Sikkim Tour Packages

Reviewed by Thrillophilia Sikkim Operations Team

Updated as of April 2026

A Sikkim tour package at Thrillophilia starts from INR 19,000, covering destinations like Gangtok, Mangan, Chumthang, and Lachen. Booking trends on Thrillophilia show rising interest in North East India in early 2026. Its clean surroundings, calm atmosphere, and easy accessibility make Sikkim an ideal summer escape for Indian travellers.

Watching the early sun’s light reflecting on Tsomgo Lake, visiting the Yumthang Valley in spring, or maybe taking an evening food walk to MG Marg, experiencing Sikkim feels like exploring nostalgia, finding memories that you didn’t know you had. These experiences and memories are what we prioritise when designing your Sikkim packages here at Thrillophilia.

Our 60+ customisable itineraries are not just destinations thrown together, but experiences built with 9+ years of expertise in Sikkim tour operations. With a rating of 4.6 by over 14,000+ verified travellers, our packages are designed to focus on your preferences and needs. A tour with us is always designed with you in mind, not just the destination.

One of our priorities while designing any package is fund transparency. We provide you with a complete breakdown of how exactly we plan your trip, what kind of accommodations we provide, and how your money is used to plan your altitude excursions. There are no hidden charges or activities that you didn’t sign up for. With us, what you see is what you get.

Exploring Sikkim: Knowing Which Region is for You

River rafting on the Teesta River with your friends, watching sunsets from the Yumthang Valley with your loved one, or exploring monasteries with your family, Sikkim has something for everyone. But this is where the trick lies. 

Each of the 4 regions of Sikkim offers something unique for every kind of traveller. Thrillophilia designs your itinerary based on regions that match the most with your preferences first. Region mapping is also important to avoid delays due to traffic and to make sure you are not exhausted before the day is over.

North Sikkim

North Sikkim is the most peaceful, quiet part of Sikkim. Its raw Himalayan landscapes and high-altitude terrain make it perfect for both solo travellers and couples. It is also home to one of the highest lakes in the world, Gurudongmar Lake, which you can explore through Lachen.

Since North Sikkim is close to the borders, some areas require permits. Thrillophilia arranges for them in advance before your trip.

• Places to Cover: Lachen, Lachung, and Mangan
• Popular Attractions: Gurudongmar Lake (17,100 ft), Yumthang Valley (11,800 ft), Zero Point (Yumesamdong) (15,300 ft), Lachen (8,838 ft), and Lachung (8,967 ft); monasteries; Kala Patthar; Seven Sister Falls; and the Chopta Valley viewpoint
• Best Time to Visit: April-June and October-Early December
• Best for: Short-duration trips, off-beat trips, and solo travellers
• Avoid If: Travelling with senior citizens or very young children and having respiratory problems

For 2026 North Sikkim Travellers: Following 887 days of closure after the 2023 South Lhonak GLOF, the Lachen route and Gurudongmar Lake access have been fully operational again since 9 March 2026, as reported by The Telegraph.

South Sikkim

This region is where you slow down in Sikkim. Even with the green meadows, monasteries, and scenery-focused drives, the main highlight of South Sikkim, however, is Namchi. It houses the statue of Char Dham and dramatic viewpoints that draw travellers to South Sikkim from all over the country.

• Places to Cover: Namchi and Tashiding
• Popular Attractions: Tedong Gompa, Tedong Hill Viewpoint, Kitam Bird Sanctuary, Kangchendzongha Falls, Doling Gompa, and Tendong Hill
• Best Time to Visit: March-May and October-December
• Best for: Travelling couples, travellers with family, and honeymoon couples
• Avoid If: You are planning to visit during the monsoon. It gets foggy due to damp weather. 

East Sikkim

This is the most historically rich region of Sikkim. East Sikkim is home to the famous Silk Route along the Indo-China border. This is one of the most popular places to visit in Sikkim. In 2025, the Silk Route was awarded the prestigious title of ‘Most Scenic Route in India’ by the India Today Tourism Survey and Awards, as reported by the Sikkim government.

