Symptomatic travellers will have to stay in institutional quarantine for 7 days.
Flights are functional to Pakyong Airport, Gangtok from all the major airports like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Jaipur etc. This airport is well-connected to all other destinations in Sikkim through railways and roads.
All local trains are functional to and from different cities in Sikkim.
Buses are running to and from Sikkim with a proper limit. This includes both inter state and intra state travel.
Local transport including buses and taxis is functional across the state.
The government of Sikkim has taken several steps to curb the spread of Covid-19 while allowing travellers and tourists to visit the state. Thrillophilia recommends you follow all guidelines and safety measures issued by the government and practice personal hygiene to keep yourself safe.
Travel cards are available on Sikkim government’s web portal. Also, offline travel cards will also be issued at tourism centers across the state. To enter Sikkim from Rangpo or Melli check post, one has to compulsorily procure travel cards.
After deciding to reopen the state to tourists, the Government of Sikkim is going to issue 'travel cards' for visitors in place of COVID negative certificates. Earlier, it was compulsory to produce a COVID-19 negative certificate to enter the state, but it has now been done away with. It has now been made 'optional' in the wake of the allowance of inter-state movement.
Starting March 1, foreign tourists will be able to enter Sikkim from Ramman Checkpoint, which is being re-opened after a 10 long years! The decision was taken because now the northeastern state wants to expand its rural, religious, cultural and adventure tourism.
Sikkim chief minister P.S. Tamang said his government would promote 2022 as “Visit Sikkim” year to revive the tourism industry ailing under the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Nested in the northern part of Sikkim, Yumthang Valley is also nicknamed as the 'valley of flowers' (not to be confused with the Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand). It is perched at a dizzying altitude of 3,500 meters, and unmistakably one of the most scenic places to visit in Lachung. True to its assigned nickname, Yumthang valley fosters countless floral species which criss-cross all across its lush green carpet. The valley also houses the beautiful Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, hosting over 24 different species of rhododendrons! The verdant pasture that is Yumthang valley is lapped by mighty mountains on either side, and the freezing river Teesta forms a crystal ribbon through the forested beauty of the valley.Location: North Sikkim District, Gangtok, Sikkim 737120Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: 25 kmFrom gushing waterfalls to sprawling forests, from solitary monasteries to austere mountains, Gangtok offers a range of awe-inspiring things to do for visitors
Another one of the most beautiful tourist places in Lachung, the stunning Chopta valley is wrapped up in North Sikkim. Sitting about 2 hours away from Lachung, and beautifully en route Gurudongmar Lake, Chopta valley reigns at a staggering 4,000 meters above sea level. During summers, the entire valley is bathed in a stunning medley of colours due to the presence of beautiful alpine flowers that it is home to. Winters turn the entire place into a picturesque wonderland, layered by a thick carpet of snow. The tree line begins to fade from here, and the dominion of shrubs is evident. Beyond the valley, the land becomes completely devoid of vegetation, and the lofty mountains begin to rise. The aroma of the flowers merges will the cool breeze from the mountains to render you truly speechless. Location: North Sikkim District, SikkimDistance from Lachung Bus Stand: 30 kmExplore the scenic beauty of North East India with the most awe-inspiring activities and tourist attractions with Gangtok Tour Packages.
Yumesamdong, otherwise known as Zero Point, is one of the most frequented tourist's places in Lachung. It is located about 15 km away from Yumthang and sits at a mind-numbing altitude of 4,724 meters. Zero point marks the edge of civilization, and the road comes to a dead end here. The vicuna China border is just beyond Zero points, though no tourists are allowed there. Despite the treacherous roads, Yumesamdong brings you exceptional rewards! Treat your eyes to the confluence of three magnificent rivers, flanked on either side by enormous, snow-clad peaks. While yaks often graze here, the land is nearly competent devoid of vegetation. The place sits beneath thick, powdery snow, and brings extremely cold weather conditions. But there’s a great respite in the form of Hot Springs by the river Sebu Chhu! Location: Sikkim 737120Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: Approx. 50 km
Seated at a distance of about 13 km from Lachung, in the rustic hamlet of Khedum, experience a spellbinding blend of serenity and thrill at the Bhim Nala Falls! It has the privilege of being amongst the highest waterfalls in Sikkim. Owing to its staggering height, the cascading waterfall seems like a three-step waterfall, the roaring of which can be felt even from afar. Housed in an envelope of verdant hills, the plummeting falls roar in a soothing lullaby to enchant you. Enjoy the moment by sipping hot tea, while the roaring falls lull your senses.Fun fact - Bhim Nala Falls is also known as Amitabh Bachchan Falls amongst the locals! Location: Chungthang, Lachung, Sikkim 737120Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: Approx. 15 km
