Sikkim is one of the most beautiful and unique states in India, often described as a true gem of the Eastern Himalayas. Known for its snow-covered mountains, high-altitude lakes, ancient monasteries, rope bridges, waterfalls, tea gardens, and peaceful hill towns – Sikkim has something special for every type of traveler. Whether you love adventure, nature, history, or spirituality, you will always find amazing experiences here.
What makes Sikkim even more fascinating is its rich mix of cultures and traditions. The state is home to vibrant festivals, warm-hearted people, and a strong spiritual presence that can be felt in every corner. From the buzzing markets of Gangtok to the calm villages of North Sikkim, each place offers a story of its own. Add to this the breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world, and you’ll understand why Sikkim is counted among the best places to visit in India.
In this travel guide, we bring you the 25 best Sikkim tourist places that you must not miss. These are the most popular and most loved destinations in the state – from Gangtok and Tsomgo Lake to Nathula Pass, Yumthang Valley, Gurudongmar Lake, Pelling, Ravangla, and the stunning Zero Point. Each location has been described with travel tips, highlights, and facts so you can plan your journey with ease.
With Roamcrafts, planning your trip becomes even simpler. We offer carefully designed Sikkim tour packages that include hotel stays, local permits, and travel arrangements, so you can focus on enjoying the journey instead of worrying about the details. Whether you are looking for adventure in North Sikkim, a cultural trip around monasteries, or a peaceful family holiday, Roamcrafts can help you experience the best of Sikkim.
Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim and one of the busiest towns in the state. It is full of hotels, restaurants, and shops, making it a perfect base for exploring Sikkim tourist places like Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, and Banjhakri Falls. MG Marg is the main street with cafés, markets, and local food stalls. Visitors can also enjoy the Gangtok Ropeway, Tashi View Point, and Do Drul Chorten. Festivals like the Red Panda Winter Festival add to its charm.
Travel Tips: Best time to visit Gangtok is March–May and October–December. Avoid monsoons due to roadblocks.
Facts: Nearest airport is Bagdogra (123 km),nearest railway station is NJP (118 km). MG Marg is India’s first litter-free zone.
Highlights:
Capital city and best hub for Sikkim tourism.
Ropeway, monasteries, and markets.
Great food and stay options.
Tsomgo Lake, also called Changu Lake, is one of the most famous lakes in Sikkim. Located 40 km from Gangtok, the lake freezes in winter and looks stunning in summer with deep blue water. Yak rides around the lake are very popular. The lake is sacred to locals and also attracts migratory birds like Brahmini ducks.
Travel Tips: Best time to visit is March–May and October–December. Permits are required and weather can change quickly.
Facts: The lake is at 12,400 feet and remains frozen for months. Tea stalls nearby serve hot snacks in the cold weather.
Highlights:
One of the top places to visit in Sikkim.
Famous for yak rides and snow views.
Sacred and beautiful high-altitude lake.
Nathula Pass connects India with China and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Sikkim. At an altitude of 14,140 feet, it offers a chance to see the Indo-China border gates. Visitors also see army posts and can visit Baba Mandir nearby. The road to Nathula is steep and winding but worth the trip.
Travel Tips: Visit in April–June or October–November. It remains closed on some days and requires a special permit.
Facts: Nathula is part of the Old Silk Route. Oxygen levels are low, so avoid overexertion.
Highlights:
Historic Indo-China border.
A must in every Sikkim tour package.
Works as a combo trip with Tsomgo Lake.
Known as the “Valley of Flowers of Sikkim,” Yumthang Valley is filled with colorful flowers during spring. It is located in North Sikkim, about 25 km from Lachung. The valley has the Teesta River flowing through it, and visitors can also enjoy hot springs nearby. It is one of the best places in Sikkim to see natural beauty.
Travel Tips: Best time to visit Yumthang Valley is April–June for flowers and October–November for clear views.
Facts: It is home to the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, where 24 species of rhododendrons bloom.
Highlights:
One of the most famous tourist places in Sikkim.
Spring flowers and hot springs.