• Places to Cover: Nathang Valley, Gangtok, and Zuluk
• Popular Attractions: Kupup Lake (Elephant Lake), Nathu La (14,450 ft), Tsongmo (Changu) Lake, Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple (old and new), Thambi View Point, and Silk Route
• Best Time to Visit: March-May and October-December
• Best for: Long-duration trips to explore without rushing, and travellers with family
• Avoid if: You dislike crowds or have no experience with high-altitude travel before.

For Nathu La Travellers: Nathu La is open from May to mid-November. Only Indian travellers are allowed; it’s closed to foreign nationals.

West Sikkim

West Sikkim is best known for its trekking trails, like the Goechala Trek and Barsey Rhododendron Trail Trek. It’s one of the most scenic regions of Sikkim and offers you the closest and clearest views of Kangchenjunga, especially in early mornings between October and February. Pelling is its main hub since it's well-connected to the attractions and one of the quieter parts of Sikkim.

• Places to Cover: Pelling, Yuksum, and Ravangla
• Popular Attractions: Buddhist Sanga Choling Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse ruins, Pelling Skywalk, Rimbi Waterfalls, Kecheopalri Lake, Kecheopalri Monastery, Kathok Lake, Kangchendzongha National Park, Buddha Park, Bon Monastery, Ralong Hot Springs, Rhododendron forests, and Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary
• Best Time to Visit: March-May and October-December
• Best for: Solo travellers, trek-lovers, and forest-lovers
• Avoid if: You want clear peak views (West Sikkim gets frequently foggy in winter) and prefer lively destinations (Pelling can feel too quiet and slow in the off-season).

Thrillophilia 2025 Travel Data: Based on a dataset of 76,000+ multi-day trips and 210,000+ travellers in 2025, single-base Sikkim itineraries with North Sikkim as day excursions have risen in popularity by 36%. This has replaced the old-day trend of attempting to cover all four regions in a single trip. Travellers prefer quality-focused trips, not quantity anymore.

Most Popular Sikkim Tour Packages of Thrillophilia 2026

The package prices vary based on seasons, duration, and add-on experiences.

1. Highlights of North Sikkim | FREE Visit to Bhim Nala Falls

• Duration: 6 days and 5 nights
• Cost: Starts at INR 25,000 per adult
• Region Covered: East-North Sikkim
• Best Season for this Package: April-June and September-November

Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival in Siliguri | Transfer to Gangtok | Day at Leisure
• Day 2: Gangtok Sightseeing Tour
• Day 3: Transfer to Lachen via Chungthang Town
• Day 4: Transfer to Lachung | North Sikkim Sightseeing Tour
• Day 5: Transfer to Gangtok | Visit to Yumthang Valley
• Day 6: Transfer to Siliguri | Departure Day

Why Should You Choose This Package: The itinerary is designed for gradual altitude gain. So, if it’s your first time experiencing high altitude, the flow of your travel will ease you into it. We recommend this package if you plan on exploring North Sikkim specifically. This also works if you are a first-time traveller to Sikkim on a budget because this covers most of the tourist attractions Sikkim is known for.

2. Exclusive Sikkim | FREE Ropeway Adventure

• Duration: 10 days and 9 nights
• Cost: Starting at INR 43,000 per adult
• Region Covered: Full Sikkim+Darjeeling
• Best Season For This Package: March-May

Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival in Gangtok | Day at Leisure
• Day 2: Day tour of Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir
• Day 3: Transfer to Lachen | En route Sightseeing
• Day 4: Transfer to Lachung | En route Sightseeing
• Day 5: Transfer to Gangtok | Yumthang Valley Sightseeing tour
• Day 6: Transfer to Pelling | En route Sightseeing
• Day 7: Pelling City Tour
• Day 8: Transfer to Darjeeling
• Day 9: Darjeeling Sightseeing Tour
• Day 10: Departure Day

Why Should You Choose This Package: This package is a combined tour of both Sikkim and Darjeeling, two of the most popular Northeast Indian destinations. The duration is perfect for you to cover all the destinations without any rush. We suggest this if you plan on visiting with family or friends.

Thrillophilia Traveller Note: 

Murugan T, a traveller from Chennai, who booked the Exclusive Sikkim | FREE Ropeway Adventure, said, “A perfect blend of nature and comfort. The itinerary was not too hectic, allowing us to enjoy each scenic point thoroughly. Great service by the ground team.” 

