Snigdha TiwariBordered by Bhutan, Tibet, and Nepal, Sikkim is a state in northeast India that is tucked away in the lap of the magical Himalayas, though it is the second smallest state in the country, its prismatic beauty, and mesmeric charm will make you wonder!
If you haven’t thought of exploring the beauty of this magnificent state then you are truly missing something really beautiful.
Sikkim is a land of monasteries, the beautiful structures like every inch of the state. It is like wonders in a small package with bewitching meadows snowcapped and the sky-piercing Himalayas, and the mesmeric charm of its vibrant culture.
You will find it hard to not fall in love with this land, with its clean and green roads, valleys, mountain tops, and meadows that are ready to mesmerize you.
Here are the 26 Mesmerizing Places To Visit In Sikkim:
1. Lachung
Located at a distance of 25 km from Yumthang, Lachung is a mountain village close to the Tibetan border which is home to the 19th-century Buddhist Lachung Monastery that is surrounded by apple orchards.
Also known as the ‘Small Pass’, Lachung is embraced by snow-capped mountain peaks, breathtaking waterfalls, sparkling streams, and apple orchards, also peaches and apricots.
Whether you are looking for a vacation, a honeymoon destination, a scenic place, a photographer’s paradise, or an adventure, you are sure to fall in love with this beautiful little hamlet while taking back home loads of wonderful memories to cherish forever.
Lachung is an offbeat destination, untampered by the hues of modernization.
If you wish to explore the best of Sikkim, then a trip to Lachung is a must because this village is no less than a paradise for soul seekers who are looking for a destination where they can breathe in the fresh air and take in the solitude of mountains, away from the honking noises of city roads as it is filled with nature’s magnificence and glory.
2. Pelling
Located 10 km from Geyzing and 130 km from Gangtok, Pelling is a small town in the West district of Sikkim that is filled with a natural beauty that is almost breathtaking in its magnitude.
It is most popular for breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga peak and the Himalayas. Located at a high altitude of 6800 ft, Pelling is the ideal place for exploring the Himalayan views, without any of the harshnesses of the high mountains.
Tall snowy mountains look down benignly at this little town and waterfalls and lakes send forth their twinkling music through the landscape. It is the closest view possible apart from mountain trekking.
Embraced within the carpeted green mountains, Pelling is the most stunning hill station with a charm of its own.
So, don’t miss taking a break from your busy life and make your way to the ocean of calmness, Pelling.
3. Chopta Valley
Perched at an elevation of 13,200 feet, Chopta Valley is a picturesque valley located near Thangu village which is situated on the way to Gurudongmar Lake that is one of the heavenly beautiful places to visit in Sikkim.
Famous for its monuments of historical and religious importance, the relatively unexplored and untouched Chopta Valley in North East Sikkim is very popular among trekkers as well as people of several faiths.
The valley, at 13,200 feet which is a preferred destination for hiking, angling, and water sports, and the trek from Chopta Valley to Muguthang Valley is considered one of the best.
At Chopta Valley, trekkers are assured of scenic landscapes with snow-covered mountain peaks on one side and green pine forests and meandering rivers on the other. But the valley is frozen during the winter and provides an opportunity to walk over the frozen rivers.
Do you know? Chopta Valley is the summer residence of the nomadic Lachenpas that has breathtaking alpine scenery with lofty snow-capped peaks, meandering rivers, orchids, rhododendrons, and other high altitude flora.
The unique location of Chopta Valley amidst the mountainous gorge is dotted with trekking trails that attract trekkers and adventurer travelers from around the globe but still, this valley is unexplored and untouched.
So, do visit Chopta Valley amid the spring season to witness the whole valley turn into an uproar of beautiful bright colors.
4. Goecha La
At 16,200 ft, Goecha La is one of the gateways to Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world. It is a high mountain pass in West Sikkim in the Himalayas range.
The southeast face of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain, can be viewed from the pass that is also a base camp for those aspiring to scale the mountain. Even as it serves as a camp for mountaineers scaling Kanchenjunga, a trek to Goecha La itself is quite exhilarating.
