Tucked away quietly at the foothill of Himalayas, Sikkim is a gorgeous destination that you cannot miss out on. Although it is the second smallest state in India, this doesn’t dim the beauty and charm that exudes out of every corner of this wonderful state. And with so many breathtaking places to visit in Sikkim, you will have a hard time leaving this state once your trip is over.
This is a place that will make you fall in love with traveling if you aren’t already. A place which will bestow upon you so much kindness and love and will display in front of you so many colors that you would fall in love with your life, all over again.
Although you might feel that since Sikkim is a small state, there might not be a lot to visit around. However, this is untrue. Even ten days are less to witness all the beautiful cities and valleys because there are just so many amazing places to visit in Sikkim.
Check out a few of these stunning places to visit in Sikkim to enjoy a blissful trip to this wonderland.
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Also Read: Souvenirs to Buy in Sikkim
Top Places to Visit in Sikkim
Gangtok, North Sikkim
Capital of the mountainous northeastern state of India, Sikkim, Gangtok is one of the cleanest hill stations in India and one of the top places to visit in Sikkim. A popular Tibetan Buddhist center, Gangtok is also the base for getting permits to hike and trek to other spots in Sikkim. But that is not all, the mall road in Gangtok is extremely clean and is a popular shopping hub over her. And this is one of the top Sikkim tourist places to admire, as, after the nightfall, the whole street is bathed in golden lights.
You will also find authentic Sikkimese food over here which makes it such a nice stopover. Moreover, this is the place from where you can reach the famous Tsomgo Lake and the Nathula Pass and can make your way further to the northern Sikkim.
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To know more about how to travel in and around Gangtok, read our North West Sikkim Guide
Lingdum Monastery (Ranka Monastery)
One of the best places to visit in Sikkim, Lingdum Monastery is not frequently visited by people because not many know or care about it. Also, if you are hiring a private taxi, the cab drivers won’t inform you about this monastery as it is not a part of the standard sightseeing packages.
However, if you have always been intrigued by the lives of monks and would delve a little deeper into the Buddhist culture then you should definitely plan a visit here. You can enjoy the mountain views and the prayer hymns that are constant at this monastery.
Ban Jhankri Falls
Another one of the top places to visit in Sikkim, especially in Gangtok is the Ban Jhankri Falls which is located inside Ban Jhakri Park. This is the perfect place to relax and enjoy yet another beautiful fall in Sikkim. Although the waterfall is not in a natural environment like the Kanchenjunga waterfalls, it is still breathtakingly beautiful.
You will also find a few food and souvenir stalls nearby where you can dress up like a Sikkimese. And you can even get your pictures clicked in the traditional outfit for just 100 INR.
Tip Top Viewpoint
Last, but not least, you need to visit the Tip Top Viewpoint, also popularly known as the Tashi Viewpoint. This is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim as you get to observe the various surrounding mountains. And although it is freezing cold at this point, a good hot cup of coffee can do wonders while you enjoy an amazing view that complements it.
Where to Stay in Gangtok
Since Gangtok is one of the top places to visit in Sikkim, you will find several accommodation options here. Here are a few options for different budget ranges:
- For budget-friendly stay, I would recommend staying in Tagalong Backpackers (for backpackers and solo travelers) and Muscatel Bellevue.
- For mid-range stays, you can check out Bamboo Retreat, Netuk House, and Enchanted Forest Farmstay.
- For a luxury stay, you can consider Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino, Sikkim Villa Tosca – A Boutique Aparthotel, and The Elgin Norkhill – Resort and Spa.
You can even check for the suitable accommodations in the below Search box.
Rumtek Monastery, North Sikkim
Located at a distance of 22 km from Gangtok is the Rumtek Monastery which is also one of the best places to visit in Sikkim. At an elevation of approximately 5000ft, this monastery is the largest and most important Buddhist monasteries in Sikkim. The monastery houses thousands of witness monks who enjoy a normal lifestyle here and study more about Buddhist rituals and cultures.
With beautiful architecture and colors, this monastery will leave you speechless but that is nothing compared to the view offered from the top of the monastery. From the terrace, you can enjoy a gorgeous view of the Gangtok city and fall in love with it.
Dzongu, North Sikkim
Inhabited by the Lepcha community, Dzongu Valley is another one of the most amazing places to visit in Sikkim as it offers the most majestic views of the Kanchenjunga mountain. A place that is bounded by the Teesta River in its southeast and Tholung Chu River in the North East, Dzongu is really green, beautiful, and peaceful. There is plenty of vegetation here, most houses are made of wood here, and you will find that their specialty consists of handloom clothes, cane and bamboo products.
