Sikkim – Diganta Travel

East-sikim

Introduction:-

East Sikkim is one of the four districts of the state which is the south-east part of Sikkim. The capital city of Sikkim – Gangtok, is located in this part of the Sikkim and this part is also the hub of all the administrative activities on the state. East Sikkim Tourism has a number of great tourist attractions where This is the most attractive district of Sikkim. It has grandeur of the snow Peak Mountain, lush valleys, rapid flowing rivers, lush green forest, beautiful falls, high altitude lakes, hot water spring, butterflies, colorful orchids, and much more. The state offers the visitors a rare and singular experience, despite its tiny size, it is geographically diverse. Within hours one can move from the sub tropical region of the lower valleys to the cold of the rugged mountain slopes that reach up to the area of perpetual snow or to the cold desert of North district or to the rhododendron forest of South district or the passes of Himalayas in the East district.people visit and explore the culture, history and heritage. Below given is the list of these destinations.

Itinary:-(5 days)

1st day Going-

Gangtok(2 days) 69 km:

East Sikkim has to start off with Gangtok that’s Sikkim’s capital and undoubtedly its most glamorous buzzing city. Nestled at 1650 m above sea level… Gangtok has good nightlife, ample gaming experiences (it’s one of the few places in India where gambling is legalised), nice variety of local cuisine and plenty of spots around its vicinity to keep the average tourist occupied for 2 days.

The famous Rumtek Monastery is 24 km away from Gangtok while the Sikkim Research Institute of Tibetology is quite near the Gangtok town in Deorali. The Do Drul Chorten and the Rustomji Deer Park are other notable attractions. The Changu Lake is 38 km away from Gangtok while the Nathula Pass is 54 km away. Another attraction is the Fambong La Sanctuary that’s 25 km away from town.

From the tourist point of view Gangtok offers an all-inclusive experience…a heady mix of shopping, food experiments (there are loads of restaurants) and sightseeing. This is the best place to plan your tour around if you don’t want to venture into any remote areas and yet want to experience the Sikimese way of life.

Best time to visit: Gangtok is an all year tourist destination but winters and spring are the more popular tourist slots.

Location and Route: Gangtok is 120 km away from NJP (new Jalpaiguiri) and 124 km from Bagdogra airport while Darjeeling is 98 km away. You will get easy transport including buses, shared and private cabs from NJP to Gangtok and pre-paid reserved taxis from Bagdogra. Bagdogra airport also offers helicopter service to Gangtok. After sightseeing stay at Gangtok.

2nd day Going-

Ravangla (1 day) 65 km:

Ravangla is the perfect place to laze around with a cup of coffee and enjoy the best of Sikkim. There are temples, monasteries, sightseeing, adventure sports; Ravangla is the jack of all trades, and master of many Sikkim towns. Located in the magical environment of the plush Himalayan forest and colossal mountains which enhance the skyline, Ravangla is the perfect base for some of India’s finest tourism destinations and treks.

Every year Ravangla attracts tourist in large numbers because of its exotic flora and fauna, haughty snow mountains, gusting waterfalls, quaint villages, hospitable villages, picturesque tea gardens, ethnic culture, old monasteries and fresh atmosphere. What makes Ravangla unique from other destinations in Sikkim is the Bonn Monastery, Ralang Monastery, old yet historical market of Kewzing, along with mysterious small caves. The festivals of Sikkim are its focal point of attraction. The traditionally designed and woven carpets available here are. After dinner stay here.

3rd day Going-

Pelling (1 day) 42 km:

Pelling, situated amidst the dense forest of pine tree.Pelling, a beautiful town in the Sikkim, is becoming the second biggest tourist destination in Sikkim after Gangtok. The main attraction of the place is the breath-taking sight of the Khangchendzonga. Pelling is a place full of potential enjoyment. Tall snowy mountains look down benignly at this little town and waterfalls and lakes send forth their twinkling music through the landscape. Nature reigns supreme in the region and the days you spend here will be among the most rejuvenating of your lives. April to Mid June during this time visitors get to admire the exquisite view of blooming flowers in Pelling.