The Goecha La trek is unarguably one of the best treks in the Himalayas taking you through the stunning and diverse Kanchenjunga National Park in the heart of Sikkim. The trail is blessed with a wide array of beautiful flora and fauna that is considered one of the most pristine trails in the world.
With awe-inspiring campsites and intimidating yet beautiful peaks, the Goecha La trek is a heaven for trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers.
But entry to Goecha La is restricted and Indian travelers are required to register themselves at Yuksom. International travelers are only allowed to travel in groups. Don’t miss trekking this amazing Himalayan pass.
5. Lachen
Nestled amidst the stunning Himalayan Mountains, Lachen offers a perfect retreat to relax and escape from the daily trap of city life where its wooden homes, scenic view of the mighty mountains, and alpine pastures define Lachen.
Beautiful hill station, picture-perfect view of the neatly sequenced alpine pastures, quaint monasteries, and water streams gushing down from scenic valleys are some of the sights to look out for in Lachen.
Famous for its valleys around India, Lachen is the base camp for the two main trekking camps of Sikkim that are Chopta Valley and Muguthang.
Did you know? Lachen is famed for its alpine lake Gurudongmar that remains frozen in winter and has crystal clear water in the summer.
But Lachen is an unexplored land and one of the most peaceful places to be in where you can enjoy solitude and hear the sounds of nature in this heavenly abode.
So, If you are on a trip to Sikkim, do visit Lachen to experience an air of peace and calm. Also, don’t forget to admire the breathtaking beauty of Lachen which is drenched in every bit of beauty.
6. Dzongri
Nestled at an altitude of 4,200 m, Dzongri serves as one of the most popular high altitude trek destinations in Sikkim that can be completed in a short time that is among the best trekking destinations in India today.
The sights of the milky white peaks all around Dzongri are bound to keep you gazing. The awesome presence of the great mountains thrusting their snowy peaks deciphers the strength of the Tethys Sea bulging its muscles to reach this towering height.
If you are willing to add thrill and adventure to your overall affair in West Sikkim, there cannot be a better option than Dzongri Trek.
The trek to Dzongri offers some enchanting sights while hiking through the fascinating trail comprising of varied terrains, from patches of land streaked with green and gold and lush green meadows to dense forest and mighty peaks covered in snow.
Without a doubt, a trek to Dzongri is one of the most significant trails for you to taste the flavors of the Eastern Himalayas.
7. Thangu Valley
Situated at 3950 m and having an altitude of 13000 ft which is en route of Gurudongmar Lake and Chopta Lake, Thangu Valley is a small hamlet with rows of wooden and stone houses, which also double up as eating places for passing by tourists and this beautiful valley which is about two hours’ drive from Lachen.
This stunning valley is covered in a blanket of snow almost all the time. The valley comprises alpine meadows that are flanked by shimmering water of River Teesta and wooden houses, offering a picturesque sight to witness. Thangu Valley is the ideal spot for a stopover to soak in the beauty of the mountains from up close.
At Thangu Valley, you can catch a glimpse of the rows of trees and as you go more upwards, the beautiful view of the Tibetan Plateau begins. For nature lovers, this quaint town is a perfect gateway and is one of the most scenic destinations in North Sikkim.
8. Dentam Valley
Located 10 km from Varsey in West Sikkim, Dentam Valley is a scenic valley that lies at an elevation of around 1,500 m. Dentam commands a constant view of the Kanchenjunga.
The entire area is surrounded by a forest of rhododendrons. The name Dentam comes from the word ‘TEN-NEM’, which means a flat terraced land in the Limboo language.
A cover of rhododendrons encompasses Dentam and this valley is an ideal spot for bird watchers and nature lovers. Also, mountain climbing and trekking you can do here.
If you’re a nature lover like me then Dentam Valley is a place for you.
9. Darap Village
Darap is a small village in West Sikkim at an altitude of 5,100 feet or 1550 meter that is just 7 km from the tourist hub of Pelling offering a peaceful environment as well as similar sightseeing options as in Pelling.
Darap’s calming ambiance, wide rolling ranchlands, and paddy fields ooze a feeling of peace and tranquility. The word Darap is originated from the limbo word ’Tan-lop’ which literally means a plain or even land.
Darap Village is one of the few unexplored villages in Sikkim and it has retained the pristine nature of its flora and fauna over the years.
Darap offers a village retreat gifting you a quiet adventure amidst the glorious scenic wonders of the charismatic village.
A humble abode treasured amidst the lofty mountains, Darap Village is a must-visit for you if you want to spend some quality time with nature. Darap Village awaits you!
10. Rinchenpong
Situated in West Sikkim, about 123 km west of Gangtok, 47 km due south of Gyalshing, close to the village of Kaluk, and amidst the lap of nature in the foothills of the majestic mountains in Rinchenpong.
It is famous for its natural beauty and the sights of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Rinchenpong is physically close to the Kanchenjunga range where you can have an excellent view of the Kanchenjunga peaks and the surrounding mountains such as Mt Narsing etc.
You can also view the mountain range from the entire range of Rinchenpong Kaluk. Rinchenpong is not only known for its excellent area and quiet climate but nature lovers are likewise pulled into this place for the stunning views of the Kanchenjunga runs that it offers.
Let your senses be calmed with the serene ambiance while your eyes feast upon the surreal sunrise over the majestic snow-capped Kanchenjunga.
Far from the maddening crowd amidst the nurturing lap of nature, a place rich in flora and fauna with a tinge of history if you are looking for such a place, Rinchenpong is a place for you.
11. Chungthang
Situated at the confluence of the Lachen and Lachung rivers that combine to form the Teesta River, Chungthang is considered to be a sacred site by locals and Buddhists. It is believed to be a holy place that has been blessed by Guru Padmasambhava, the patron saint of Sikkim.
There is a rock that has a crevice and footprints of Padmasambhava as per legend. From a small opening in the rock, there is a continuous flow of mineral water. There is a small patch of land from which grows paddy every year. The nature-defying miracle is believed to be the blessing of Guru Padmasambhava who sprinkled a handful of grain on the spot that has sprouted paddy ever since.
It is also one of the military bases of the country, especially due to its proximity to the China border. But Chungthang is a good place to halt before you take off for the more alpine regions of Lachen, Lachung, and the Yumthang Valley.
So, don’t miss exploring this amazing valley that is mired in myths and legends, one such being that this is the place from where the word ‘Demazong’ – the hidden valley of rice, as Sikkim is known first originated.
12. Biksthang
Biksthang is located among acres of pine and fruit trees in a pristine Himalayan hamlet in West Sikkim. The grass is greener here and the sky is azure.
A sleepy Himalayan hamlet Biksthang in West Sikkim, where time stands still. If you feel like ‘getting lost’, this is the place. Get lost in lively greens, blue sky, and mountain waves. Get lost in great food, modern comfort, and warmth of heart. Get lost here to find yourself back. It is also primarily popular among travelers for offering the majestic view of Mt. Kanchenjunga.
Every corner of Biksthang has breathtaking views of the peak of Kanchenjunga, the guardian deity of Sikkim. This small perfect village of Biksthang is at a distance of 119 km from Gangtok in West Sikkim that is believed to be one of the most serene destinations of Sikkim and is the perfect gem for you if you wish to just relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
13. Kasturi
Kasturi is a trail and its trek is a round trek passing Goecha la pass and offers extraordinary panoramic mountain views.
Kasturi trek is said to be the trekker’s heaven because of its route which offers the mesmerizing view of the lush green, yellow, and brown meadows and shiny white snow. It is a round trek of around 8 to 10 days, passing Goecha la pass, and offers the view of white snow-capped Himalayas and shiny glaciers. Perfect trek for adventure enthusiasts and nature admirers.
The trek starts from Yuksom and goes up to Goecha La, the highest point of this trek. From here, you can see the stunning view of Talung Glacier and Mt Kanchenjunga. The views are simply amazing and captivating. From green meadows to shiny glaciers, the Kasturi Trek is a trekker’s haven that you would not like to miss at any cost while traveling to West Sikkim.
Check Out 4 Best Places To Visit In South Sikkim
14. Gurudongmar Lake
Gurudongmar Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world which is located at an altitude of 5,183 m, in the Indian state of Sikkim, encircled by snow-capped mountains and crystal clear icy water.
This lake is considered sacred by Buddhists, Sikhs, and Hindus.
The splendid and scenic beauty of the place is breathtaking and attracts tourists from all across the world which has also a great religious significance attached to it, and the beautiful view of Mount Siniolchu and Kanchenjunga from the lake is a sight to behold and cherish.
15. Varsey
Located in between Kanchenjunga Biosphere Reserve in the north and Singalila National Park in the south is a Varsey that is a butterfly-shaped rhododendron sanctuary that sprawls in a 104-sq-km area of West Sikkim. The sanctuary itself is a part of the West Sikkim and quite easy to access through road via Hilley, Dentam/Soreng from Geyzing.
Varsey is one of the best places to visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It offers a scenic view of the Khangchendzonga Mountain and attractive blooms of rhododendron flowers. Also, it has several trekking trails.
So, if you are planning an amazing trekking trip, the idea is simply spectacular. The trail is enriched with varied flora and raw nature and proceeds from Hilley up the hill.
Nestled in the Singalila Range, the natural border with Nepal, the Varsey is perfect for you if you’re seeking solitude, a connection with nature, and some adventure.
16. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary
Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is a nature park that has forty species of rhododendron trees and is located in the Yumthang Valley of Flowers north of Lachung.
Surrounded by scenic mountain ranges and the charming Yumthang Chu (river) flowing through the valley, the sanctuary has a breathtaking landscape.
The best time to visit the sanctuary is from April to July when the rhododendrons are in full bloom and the sanctuary turns into a riot of colors. Since Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is situated close to the Tibetan Plateau, it also experiences long winter seasons. Though the cool breeze starts in November, January is the coldest month.
Also, the beauty of the valley increases by ten times due to heavy snowfall. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is a beautiful place to spend time amidst the picturesque location and natural beauty all around where the adventure lovers can also have their share of fun by trekking through the Yumthang Valley.
Check Out 7 Best Places To Visit In East Sikkim
17. Yuksom
Located 33 km from Pelling, Yuksom, literally meaning the ‘meeting place of three lamas is of great historical importance to the Sikkimese. Yuksom is a beautiful place located in the Western region of Sikkim and the village is well known for its natural beauty.
Situated near the Kanchenjunga National Park, the village of Yuksom is in the heart of mountains covered with lush green vegetation. Its old cloisters, landmarks, quiet cascades, and lakes will abandon you spell-bound.
If there is any place on earth where one can see “heaven,” then it has to be Yuksom. Formally referred to as the ‘Gateway to Kangchendzongha’, Yuksom is consecrated by the presence of majestic snow-peaked mountains, monasteries, etc. But still, Yuksom is so untouched and unexplored.
18. Zemu Glacier
Zemu Glacier is the largest glacier in the Eastern Himalaya. It is about 26 km in length and is located at the base of Kangchenjunga in the Himalayan region of Sikkim, India.
The Zemu Glacier drains the east side of Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain. It is so untouched that you won’t find Zemu Glacier on a bucket list of Sikkim travel that is because the trek that leads up to this magical glacier, at the base of the mighty Kanchenjunga, is rated moderate to difficult.
That being said, the road to Zemu Glacier is straight out of a painting. So, as you pass through thick forest areas, you will be amazed at the flora and fauna that inhabit this snowy region. Blue poppies in bloom dot the wayside and you will soon lose count of the varieties of rhododendrons.
Zemu Glacier, being at the foot of the third-highest peak in the world, is at the heart of nature and a bucket-list-worthy experience. Don’t forget to explore Zemu Glacier on your trip to North Sikkim.
19. Yangtey
Located just 9 km from Pelling and at an altitude of 6000 ft, Yangtey is a tiny village that is blessed with gorgeous views of snow-peaked mountains, partially sunlit meadows, cascading waterfalls, and cloudy skies.
This attractively small village is home and blessed with many ancient Buddhist Monasteries, showing the art and culture of the past of Sikkim.
Yangtey is dotted with various nearby destinations like Kangchendzonga waterfalls, Khecheopalri Lake, Rimbi Waterfalls, Rabdentse Ruins, Sewaro Rock Garden, Temi Tea Garden, Geyzing, Legship, and Pemyangtse.
The sceneries of Yangtey are marked by magnificent peaks of the Eastern Himalayas, under an occasional cover of clouds. Apart from the splendid sight of the Himalayas, Yangtey also has a name for its beautiful Tashigang Resort lying amidst plush green gardens and lawns. A trip to Yangtey is gonna be your most amazing trip to Sikkim.
20. Nathang Valley
Being called Ladakh of East Sikkim, Nathang valley is privately known as Gnathang Valley is arranged at an elevation of 12,700 feet above ocean level where this rich valley was the home to customary yak herders who originated from Tibet.
Nathang town is one of the remotest Tibetian residences in Eastern Himalaya. It is one of the most beautiful places in Old-Silk-Route that is surrounded by snow-capped hills and mountain landscapes.
Scarcely many streams befuddle the valley, and supplication banners ripple on the mountain edges on this huge plain. Nathang Valley shows up in various hues on various occasions of the year. It looks brilliant when the grass goes away, in the stormy season it’s shrouded in blooms, and in winter it is covered in 5 feet of snow where you can encounter chilled wind waves blowing all around.
Few streams crisscross the valley, and prayer flags flutter on the mountain edges on this vast plain of nothingness. Don’t forget to visit this valley because it is surrounded by streams, valleys, mountains making it one of the magical places in Sikkim.
21. Uttarey
Situated in the west district of Sikkim, Uttarey is a small village close to the Nepal border that is prominent among travelers for the tranquil condition of the place and numerous travel destinations in and around. From the higher edges of the Uttarey slopes, the perspective of the colossal heap of Kanchenjunga can be seen.
It is famous for its tranquility and natural beauty that provides a beautiful view to the Himalayan mountains and is yet untouched and unexplored. This allows a more serene atmosphere to be enjoyed but during winter the mountains around here are covered with snow allowing heavenly views.
Uttarey is a small but beautiful and virgin paradise on earth set amidst the pristine valley. Uttarey is one such place. If you are tired of your daily routines and planning to break free with a trip to Sikkim, ignore the popular names and make Uttarey your destination. You will get back with your soul and eyes enriched with the blessings of nature. Uttarey appears like a piece of painting on paper, such as the scenic beauty of the place and its surroundings.
Since Uttarey is still grossly unexplored, the place is very serene and is perfect for you if you want to stay away from every sign of urban life. So, don’t miss exploring this unexplored beauty of Sikkim.
22. Namchi
Situated about 78 km from Gangtok and is famous for its Buddhist monastery and scenic locales, Namchi houses the world’s largest statue of Padmasambhava or Guru Rinpoche, the patron saint of Sikkim that offers panoramic views of the mountain ranges and the valley below which lies at about 1,675 m above mean sea level.
Namchi, which signifies ‘top of the sky, is a beautiful spot, favored with the bounties of nature. This residential area is to a great degree picturesque and fills in as a perfect place to discover comfort.
It is blessed with welcoming monasteries, traditional temples, lush greenery, flora, and forests where you can unveil the best-kept secrets of the Himalayas on your trip to Namchi. So, if you are tired of the typical tourist destinations in Sikkim, for a different vibe, consider heading to this sweet little hilly town.
The city’s many scenic sights are worth exploring, as are its streets, which you’ll want to stroll for hours on end. The beauty of Namchi can’t be defined in a single word or phrase, to be honest.
