Travel to Sikkim

Lying on the foothills of the majestic Himalayas, the sleepy state of Sikkim is small but a picture perfect destination. So enchanting is its Alpine beauty, it is often dubbed as the "Switzerland of the East".

Travel to Sikkim
Travel to Sikkim

A travel to Sikkim would take you to the land of ice-capped mountains, rolling slopes clad in thick Alpine woods. Steep heights and plunging gorges, stretched covered in snow - that is what Sikkim sums up.

Travel to Sikkim to see the lovely interplay of clouds and mountain peaks in the sapphire sky. Take a peek at the Mount Kanchendzonga as the sun rises and the beams lend it a golden hue. It is the third highest peak in the world and also the guardian deity of the land.

This is the land of quaint little hamlets peeping out from the towering junipers and rhododendrons. Drive uphill to the placid lakes and mystic old monasteries. Listen to the clang of prayer bells as the prayer flags flutter in the wind. Here legends and natural splendor lies entwined into each other.

Travel to Sikkim to raft through the turbulent and foaming white waters of the Teesta and the Rangit as they rush down to the plains.

                                                Best Time to Visit Sikkim
Keeping in mind the above mentioned climatic conditions, the best time to visit the mountaineering state are the months of April and May. This is the time of the year, which observes the full bloom of orchids and rhododendrons.

                                                 How to Reach Sikkim
On the foothills of the Himalayas, the tiny state of Sikkim is often referred to as the "Switzerland of the East". Lofty, mist-clad mountains dominate the skyline of Sikkim. The gurgling river of the Teesta rushes through the hilly terrains lending the region breathtaking beauty.

By Air

Sikkim does not has its own airport. The nearest Airport is Bagdogra (near Siliguri) in West Bengal, which lies only 125 km away from Gangtok the capital of Sikkim. Bagdogra is connected to cities like Delhi and Kolkata by regular flights.

By Road

Although the state of Sikkim lies at the foothills of the Himalayas, it has a good network of roads. Sikkim can be entered through northern areas of West Bengal. Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Siliguri are directly connected to Gangtok and other cities of the state. But during the monsoon seasons sometimes, landslides create temporary problems in road transport.

By Rail

Sikkim does not have any rail network in its boundary. The nearest Railways Station is New Jalpaiguri (near Siliguri), which is connected to Gangtok by road. New Jalpaiguri boasts of an extensive rail network with major Railway Stations in India, such as Kolkata, Delhi. It is also conveniently linked to the cities of Northeastern India like, Guwahati.

Shopping in Sikkim
Although Sikkim is not an ideal shopping hotspot, still shopping is Sikkim may turn out to be a true pleasure if you know what to shop and where. Sikkim has its fair share of traditional arts and crafts that may lead you to a shopping spree in Sikkim.

Sikkim Handicrafts and Markets

Sikkim's claim to fame lies in woven woolen carpets and blankets embellished in unique designs and traditional Sikkimese motifs.

These articles are durable plush and are dyed not with synthetic dyes but traditional vegetable Sikkimese dyes.
Sikkim also boasts of its traditional paintings called Thangkas on cotton canvas and often framed with silk. Along with that wood-carved artifacts are also interesting items for shopping in Sikkim. Exquisite Choksee table designed in Tibetan style is also a must buy for avid shoppers.

While shopping in Sikkim, look for:

The best place for shopping in Sikkim is Gangtok, the capital city. Many Government Emporia and private run shops are located in the main market area on Mahatma Gandhi Marg.

Tibetan Handicrafts centre is also a good place for shopping in Sikkim.

 Places to See in Sikkim
Sikkim is situated at the foot of Mount Kanchendzonga and boasts of an unexplored beauty. The lofty mountains dominate the skyline of Sikkim and invites tourists in its snow clad peaks, green emerald slopes, rushing streams, tall Rhododendrons and sparkling orchids. Hilltop monasteries emerge from the rugged terrains while multi-colored prayer flags wave in the mountain breeze.

Gangtok
Category : History & Culture                                        
Gangtok
Tsomgo Lake The capital of Sikkim is a charming and picturesque town, straddling with striking houses spilling down the hillside. The city has a fusion of traditional customs and modern way of living which makes the place unique. It's a beautiful town with all modern amenities that one can ask for.



Tsomgo Lake
Category : Nature
The lake is about a kilometer long, oval in shape and is considered very holy by the locals. Between May to August, the lake area is spectacular with a display of rare flowers including the primulas, iris and blue & yellow poppies. The lake has a number of aquatic and aerial species and is a perfect habitat for the red panda. The lake freezes in winter.


Nathula Pass
Category : Nature
At an altitude of 14200 ft, the pass is located on the Indo-China border and connects Sikkim to Tibet Autonomous Region in China. The journey itself is an exhilarating experience, with mist covered peaks, zigzag roads and roaring waterfalls, the passage is simply amazing. Visitors are required to get a permit to visit the place.