Verified Thrillophilia booking, March 2026 departure

Sikkim Package Inclusions

• Accommodations: We include overnight stays in all our packages.
• Transfers: Local transfers and airport transfers are always included (all transfers are done via 4WD SUVs, as mandatory for North Sikkim mountain roads).
• Guided Sightseeing: All sightseeing spots in your itinerary with a local guide are included.
• Select Meals: Breakfasts with clearly marked vegetarian options are always included in our packages. Other meals and Jain options can also be arranged upon request. 
• 24/7 On-trip Support: We always monitor your trip status to ensure your safety and itinerary coverage. In case of any issues, we urge you to reach out immediately to us for support.

Every Sikkim travel package from Thrillophilia includes all PAP permits for all the protected/restricted zones in your itinerary. This ensures you don’t face any last-minute hassle during your trip and can travel safely. 

Sikkim Package Exclusions

• Personal Expenses: Shopping and other similar expenses are not included.
• Meals Not Mentioned in Itinerary: Apart from breakfast, other meals are only available as an add-on, not a default.
• Entrance Fees for Attractions: Tickets for attractions not mentioned in your itinerary are not included in the package.
• Travel Insurance: For INR 500–1000 per person, we recommend adding travel insurance to your package for peace of mind and protection against unforeseen situations.

How Thrillophilia Plans Your Sikkim Trip

We don’t just put some destinations together; we take responsibility for your experience and for its outcome. Every Sikkim tour package is built after conducting availability checks for every aspect, from hotels to guides. Before we confirm a package, we verify the current permit terms and conditions for all Protected Area Permit (PAP) zones on your itinerary. This includes Tsomgo Lake, Nathu La, Gurudongmar Lake, Yumthang Valley, and the Silk Route. Since same-day permits are not issued according to the 2026 guidelines, we confirm the permits before we finalise your itinerary.

We have on-ground local experts for regular updates on weather, road, and border conditions, along with any permit guideline changes. For example, all North Sikkim roads require 4WD SUVs, not standard sedans. This helps us to design our packages accordingly so that your safety and comfort are never compromised during the trip.

We take AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) precautions very seriously for all our travellers. We prioritise gradually building up your altitude instead of directly taking you to a high point. Day 1 of your arrival is always in Gangtok (5,500 - 5,600 ft) before going to Lachen (8,838 ft) and then to Gurudongmar Lake at 17,100 ft. Any exception to this sequence is not optional for any of our Sikkim packages. 

What Does this Mean for You

• All PAP permits are arranged before your departure. Same-day permits are no longer allowed.
• Every North Sikkim plan has a built-in Toong Police Check Post 4 pm curfew.
• All transfer schedules are designed with single-vehicle crossing of the Taram Chu Bridge in consideration.
• For any itinerary with a high-altitude excursion, Day 1 is always in Gangtok to slow the altitude exposure. This is a non-negotiable precaution against AMS.
• We plan in advance for weather-sensitive days in North Sikkim with alternative indoor activities in Gangtok.
• All vehicles are confirmed 4WD SUVs as per North Sikkim tourism guidelines.

Thrillophilia Traveller Note:

Sneha Kulkarni, a traveller from Mumbai, who booked the North East Family Trip | FREE Toy Train Ride, said, “Choosing this Sikkim package from Mumbai was the best decision for our annual family outing. The itinerary was perfectly balanced between sightseeing and relaxation. My kids were fascinated by the Rumtek Monastery and the giant Buddha statue in Ravangla. The hotels selected were centrally located, making evening strolls at MG Marg very convenient. We appreciated the flexibility of the itinerary; the team adjusted our Pelling sightseeing schedule when we wanted more time at the Skywalk. Since we were travelling with seniors, the minimal walking and comfortable private car were huge pluses.”

Verified Thrillophilia booking, March 2026 departure

Important Travel Guidelines For Your Sikkim Trip

These are some important guidelines you need to be mindful of for your Sikkim trip. 