Perfect day trip from Lachung.
At an altitude of 17,800 feet, Gurudongmar is one of the highest lakes in the world. The lake is considered holy by Buddhists, Sikhs, and Hindus. Visitors can see snow-covered peaks reflecting in the water. The air is very thin here, so moving slowly is important. It is one of the top Sikkim famous places to visit.
Travel Tips: Best time to visit is October–November and April–June. Avoid monsoons and heavy winter snowfall.
Facts: The lake remains frozen most of the year. The journey usually starts from Lachen early morning.
Highlights:
Sacred high-altitude lake.
Top tourist attractions in Sikkim.
Perfect for adventure seekers.
Lachen is a small village in North Sikkim that serves as the base for visiting Gurudongmar Lake. It is surrounded by snow peaks and offers a peaceful village experience. Wooden houses, monasteries, and warm homestays make it a great stop.
Travel Tips: Best time to visit is October–November and April–June. Nights are very cold.
Facts: From Lachen, travelers head to Gurudongmar and Chopta Valley. Mobile networks are weak.
Highlights:
Gateway to Gurudongmar Lake.
Warm homestays and village life.
Part of sikkim tourist places circuit.
Lachung is another village in North Sikkim and is the base for Yumthang Valley and Zero Point. The village is divided by the Lachung River and has scenic bridges. Tourists often stay here for 1–2 nights. Local lodges serve hot food and tea.
Travel Tips: Best time to visit is April–June and October–November. Roads can be rough.
Facts: Lachung is famous for its apples and monasteries. It is known as the “small pass” in Tibetan language.
Highlights:
Base for Yumthang Valley.
Scenic river views.
Simple and warm local hospitality.
Pelling is one of the most visited Sikkim tourist places in West Sikkim. It is famous for Sky Walk, Rabdentse Ruins, Pemayangtse Monastery, Khecheopalri Lake, and Kanchenjunga Falls. Hotels in Pelling often offer clear mountain views.
Travel Tips: Best time to visit is October–December and March–May. 2 days are enough to cover all attractions.
Facts: Pelling is divided into Upper and Lower Pelling. It is 115 km from Gangtok.
Highlights:
Sky Walk and giant Chenrezig statue.
Historic Rabdentse Ruins.
Many attractions nearby in short distance.
Ravangla is a peaceful town in South Sikkim, known for its stunning views of the Himalayas. The main attraction here is the Buddha Park, which features a massive golden Buddha statue set against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Ravangla is surrounded by tea gardens, monasteries, and quiet villages, making it a great escape for nature lovers. It is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim if you want peace and spiritual vibes.
Travel Tips: Best time to visit is April–June and September–November. Avoid the rainy season as the roads can get slippery.
Facts: Ravangla is about 65 km from Gangtok and 120 km from Siliguri. It is also famous for bird watching.
Highlights:
Home to the famous Buddha Park.
Great views of Kanchenjunga and other peaks.
Perfect for peaceful family trips.
Zuluk is a small village in East Sikkim and part of the historic Old Silk Route. It is famous for its zigzag roads that create a snake-like pattern when viewed from above. At around 10,000 feet, the village offers spectacular sunrise views of Kanchenjunga. This hidden gem is still less crowded compared to other Sikkim tourist spots.
Travel Tips: Best time to visit is August–September for flowers and January–April for snow. A special permit is required.
Facts: Zuluk was once a transit point for traders between India and Tibet. Army camps can be seen in the area.
Highlights:
Famous for zigzag roads.
Beautiful sunrises and snow views.
Offbeat location in Sikkim tourism.
Namchi, meaning “Sky High,” is one of the most important places in Sikkim. It is famous for the gigantic statue of Guru Padmasambhava on Samdruptse Hill. Another attraction is the Siddhesvara Dham, also known as Char Dham, which has replicas of India’s famous pilgrimage shrines. Namchi is a mix of spirituality and natural beauty.
Travel Tips: Visit between October–December or March–June. Namchi is well connected by road from Gangtok and Pelling.
Facts: Namchi is about 78 km from Gangtok and 100 km from Siliguri. It is also known for flower festivals.