Nathula Pass

Pelling
Category : Nature
Pelling is rapidly becoming a popular tourist destination. At an altitude of 6800 ft, it's the most excellent place to get a closest view of the world's 3rd highest peak Mt. Kanchendzonga. Apart from the innate beauty of the place, other attractions in Pelling are the Sanga Choeling Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery and the Khecheopalri Lake.

Pelling

Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden
Category : Garden
Established in 1987 the Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden is situated near Rumtek Monastery and is looked after by the Forest Department of the Sikkim Government.
Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden

The garden is distinguished by enchanting lush woodlands of Oak, different kinds of trees and orchids.

Sikkim Research Institute of Tibetology
Category : History & Culture
It is a nationally well known centre of Tibetan Studies & Research. The institute is renowned for its huge collection of rare manuscripts, Buddhist books and icons. The building is an excellent example of Tibetan architecture, surrounded by small forests of oak and birch trees. The institute also houses religious works of art and amazing silk embroidered paintings.

Apart from these popular places, Sikkim provides various other places that are popular among tourist. These are:
  • Enchey Monastery
  • Sa-Ngor-Chotshog Monastery
  • Tashiding Monastery
  • Phodong Monastery
  • Phensang Monastery
  • Saramsa Garden
  • Tashi View Point
  • Rabdentse Ruins
  • Soreng
  • Lachung
  • Yumthang
  • Guru-Dongmar Lake.

Tourist Destination Near Sikkim

DarjeelingDarjeeling
One of the most captivating tourist places near Sikkim with popular toy train ride to famous Darjeeling tea plantations. There are lots of tourist attractions at this place.








Siliguri
SiliguriWith its exquisite landscape, distant views of the snow capped peaks and myriad vegetation, Siliguri is a place where tourist can enjoy nature fully.








Kalimpong 
Kalimpong
A fascinating tourist destination near Sikkim which acknowledges its rustic charm, dotted with numerous orchids and monasteries. It's an ideal place for relaxed vacations against the picturesque backdrop of the Himalayas and also a great place for adventure junkies.


Mirik 

Mirik
Popular for its famous Lake and lovely surroundings, this exotic place is perfect for romantic holidays for the newly weds.







Tourist Map Of Sikkim
Tourist Map Of Sikkim


Cuisine of Sikkim
It is famous to food lovers for its traditional cuisine of Himalayas. Rice is the basis of Sikkim cuisine. Besides that, the famous restaurants here even serve non-vegetarian Indian, Tibetan, Nepalese, Chinese and Italian cuisines along with brewed beer and other beverages. The Sikkim restaurants serve mouth-watering Momo, Pakku (Mutton curry), Thukpa, Chhurpi (conventional cottage cheese) etc. Following are the names of a few famous restaurants found there:
  • China Palate in New Market
  • Dragon's Den on M. G. Marg
  • Little Italy in Deorali
  • Oberoi's Barbeque in New Market
Vegetarians can visit the following restaurants:
  • Parivar Restaurant in M. G. Marg
  • Metro's Fast Food at NH 31A
  • Krishna Restaurant
Hotels in Sikkim
The hotels in Sikkim are another feather in the cap of Sikkim tourism. Sikkim tourism implies a vivid tour across the different destinations housed throughout length and breadth of the territory. The hotels of Sikkim help the tourists to lodge and board in the territory of Sikkim.


Although Sikkim is a small state posited in the Himalayan ranges; yet, we come across a number of hotels in Sikkim. These hotels at Sikkim enable the tourists to find a peaceful abode in the territory of Sikkim. In fact, the hotels in Sikkim help the tourists to find a second home in the state of Sikkim.

Thus, it goes without mention that the hotels at Sikkim are an indelible part of tourism at Sikkim. Some of the important hotels in Sikkim are:

  • Hotel Tashi Delek (4 Star)
  • Hotel Central (3 Star)
  • Denzong Inn
  • Hoteles De Bhutan
  • Turismo Del Bhutan
  • Vacances Du Tibet
  • Ferias De Tibet
  • Giri Del l Himalaya
  • The Hidden Forest Retreat
  • The Oriental
  • Curso De l' Himalaya
  • Voyage De l'Himalaya
  • Hotel Rendezvous
  • Vacacciones De Tibet
  • Giri Dell Himalaya
  • Nor-Khill Hotel (Heritage)
  • Hotel Tibet (3 Star), etc.
These hotels help the tourists in Sikkim to find a peaceful and delightful lodging. These Sikkim hotels provide the best of facilities available in the state. Among the facilities available in the hotels of Sikkim are the house keeping facilities, food, swimming pool, 24-hours room service, telephone, car rental, in-room safe, air conditioning, etc.