Sightseen:-

If you have been on your first visit to Sikkim then most probably it was in the eastern zone of this state. This is where the state’s capital Gangtok lies along with some great scenic locations like Tsomgo lake, Nathula pass, Tukla Valley, Zuluk (Historic Silk Route), Jelep La pass, and some sports bases like Rangpo and birding hubs like Mankhim. Once in Gangtok you can’t miss exploring the different city sights like Ganesh Tok, Hanuman Tok, Enchey Monastery, White Hall, Tashi View Point, and Himalayan Zoological Park along with Sa Nagor Center and other attractions.

Reach:-

Acomodation/Stay:-

North-sikim

1st day Going-

Gangtok(1 day) 69 km:

Best time to visit: Gangtok is an all year tourist destination but winters and spring are the more popular tourist slots.

2nd day Going-

Lachen(1 day) 69 km:

Situated in the northern district of Sikkim, Lachen is one of the most beautiful towns in Sikkim and is an attractive tourist spot which is well known for its Lachung monastery. Its natural beauty and serene vegetation are worth commending and it is believed to be one of the most noteworthy and popular places for Buddhist pilgrims and tourists.

Situated of 8838 ft, in the northern district of Sikkim, Lachen is one of the most beautiful towns in Sikkim and is an attractive tourist spot which is well known for its Lachung monastery. Its natural beauty and serene vegetation are worth commending and it is believed to be one of the most noteworthy and popular places for Buddhist pilgrims and tourists. Lachen, is a lovely hill station in the northern district of Sikkim near the Indo-Tibetan Border, on the North Sikkim Highway.

There are many places to visit in Lachen that include the likes of the Lachen Monastery, Green Lake, Chopta Valley, and many more. This dreamy village is surrounded by majestic peaks, has heart-warming people, and is a paradise for adrenaline junkies. Nature lovers and birdwatchers find themselves in utter delight here!

Lachen offers a number of tourist accommodations.

The road from Gangtok travels through Phodong and Mangan before reaching Chungthang. Here the road bifurcates, the road on the right leading to Lachung and the one on the left going to Lachen about 26 km away. The road from Gangtok to Lachen is most of the time very rough.

3rd day Going-

Gurudongmar:

This is the largest lake in Sikkim, one of the highest in the world and considered very sacred by both Buddhists and Hindus. The Gurudongmar Lake is located in Lachen, which is a small and beautiful town in North Sikkim, situated at the height of 10,000 feet above the sea level. The Lake also carries curing properties and offers the amazing view of Mount Siniolchu and Khanchendzonga. Chopta Valley is a combined tour that comes with Gurudongmar Lake. Then around the lake there is another spiritual attraction for the peace seekers – Sarva Dharma Sthala, which is popularly called as the temple for all religions. In just about 9 km of distance, the Tso Lhamu Lake which is famous for being the source for the Teesta River can also be explored to gather the extended charm amidst the nature.

The months from April – June are considered to be the best time to visit this place. It’s surrounded by snow clad mountains making it a stunningly picturesque site. During winter, the lake freezes except for one small area. The Buddhists and Hindus believe that this specific area is blessed. In fact the whole lake is considered holy and is believed to be having many healing powers.

4th day Going-

Lachung(1 day):

The picturesque mountain village of Lachung, at a height of 8610 ft, embraced by snow capped mountain peaks, breathtaking waterfalls, sparkling streams and apple orchards is the perfect holiday destination. Perched at an elevation of 8,600 ft. above sea level, Lachung finds its place on holiday itineraries of almost every traveller visiting Sikkim, especially those who are enroute to ‘Yumthang Valley’ or ‘Zero Point’. The best time for a matchless cultural extravaganza in Lachung is by far during the month of June when the town comes to life with the ‘Saga Dawa Festival’ that fills the whole village with vibrancy and effervescence.

Lachung means the ‘Small Pass’. On your way to Lachung, you had crossed the town of Chungthang which is about 22kms away. You should take a halt here and watch the lovely confluence of the rivers Lachung and Lachen chhus which then join the river Teesta.