Highlights:
Guru Padmasambhava statue on Samdruptse Hill.
Char Dham pilgrimage center.
Important tourist attractions in Sikkim.
Yuksom is a historic village in West Sikkim and the first capital of the state. It is the starting point for the Goechala trek, one of the most famous Himalayan treks. The village has monasteries, lakes, and traditional houses, giving it an old-world charm. If you love history and trekking, Yuksom is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim.
Travel Tips: Best time to visit is March–May and October–November. Carry comfortable shoes for walking and short hikes.
Facts: Yuksom means “meeting place of three lamas.” It is part of the Kanchenjunga National Park area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights:
First capital of Sikkim.
Starting point of Goechala trek.
Rich in history and culture.
Rumtek Monastery is one of the largest and most famous monasteries in Sikkim. Located near Gangtok, it is also known as the Dharma Chakra Centre. The monastery is decorated with colorful murals, thangkas, and golden stupas. Monks in red robes chant prayers, giving the place a peaceful vibe. It is one of the top Sikkim attractions for culture and spirituality.
Travel Tips: Best time to visit is all year round, but winters are especially beautiful with snow.
Facts: Rumtek was built in the 16th century and later rebuilt in the 20th century. It is the main seat of the Karmapa in India.
Highlights:
One of the most famous monasteries in Sikkim.
Colorful murals and peaceful surroundings.
Important site for Buddhism in India.
Tashiding Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim, located on top of a hill between the Rangit and Rathong rivers. It is an important religious site for Buddhists and is believed to cleanse sins of those who visit. The monastery is decorated with prayer flags, ancient chortens, and traditional architecture. During festivals, the monastery becomes lively with rituals and prayers. It is a must-visit for those who want to experience spirituality in Sikkim tourism.
Travel Tips: Best time to visit is between February–May and October–December. The Bhumchu Festival, celebrated in February or March, is the most famous event here.
Facts: The monastery was built in the 17th century and is one of the holiest places in Sikkim. It is about 40 km from Yuksom.
Highlights:
Ancient and holy monastery of Sikkim.
Famous for the Bhumchu Festival.
Peaceful surroundings with historical importance.
The Sky Walk in Pelling is one of the newest Sikkim tourist attractions. It is India’s first glass skywalk and offers thrilling views of the Chenrezig statue, surrounding hills, and valleys below. Walking on the transparent glass bridge gives a unique experience that attracts both families and adventure lovers. The giant Chenrezig statue nearby is also a major highlight.
Travel Tips: The best time to visit is between March–June and October–December. Carry a light jacket as the weather can get cool.
Facts: The Sky Walk is located near Sanga Choeling in Pelling and is the highest glass skywalk in India. Entry tickets are required.
Highlights:
India’s first glass skywalk.
Views of the Chenrezig statue and valleys.
Exciting experience for all age groups.
Banjhakri Falls is a beautiful waterfall located near Gangtok, surrounded by gardens and walking paths. The waterfall drops from a height of around 100 feet, making it a popular picnic spot. The area also has a landscaped park, statues of Sikkimese folklore figures, and small lakes. It is one of the most relaxing places to visit in Sikkim for families.
Travel Tips: The best time to visit is from March–June when the weather is pleasant. Monsoons should be avoided due to slippery paths.
Facts: The word “Banjhakri” means “forest shaman.” The park showcases Sikkim’s culture and traditional healing practices.
Highlights:
100-foot-high waterfall.
Landscaped park with cultural statues.
Perfect picnic spot near Gangtok.
Khecheopalri Lake is considered one of the holiest lakes in Sikkim. Surrounded by forests and hills, it is believed that the lake fulfills wishes of devotees. Locals say no leaves are found floating on the water, as birds pick them away. The lake is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists and Hindus, making it one of the most sacred places in Sikkim.
Travel Tips: Best time to visit is March–May and October–November. Pilgrimage festivals in February–March attract many visitors.
Facts: The lake is located near Pelling and is part of the Kanchenjunga National Park. It lies at an altitude of about 5,600 feet.