Luxury Hotels in Sikkim


  • The Tamarind Residency
    Address : Ridge Rd, Arithang, Gangtok
    City : Sikkim
    State : Sikkim
    Pin Code : 737116
    Phone No : 9800700755, 9641831399, 9647854733
    Fax No. : 03592 -220654
    Email ID : info@tamarindresidency.com / booking@tamarindresidency.com?
    Website : http://www.tamarindresidency.com
    Type : Luxury
    Rooms in Hotel : 10
    Minimum Room Rate : 5107
    Maximum Room Rate : 7322
  • Hitaishi Homestay
    Address : Bermiok Martam 15th mile, West Sikkim Near Dhungay House
    City : Sikkim
    State : Sikkim
    Pin Code : 737113
    Phone No : -7903311175.13
    Fax No. :
    Email ID : hitaishi.homesty@gmail.com
    Website : http://www.hitaishihomestay.com
    Type : Luxury
    Rooms in Hotel :
    Minimum Room Rate : 2400
    Maximum Room Rate : 3507
  • The Himalayan Heights
    Address : Palzor Stadium Road
    City : Sikkim
    State : Sikkim
    Pin Code : 737101
    Phone No : 91-3592-221567/221568
    Fax No. : 91-3592-227084
    Email ID :
    Website : http://www.hotelhimalayanheights.com
    Type : Luxury
    Rooms in Hotel : 20
    Minimum Room Rate : 2400
    Maximum Room Rate : 4553
  • Rhenock House
    Address : Development Area
    City : Sikkim
    State : Sikkim
    Pin Code : 737101
    Phone No : ?+91-3592-201146;201481 ,+91-98320-96281;89673-045
    Fax No. : +91-3592-201481
    Email ID : renakvilla@yahoo.co.in
    Website : http://www.renakvilla.com
    Type : Luxury
    Rooms in Hotel : 10
    Minimum Room Rate : 2584
    Maximum Room Rate : 4615
  • The Chumbi Residency
    Address : Tibet Road
    City : Sikkim
    State : Sikkim
    Pin Code : 737101
    Phone No : +91-3592-206618/206619
    Fax No. : 03592-206620
    Email ID : slg_chumbi@sancharnet.in
    Website : http://www.thechumbiresidency.com
    Type : Luxury
    Rooms in Hotel : 26
    Minimum Room Rate : 3323
    Maximum Room Rate : 5722
  • Heritage Denzong Regency
    Address : Cherry Banks
    City : Sikkim
    State : Sikkim
    Pin Code : 737101
    Phone No : +91-3592-201566,201567
    Fax No. : -205069
    Email ID : reservations@denzongregency.com
    Website : http://www.denzongregency.com
    Type : Luxury
    Rooms in Hotel : 24
    Minimum Room Rate : 9045
    Maximum Room Rate : 12245
  • Hotel Singalila Mingyur
    Address : Indira Bypass Near D.C. Office, Gangtok
    City : Sikkim
    State : Sikkim
    Pin Code : 737101
    Phone No : 03592-284101 9735054125 / 94348-67100 / 96098-711
    Fax No. :
    Email ID : hotelsingalilamingyur@gmail.com
    Website : http://www.hotelsingalilamingyur.com
    Type : Luxury
    Rooms in Hotel : 15
    Minimum Room Rate : 1538
    Maximum Room Rate : 3876
  • Hotel Tenancy
    Address : Old Private Jeep Stand
    City : Sikkim
    State : Sikkim
    Pin Code : 737101
    Phone No : (03592) 201322?
    Fax No. :
    Email ID :
    Website : http://hoteltenancy.com
    Type : Luxury
    Rooms in Hotel : 11
    Minimum Room Rate : 950
    Maximum Room Rate : 1550
  • Aashishkhim Guest House
    Address : Indira Bypass, Helipad Road
    City : Sikkim
    State : Sikkim
    Pin Code : 737101
    Phone No : 91-03592 - 284500 / 9932308551 / 9933027052
    Fax No. :
    Email ID : info@aashishkhim.com
    Website : http://www.aashishkhim.com
    Type : Luxury
    Rooms in Hotel : 4
    Minimum Room Rate : 600
    Maximum Room Rate : 1200

Budget Hotels in Sikkim

  • Hotel Pomra
    Address : Bhanupath, Secretariat Road
    City : Sikkim
    State : Sikkim
    Pin Code : 737101
    Phone No : +91-9933440084 , +91-9932506466
    Fax No. :
    Email ID : pomrahotel@gmail.com
    Website : http://hotelpomra.com
    Type : Budget Hotel
    Rooms in Hotel : 14
    Minimum Room Rate : 1045
    Maximum Room Rate : 1045
Tourist Map Of Sikkim


  • Hotel Hungry Jack
    Address : Near Bansilal Petrol Pump, Gangtok
    City : Sikkim
    State : Sikkim
    Pin Code : 737101
    Phone No : 03592 228 138
    Fax No. :
    Email ID :
    Website :
    Type : Budget Hotel
    Rooms in Hotel :
    Minimum Room Rate : 1292
    Maximum Room Rate : 1538

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