• ID Proof Requirement: Every traveller has to provide valid government ID proof at the time of booking and upon arrival. (Aadhaar Card, Passport, Driving Licence, Voter Card, and PAN Card)
• Vehicle AC Restrictions: In certain hilly or nature-conscious regions, AC usage in vehicles is restricted
• Damage Policy: Any damage to property will be charged at the actual cost of it.
• Permit Regulation: Make sure your itinerary-specific permits are prepared as per 2026 guidelines in advance before you depart.
• Footwear for Trekking: Make sure to carry water-resistant socks and sturdy hiking shoes. Sikkim’s trails can be steep and slippery.
• Weather Preparedness: Stay prepared for sudden temperature changes and rain. Make sure to pack an umbrella and warm clothing.
• Plastic Usage and Littering Restriction: Plastic usage and littering are strictly prohibited in Sikkim and are finable offences. There are regular checkpoints, so be careful.
• Avoid Smoking in Public: Smoking in public in Sikkim is a finable offence, so be aware.

2026 North Sikkim Rules And Regulations

• Same-day permits are not an option. They have to be obtained at least 1 day in advance.
• Minimum stay at the Lachen-Lachung circuit: 3 days and 2 nights. Maximum stay: 6 days and 5 nights.
• All vehicles have to cross the Toong Police Check Post before 4 pm, both uphill and downhill.
• Taram Chu Bridge: Single-lane, one vehicle at a time
• PAP requirement zones: Tsomgo Lake, Nathu La (Indians only, foreigners not permitted), Gurudongmar Lake, Yumthang Valley, and Silk Route/Zuluk
• For foreign nationals, a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) and a Protected Area Permit (PAP) are now 100% digitalised. You can apply via the e-FRRO portal. Physical permits are no longer allowed.

High Altitude Health Warning

• Travelling directly to heights over 12,000 ft carries the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Never skip a night before in Gangtok at 5,500 - 5,600 ft before going higher.
• Symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and headaches require medical attention. If severe, descend immediately.
• Before travelling, we advise you to consult your doctor about Diamox.
• For children under 5 and those with heart, hypertension, or respiratory issues, we suggest seeking medical advice before travelling to altitudes over 12,000 ft.

Best Time to Visit Sikkim

1. Spring (March to May)

• Temperature: 10°C to 15°C
• Weather: Cold and breezy – A perfect escape from the heat. 
• Best for: Rhododendron blooms peak, late March to mid-April; Yumthang wildflowers, March to May

Thrillophilia’s Insight: This is the peak season of Sikkim tourism. Thrillophilia’s internal travel data noted a 160% rise in Sikkim bookings in May 2025 alone. Book your flight or train tickets at least 3-4 months in advance.

2. Summer (June to July)

• Temperature: 15°C to 25°C
• Weather: Sunshine with cool mountain air all over Sikkim
• Best for: Outdoor activities like hiking, sightseeing, river rafting, etc.

Thrillophilia’s Insight: Although North Sikkim permits are issued, there might be some weather-related closures. Make sure to have alternative indoor plans.

3. Monsoon (August to September)

• Temperature: 10°C to 20°C
• Weather: Despite the rainfall, the weather is overall very pleasant.
• Best for: dramatic visuals of mist-covered mountains, fewer crowds, slow days, cafe hopping and monastery visits. 

Thrillophilia’s Insight: In June 2025, approximately 1500 travellers were stranded in Lachen and Lachung due to a cloudburst, as reported by The Hindu. Make sure to always check the DCPR Mangan road status before travelling in North Sikkim in the monsoon. Pack water-resistant socks and jackets for this window.

4. Autumn (October to November)

• Temperature: 10°C to 15°C
• Weather: Cold and breezy, much like spring
• Best for: Dzongri and Goechala trekking season, giving the best views of Kangchenjunga.

Thrillophilia’s Insight: Due to more stable access to routes to Yumthang Valley and Gurudongmar Lake, North Sikkim permits fill up really fast. We suggest booking at least 3-4 weeks in advance to ensure permit availability.

5. Winter (December to February)

• Temperature: -5°C to 10°C
• Weather: Extreme cold conditions with chances of snowfall at higher altitudes
• Best for: Easy snow access, sledding, and other snow activities near Lake Tsomgo

Thrillophilia’s Insight: Many travellers are flocking to Sikkim for the winter experience lately. January 2025 attracted 190,000+ travellers. However, expect road closure and limited accessibility to North Sikkim attractions. 

According to Thrillophilia's 2025 internal booking data, October and April are the peak windows of departure for Sikkim. We suggest booking at least 6-8 weeks in advance for these months.

