2. Yuksom

Located in the Western parts of Sikkim, Yuksom is the origin of several enthralling treks into the Himalayas or the magical Kanchenjunga. The once a capital of Sikkim, this hamlet is more known for its pristine beauty and rustic appeal.

Also known as the ‘Meeting place of Three Lamas’, this Sikkimese village has recently started gaining tourism attention. Well, this is also the reason, you can expect pristine beauty and untouched nature in Yuksom. Home to the oldest monastery in Sikkim, this pictorial hamlet is one amongst the most peaceful and serene places to visit in Sikkim.

Yuksom Tips

Being located at a moderate altitude, the weather in Yuksom remains pleasant throughout the year. The best time to visit Yuksom is from March to June and September to October.

Although Yuksom has a motorable road, during rainy season travelling by public transport can be a hassle.

Yuksom Facts

Yuksom was the first capital of Sikkim in the 17th century and the coronation place of its first chogyal (king) in 1641.

Dubdi Monastery in Yuksom is the first Buddhist Monastery in Sikkim, established in 1701 by the Chogyar Namgyal.

Main Highlights

It is an extremely charming historical town blessed with jaw-dropping gorgeousness.

It is a perfect gateway to Mt. Kangchendzongha.

Yuksom features many entrancing trails.

The main highlight of the town includes historical monuments, ancient monasteries, tranquil waterfalls and serene lakes.

Suggested Read: Things to do in Yuksom & How to Reach Yuksom

3. Tsomgo Lake

On a visit to Gangtok, do not miss the chance to visit the Tsomgo Lake or the Changu Lake! Located only 38km from Sikkim’s capital, it lies at an altitude of 12,400ft and is one of the highest lakes in India.

While the lake remains frozen during the winters, summer brings in a magical charm and appeal to Tsomgo. It is during this time of the year, the turquoise waters of the lake reflects the amazing views of the nearby peaks and the azure sky above!

Tsomgo Lake Tips

Tsomgo Lake is a day trip from Gangtok. It is advisable to leave for the lake early in the morning to reach on time and enjoy the views.

You will need a special area permit to visit the lake which can be obtained from the Sikkim tourism department at MG Marg Gangtok or you can ask your travel agent to arrange for the same. You will need your photo identity proof and two passport size photos to get the permit.

Beware of roadblocks due to heavy snow during the winter season.

Tsomgo Lake Facts

Tsomgo Lake (also called as Changu Lake) is one of the highest lakes in India set at an elevation of 3,753 meters.

The lake is considered sacred by the local people and the water here is believed to have medicinal value.

The surface of the lake reflects different colours in different seasons, making it even more alluring.

The lake remains frozen during the winter season.

Tsomgo Lake also serves as the venue for the Guru Poornima festival.

Main Highlights

During the winter season, travellers enjoy trekking along the lake coast, ice skating on the thick sheet of ice and yak ride on the frozen lake.

During the summer and autumn season, the sight of Primula flowers and other alpine vegetation growing near the lake is a key attraction.

Bird watchers flock here during October to catch a sight of the native birds waddling in the lake’s water.

Suggested Read: Lakes in Sikkim

4. Nathula Pass

The once a part of the historic ‘Silk Road’, a visit to Nathu La is a must in any of the Sikkim travel packages. One of the highest motorable pass in the world, this amazing pass is located at a towering height of 4,310m above the sea level and connects Sikkim with Tibet.

The pass is open to Indians; however, one has to obtain permission from the tourism department in order to visit this pass. And for the foreign national, they cannot make it to Nathu La.

NathuLa Pass Tips

Nathula Pass remains closed on Monday, Tuesday and Friday.

The pass remains inaccessible during winters due to heavy snowfall as the temperature drops down to as low as -250 C.

Beware of the winding roads leading to Nathula Pass which can lead to motion sickness. If you suffer from the problem, it is advisable to carry some medicines along.

You will need a special area permit to visit the place for which you will need your photo identity proof and two passport size photos. You can get the pass from zonal office or your travel agent can arrange for the same.

Photography isn’t allowed at the Nathula Pass.

Nathula Pass Facts

Set at an elevation of 4302 meters, Nathula Pass is one of the highest motorable roads in the world.

Nathula Pass connects Sikkim to China. In fact, it was once an ancient silk route which connected Lhasa in Tibet to the plains of Bengal.

