Sikkim
Monasteries, high lakes and permit-only valleys.
Sikkim is small, clean and strict about its rules. That's part of what keeps it beautiful. Most first trips centre on Gangtok, with day trips to Tsomgo Lake and overnight trips to North Sikkim (Lachung and Lachen). The high-altitude areas need permits and respect for the altitude.
March to May (rhododendrons in bloom) and October to December (clear skies) are the favourite seasons. From January to March North Sikkim can have heavy snow, so some passes close. From June to September monsoon landslides often cut roads, especially to the north.
Gangtok averages 12°C by day and 6°C at night in January; heavy rain falls from April to September. Sikkim weather by month →
Fly to Bagdogra (IXB) or take a train to NJP, then about 4 to 5 hours by road to Gangtok. Pakyong airport near Gangtok has limited and weather-dependent flights. You'll cross into Sikkim at the Rangpo checkpost, so keep your ID handy.
Gangtok's pedestrian high street is clean, lively and the easiest place to spend an evening. Smoking and littering here are fined.
This glacial lake sits at about 3,750 m and is a half-day trip from Gangtok. You need a permit, and Nathu La can be added on permitted days for Indian visitors.
Stay overnight in Lachung. The valley is full of rhododendrons in spring and snow in winter.
These are working monasteries, so dress modestly, walk clockwise and ask before taking photos inside.
West Sikkim has some of the closest views of Kangchenjunga. Good to combine with Ravangla's Buddha Park.
Gurudongmar (about 5,400 m) and Nathu La (about 4,300 m) are seriously high. Don't go the day you arrive from the plains, don't drink alcohol the night before, and come down if you get a bad headache, feel breathless or feel sick. Check with a doctor first if you're travelling with elderly people, young children or anyone with a heart or lung condition.
Sikkim bans smoking in public places and fines littering. The rules are enforced.
Local sightseeing in Sikkim is done in Sikkim-registered vehicles through the local taxi system. Plan for a change of vehicle in Gangtok rather than being surprised by it.
Roads to Lachung and Lachen often close after heavy rain. Keep a spare day and choose bookings with a clear cancellation policy.
No. Gangtok itself needs no permit for Indian visitors. Tsomgo Lake, Nathu La, North Sikkim and the Old Silk Route do.
Yes, but they need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to enter the state, and some protected areas stay closed to foreign nationals.
It's at about 5,400 m, where altitude sickness is a real risk. Families usually get medical advice first, keep the visit short and make sure they've acclimatised in Lachen the night before.
Last reviewed September 2026. Permit rules, park dates, fares and road conditions change, so confirm locally before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.