Common Sikkim Trip Planning Mistakes and How Thrillophilia Avoids Them

A Sikkim trip might look straightforward in writing. But if permit systems, North Sikkim road conditions, and altitude logistics are not planned in advance, it can ruin your experience when you actually visit the place. 

Here are some common planning mistakes and how we at Thrillophilia design our itineraries to avoid them altogether so that you have a smooth, healthy and hassle-free trip.

Mistake 1: Visiting Gurudongmar Lake without altitude adjustment

Direct exposure to altitudes above 12,000 ft without easing into it can risk Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). So if you think you can arrive at Gangtok (5,500 - 5,600 ft) and go to Gurudongmar the next morning at 17,100 ft, think again.

How We Avoid This: All of our North Sikkim itineraries follow the sequence of Gangtok (5,500 - 5,600 ft), then Lachen (8,838 ft) and then to Gurudongmar Lake (17,100 ft). This eases you into the altitude difference and significantly lowers the risk of AMS. We never reverse or change this sequence, for your safety.

Mistake 2: Booking North Sikkim without confirming the current status of your PAP

Permits are easy to arrange for, but if somehow missed, they can result in safety concerns at checkpoints. Since the Lachen route was closed for 887 days until March 9, 2026, single-day permits are no longer issued. You need to book at least 1 day in advance.

How We Avoid This: We confirm permit availability before your North Sikkim trip is even finalised. This lets us ensure a smooth experience for you regarding one of the biggest elements when it comes to North Sikkim trips.

Mistake 3: Lachen and Lachung can both be covered from Gangtok in a single day

This is a grave mistake that most first-time travellers make. Lachen and Lachung are in completely opposite directions from Chungthang. Trying to cover both in one day would result in nothing but rushing and tiring yourself out.

How We Avoid This: Our itineraries plan a whole day each for Lachen and Lachung. Both these places have a lot to cover and need dedicated days if you want to actually explore them.

Mistake 4: Underestimating the 4 PM Checkpoint Curfew

All vehicles have to cross the Toong Police Check Post before 4 pm. Ignoring this curfew might result in overnight detention at the checkpoint. 

How We Avoid This: All your days are planned with the curfew time in mind. So sightseeing and travels are planned in reverse to completely avoid the risk of getting detained.

Mistake 5: Travelling to North Sikkim in the monsoon without any alternate plan

July to September is very unpredictable in North Sikkim. The roads are slippery and steep, and often closed with no notice beforehand. 

How We Avoid This: Every North Sikkim monsoon itinerary is planned with a backup itinerary. It focuses on indoor activities around low-altitude areas like Gangtok. It doesn’t limit your experience but broadens it. Gangtok monsoons in the evenings are charming. Chatting away with the locals over plates of steaming momos and thukpa makes memories that you hold close for years.

How to Reach Sikkim

You can travel to Sikkim in three ways. Whether you travel by air, road, or train, you’d have to take either a shared jeep or a private car to reach Sikkim from Gangtok. Here’s a guide on how you can reach Sikkim in 3 ways. 

1. By Air

There are two airports from which you can reach Gangtok. 

Pakyong Airport (PYG): It is Sikkim’s only airport and is the closest to Gangtok. It is also India’s fifth-highest airport, at 4,593 ft. 

Flight Options: PYG receives daily operational flights from Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati every day via Air India and SpiceJet (subject to operational schedules). Pakyong does not operate any international flight routes.

Bagdogra Airport (IXB): This is the most reliable entry point for a Sikkim trip if you’re travelling by air. It’s connected to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bangalore. However, it’s located 124 km away from Gangtok, which means 3.5-4 hours of additional travelling time via road.

Flight Options: Daily operational flights by IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India Express, and Vistara. It also connects certain neighbouring international destinations like Paro (Bhutan) and Bangkok (Thailand).

2. By Rail

Although Sikkim doesn’t have its own station yet, you can easily reach it via Siliguri at a distance of 146 km and New Jalpaiguri Junction, which is 120–125 km away. Multiple trains connect both Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri with cities like Kolkata, Guwahati, Mumbai, and Delhi.

