Sikkim is a very beautiful state and suitable for all types of travelers and individuals. It is surrounded by the Himalayas, waterfalls, and thick forests. It’s known to be India’s smallest but the wealthiest state in terms of natural spectacle. Sikkim is not very well known in comparison to Rajasthan, Goa, and Kerala but people usually come here to witness natural beauty here.
What does Sikkim offer?
Sikkim is situated in the northeastern part of India and has so many things to offer such as big forests, wildlife sanctuaries, sacred temples, huge cliffs, lakes, swashing streams, and magnificent waterfalls.
Apart from that, the state is widely popular for its adventure activities like trekking, river rafting, mountain biking, paragliding, and much more. The trip has become easier due to the newly constructed Pakyong airport. A flight journey will give you a broad view of Pakyong Valley.
Places to Visit in Sikkim
There are many sanctuaries, small scrutinized towns, and chapels in Sikkim that tourists must explore. These places offer a sense of serenity and peace. They teach you a lesson to live your life in peace with less technology. So, here is a list of some must-visit places in Sikkim.
1. Mt. Kanchenjunga
Sikkim is known for its mountains and forests. It is nestled in the lap of the enchanting Himalayas. In Sikkim, you must visit Mt. Kanchenjunga. It is the third-highest mountain in the world. So if you are bored with beaches then you can witness the peace of the mountains.
2. Gangtok
Gangtok is the heart of the state. You cannot complete the Sikkim trip without visiting Gangtok. The town can beat any urban city in terms of beauty. The scenic views of Gangtok, lush forests, gurgling rivers, green gardens, falling waterfalls, and Buddhist monasteries are the perfect places to spend your vacation. Along with this, it is easy to find homestays in Gangtok.
Apart from these places, Gangtok is widely popular for sightseeing places like Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir Nathula Pass, Namchi, Gurudongmar Lake, and Buddhist Monasteries like Rumtek, and Enchey. Visit the place once and you will never forget the experience of the Gangtok Trip.
3. Yuksom
Yuksom is a small village of Sikkim which is located in the Western parts of the state. Yuksom is the starting point of many trek roads into the Himalayas or Kanchenjunga. It is also known as the ‘Meeting Place of Three Lamas’. Here, people from afar come to visit widely popular historical monuments, ancient monasteries, beautiful waterfalls, and serene lakes.
4. Pelling
If you love enjoying nature from the height then Pelling is a place where you need to be to experience it. This Sikkim town is located at a height of 7200 ft above sea level. From this height, you can relish the views of the Himalayas and Kanchenjunga Peak. Along with basking in natural beauty, you can enjoy adventure activities like trekking, mountain biking, rafting, and kayaking, etc.
5. Temi Village and Tea Gardens
In India, the northeast parts are known for producing tea. Temi is a small village in Sikkim and their Temi tea is different and popular for its taste. Many people visit the village to drink this tea and to visit the Temi tea gardens. So, whenever you plan to visit Sikkim, you should definitely stop at this place to see the garden and enjoy fresh tea.
The list of places to visit in Sikkim is never-ending. These were the most highlighted places but here are some honorable mentions – Yumthang Valley, Ravangla, Solophok Chardham in Namchi, and the statue of Guru Padmasambhava in Samdruptse Hill, Lachung, Do-Drul Chorten, Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden, and Zuluk, etc.
Sikkim Cuisine
Sikkim offers a wide range of cuisines that are not prepared in other parts of the country. So during the trip, you must not miss having these delicious dishes.
1. Thukpa
Thukpa is a very well-known dish in Sikkim. It is made of noodles, and soup and can be customized with vegetables or some chicken. It’s a Tibetan dish but is very popular and famous in Sikkim.
2. Famous Beverage (Tongba)
Tongba is made from the fermentation of millets. It’s an alcoholic drink of Sikkim and a part of their culture too. For every occasion, they prepare this drink for everyone.
3. Aloo chura and Zhol Momos
Everyone loves momos but it’s totally different in the place where they belong. In Sikkim, locals cook traditionally zhol momos which have special soups from Nepal. The dish is mouth-watering. Aloo Chura made of potatoes is a unique dish too.
Other than this, in Gangtok, many bakery cafes are famous for their chocolates and bakery items.
Best Season to Visit Sikkim
If you are planning to go to Sikkim make sure to visit the place between March to May or October to mid-December. They are considered the best time to visit Sikkim.
For tourists, Sikkim is a welcoming place. It gives a feeling of complete relaxation, with nature calling from all around. So, what are you waiting for? Book your Sikkim Travel Packages now!