Accommodation is no problem in Lachung which has many hotels and lodges including a Dak Bungalow. The sanctuary is known for its abundance of Rhododendron trees and shrubs.

5th day Going-

Yumthang:

Yumthang Valley is a paradise on earth, which is full of natural wonders and picturesque beauty. It is home to a zillion flowers, spectacular mountains & a serene river, and is often also called as the ‘Valley of Flowers’ like the one located in Uttarakhand. Located 140 km north of Gangtok, this place is a gorgeous attraction, which demands a complete tour of its own.

The valley is the vantage point for the beautiful peaks of Panhunri and Shundu Tsenpa forming an amazing scenic setting for the gushing Teesta river. The grazing yaks amidst thousands of blooming Himalayan flowers and an astounding collection of Rhododendrons entice the visitors to stay for a little more time. The best time to visit place is definitely during summer between April and May, because of its high altitude. As during winter, snow makes this place dangerous to reach and also unbearably cold.

The best time to visit Yumthang Valley for you would be between February to March when the Losar Festival takes place. Yumthang Chu is a river you would come across on your way in the valley. The crystal clear water and the surreal sound of its flow would soothe your mind and soul so much that you wouldn’t feel like leaving this place.

6th day Going-

Gangtok(1 day):

Best time to visit: Gangtok is an all year tourist destination but winters and spring are the more popular tourist slots.

North-sikim

1st day Going-

Gangtok(1 day) 69 km:

Best time to visit: Gangtok is an all year tourist destination but winters and spring are the more popular tourist slots.

2nd day Going-

Lachung(1 day):

Accommodation is no problem in Lachung which has many hotels and lodges including a Dak Bungalow. The sanctuary is known for its abundance of Rhododendron trees and shrubs.

3rd day Going-

Yumthung:

4th day Going-

Gangtok(1 day):

Best time to visit: Gangtok is an all year tourist destination but winters and spring are the more popular tourist slots.

5th day Going-

Tshngu/Thangu:

The valley comprises alpine meadows that are flanked by shimmering water of River Teesta and wooden houses, offering a picturesque sight to witness. Thangu is located at an altitude of 13000 feet. Thangu is about 30 kilometers north of Lachen. There is also a small village of the same name in the valley, which is used as a halt by tourists heading to the beautiful and popular attraction of Sikkim, Gurudongmar Lake.

There are a couple of basic accommodations available at Thangu. However staying here requires special permission from the army. Thangu has a large military base as the place is close to the Chinese border.

6th day Going-

Babamandir:

Baba Mandir is a holy shrine situated at the distance of 60 km from Gangtok towards Nathula Border between China and India. It was constructed to show reverence to Baba Harbhajan Singh, a soldier of an Indian army, who was drowned in a glacier while trying to lead a x_column of mules carrying supplies to a remote outpost.

According to the legend, it was Baba himself through a dream, helped the searching party to find his body covered under a huge lump of snow and even expressed the strong desire to have a samadhi made after him. It is further believed that during the event of a war between India and China, Baba would warn the Indian soldiers of any impending attack atleast three days in advance. The samadhi was built near Chhokya Chho at an elevation of around 4,000 metres, which is known as Old Baba Mandir. This was the place where Baba was posted during his service period in Indian army. This new mandir is visited by thousands of tourists every year, infact it has become one of the most visited tourist spot of Sikkim.

The temple is maintained and look after by the Indian Army and further beautification has been done along the surroundings, the beautiful idol of Lord Shiva has been placed near a small waterfall which has become the new point of attraction of the place.

7th day Going-

Gangtok(1 day):

Best time to visit: Gangtok is an all year tourist destination but winters and spring are the more popular tourist slots.

West-sikim

1st day Going-

Jorethung:

Situated at an altitude of 300 m above sea level with a pleasant temperate climate is Jorethang, a major town in south Sikkim. Jorethang lies on the way to Pelling and is well connected by buses and jeeps. River rafting, trekking and sightseeing trips to nearby destinations are some of the attractions available here. The festival attracts village folk from all of South and West District by dint of the right climate. Very few places in the world can offer as many varieties of adventure tourism packages as Sikkim. World’s third highest peak Kanchanzonga is located in Sikkim.

