains. Enjoy a cup of Darjeeling tea at a local tea estate and explore the Happy Valley Tea Estate. Spend your evening at the famous Chowrasta Mall.

6. Day 6: Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and Mahakal Temple
   37.6 km (1 hr 30 min) from Darjeeling to Mahakal Temple

   Start your day with a joyride on the UNESCO-listed Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also known as the "Toy Train". Visit the Mahakal Temple, a sacred Hindu temple, and enjoy the panoramic view of the Himalayas. Spend your evening shopping for souvenirs at the vibrant Darjeeling market.

7. Day 7: Kalimpong
   51.1 km (2 hr) from Darjeeling

   Drive to the scenic town of Kalimpong. Visit the Durpin Monastery and the Zang Dhok Palri Phodang Monastery. Explore the beautiful flower nurseries and enjoy a stroll at the local Haat Bazaar. Return back to Bagdogra Airport by late evening.

Recommendations

If you are looking for additional adventure, consider visiting the Singalila National Park for a trek and camping experience. You can also plan a day trip to the Lachung village to witness the stunning Yumthang Valley. Make sure to carry warm clothing as the temperature in Sikkim can drop unexpectedly. Don't forget to try the local delicacies like momos, thukpa and chhang. Book your hotels and flights in advance using https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo.