Sikkim: The hidden jewel of the Himalayas

In the northeast of India, nestled between Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet, lies one of the most mesmerizing yet underexplored states of the country-Sikkim. With its snow-capped peaks, lush green valleys, Buddhist monasteries, glacial lakes, and vibrant cultural tapestry, Sikkim is an exquisite blend of nature, spirituality, adventure, and sustainable living. This tiny Himalayan paradise, despite being India’s second smallest state, offers experiences far larger than its size.

Whether you’re a trekking enthusiast, a nature lover, a seeker of peace, or a cultural explorer, Sikkim promises a journey like no other.

Nature’s Wonderland

From the subtropical forests of the south to the alpine meadows of the north, Sikkim is a land of astounding ecological diversity. Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain at 8,586 meters, is not just a spectacular backdrop-it’s a spiritual guardian, revered by the locals. The entire state seems to revolve around this sacred peak, and every glimpse of it feels like a blessing.

Gurudongmar Lake

Located at a height of 17100 feet above sea level, Gurudongmar Lake in Sikkim is the second-highest lake in India. Needless to say, with an altitude of such magnitude, the lake defies all description. Located just about 5 km south of the Indo-China border and about 190 kilometers from the capital city of Gangtok, the lake has a massive shore length of about 5.34 kilometers and a surface area of about 118 hectares. The lake is considered to be a holy lake by both Sikhs, Hindus, and Buddhists and believed to have some divine power. The lake also provides a beautiful view of Mount Siniolchu and Khanchendzonga among other snow-capped mountains. It acts as a source to the river Teesta. Reaching Sikkim Gurudongmar Lake takes around 8-9 hours by road from Gangtok to reach Gurudongmar Lake. The Gurudongmar Lake in Sikkim is located en route Lachen, a small town in North Sikkim. A night stay at Lachen is recommended before heading for the lake. It takes around 3-4 hours to reach the lake from Lachen.

Tsomgo Lake

The Tsomgo Lake, also popular as the Changu Lake, is a water body made of a glacier making it one of the best places to visit in Gangtok. Located at the altitude of 12310 feet, the Tsomgo Lake is one of Sikkim’s prime tourist attractions. The lake is located 38 km from Gangtok, en route to the Nathula Pass. This is one of India’s highest altitude lakes and it’s known for its natural beauty. The sight of the surrounding snow cover hills reflecting on the Tsomgo Lake is one memory that you can cherish forever. The lake is about 1 km long and it’s shaped like an egg.

Nathula Pass

Nathula Pass is located at a height of 14140 feet and this is the best place to be for the trekking enthusiasts when visiting Sikkim. The border trade market, Sherathang, is a popular place where tourists can buy different kinds of Tibetan items at a cheap price. This Sikkim point of interest is famous among travelers. Near to that, there is a tiny place called Kupup. It always stays under clouds, which surely will be a nice experience for you. The view from the Nathula Pass is remarkable too.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp

Located at the height of almost 14,000ft above sea level, the Kanchenjunga Base camp is one of the best Sikkim tourist places and a heaven for all the adventurers. Together forming one of the most beautiful parts of the Himalayas, the Kanchenjunga range is one of the most picturesque regions of Sikkim, and all that can be seen in utmost clarity and mightiness from the base camp.

The real adventure for people is to see the third highest mountain in the world up close to here, and that is why this place is worth the visit at least once in a lifetime.

Yumthang Valley of Flowers

The undulating meadows, the grazing yaks by the banks of wild Teesta river and the many hot springs amid the towering mountain peaks position Yumthang valley among the top places to visit in Sikkim. The valley of flowers is carpeted at a height of more than 11,000 feet above sea level at around 128 kilometres from Gangtok. You can book one of our Gangtok Tours from a vivid choice of packages we have for you so that you don’t miss out the best of Gangtok.

Come to visit the valley in late February to march when the Losar festival is celebrated by the locals. During the month of April and June, the Rhododendrons bloom and envelop the valley in full glory.

Goechala

Standing at a height of about 4,940 m above sea level, the high mountain pass of Goechala (Goecha La) is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim. Being in the proximity of some of the highest mountains of the Himalayas, the pass is an amazing destination for all the trekkers visiting Sikkim. The best thing about this place is the beautiful view of Mt. Kanchenjunga’s southeast face.

The view from the pass is so breathtakingly beautiful that it was featured on the back of the 100 Rupee note of India. Acting as the base of the summit for Kanchenjunga, this place is a must visit for the beauty of it.

Green Lake

Fix your eyes to the jade-green lake surrounded by snow-covered glaciers and mountains. Green Lake is still an unexplored and unhindered destination in Sikkim. It serves as a base to the those willing to climb Mount Kanchenjunga and Zemu glacier.

Starting from Thangu village, the trek to Green lake passes through the magnificent  Kanchenjunga National Park and also brings forth the scenery of the confluence of the Zemu Chu and Lachen Chu which are two very significant rivers of the region.

From Gangtok, you drive to Lachen via Mangan and then Thangu to start your trek. Keep your eyes open for wildlife, especially for the rarely found Red Panda in the region.

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