Dzongu has a dreamlike setting as it is covered with a thick canopy of jungles and you can hear the birds chirping and enjoy the serene atmosphere whenever you visit this place. This valley is around 20-25 km from Mangan and one needs to take a permit. This offbeat place hardly receives any tourists which is why it is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim for some fantastic views and quiet time.
Where to Stay in Dzongu
Dzongu is not one of the most popular places to visit in Sikkim so there are not many accommodation options available for this place and you will mostly find camps and homestays available here. Here are a few options to consider:
- For a budget-friendly stay, you can consider NotOnMap – Adhomoo Homestay and NotOnMap – LokSummo Homestay.
- For a mid-range stay, you can check out NotOnMap – Lum Tshering Organic Farm, Camps at Dzongu, and NotOnMap – Dibongo Homestay.
- For a luxury stay, you have Munlom Nature Resort which will pamper you and is not expensive as well.
To know more about how to travel in Dzongu, read our Exploring East Sikkim Guide
Lachung, North Sikkim
Lachung is one of the most popular places to visit in Sikkim so you will find several good accommodation options available here if you are planning to go on your own. If you are taking a package, then you don’t need to find a separate accommodation in Lachung. Here are a few options to consider:
- For a budget-friendly stay, you can check out OurGuest Bichu Homestay and Hotel Green Tara.
- For a mid-range stay, you can consider OurGuest Lachung Homestay, Summit Alpine Resort, and Summit Khangri Karpo Retreat and Spa.
- For a luxurious stay, you can stay at Etho Metho Hotel by RightClique and Jewel Kongchen Retreat & Spa.
You can even check for the suitable accommodations in the below Search box.
To know more about how to travel in Lachung, read our North West Sikkim Guide
Yumthang Valley, North Sikkim
Yumthang valley, aka Valley of Flowers of Sikkim, is situated at an elevation of 3,564 meters. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Sikkim the valley is dotted with hot springs and rolling meadows. During the summer months, you can witness the blooming of several varieties of flowers, turning this place quite colorful and gorgeous.
This valley, surrounded by the Himalayan mountains, sees a lot of snowfall throughout the year. Also, the popular Teesta river flows through this valley, giving it a more magical and dreamlike feel. We so badly wanted to visit this place but it was closed during our time. So, if you get a chance, don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity.
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Where to Stay in Yumthang Valley
There are no hotels or homestays in Yumthang as such so, your best option would be to stay in Lachung for a couple of nights to visit Yumthang Valley and Zero Point.
To know more about how to travel in Yumthang Valley, read our North West Sikkim Guide
Lachen, North Sikkim
Lachen is one of the top places to visit in Sikkim if you are planning to spend time at the Gurudongmar lake. Lachen means ‘Big Pass’ and this is one of the most popular Sikkim tourist places that is promoted by the government as well. You need a permit to visit this town but it is worth it.
From here, you can not only go to the Gurudongmar Lake but also explore the Kanchenjunga National Park, trek to the valleys and hills around here, explore the monasteries, go wildlife sighting, and a lot more. This is why it happens to be one of the most amazing places to visit in Sikkim.
Where to Stay in Lachen
Lachen is one of the most popular places to visit in Sikkim so you will find several good accommodation options available here if you are planning to go on your own. If you are taking a package, then you don’t need to find a separate accommodation in Lachung. Here are a few options to consider:
- For budget-friendly accommodations, you can check out Hotel Eco Nest and Delight Lachen Heritage.
- For mid-range accommodations, you can check out Delight The Fortuna Lachen, OurGuest Dhatup Homestay, and Rufina Blue Pine.
- For a luxury stay, you can check out Summit Panghen Metok Hotel.
Gurudongmar Lake, North Sikkim
One of the most enchanting places to visit in Sikkim, Gurudongmar lake is one of the highest lakes in the world, situated at an altitude of 17,800 ft. This holy lake in Sikkim has many legends associated with it that makes this place quite mystical and a must-visit. This lake freezes during the wintertime and you will find a lot of Yaks, blue sheep, etc. moving around the lake during that time.
If you get a chance to visit Gurudongmar Lake, don’t miss out on it. Trust me, this place will definitely be the highlight of your trip. Unfortunately, the lake was closed during our time but, we will certainly go back to visit this magical lake soon.
Where to Stay near Gurudongmar Lake
There are no hotels or homestays close to Gurudongmar Lake so, your best option would be to stay in Lachen for a couple of nights to visit the lake.
To know more about how to travel around these places, total budget, stay and other essential information, read our other post Exploring North and West Sikkim
Katao, North Sikkim
Usually, this place is covered with a thick layer of ice which makes it difficult to reach the actual village and only army vehicles will be able to cross these snow-laden roads. However, the journey itself is wonderful and everyone should experience it once.