Main Highlights

Nathula Pass offers splendid views of Chumbi valley of Tibet along with snow-laden mountains.

Driving in the hills is always fun. In fact, sometimes the drive is more enjoyable than the final destination. Same is the case with Nathula Pass. It is an experience to drive on the roads surrounded by snow on both sides while passing through picturesque beauty

Suggested Read: Other Tourist Attractions in Sikkim

5. Pelling

If you are an ardent fan of the captivating Himalayan Range, Pelling is the destination for you! It is from this Sikkimese town, one can have the best views of the Himalayas and the Kanchenjunga Peak, and can experience the best of their Sikkim holidays.

Located at a height of 7,200ft above the sea, this scenic town is bestowed with several waterfalls, breath-taking views, natural beauty and adventure options like rafting, kayaking, trekking, mountain biking and several others.

Pelling Tips

The climate in Pelling is moderate throughout the year, therefore one can plan a trip any time of the year. However, the best time to visit would be during the summer months between May and July.

Pelling Facts

The monasteries in Pelling are some of the oldest monasteries of Sikkim.

Since Pelling is located at a high altitude, it often receives snowfall during the winter months.

Pelling lies in the foothills of the Himalayas and the Kanchenjunga mountain ranges which helps you get a closer and much clearer view of these mountains.

Main Highlights

There are many amazing trekking trails that start from Pelling.

The main highlight of the place includes a view of the Kanchenjunga Mountains, many gorgeous waterfalls, bridges, ancient monasteries and so on.

The must-visit places in Pelling include Pemayangtse Monastery, Khecheopalri Lake, Rabdentse Ruins, Sanga Choeling Monastery and Kanchenjunga Falls.

Suggested Read: Things to do in Pelling & How to Reach Pelling

6. Lachung

Lachung has multiple reasons to make you fall in love with it! While its location at an enthralling height of 8,610ft makes it a popular snow-destination in Sikkim, its untouched and surreal beauty makes it one of the scenic as well as charming tourist places in Sikkim.

Located in the northern part of Sikkim, this quaint mountain village is adorned by the immaculate beauty of the Lachung Chu River and is also known for the Lachung Gompa. Though this village is one of the mostly visited regions in Sikkim, it still holds an alluring charm that can hardly be found in any other destinations.

Lachung Tips

Lachung becomes absolutely inaccessible in the monsoon season because of heavy rainfall and in the winter season due to heavy snow closing down significant routes.

Although scenic, the roads in Lachung are often not in good condition so have sufficient time in hand while you plan your visit.

Lachung Facts

Joseph Dalton Hooker, a British botanist had labelled Lachung as the ‘most picturesque village of Sikkim’ in his book ‘The Himalayan Journal’.

Lachung has innumerable fruit orchards and glacial rivers that add to its already existing charm.

Main Highlights

Lachung is an unexplored but stunning Himalayan village in Sikkim.

It is popular for its tall dark mountains, meandering glacial rivers, gushing waterfalls and striking fruit orchards.

Suggested Read: Best Time to Visit Lachung & Things to do in Lachung & How to Reach Lachung

7. Ravangla

Nestled amidst the Maenam and Tendong Hills, Ravangla is among the best places to visit in Sikkim; especially in the southern part of the state. A scenic town between Gangtok and Pelling, this hill-town also hosts some of the most popular treks in Sikkim.

More popular as a paradise for the bird watchers, it is home to some of the most rare and endangered birds in the world. On a usual visit to Ravangla, you can spot dark-throated thrush, verditre flycatchers, blue whistling thrush, babblers, cuckoos and several others.

Ravangla Tips

The weather in Ravangla is very volatile so be prepared for the occasional rains. It is advisable to carry a raincoat or umbrella for protection.

Ravangla Facts

During the months from April and May, lots of the flowers are in full blossom in Ravangla.

Tourists come here to see the various species of migratory birds and for the breathtaking views of the peaks like Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Pandim and Mt. Sinialchu.

Main Highlights

Ravangla is famous for its temples, monasteries, picturesque tea gardens, exotic flora and fauna, sightseeing spots, ethnic culture, snowy mountains, gushing waterfalls and adventure sports.

One of Sikkim’s most beautiful sights is Ravangla’s gigantic golden Buddha.