Gurudongmar Lake
Placed at an elevation of 5,425 m, the Gurudongmar Lake is one of the sacred lakes of the state. The lake is believed to have been blessed by Guru Rinpoche on his way back from the Tibet die to which a particular part of the lake never freezes even in harsh freeing winters. Known for its clean roads and ancient pathways, the region is also popular among bike riders and adventure seekers.
Zuluk
Zuluk is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Sikkim known for offering breathtaking landscapes, serene ambience, and thrilling adventure opportunities. Located at an altitude of around 10,000 feet, the region once used to be the major part of the Silk Route, an ancient trade route connecting India with Tibet. Zuluk is also a major hotspot for bike riders and adventure seekers due to more than 30 hairpin bends that offer an exceptional experience. The region also includes several homestays that offer tourists the charm of an authentic Himalayan lifestyle.
Gangtok
The capital city of Sikkim offers a captivating blend of culture and natural beauty. Perched amidst the Himalayas, it's a gateway to stunning landscapes, serene monasteries, and thrilling adventures. From iconic temples and monasteries, the city of Gangtok is home to numerous attractions making it one of the most visited tourist sites in the state.
Ravangla
Nestled amidst verdant forests and stunning landscapes Ravangla is an amazing destination that has emerged as one of the prominent tourist spots of the region. The place is home to Buddha Park, known for housing a 130 ft tall statue of Buddha that is considered the major highlight of the region. Known for its peaceful environment, the valley is a must-visit place in Sikkim.
Lachung
Lachung is a picturesque village situated in the northern valleys of Sikkim. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery, it's the perfect starting point to explore the enchanting valleys and glacial lakes such as Yumthang and Gurudongmar Lake. With a backdrop of snow-covered mountains, rich alpine vegetation and dense villages, Lachung is one of the popular stops for travellers of Northern Sikkim.
Namchi
One of the major administrative headquarters of the Southern part of Sikkim, Namchi is a popular tourist site attracting tourists with its religious monasteries, historic sites and tourist attraction points. The key highlight of this region is the Ralang Monastery situated on top of Tedong Hill which houses the world’s tallest statue of Guru Padmasambhava at a height of 118ft. Apart from religious and sacred sites, the city is also known for its vibrant and energetic lifestyle which is reflected through multiple restaurants, nightclubs and pubs that play a major role in attracting tourists throughout the year.
The state of Sikkim is renowned for its varied populations, ethnicities, faiths, and traditions. The Lepcha, Bhutia, and Nepali ethnic groups make up the majority of Sikkim's population and are renowned for being hospitable, straightforward, and kind. Sikkim is a state where people from all backgrounds live in harmony and peace with one another. Sikkim is renowned for being home to a varied range of racial and tribal populations that coexist according to unique customs and cultures. Every group has its own languages, customs, dances, and crafts. Lepcha and Sikkimese are the languages spoken in the northeastern region of Sikkim, whereas Nepali is the state's official language. Music and Dance forms are a major part of their culture which can be witnessed at the time of celebrations.
Sikkimese cuisine is a delightful blend of Nepali, Tibetan, and local flavours. Known for its simplicity and freshness, it features hearty dishes like momo, Thukpa, and chowmein. Prepared with a mixture of unique ingredients such as fermented vegetables and preserved pickles, the Sikkimese cuisine adds a distinct taste to each of your plates. Unlike many Indian cuisines, Sikkimese food is often less spicy and focuses on natural flavours with most of the food being prepared using organic and homegrown food items. This culinary fusion creates a satisfying experience for those seeking a taste of the Himalayas. Some of the popular food dishes of Sikkimese cuisine include
Sikkim's festivals are a vibrant reflection of its diverse cultural heritage. Unlike many other parts of India, Sikkim's celebrations are deeply rooted in Buddhism, with events like Phang Lhabsol conducted to honour the protective deities of the state. The state also observes Hindu festivals like Dashain and Tihar but with a distinct Sikkimese touch. What sets Sikkim's festivals apart is their intimate connection to nature and spirituality. Unlike the grand celebrations in other parts of India, Sikkim's festivals are often quieter, and more deeply connected to spirituality, showcasing the state's unique identity. Following are some of the most popular festivals in the state.
Air : The sole airport in Sikkim that runs domestic flights between the country's major cities is Pakyong Airport. The closest international airport is Bagdogra Airport, situated 121 km from Gangtok.
Train : There are no train tracks in the state of Sikkim. The closest station is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, which is situated 118 km away from Gangtok.
Road : One of the best and most common ways to get to Sikkim is by road. Travelers can get to Sikkim via National Highway 10, which links Siliguri and Gangtok in 4-5 hours, with a rental car or a local cab.