The river rafting,which is known as “White Water Adventure” represents another major attractions. Within distance of 100 miles, one can see the topographical variations with the rivers rising from the higher points and then dropping dramatically to lower levels the plains bordering west Bengal. For those who wish to view wildlife, South Sikkim offers Wildlife Sancuary in Maenam. Sikkim is a land of Festivals. Napelese On a festive day the Nepalese, Lepchas, Bhutias and all the other communities celebrate each other’s festioval with zest and joy. The most important aspect of Sikkim culture is the religious harmony and understanding prevailing among the various communities.

2nd day Going-

Rinchenpong(1 day) 127 km:

At an altitude of about 5576ft, Rinchenpong is addition to the tourist map of West Sikkim. The beautiful view of the Kanchenjunga range of mountains. Rinchenpong and Kaluk are two small villages just 3 kms apart. The Kaluk – Rinchenpong area is the buffer zone of the Varsey rhododendron sanctuary.

Rinchenpong is an area in West Sikkim at about 26 kms South of Pelling and offers guests excellent nature centric experience. Isolated place providing an opportunity to glimpse the beautiful Mount Khanchendzonga in 180 degree view and the lush green slopes. The famous Rigsum monastery set smidst tranquil surroundings is worth the visit. Rinchenpong only dates back to 1860, when the British attacked Sikkim. When they reached Rinchenpong, the Lep poisoned the water of the pond, the only source of water in Rinchenpong, thus killing a certain number of the British forces and forcing them to retreat. The pond is know as bikh-pokhri. A British Dak Bungalow set on top of a hillock is famous in the area. The famous Bengali poet, Rabindranath Tagore, spent his time in the Dak Bungalow and is believed to have written a piece of Geetanjali there.

Three kilometers away from Rinchenpong the quaint and peaceful village of Kaluk is also famous for its beautiful surrounding and views. Travelers are allured towards Rinchenpong by its scenic beauty and panoramic view of the Himalayan mountain Range. Visitors can stay in homestay, ancient bunglow, resorts or budget hotels in Rinchenpong. This is also the best time to visit Rinchenpong to witness the amazing view of Snow Capped Himalayan Range. Kaluk at an altitude of 5600 ft is known for its tranquil ambiance and surreal view of Mt Kanchenjunga. Enriched by abundant of natural beauty Kaluk is a new found gem in the Eco-tourism of Sikkim.

Or

3rd day Going-

Kaluk(1 day) 125 km:

Kaluk at an altitude of 5600 ft is known for its tranquil ambiance and surreal view of Mt Kanchenjunga. Enriched by abundant of natural beauty Kaluk is a new found gem in the Eco-tourism of Sikkim. Tourists visit Kaluk to luxuriate in the peaceful and pollution free surrounding and the see the great view of the mountains including Kanchenjunga range.

Gurung Monastery – The monastery is located at a vantage point on top of the hill not far from the main road. From here you can have grand views of the southern hills although the snow capped mountains of the North are not visible from here. Kaluk is quite windy so a windcheater would be helpful any time of the year. Rainy season witness very heavy rainfall and landslide is quite common between July and August.

Kaluk is home for some of the better accommodations in the area.

4th day Going-

Hee Barmiok:

The villages of the region are mostly set on the northern side of a long East-West spanning ridge that rises from the Rangit river and continues west till it breaks into a number of smaller ridges before entering Nepal through the Singalila Range. The forest to its immediate South is Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, which connects with the Singalila National Park of West Bengal further South, and to the West, the Nepal boarder. The main attractions are mountain biking, nature walk, visit to villages, Sirijonga Yuma Mangheem, Sirijonga Holy Cave at Martam etc. The adventure lovers can enjoy two and a half hour trek to Varsey. It is a new upcoming village resort very far from the hustle and bustle of city life and a perfect place to retreat and relax for the tired mind and soul. Warm hospitality, beautiful ambience, homely atmosphere with plenty of places to stroll around in the fresh air has touched the heart of many visitors and tourists.

