Beautiful monastery towns, waterfalls at every turn, glacial lakes, and mountains at the backdrop, make Sikkim an ideal place to relax and unwind. This Northeastern state has so much to offer that a single trip to this destination would never seem enough. However, if you have been planning a Sikkim trip for long, here is a 5-day itinerary for an ideal Sikkim trip.
On the first day, you arrive at the Bagdogra Airport and then head to Gangtok. Note, it is better to book your taxi in advance to avoid any hassle or waste time at the airport. The road from the airport to Gangtok is relatively comfortable, as the road conditions are decent. Then, after reaching Gangtok, you can select your accommodation as per your budget.
DAY 3:Explore Gangtok and its surroundings
Since Gangtok is Sikkim’s largest town, you will be spoilt for choice here. Go on a stroll on MG Road, where you can pick some souvenirs, and enjoy some delicious momos and thukpa. You can opt to spend the afternoon at the Tibetology Museum, and learn about Buddhism, and explore some of the beautiful monasteries in the area. You can even opt to rent a car for a day, and check out places like the Tashi View Point, Tsomgo Lake, and other well-known viewpoints.
DAY 4:Drive to Lachen
This journey will take around 5 to 6 hours, depending on the road condition. What makes this trip exciting is that there are many viewpoints and waterfalls along the way. Once you reach Lachen, you will realise that the journey was totally worth it. Perched at an altitude of 2750 m, the highlights of this road trip will be the Seven Sisters Waterfalls, Singhik Viewpoint, and Chungthang. Then, after reaching Lachen, you can check in to your hotel, and take time to relax amid the scenic landscape of the region.
After having an early breakfast, you will drive to Gurudongmar Lake, which will be around a 3 hour drive from Lachen. However, since this lake is one of the world’s highest lakes, you might face high altitude breathing problems, so make sure you don’t stay here for long. Then, head back to your hotel, have lunch, and set off to explore Lachen Monastery. You can then opt to check out from your hotel, and start your drive toward Lachung, which will be around 3 hours’ drive. Needless to say, Lachung is another beautiful hamlet in North Sikkim, and is dotted with numerous sightseeing options. Stay here at night, and spend your evening as you feel like.
DAY 6:Visit Yumthang Valley, and then head back to Gangtok
After breakfast, you will head towards Yumthang Valley, which is also well-known as the Valley of Flowers. You will reach the valley from Lachung in around an hour. On the way, you will be crossing the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, which boasts of more than 120 species of rhododendron trees. Do note, skip this spot during winters, when the entire valley remains hidden beneath the blanket of white snow. While returning from this valley, you can check out the famous hot spring that is known for its medicinal properties.
Then, head towards Gangtok after having your lunch. It will be around a 6 hours’ journey, and the change of scenery on the way to Gangtok, will just mesmerise you to say the least.
DAY 7:Drive back to Bagdogra airport