Common Operating Trains: Teesta Torsa Express, DBRT Rajdhani Express, Brahmaputra Mail, Karambhoomi, and Avadh Assam Express

Rail Commute Duration Sample: Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri (NJP) via Padatik Express takes around 8 hours. Delhi to NJP via Darjeeling Mail takes around 22 hours.

Thrillophilia Update: A Shivok-Rangpo railway line is under construction and expected to be completed by 2026-27. This would bring in direct rail connectivity to Sikkim for the first time.

3. By Road

Turning your journey to Sikkim into a 4-5 hour road trip from Siliguri or New Jalpaiguri can be very rewarding. When you proceed through NH10, you are greeted with a scenic route with mountains all around you and the Teesta River flowing right along with you.

Sikkim offers government buses, Sikkim Nationalised Transport (SNT), for the journey from Siliguri to Gangtok. The bus route from Siliguri, Bagdogra, and New Jalpaiguri meets at the Sevoke Road and then proceeds via NH10.

You can take a shared jeep with a per-person rate or cabs to make the journey from New Jalpaiguri Junction railway station and Bagdogra Airport to Sikkim via the same route.

Expenses

• Shared Jeep (3-4 hours): INR 200-300 per person
• SNT buses (daily, 4-5 hours): INR 130-140 per person

Note: All Thrillophilia packages include Bagdogra/NJP transfers.

Places to Visit in Sikkim

Sikkim is a diverse state that offers mountains, meadows, rivers, forests, and adventurous experiences suiting every traveller type. Here are some of the most popular places you can visit on your Sikkim trip

1. Tsomgo Lake

Tsomho Lake in East Sikkim, this glacial lake is also known as the Changu Lake. During winters, the entire lake freezes up, and during summer, the edge of the lake is lined with blooms of rhododendrons along with blue and yellow poppies, primulas, irises and others. If you’re lucky, you might even spot red pandas here during this time while enjoying a yak ride!

• Altitude: 12,400 ft
• PAP Required: Yes
• Best Time To Visit: April-May and October-November
• Yak Rides: INR 50-100 per person

2. Nathu La 

Located 56 km from Gangtok on the Indo-Tibetan border, Nathu La is one of the highest motorable roads in the world. Open only to Indian nationals, you can take a scenic yak safari and watch the border gates from here. You can also visit the war memorial, the Exhibition Centre of the Indian Army, and Mt Chomolhari.

• Altitude: 14,450 ft
• PAP Required: Yes
• Open: May to mid-November, Wednesdays-Sundays (closed on public holidays)

3. Gurudongmar Lake

The second-highest lake in India, this alpine lake is named after Guru Padmasambhava. This is the major water source for the Teesta River. Held sacred by Hindus, Buddhists, and Sikhs alike, Lake Gurudongmar is located very close to the Tibetan border. This location has been opened for tourists again after a 887-day ban from March 9, 2026.

It’s very important to keep in mind that all vehicles must clear the Toong Police Checkpoint by 4 pm.

• Altitude: 17,100 ft
• PAP Required: Yes
• Best Time to Visit: April-June and October-December

4. Gangtok

The capital of Sikkim, Gangtok, is the base location for all our Sikkim trips. MG Marg, in the heart of Gangtok, is where you go for all your shopping and souvenir needs. With the Gangtok Ropeway and paragliding activities, Tashi Viewpoint, and the monasteries, Gangtok has something for everyone. If you time your visit just right, then you can visit the Gangtok Food and Culture Festival in December!

• Altitude: 5,500 - 5,600 ft
• PAP Required: No
• Best Time to Visit: March-June and October-February
• Gangtok Ropeway: INR 250 for adults, INR 85 for children (3-5 years). Additional charges apply for cameras. It’s operable from 9 am to 5 pm daily.
• Paragliding: Tandem from Baliman Busty or Tashi viewpoint. INR 2,500–4,000 per person

5. Yumthang Valley of Flowers

Spread over a distance of 34 square km, Yumthang Valley is completely covered in a variety of flowers, especially rhododendron blooms, during springtime. A visit here means witnessing postcard-worthy scenery with crab apples and strawberries growing along the slopes and yaks and cattle grazing across the pastures. Did we mention the year-round hot springs yet? You will also find Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary here, housing over 21 different types of rhododendron. 