5th day Going-

Chayatal(1 day):

Chayatal is a small hamlet in the western part of Sikkim, India. Chayatal comprises of mainly hills, natural views, birds and guarded by Mt. Kanchenjunga. Chayatal is at an altitude of about 6000 ft above sea level. If you want 180 degree panoramic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga from your balcony then Chayatal is the place you should be this weekend. waterfalls, monasteries, dense forests, rhododendrons, red pandas, water gardens, 65 species of different birds activities like boating village walks, trekking – the list is never ending in Chayatal, just a kilometer above Hee Gaon, this is one of the newest spots on the tourist map of West Sikkim.

Nearby attraction include the Srijunga waterfalls; you can also visit the nearby Barsey Rhododendrons Sanctuary famous for Red Pandas & Rhododendron from Chayatal within 10 minutes climb by stairs on the slope of the hill. During the time of Rhododendron which is the month of March – April, this place looks like heaven with all the trees full with red flowers in full bloom.

There situated a lake its name is Chayatal. As the cold winds blows through the long stretches of age old trees, the vibration gets visible in the lake. One will be amazed while looking at the water of the lake. From there at the fore front Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Kabru, Mt. Sinolchu and other peaks are clearly visible. In the Chayatal lake arrangement of boating are also available. From Chayatal a trekking route has emerged that directly intersects with Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary. On the same route at few steps further is entry gate of the sanctuary name, Red Panda Gate. visit Chayatal any time of the year. see rhododendron in full bloom then visit during March- April.

Arrangement of local sight scene are arranged from the homestay.

Or

6th day Going-

Berong(1 day):

Borong is a small beautiful village near Ravangla in South Sikkim which has recently gained fame due to increasing popularity of village tourism and eco-tourism activities. The place is very accessible to the route of the Siliguri and Jalapaiguri. The place gives an awe-striking scenario with a Himalayan mountain range situated right behind the backdrop. 17 km away from Ravangla is the ethereally beautiful birding paradise of Borong. Some of the indigenous birds found in this area are scarlet minervet, Himalayan pheasants, sunbird, sibia, blackbird, minla and black magpie. The hot spring 3km away from Borong.

7th day Going-

NJP:

Jalpaiguri is a district of West Bengal with historic and natural beauty. It is situated in the North Bengal region and is the second largest city of North Bengal. It is not only an important place in West Bengal but also important to the whole country because it connects the North East India to the rest of the country. Topographically, this district of West Bengal is criss-crossed by rivers, rivulets and hills. Hence, Jalpaiguri is a heavenly abode to the travellers who love nature.

Silk-route

1st day Going-

Sillery gaon(1 day) 94km:

Sillery Gaon is located at distance of 94km from NJP and 97km Bagdogra. From trekking through the thick forest area to going on a leisurely village walk in Sillery Gaon you can do it all. Birding is one of the most cherished past time activity in Sillery Gaon. Visitors need to trek through the thick wooded forest to reach those pictorial spots from Sillery Gaon. One of the most visited destinations of Sillery Gaon is Tin chuley. It is a vantage point to witness the panoramic vista of snow clad Mt Kanchenjunga along with the view of Sikkim. There is also an ancient fort called Damsang at 4km walking distance from Sillery Gaon. Birding is one of the most cherished past time activity in Sillery Gaon. View of Mt Kanchenjunga winter season October to December is the best time to visit Sillery Gaon. There has always a soothing weather and it makes the place an all season visiting place except monsoon.

The name “Sillery” is derived from the name of a plant that grows in abundance in the region. This area also abounds in Cinchona Plantation which was as a source of Quinine used for the treatment of Malaria.There looking these place are very beautiful- Silent valley, Cross hill, Damswang fort, Ramitey view point etc.

While homestays are still the main accommodations here, you can also find some retreats that have come up in recent times offering hotel-like accommodations & service, although the retreats too are quite basic and meant mainly for budget travelers.

Or

Icche gaon:

Icchey Gaon, is located at an altitude of 5800 feet in the hills of Kalimpong, district Darjeeling of West Bengal. This marvelous hill top offers a spectacular view of Mount Kanchanjangha. Ichhegaon, which means top in the local Lapcha language is the topmost point of this area. The lash green forest of the valley is made up by woodlands of Pine, Birch and Juniper trees. Few rare orchids and colorful and bright canopy of Rhododendron is a visual pleasure.

