9-Day Cultural and Natural Exploration of Sikkim, India

Day 1: Arrival and Local Sightseeing

Gangtok, Sikkim, India on June 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Baker's Cafe

Start your day with freshly baked pastries and strong coffee at this popular cafe known for its cozy ambiance and good breakfast options.

INR300, 1h

9:30am

Visit Enchey Monastery

Explore this serene Buddhist monastery located just 3 km from Gangtok. It offers a peaceful environment and beautiful views of the city.

INR10, 1h

11:00am

Gangtok Ropeway Ride

Enjoy panoramic views of Gangtok and the surrounding mountains on this cable car ride, an exciting way to get a bird’s-eye view of the cityscape.

INR150, 45m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Coffee Shop

Relish Indian and continental cuisine with a view at this rooftop restaurant located in the central part of Gangtok.

INR500, 1h

2:00pm

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

Discover Tibetan culture, history, and art through an extensive collection of rare manuscripts and artifacts.

INR50, 2h

4:30pm

Explore MG Road

Spend the evening strolling through the bustling MG Road, filled with shops, cafés, and vibrant street life.

Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Taste of Tibet

Try authentic Tibetan dishes such as momo and thukpa at this popular restaurant, open until 10:30pm.

INR600, 1h

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Day 2: Nature and Spiritual Exploration

Gangtok, Sikkim, India on June 23, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast at your hotel to prepare for a day of sightseeing.

Included in stay, 1h

9:00am

Visit Rumtek Monastery

Explore the largest and most significant monastery in Sikkim, known for its exquisite architecture and spiritual importance.

INR100, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Baker’s Cafe

Return to town for a light and refreshing lunch at this all-time favorite spot.

INR400, 1h

1:30pm

Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park

Discover the mystical natural waterfall and energy park, featuring sculptures and beautiful walking paths.

INR40, 1h30m

3:30pm

Tashi Viewpoint

Visit this viewpoint for stunning views of Kanchenjunga and the surrounding hills, ideal during late afternoon.

Free, 45m

5:30pm

Relax at hotel

Rest and freshen up for the evening.

Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at The Square Kitchen & Bar

Dine on Indian and Chinese fusion dishes in a contemporary setting open until 11pm.

INR700, 1h

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Day 3: Lake Visit and Pilgrimage

Gangtok, Sikkim, India on June 24, 2025

6:30am

Early Breakfast and depart for Tsongmo Lake

Enjoy a quick breakfast before heading out to the scenic Tsongmo Lake, a glacial lake revered for its changing colors and serene environment.

INR300, 1h

8:00am

Tsongmo Lake

Experience the beautiful natural scenery and take a gentle walk around the lake while appreciating the panoramic Himalayan views.

INR30, 2h

10:30am

Visit Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir

Pay respects at this unique temple dedicated to a heroic soldier, located near Tsongmo Lake.

Free, 1h

12:00pm

Return to Gangtok for Lunch at Roll House

Savor quick and tasty rolls and snacks in this local favorite, perfect for a casual lunch.

INR350, 1h

2:00pm

Relax and explore local markets

Spend the afternoon leisurely shopping for souvenirs and local handicrafts on Gangtok’s markets.

Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Parivar Restaurant

Enjoy a homely family-style meal featuring North Indian and Sikkimese dishes, open until 10pm.

INR500, 1h

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Day 4: Travel to Pelling & Sights

Pelling, Sikkim, India on June 25, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel and check-out

Start with an early breakfast at your Gangtok hotel before departing to Pelling by shared cab or taxi.

Included in stay, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Pelling

Enjoy scenic road trip to Pelling, approximately 4-5 hours through beautiful landscapes.

INR600, 5h

1:30pm

Lunch at the Norbugang Restaurant

Taste authentic Sikkimese cuisine right after arrival to Pelling, focusing on fresh local ingredients.

INR450, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Pemayangtse Monastery

Explore one of the oldest and premier monasteries in Sikkim, renowned for its stunning architecture and spiritual ambiance.

INR20, 1h30m

5:00pm

Rabdentse Ruins

Walk around these historical ruins of the former capital of the Kingdom of Sikkim, surrounded by spectacular mountain views.

INR20, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Norbugang's Dining

Enjoy a cozy dinner at your hotel with local and Indian cuisine options.