• Altitude: 11,800 ft
• PAP Required: Yes
• Best Time to Visit: March-May (wildflower season)
• Hand Gliding: The price starts at INR 2500 per person, approx. and is available from mid-May to June and September to mid-October

6. Goechala

This place is for all the trekking enthusiasts. Goechala serves as the base camp for guided trekking routes to higher altitudes through the Kangchenjunga National Park. If trekking is not on your mind, don't worry. Goechala is also known for being one of the best locations for watching sunrises over the south face of Mt Kangchenjunga (8,586 m).

• Altitude: 16,207 ft
• Permit Requirement: PAP/RAP for foreign nationals, permit from Yuksom Checkpost and local police registration for Indian nationals
• Best Time to Visit: October-November and April-May
• Trek: 9-11 days from Yuksom; cost ranges from INR 15,000 to INR 22,500 per person. Trekking packages include permits, food, tents, and guide fees.

All price estimates are subject to change depending on the season.

Best Hill Stations in Sikkim

1. Pelling

Pelling is a hill station filled with sacred symbolism and peaceful surroundings, and beautiful views of Kangchenjunga, especially from the Skywalk. The Pemayangtse Monastery, Rimbi Waterfall and the organic local markets are some of its most beloved attractions. If you have any wishes that need fulfilling, you should test your luck at the sacred Khecheopalri Lake, which is believed to fulfil wishes!

• Altitude: 6,800 ft
• PAP Required: Only for foreign nationals
• Distance from Gangtok: 118km
• Best Time to Visit: March-May and October-February
• Pelling Skywalk: Entry tickets are INR 100 per person. Visit before 9 am for the best views

2. Lachen

Located in North Sikkim, Lachen is a charming hill station housing the famous Gurudongmar Lake and the Chopta Valley. It’s surrounded by mountains and meadows, perfect for trekkers and nature lovers. Apart from its natural beauty, the traditional Sikkimese architecture of the Lachen monastery is genuinely something worth seeing.

• Altitude: 8,838 ft
• PAP Required: Yes, resumed again from March 2026. At least a 1-day advance permit is mandatory now. Book 2-3 months before during peak season.
• Distance from Gangtok: 130 km 
• Best Time to Visit: March-June and October-November

3. Lachung

This is home to the Yumthang Valley, popularly known as the Valley of Flowers. With the 150+-year-old Lachung Monastery (Nyingma lineage) surrounded by snow peaks and trekking trails, Lachung is a place for both spiritual travellers and trekking enthusiasts.

• Altitude: 8,967 ft
• PAP Required: Yes, with at least 1-day in advance booking
• Distance from Gangtok: 118 km 
• Best Time to Visit: March-May and October-February

Sikkim Trip Cost - Budget to Luxury Breakdown

Understanding a trip’s budget breakdown can be confusing. All Thrillophilia Sikkim tour packages are designed with tiers ranging from budget to luxury without limiting your experiences.

Here’s a cost breakdown of a Sikkim trip, from budget to luxury, based on a standard 5-day itinerary.

1. Budget Tier

Per Person/Day: INR 2000-3000

5-Night Total (Transfer + Accommodation): INR 12,500-18,000 

Inclusions: 3-star guesthouse, breakfast, shared transfers, and all PAPs as required

2. Mid-range Tier

Per Person/Day: INR 4000-6000

5-Night Total (Transfer + Accommodation): INR 22,500-35,000

Inclusions: 4-star hotel, all meals, private 4WD SUV, guided tours, and all PAPs as required

3. Luxury Tier

Per Person/Day: INR 8000-12000

5-Night Total (Transfer + Accommodation): INR 45,500-65,000

Inclusions: Boutique property, all meals, private car, curated experiences, and all PAPs as required

All the price estimates are land-only. From major Indian cities, flights to Bagdogra add INR 5000-15000 to your cost breakdown.

Based on Thrillophilia’s 2026 Booking Data

• Our Sikkim tour packages range from INR 19,000 for budget 5-day trips to North and East Sikkim to INR 43,000 for a 10-day full Sikkim coverage along with Darjeeling sightseeing.
• Our data notes that the average expenses on a domestic multi-day package for a Sikkim trip have increased by 22% and reached INR 78,000 per person, including flights. This is because travellers are increasingly choosing private itineraries instead of group/shared tours.