You can go to this place by just paying 200-250 INR more to your driver who is taking you on the North Sikkim package. Just ask him to make a few hours stop at this beautiful village. Trust me, it will be the best 200 INR you have ever spent.
Where to Stay in Katao
Since Katao is one of the least known places to visit in Sikkim, there are no hotels or homestays available to book online. So, your best option would be to book a stay in Lachung or look for a local stay after reaching Katao.
To know more about how to travel in Katao, read our North West Sikkim Guide
Ravangala, South Sikkim
Another one of those awe-inspiring places to visit in Sikkim, Ravangla will definitely take your breath away. With its blue cloudy sky, lush green mountains, and the colorful Tibetan flags, this place is special and quite magical. One of the best things about this small town is 130 ft. the statue, a tall and might statue of Buddha that looks utterly magnificent.
Located in South Sikkim, Ravangala is best-known for its Buddha Park, where you can stroll around the green trees and Tibetan flags and their huge prayer wheels, while the statue pales everything in its comparison.
Underneath the statue, you will find a prayer room where you can sit and meditate for a while. There are also several beautiful paintings and statues of Buddha here, depicting his life so you can learn more about him.
In our opinion, this is one of the few places that has a touch of life, spirituality, and beauty, all packed together, which makes it one of the top places to visit in Sikkim.
Where to Stay in Ravangala
Since Ravangala is one of the most well-known places to visit in Sikkim, you will find several good accommodation options available here in different budget ranges. Here are a few options to consider:
- For a budget-friendly stay, you can check out Rain Drop Guest House, Hilltop Rabong Resort, Seven Mirrorlake Homestay, and Dokhampa Homestay.
- For a mid-range stay, you can check out Vamoosetrail Soshing and Tinkitam Farms.
Namchi, South Sikkim
Namchi, a popular pilgrimage center for Buddhists, is one of the top places to visit in Sikkim. In the native Tibetan language, Namchi means ‘Top of the Sky’ and when you visit this place, that is exactly what you will feel. Here, you will come across a tea garden by the name Temi Tea, that stretches across a large distance and makes this city look extremely magical and surreal.
If you just want to get lost in the natural beauty then this is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim. And, you can enjoy a cup of chai from one of the many roadside vendors along with the scenic views.
Apart from that, you can attain peace by visiting the Char Dham and the Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir. Shirdi Splashed with golden color from the outside, Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir looks immensely beautiful amidst all the green and you can meditate in the prayer room. Similarly, Namchi’s Char Dham looks quite amazing with its huge Lord Shiva statue. There is also a café inside Char Dham where you can sit and enjoy spending some time here.
Where to Stay in Namchi:
Namchi is one of the top places to visit in Sikkim so, you will find a few good accommodation options available here in different budget ranges. Here are a few options to consider:
- For a budget-friendly stay, check out Hotel Oak Namchi, Capital O 69881 Hotel Lasso Regency & Spa, and 4seasons Homestay.
- For a luxury stay, check out Summit Sobralia Resort & Spa and The Temi Bungalow South Sikkim.
To know more about how to travel around these places, total budget, stay and other essential information, read our other post Exploring East Sikkim
Zuluk, East Sikkim
Zuluk, a small village in Sikkim, is very close to my heart and I will go ahead and say this, that this is the place that I can visit again and again. Situated at a height of approximately 10,000ft., Zuluk is one of the offbeat places to visit in Sikkim that will make anyone fall in love with it.
Why, you ask? Well, since there is a poor network connection here, you can take a break from social media and enjoy the natural beauty around it. Also, Zuluk is located on the ancient ‘Silk Route’ and offers a great vantage point to view the might Kanchenjunga mountain.
Apart from looking magical, Zuluk is also one of the best places to visit in Sikkim for all adventure lovers as you have to cross over 32 hair-pin bends to reach here. You would need a permit to visit Zuluk but trust me, it will be completely worth it.
Where to Stay in Zuluk:
Zuluk is one of the most well-known places to visit in Sikkim so you will find a few good accommodation options available online here. However, there are several homestays available here that you won’t find online. You can check out Zuluk Dil Maya homestay and OYO 68576 Sherpa Retreat in Zuluk.
To know more about how to travel in Zuluk, read our Zuluk Travel Guide
Gnathang, East Sikkim
Gnathang or Nathang lies at a high altitude of 13,000 feet is popularly known as the ‘Ladakh of East India’ and is one of the most gorgeous places to visit in Sikkim. This village is a part of the Old Silk Route and is surrounded by gorgeous mountains and snow-capped hills.