INR550, 1h

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Day 5: Yuksom Trek and Culture

Yuksom, Sikkim, India on June 26, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast and depart for Yuksom

Early breakfast at the hotel followed by a 1.5-hour drive to the historic town of Yuksom, the gateway to the Kanchenjunga trek.

INR300, 1.5h

9:00am

Visit Dubdi Monastery

Explore the oldest monastery in Sikkim, dating back to the 17th century, full of spiritual and historical significance.

INR10, 1h

10:30am

Khecheopalri Lake

Visit the sacred Khecheopalri Lake, believed to fulfill wishes and surrounded by lush forests and wildlife.

Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at local dhaba

Enjoy a traditional local lunch with homemade flavors in Yuksom village.

INR300, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Yuksom Village

Walk through the quaint streets and interact with locals to understand rural Sikkimese life.

Free, 2h

6:00pm

Return to Pelling

Head back to Pelling for an overnight stay.

INR300, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Hotel

Relax with a hearty dinner at your hotel in Pelling.

INR500, 1h

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Day 6: Visit Namchi

Namchi, Sikkim, India on June 27, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast before your day trip to Namchi, about a 2-hour drive from Pelling.

Included in stay, 1h

8:00am

Travel to Namchi

Drive through scenic routes to reach Namchi, an important cultural spot in South Sikkim.

INR350, 2h

10:15am

Visit Char Dham and Samdruptse Statue

Explore the magnificent replicas of the four Dhams of India and the towering statue of Guru Padmasambhava, offering religious insights and panoramic views.

INR20, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Namchi Local Restaurant

Sample traditional Sikkimese meals with fresh local produce.

INR400, 1h

2:00pm

Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary Prowl

Take a gentle nature walk in this sanctuary, spotting native birds and flora.

INR50, 2h

4:30pm

Return to Pelling

Head back to Pelling before sunset.

INR350, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Pelling Hotel

Enjoy your final evening dinner in Pelling with regional dishes.

INR550, 1h

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Day 7: Travel to Ravangla

Ravangla, Sikkim, India on June 28, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast and check-out

Have an early breakfast before heading to Ravangla, about 3 hours away by road.

Included in stay, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Ravangla

Enjoy the scenic journey through Sikkim’s rolling hills to the peaceful town of Ravangla.

INR500, 3h

11:15am

Visit Buddha Park (Tathagata Tsal)

Explore the impressive Buddha Park with a massive statue, perfect for meditation and photo opportunities.

INR20, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at local café

Try simple and delicious Sikkimese dishes at a café near the park.

INR350, 1h

2:30pm

Ravangla Nature Walk

Take a refreshing walk in the surrounding natural areas, enjoying the peaceful environment and bird watching.

Free, 2h

6:00pm

Check-in hotel and rest

Relax at your hotel before dinner.

Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at hotel

Dine on local and Indian specialties in your hotel’s restaurant.

INR500, 1h

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Day 8: North Sikkim – Lachung

Lachung, Sikkim, India on June 29, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast and depart for Lachung

Start early with breakfast and head for Lachung, a picturesque town in North Sikkim, famous for its pristine beauty, about 6-7 hours drive.

INR400, 1h

7:00am

Drive to Lachung

Travel through some of the most breathtaking mountain roads with views of waterfalls and snow-capped peaks.

INR1200, 6h

1:00pm

Lunch at Lachung local restaurant

Enjoy freshly prepared local cuisine in this mountain village.

INR400, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Yumthang Valley (Open 8am-4:30pm)

Explore the beautiful ‘Valley of Flowers’ renowned for its colorful rhododendrons and hot springs.

INR50, 2h

5:00pm

Relax and acclimatize

Rest in your hotel to adjust to the higher altitude and enjoy the peaceful mountain setting.

Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at hotel

Taste warm and comforting mountain cuisine served at your hotel.

INR500, 1h

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Day 9: Gurudongmar Lake Excursion & Return

Lachung to Gangtok, Sikkim, India on June 30, 2025

5:00am

Very Early Departure to Gurudongmar Lake

Begin at dawn for the high-altitude lake excursion, one of the highest lakes in the world, offering spectacular views and spiritual significance. Note the need for acclimatization and permits.

Permit approx. INR150, 2h