Highlights:
Sacred wish-fulfilling lake.
Surrounded by forests and mountains.
Pilgrimage site for Buddhists and Hindus.
Pemayangtse Monastery is one of the most important monasteries in West Sikkim, located near Pelling. It is known for its beautiful wooden carvings, ancient sculptures, and wall paintings. The monastery is three stories high and houses a rare wooden model of heaven, called “Zangdok Palri.” Monks of this monastery belong to the purest order of Buddhism. It is one of the famous tourist places in Sikkim for history and culture.
Travel Tips: Best time to visit is all year round, but avoid the monsoon months. The Cham Dance festival in February is a big highlight.
Facts: The monastery was founded in the 17th century by Lama Lhatsun Chempo. It is located at an altitude of 6,000 feet.
Highlights:
Famous for wooden model of Zangdok Palri.
One of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim.
Rich in culture and heritage.
Kanchenjunga Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Sikkim and a must-visit spot for tourists traveling to Pelling. The water here is said to originate from the glaciers of Mount Kanchenjunga. The waterfall flows with great force, surrounded by greenery, and attracts visitors looking for natural beauty and photography. Rope sliding near the falls adds adventure to the visit. It is considered one of the best places to visit in Sikkim for nature lovers.
Travel Tips: Best time to visit is between March–May and September–November. Wear comfortable shoes as you need to climb a few steps to reach the waterfall.
Facts: The falls are located around 28 km from Pelling and are open for visitors all day. Entry tickets are required at the gate.
Highlights:
Famous waterfall fed by Kanchenjunga glaciers.
Rope sliding activity available.
Perfect family-friendly Sikkim tourist place.
Buddha Park, also known as Tathagata Tsal, is located in Ravangla and features a 130-foot-tall statue of Lord Buddha. The park is beautifully designed with gardens, walkways, and a museum showcasing Buddhist teachings. With the Himalayan peaks in the backdrop, it is one of the most peaceful tourist attractions in Sikkim. The park is an ideal place for meditation, learning about Buddhism, and enjoying nature.
Travel Tips: Visit between March–June and September–November. The park is open throughout the day with an entry fee.
Facts: The Buddha statue was built to celebrate the 2550th birth anniversary of Lord Gautama Buddha. The park also hosts religious festivals and events.
Highlights:
130-foot-tall Buddha statue.
Garden, museum, and meditation center.
One of the most famous Sikkim attractions.
Zero Point, also called Yumesamdong, is a high-altitude tourist spot located near Yumthang Valley in North Sikkim. It is situated at an altitude of more than 15,000 feet and is usually covered with snow. The place marks the last point of civilian travel, as beyond this lies the India-China border. Zero Point is one of the most thrilling places to visit in Sikkim for those who love snow and adventure.
Travel Tips: The best time to visit is from March–May for clear skies or December–February for heavy snow. Carry warm clothes as temperatures drop very low.
Facts: A special permit is required to visit Zero Point. The road from Lachung takes around 1.5 hours. Oxygen levels are lower here due to high altitude.
Highlights:
Famous for heavy snow and high altitude.
Last civilian point before India-China border.
Stunning Himalayan views.
Kanchenjunga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important places in Sikkim. Spread across vast areas of forests, glaciers, and mountains, the park is home to snow leopards, red pandas, musk deer, and many rare species. The park also covers the mighty Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world. Trekking inside the park offers adventure and a chance to see untouched natural beauty.
Travel Tips: Best time to visit is between April–May and September–October. Entry permits are required and can be arranged through local tour operators.
Facts: The park covers about 1,784 square kilometers. It is famous for its biodiversity and cultural significance to local communities.
Highlights:
UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Home to rare wildlife and glaciers.
Covers Mount Kanchenjunga.
Rabdentse Ruins are the remains of the second capital of Sikkim, located near Pelling. Once a royal palace, the site now has stone ruins surrounded by forests. From the ruins, visitors can see great views of the Himalayan peaks. It is one of the most unique Sikkim tourist places for history lovers. The Archaeological Survey of India has preserved the ruins as a heritage site.
