Essential Travel Guide: What to Know Before Visiting Sikkim - Travel Expert

Key entry rules, best seasons, safety, customs, money, transport, and practical tips for visiting Sikkim—mountain travel advice and local insights.

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Q: What should I know before visiting Sikkim?

Quick answer

Sikkim is a peaceful, scenic Northeastern Indian state with strict conservation rules and restricted-area permits for many places. Plan permits, altitude acclimatization, seasonal timing, and respectful behavior to have a safe, smooth trip.

Visa / Entry requirements

  • Foreign nationals: need an Indian visa (apply before travel). Additionally, Protected Area Permits (PAP) or Inner Line Permits (ILP) are required for many areas of Sikkim.
    • Common tourist spots (Gangtok, Pelling) generally require an ILP/PAP that can often be obtained online through the Sikkim Tourism website or via travel agents/hotels. Citizens of China and Pakistan face additional restrictions.
  • Indian nationals: no visa; some restricted zones require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) obtainable online or at entry points.
  • Carry passport, visa, and permit copies at all times; police/army checkpoints are frequent.

Best time to visit

  • Spring (March–May): rhododendrons, mild weather, clear views—one of the best times.
  • Autumn (September–November): stable skies, festivals, excellent mountain visibility.
  • Winter (December–February): cold, possible heavy snow at high passes; good for lower-elevation sightseeing and fewer crowds.
  • Monsoon (June–August): heavy rain, landslide risk, many high-altitude roads unstable—generally not recommended for extensive travel.

Safety tips

  • Altitude: acclimatize slowly—avoid rapid ascents above 3,000–3,500 m. Drink water, rest, and watch for AMS symptoms (headache, nausea, dizziness). Descend if severe.
  • Weather: mountain weather changes fast—carry layers, waterproofs, and sun protection.
  • Roads: narrow, winding, and sometimes landslide-prone—use experienced local drivers and avoid night travel on mountain roads.
  • Health: basic medical facilities in Gangtok and larger towns; carry a small first-aid kit and medications. Travel insurance with emergency evacuation is recommended.
  • Wildlife & nature: follow park rules (no littering, no feeding wildlife) and respect protected areas.

Local customs & culture

  • Sikkimese culture blends Nepali, Bhutia, and Lepcha influences. Be polite, modest in dress, and ask before photographing people, especially at religious sites.
  • Monasteries: remove shoes, dress modestly, and maintain silence. Small donations are appreciated but not mandatory.
  • Festivities: if visiting during local festivals (Losar, Bumchu, Saga Dawa), be respectful of rituals and crowds.

Currency & money

  • Indian Rupee (INR) is used. Cash is necessary in many small towns and mountain villages.
  • ATMs available in Gangtok, Jorethang, Pelling, and some towns; carry sufficient cash when traveling to remote areas.
  • Credit cards accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and shops in larger towns but less so in rural spots.

Transportation

  • Getting there: nearest major airport is Bagdogra (IXB, West Bengal) — approx. 4–6 hours by road to Gangtok. Helicopter services (seasonal) connect Bagdogra/Gangtok and other points. Railhead: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) near Siliguri.
  • Roads & driving: hire taxis for inter-city travel; shared taxis are common and cheaper. Many travelers book local drivers through hotels or agencies—recommended for safety.
  • Internal transport: private taxis, shared jeeps, and limited bus services. For remote high passes, arrange vehicles with sufficient clearance.

Must-know tips & local insights

  • Permits & checkpoints: keep digital and printed copies of ILP/PAP, ID and visa handy; checkpoints are common.
  • Acclimatize: spend 1–2 days in Gangtok (1,650 m) before heading to higher places like Lachung, Lachen, or Gurudongmar Lake.
  • Respect conservation rules: Sikkim bans certain plastic use and encourages green tourism—use reusable bottles and avoid single-use plastics.
  • Food & water: enjoy local dishes (momos, thukpa, gundruk) but prefer bottled or boiled water. Eat at places with good hygiene standards.
  • Connectivity: mobile and internet signals are good in Gangtok and larger towns but patchy in remote valleys.
  • Packing essentials: layered clothes, sturdy walking shoes, rain jacket, warm hat/gloves (if visiting high altitudes), sunscreen, sunglasses, basic medicines, and altitude-related meds if prescribed.
  • Accommodation: book in advance in peak seasons (spring/autumn). For remote homestays, confirm amenities (heating, hot water).
  • Day trips: Tsomgo (Changu) Lake, Rumtek Monastery, Nathula Pass (requires special permit and often closed intermittently), Yuksom/Pelling for heritage and views, Gurudongmar and Yumthang for high-altitude scenery (guided trips advised).

Travel smart: arrange permits early, plan for altitude and weather, respect local culture and conservation rules, carry cash, and prefer experienced drivers for mountain roads. Enjoy Sikkim’s incredible landscapes and warm hospitality.

Asked on February 27, 2026