The eco-friendly organic village is populated by good hearted people who know the truly how to treat a guest. The sunrise can be best enjoyed at Ramitey view point. The sunrise over Mount Kanchanjungha is such a gleaming view that you will never forget this moment. Icchey Gaon to viewpoints like Ramitey Dara, Tinchuley and Jalsa Bunglow. Icchey Gaon are ideal to spot to for spotting some rare Himalayan birds.It offers the panoramic view of River Teesta making the legendary 14turns through the mountainous Himalayan Valley. Kanchenjunga and its surrounding ranges winter season (October -December) is the best time to visit Icchey Gaon.

2nd day Going-

Munkhim(1 day):

Sikkim, the state of green moiuntains in the North-Eastern part of the country has become synonymous with names like Tsango Lake, Nathula Pass, Baba Mandir and the capital city of Gangtok. But in reality Sikkim is a paradise where travelers have lots and lots of other things to witness and places to visit. The Eastern side of Sikkim, which has earned recognition for the Silk Route tour, is ornamented with many such treasures which can leave visitors spellbound, once they experience the mesmerizing views of the surroundings.

In Mankhim, there is a small temple on the hilltop, a few homestays and a monastery, just a walk away. Bird watching, paddle boating and nature walking are other great activities here. The Changey waterfall boasting a height of 50 meters is located near Mankhim. The little temple of Mankhim, belonging to the Rai cult of Hindu origin at Maity Village overlooks the Lampokhri and the mighty Mt. Kanchenjungha. Mulkarkha Lake is famous for holding the reflection of Mt. Kanchenjungha on its waters. You can visit Mangkhim any time of the year. The winters are best for viewing. You can enjoy a whole lot of momos during your stay at Mankhim. There is also glasshouse-type cottage with an incredible view.

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3rd day Going-

Aritar:

Aritar is famed for its enchanting natural scenery peppered with lush forests, entrancing waterfalls, pristine lakes and imposing Himalayan peaks, which call for uncountable tourists from across the nation, either seeking a peaceful holiday, a spiritual retreat or an adventure-loaded extravaganza. Travellers who are up for some adventure in Aritar, would definitely find themselves to be treated with numerous offerings help them satiate their adrenaline cravings; be it trekking, hiking, paragliding, rock-climbing or camping, each activity would be a complete new experience, and would leave all adventure buffs with some exhilarating moments that will be etched in their memories forever. Sikkim’s oldest monasteries, the ‘Aritar Gompa’.

4th day Going-

Zuluk(1 day):

Zuluk or Dzuluk is a small village beside a winding road. It was once a transit point to the historic Silk Route from Tibet to India. It is relatively an emerging and offbeat destination in East Sikkim. There is also an Indian Army base at Zuluk. Zuluk itself does not offer views of the snow. The glittering rays of the rising sun kisses the snow clad peak of Mt. Kanchenjungha, which slowly turns crimson and then golden and finally silver. Zuluk has high diversity of Himalayan fauna.

The place shelters variety of birds like Monal Pheasant, Blood Pheasant, Khaleez Pheasant, Snow Pheasant and others. Sighting of Red Panda, wild dog and deer in the high hills have also been recorded. There are few nice, clean and comfortable homestays in Zuluk with attached Western bathrooms. During August and September, Zuluk is drenched is a riot of colours of wild flowers.

5th day Going-

Gnathang(1 day):

Gnathang is located at an altitude of 13,500 ft above the sea level and is basically an army cantonement. The valley is beautiful especially in the summers ie. April, May, Sept, Oct and November. Gnathang Valley or Nathang Valley is popularly called the “Ladakh of the East India”. Nathang Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Old-Silk-Route. Surrounded by snow-capped hills and mountain landscape.Chinese Watch Towers on Jelep La are clearly visible from Nathang valley. It is one of the remotest Tibetan habitations in Himalayas.