Check Out The 7 Charming Lakes That You Must Visit In Sikkim
23. Mangan
Nested in the laps of the Himalayas in North Sikkim, Mangan is one of the most scenic tourist places in Lachung, and also the capital of North Sikkim.
The place is no less than an empyrean for spirituality seekers too; soaked in a deep aura of Buddhism with colorful prayer flags fluttering all around and chanting of Buddhist mantras reverberating in the air, it simply makes for a tranquil place to just sit back, relax and meditate connecting oneself with the ultimate supreme power.
Mangan counts amongst one of the top tourist places in Sikkim, attracting vacationers, nature lovers, and soul seekers from different parts of India and the world.
Surrounded by monasteries and blooming nature, the charming little village is blessed with an enticing scenic beauty that is simply magical enough to captivate anyone’s heart and soul in just no time, not sullied by the advent of travelers yet.
From trekking routes to decades-old monastery and music festival Mangan is an ideal destination to immerse yourself in the lively yet serene ambiance of the Himalayan valley that is truly one of the best-kept secrets of Sikkim.
So, don’t miss to shortlist Mangan on your itineraries whenever planning a trip to North-East India the next time.
24. Cholamu Lake
Situated at an altitude of 18000 feet from sea level, Cholamu Lake is the 14th highest lake in the world and the highest lake in India. While coming down the slope around 300 feet from Donkiala pass where you can get the first sight of this moderately sized, almost frozen lake.
Did you know? Cholamu Lake is only a few km away from the Tibet border and is off-limits for commonplace tourists. So, you need special permits, from Army and Sikkim police/administration to visit Cholamu Lake.
This lake is purely for nature lovers, who would love to lose themselves in the beauty of it. Photography is of course the best thing to do here. Since Cholamu Lake is a short distance away from Gurudongmar Lake, one must visit it as well.
By the way, Cholamu Lake is also known as Tso Lhamo lake. Cholamu, being tucked away in the North Sikkim region, is lesser explored, and thus its beauty remains intact. So, don’t miss visiting this amazing lake at any cost.
25. Green Lake
Green Lake is surrounded by an amphitheater of snowy mountains, providing an unforgettable view that is one of such treasures that resides at an altitude of 1437 m, offering the stunning views of Kanchenjunga and other magnificent peaks.
The meandering path through the rocky terrains that reaches many adventure enthusiasts to this dazzling lake, is bestowed with life’s best sight of the dense forest. And once you reach the top, the soft mountain breeze enthralls you and revitalizes you from the weary city life.
Adventure lovers visiting Green Lake can also visit the Chopta Valley, Thangu Valley as well as Gurudongmar lake that also carries religious significance.
But did you know? Green Lake Trek is the perfect mixture of the beauty of mother nature and enthrallment!
Besides taking you into the bosom of the Himalayas, the trek offers its devotees to experience a world that can hardly be found in any other treks in Sikkim. It is considered to be one of India’s most underrated trails, which definitely makes for a must-visit.
26. Zuluk
Situated at a stature of around 10,100 feet on the tough territory of the lower Himalayas in East Sikkim, Zuluk or Dzuluk is a little town next to a winding street. Zuluk is relatively an emerging and offbeat destination in East Sikkim.
Did you know? Zuluk was previously a travel point to the memorable Silk Route from Tibet to India. Zuluk determines its tourism significance because of the great views of the eastern Himalayan Mountain including the Kanchenjunga.
But an excursion to the zone requires special licenses. You need to pre-arrange a special permit for visiting this restricted area that is issued from a place called Rangli. The permits are also issued from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.
Dzuluk is surrounded by wild forests, some of the forests are completely virgin. Have you ever stayed a night at a remote village on the lap of a valley guarded by high mountains covered with lush greeneries? If you are trying to visualize it then stop imagining and pack your bags for Zuluk, a hamlet at an altitude of over 10,000 feet in the Eastern part of Sikkim.