About 21 km away from Bhim Nala Falls, the Naga Falls sits somewhere along the Gangtok - Chungthang road and is easily one of the most spectacular places to visit in Lachung. Another one of the tallest waterfalls in Sikkim, this multi-tiered cascade is veered a little ways off the beaten tracks and offers wonderful solitude and respite from the most popular sites in Lachung. Early morning or evening spent here, amidst the wooded hills, listening to a beautiful medley of sounds that blend in with the tumultuous roar of the falls is an experience that lingers in the heart. Surrounded by the panorama of lofty mountain peaks, Naga Falls is an unmissable place to visit during your Sikkim trip.Location: North Sikkim District, Sikkim 737116Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: 35 km
Sitting at a distance of about 100 km from Gangtok, Chungthang is a beautiful little town that falls en route Yumthang, by the conflux of the rivers Lachen and Lachung. Chungthang is also the birthplace for the river Teesta. The town brims with legends and tales of old, and there is also a stone with the imprinted footprints of Guru Padmasambhava. The town also houses a little rock here, from where mineral water flows ceaselessly. Chungthang is a place where you’ll have to travel through to reach the higher alpine regions of Lachen and Lachung. Steeped in fascinating mythology, the town offers beautiful 180-degree views of the neighboring snow-capped peaks.Location: Chungthang Tehsil, North Sikkim District, Sikkim 737120Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: Approx. 23 km
Nestled at an altitude of 2,750 meters, Lachen in North Sikkim is the base of Chopta Valley and Gurudongmar lake. Sitting about 27 km away from Chungthang, Lachen village is cradled by a beautiful mountain valley. ‘Lachen’ literally translates to mean ‘big pass’, and affords unmatched views of the mountain slopes that seem to seat the village in an embracing sprawl. Lachen is one of the more shaded, unexplored parts of Sikkim, and reward you with unmatched mountain views, serenity, and peace. Housing, not more than 200 houses, the village is ideal for backpackers and adventurers looking to explore offbeat destinations. The village is also home to the Lachenpas, a Sikkimese community. Amongst the most offbeat places to visit in Lachung, Lachen warrants to be on the top of your Sikkim itinerary.Location: North Sikkim District, SikkimDistance from Lachung Bus Stand: Approx. 47 km
Cradled by beautiful apple orchards of the Lachen Valley, Lachung Monastery is an ancient Buddhist monastery. Crafted with brilliant architecture, the monastery is perched atop 2,750 meters, near the confluence of the rivers Lachen and Lachung, two of the several tributaries of the Teesta river. The gompa is also the base for the Green Lake trek. The edifice was installed in 1806 by the Nyingmapa sect of Buddhism and harbors a majestic statue of Guru Padmasambhava. A prayer wheel stands guard near the entrance of the monastery, leading visitors to the resident Handloom and Handicraft Centre. The Lachung Monastery is one of the most tranquil places to visit in Lachung.Location: Lachung, Sikkim 737120Timings: 07:00 AM to 07:00 PM every day.Entry charges: FreeDistance from Lachung Bus Stand: Approx. 20 km
Tsomgo Lake
Popularly known as the Changu Lake, it is located at a height of around 3800 m. The view of the lake is divine. On the banks of the lake you will get hot momos served with a tangy sauce which will help you to warm up in the chilling cold weather. You will also get tea and coffee to enjoy the numbing cool breeze. It is one of the most visited places in Sikkim. The other beautiful lakes worth visiting are Lampokari lake, Manmecho lake, Khecheopalri lake and Gurudongmar lake.
Teesta River
This beautiful river starts in Sikkim and flows to our neighbour Bangladesh. You must have heard controversies between India and Bangladesh regarding the water of Teesta River. It originates in the Himalayas and runs down through Rangpo, Sikkim. This river offers a great rafting opportunity for the adventure seekers. At some places, the river calms down and at some places it turns wild giving the rafters an unmatched experience.
Kirateshwar Mahadev Temple
This temple is also known as Shiv Mandir. Situated on the banks of river Rangit, it is as beautiful Hindu Temple which can be reached by crossing a hanging foot-over bridge. Watch your steps.
The four caves
In Sikkim, you can visit the four holy caves which face the four directions. These caves are one of the five dhams of Sikkim.
Pelling
Pelling is a small and beautiful town. The places to visit in Pelling include beautiful monasteries, rock garden, Rimbi river waterfalls, the holy Khecheopalri lake, Dzongri, Rinchenpong and Hee Burmiok.
Gangtok
Gangtok is the capital town of Sikkim. It is a lovely small town with the maximum visiting places in Sikkim. The places of attraction are Nathula Pass, Ganesh Tok, Hanuman Tok, Tashi View Point, and Himalayan Zoological Park. MG Marg, the market for buying really interesting stuffs, is there in Gangtok.
Hot springs
Sikkim owns many hot springs. Few examples of hot springs you must pay a visit are Yume Samdong Hot Spring, Reshi Hot Spring, Yumthang Hot Spring, Borong Hot Spring and Ralong Hot Spring.
Monasteries
There are around 200 monasteries in Sikkim. You must visit few of them to achieve inner peace as the monasteries are calm and quiet. The ones you should visit are Rumtek, Phodang, Tashiding, Phesang, and Dubdi.
Drinking is not allowed under the age of 21. If you are younger, avoid drinking in Sikkim. Smoking is also not permitted below 21 and in public.
Here are some of the best places to have local cuisine in Sikkim:
Sikkim is a state in India which is largely defined by its hilly terrain, rivers, lakes, and mountain passes. Travelling from one place to another in the state is mostly done by booking rental cars and jeeps. Although buses are available to commute on between major towns, cars are most comfortable.
Yes. You will need a permit to visit any point in North Sikkim beyond Singhik.
Here are some of the important things you must carry with you:
Here are some of the most famous monasteries in Sikkim:
East Sikkim:
West Sikkim:
North Sikkim:
South Sikkim:
Here’s where you can go rafting in Sikkim:
