Sikkim is one of the northeastern states of India. Like the rest of the Northeast, Sikkim has its unique culture and geography. The state may be one of the smallest states in India, but you should not underestimate it.
It has a lot to offer, be it snow-capped mountains, beautiful valleys, frozen lakes, and cultural experiences, you will fall in love with the state. There are many things to do in Sikkim, and you will never get bored.
There are many activities as well - such as rafting, paragliding, trekking, shopping and so forth. With so many things to do, you will surely enjoy your vacation in one of the best places to explore in the Himalayas. We have listed some of the things you can do in Sikkim to make the most out of it.
11 Best Things To Do In Sikkim
1. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary
Considered to be one of the most attractive places to visit in Sikkim, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Yumthang is filled with colours. It is also known as the valley of flowers, filled with 4 different species of Rhododendron, the national flower of Sikkim. It is one of the most mesmerizing places, with the valley of flowers surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
Tourists trek towards the Yumthang to witness the natural beauty of Sikkim. It is one of those places that you shouldn’t miss. It is one of the best things to do in Sikkim for photographers and nature lovers.
2. Temi Tea Gardens
Many of us dream of walking in the lush green tea plantations, away from all the stress and worry. Sikkim will make your dreams come true! The picturesque Temi Tea Plantations is located along the west Sikkim highway with Mt Kanchendzonga in the background. It is the only tea estate in Sikkim and is spread over 453 acres. The highest point of the tea gardens is around 1800 metres.
The route towards the Temi Tea Gardens is filled with cherry blossom trees. When the flowers bloom, you will feel like you are walking in a pink forest. The estate also conducts regular tea factory tours. Strolling here is one of the best things to do in Sikkim.
3. Yumthang Hot Springs
Want to destress and relax? Yume Samdong Hot Springs is one of the best things to do in Sikkim if you're going to experience a natural jacuzzi. It is situated in Yumthang Valley and is located a few hundred metres away from the Yumthang village.
You can easily reach the hot springs by crossing a pedestrian bridge on River Lachung. The hot springs have now been developed with a hut and two pools, each containing hot spring water.
The Hot springs are said to have healing properties, especially for those with arthritis. It is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim and it should not be missed.
4. The Lakes Of Sikkim
One of the highlights of Sikkim is its many lakes. The pristine blue lakes with the Himalayan mountains set in the backdrop are a sight to behold. The lakes are popular with photographers and nature lovers.
The lakes take on many hues with the influence of sunlight and snow-filled surroundings. The best lakes of Sikkim are as follows:
Gurudongmar Lake: Gurudonger Lake is one of the highest freshwater lakes in the world. It is situated at a height of 17800 feet above sea level. The lake is considered holy by both the Hindus and the Buddhist locals. The lake doesn’t freeze even in the sub-zero temperatures - making it one of the best lakes to explore in Sikkim.
Tsumgo Lake: It is located 38 kilometres from Gangtok and requires a special permit from the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department of Sikkim to visit. It is located at a height of 12,400 feet above sea level. The lake remains frozen during winters and is a sight to behold.
5. Goecha La Trek
Goecha La Trek is one of the best things to do in Sikkim for Trekkers. Goecha La is located at an elevation of 16,000 ft above sea level. The trek starts from Yuksom, with the journey being filled with breathtaking landscapes with meadows of exotic flowers. The trek borders the Kanchenjunga National Park.
You can make this trek even better with camping, bonfire and looking at the beautiful stars at night. The distance of the trek is around 90 kilometres and it can take at least 10 days to complete. It is one of those places that should be on your bucket list.
6. The Silk Route To Nathu-La Pass
For those who want to experience adventure, the Silk Route to Nathu La Pass is for you! The Nathu La Pass is at the Indo - China border and one of the best things to do in Sikkim. It is located at a height of 14140 feet above sea level. The ancient Silk Road was a famous trading route. Nathu - La pass is one of the highest passes in the world.
The route passes through hidden lakes, endangered species and unique flora and fauna. Visitors need a permit from the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department of Sikkim to visit Nathu La Pass.
7. Do Drul Chorten
One of the best things to do in Sikkim, the Do Drul Chorten is a pearl white stupa located at a hillock in Gangtok. The study was built in 1946 by Lama Trulshik Rinpoche to ward off evil spirits. One has to undertake a steep uphill climb to reach the main shrine of the stupa.
The stupa attracts travellers from across the world and is one of the best things to do if you place to visit Sikkim.
8. North-Eastern Cuisine
Sikkim boasts of several northeastern delicacies such as soybean chutney, gundrek ka jhol, sisnoo and pork curry. The state is filled with multi-cuisine restaurants offering one of the most memorable culinary experiences.
The other delicacies of Sikkim include Momos, Thupka, Phagshapa, Bamboo Shoot Curry and many others. Enjoying great food is one of the best things to do in Sikkim.
9. Shopping In Sikkim
Sikkim has something for shoppers too! It is considered to be a shopping paradise with several famous markets such as the MG Road in Gangtok. It is flooded with handicrafts and idols of Laughing Buddha, New Year Lamps, Tibetan Dresses, blankets, carpets, souvenirs etc. If you love shopping, you have to check out MG Road! These shopping places are among the best things to do in Sikkim.
10. Monasteries
Another highlight of Sikkim is its monasteries. There are many monasteries in Sikkim that give you a divine experience. Some of the famous monasteries in Sikkim are:
Pemayangste Gompa - Pemayangste Gompa was established by Lama Lhatsum Chempo for the purest of monks. It is situated 111 Kilometres from Gangtok.
The monastery has many antique Buddhist idols, scriptures and sculptures. The most prominent one is a seven-tiered wooden structure which portrays Santoplari, which is Lama Rinpoche’s Heavenly Palace.
The other monasteries are the Enchey and Rumtek. Enchey has the statues of Guru Padmasambhava and a Zang thok palri, the celestial palace of the Guru.
The Rumtek Monastery is considered to be one of the biggest monasteries in Sikkim. Its golden stupa contains the 16 relics of Karmapa.
11. Adventure Activities in Sikkim
For adventurers, there are many things to do in Sikkim. You can do water rafting in Teesta, which gushes rapidly, making it a thrilling experience. Mountain biking is another great option if you want to drive on the most mesmerizing trails ever.
Rock climbing, bungee jumping and mountain cycling are some of the other adrenaline-filled activities you can do. You can have a nice solo trip or go with your gang to have an adventure in Sikkim.
With so many things to do in Sikkim, you will surely enjoy yourself. Pink Panda offers several tour packages across India, including the northeast. Read our blogs to know more about travelling.
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