Travel Tips: Best time to visit is March–May and September–November. Wear comfortable shoes as a short trek through the forest leads to the site.
Facts: Rabdentse was the capital of Sikkim from 1670 to 1814. The site includes palace ruins and chortens used by former kings.
Highlights:
Ancient ruins of Sikkim’s old capital.
Great viewpoint for the Himalayas.
Heritage site near Pelling.
Singshore Bridge is the highest suspension bridge in Sikkim and the second highest in Asia. Located near Pelling, it stands at about 100 meters above the ground and connects two deep gorges. Walking across the bridge offers thrilling views of the mountains, waterfalls, and valleys. It is one of the most exciting tourist attractions in Sikkim for adventure lovers. The bridge is also an engineering marvel and attracts both locals and tourists.
Travel Tips: Best time to visit is March–May and September–November when the weather is clear. Carry a light jacket, as the winds on the bridge can be strong.
Facts: The bridge is about 5 km from Pelling and was built to connect remote villages. Vehicles are not allowed on the bridge—only walking is permitted.
Highlights:
Highest suspension bridge in Sikkim.
Thrilling views of valleys and waterfalls.
One of the top Sikkim tourist spots.
Do Drul Chorten is one of the most important stupas in Gangtok. Built in 1945, it is surrounded by 108 prayer wheels that visitors spin while walking around the stupa for good luck. The stupa contains relics, holy scriptures, and the remains of great lamas. It is one of the most visited Sikkim famous places for those interested in spirituality and culture.
Travel Tips: The best time to visit is throughout the year. Early mornings and evenings are more peaceful as fewer tourists are around.
Facts: The stupa was built by Trulshik Rinpoche, a respected lama of the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism. It is located close to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology.
Highlights:
Sacred stupa with 108 prayer wheels.
Important Buddhist religious site.
Close to Namgyal Institute of Tibetology.
Sikkim is more than just a travel destination – it’s an experience that stays with you forever. From the colorful streets of Gangtok to the snow-filled landscapes of Zero Point, from peaceful monasteries to thrilling rope bridges and waterfalls, every corner of Sikkim has a charm of its own. These 25 best places to visit in Sikkim are perfect for families, couples, and adventure seekers alike.
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Entry Rules and Permits for Sikkim
Sikkim is a beautiful state, but because it is close to international borders like China, Bhutan, and Nepal, some areas are protected and need special entry permits. To make travel safe and smooth, the government has set certain rules for both Indian and foreign visitors.
Indians do not need any permits to visit popular places like Gangtok, Yuksom, Rumtek, Pemayangtse, and Phodong.
But if you want to visit North Sikkim (places like Yumthang Valley, Chungthang, Lachung, Lachen, Gurudongmar Lake, Thangu, and Chopta),you will need a permit.
For a day trip from Gangtok to Tsomgo Lake or Nathula Pass, Indians also need a special permit. However, Nathula is not open to foreigners – only Indian citizens can go there.
Foreign nationals must have a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to enter Sikkim. This was earlier called the Inner Line Permit (ILP).
The RAP is valid for 15 days, and it can be extended up to 30 days if required.
It is easy to get this permit at places like Siliguri, Darjeeling, Rongpo, and Malli, or even from Indian embassies abroad.
Foreign tourists cannot travel alone in restricted or protected areas. They must be in a group of at least two people.
Restricted Area Permit (RAP):
Required only for foreigners to enter Sikkim.
Needs a valid passport and Indian visa.
Quick and simple to get – usually within 30 minutes.
Protected Area Permit (PAP):
Needed for both Indians and foreigners to visit special areas like Tsomgo Lake, Dzongri, and Yumthang Valley.
Some border regions, like Nathula Pass, are only open to Indians with a PAP. Foreigners are not allowed there at all.
Foreigners must apply for PAP through a registered tour operator if they want to trek or visit deeper regions of Sikkim.
Passport (for foreigners)
Voter ID card or Driving License with photo ID (for Indians)
Passport-size photographs
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