This remote valley has a meandering stream that crosses it and is one of the remotest habitations in the Himalayas. One of the best places to visit in Sikkim, Gnathang changes colors in different seasons so the valley looks golden in autumn, white in winters, and colorful in monsoon. When you visit this place, you can explore the meadows around it and make the most of your time here.
Where to Stay in Gnathang
Gnathang is one of the least popular places to visit in Sikkim so there are no hotels or homestays available to book online. So, your best option would be to book a stay in Zuluk or look for offline stay options after reaching Gnathang.
To know more about how to travel in Nathang Valley, read our Zuluk Travel Guide
Tsomgo Lake, East Sikkim
One of the most enchanting and ethereal Sikkim Tourist Places to visit, Tsomgo Lake or Changu Lake looks even more magnificent when covered in snow. Situated at a height of 12,400ft., this is one of the highest lakes in India and is one of the top places to visit in India. The snow covers this amazing place for at least 9 months a year and offers a classic magical setting to the place.
What’s even more interesting is that during the summers, the lake water turns into the shade of turquoise and beautifully reflects the sky and the nearby peaks. During snowy months, you can enjoy playing in the snow and have the time of your life here.
To know more about how to travel in Tsomgo, read our North West Sikkim Guide
Nathula Pass, East Sikkim
Another one of the top places to visit in Sikkim, Nathula Pass gives you a chance to touch the border between China and India, an opportunity quite scarce. So, you will see Chinese soldiers at one end of the border and Indian soldiers on the other, guarding their own land. And sometimes (if you are lucky) you’ll witness them talking to each other.
In historic times, Nathula Pass was a part of the ‘Silk Road’ and it is also one of the highest motorable passes in the world. While this pass is open to Indians, you will need a permit to enter this area. Also, foreigners aren’t allowed to enter the Nathula Pass.
To know more about how to travel in Nathula Pass, read our North West Sikkim Guide
Pelling, West Sikkim
If you are a true Himalaya lover, then Pelling would undoubtedly be for you one of the best places to visit in Sikkim. Offering the most gorgeous views of the Himalayas and the Kanchenjunga, Pelling resembles a fairytale land and is one of the hardest places to leave in this state.
Pelling is a truly beautiful city in Sikkim with its historical palace, ruins, and hidden waterfalls. It offers you many magnificent places to visit which include the Kanchenjunga waterfalls, Wishing Lake, Sing Song bridge, Rabidentse’s ruins, Helipad area, and so on.
To know more about how to travel in Pelling, read our North West Sikkim Guide
Kanchenjunga Waterfalls
Make sure that you check out the Kanchenjunga Waterfalls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls I have ever seen in India. Do you know what is the best part of this waterfall?
It is not visible from the main road. Yes, that’s right! You have to make your way a little inside the mountain to actually come across the waterfall and this is one of the reasons why this is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim. You can easily spend a few hours sitting beside this waterfall and can eat or drink at the nearby stalls.
Khecheopalri Lake
Another one of those amazing places to visit in Sikkim is the Khecheopalri lake, also known as the Wishing lake. A place of worship, this place is surrounded by Buddhist flags that make this place both colorful and positive. You will truly enjoy the sun setting behind the mountains while you stand near the lake to witness it.
Where to Stay in Pelling
Since Pelling is one of the most popular places to visit in Sikkim, you will find a few good accommodation options available here in different budget ranges. Here are a few options to consider:
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- For a budget stay, you can check out Khi Gha Thang, Hotel Snow View on Cloud Nine, and Udaan Olive Hotel & Spa, Pelling.
- For a mid-range stay, you can check out Yangthang Dzimkha Resort, Treebo Trip Pine Crest, and Jain Group Hotel Sonamchen.
- For a luxury stay, you can check out The Elgin Mount Pandim and Hotel Golden Sunrise & Spa.
Well, there you have it. Our list of the top places to visit in Sikkim. Trust me, you won’t regret including any of these places in your itinerary. So, what are you waiting for? Prepare your own list of top places to visit in Sikkim and start planning now!
Did you like our list of the top amazing places to visit in Sikkim? Comment below!
Very well defined blog with beautiful pictures! Sikkim is a state in East India in the Himalayan foot hills also bordering China (Tibet), Nepal and Bhutan. The name has been coined from the words su him, which mean “beautiful home”, reflecting the beauty of its snow-covered mountains and lush green valleys.
Hi, thanks for sharing your experience and also top beautiful places located in Sikkim. Your shared pictures are really beautiful, I have not visited Sikkim yet, but I want to visit this place after reading your post.