Nathang Valley usually remains covered with thick snow from January to April. Recently, few homestays with modern facilities have been built with aid from the Government by the local villagers to accommodate tourists. Nathang Valley is the most scenic destination in the whole of Old Silk Route. Nathang Valley appears in different colours in different times of the year. In autumn it looks golden when the grass dries up, in rainy season it’s covered in flowers and in winter it is buried in 5 feet of snow. Nathang Valley is also visited by migratory birds just before the onset of winter. There’s a monastery, a temple and a small bridge over a small stream in the distance dotting the valley. Few homestays with modern facilities have been built with aid from the Government by the local villagers to accommodate tourists.

Take a train to NJP, and there you would find many car rental shops. Book a car for Gangtok. You cannot go to Nathang valley directly so, you have to go through a break journey. You might stay at Gangtok, and then decide to stay for a night at Nathang Valley, for its beautiful landscape. However, the next day take another rented car to Nathang and travel for 4 hours 12 minutes to reach your destination.

6th day Going-

Gangtok(1 day):

Best time to visit: Gangtok is an all year tourist destination but winters and spring are the more popular tourist slots.

1st day Going-

Gangtok(1 day) km:

Best time to visit: Gangtok is an all year tourist destination but winters and spring are the more popular tourist slots.

2nd day Going-

Gnathang(1 day):

Best time to visit: Gangtok is an all year tourist destination but winters and spring are the more popular tourist slots.

3rd day Going-

Zuluk(1 day):

4th day Going-

Risikhola(1 day):

Reshikhola is a riverside destination just 37 km from Kalimpong and very near to Pedong. The little village of Reshikhola received its name from the Reshi River running along this small place. The place falls in between West Bengal and Sikkim creating a division between the two states. The river valley is surrounded by forests which are home to numerous birds and occasional bigger visitors like bears.

Some basic homestays with nice modern facilities have come up along the Reshi riverside. These homestays overlook the river and promote eco-tourism where tourists can enjoy fresh caught fish and short treks around the forests.

5th day Going-

New Jalpaiguri:

West-sikim

1st day Going-

Jorethung:

2nd day Going-

Okhrey:

Okhrey is one of the new destinations in Sikkim. If you want to reach Barsey via Hilley then one night has to be spent at Okhrey. From Okhrey you need to reach at Hilley Check post. If you climb up the slope of the hill, you can spot a serene village called Latitar. The monastery is operated by the Tibetan missionaries and features a small school. will also enjoy a walk to the Ribdi from the village of Okhrey, located on the border of West Bengal. Trekking along the trail from Okhrey that leads to Phalut via Gurdung is also quite exciting.

There is a beautiful Sai Temple in Daramdin . Other nearby attractions of Okrey are the view point Jureli Dara, the Anden Olong Monastery, Kitan Falls, Dodak Helipad, Butterfly Shape Valley and numerous other view points. In a sightseeing trip of Okhrey are Devi Falls, Gathang alls, the EPC church (oldest churches of Sikkim) and a Lepcha Museum.

To see Rhododendrons in full bloom, you should visit Okhrey from mid of March to mid of April every year. There are three different lodging facilities in Okhrey ,attached western bathrooms, room heaters, geysers and even TVs.

3rd day Going-

Varsey:

Varsey is situated in west district of Sikkim at Singalila ridge.The Hilley – Varsey hike is a no sweat trek which can be completed within a day or two. Varsey is called the valley of Rhododendrons. The Rhododendron Sanctuary at Hilley- Varsey is spread across an area of 104 sq. km along the Singalila Ridge which forms the natural boundary between India and Nepal Varsey is also associated with Joseph Dalton Hooker, the man who thoroughly documented the flora and fauna of this region, and published the book called the “Rhododendrons of Sikkim” in 1849 – his work is still followed as an authentic text on this subject. The sanctuary is covering an area of 104 sq. km. Rhododendron which get blooms in the months of March-April. Varsey is a paradise for nature lover.

Only stay options are the Forest Rest House and Guraskunj or Guras Kunj. Only a double bedded room and dormitory beds are available for tourists. Best time to visit Varsey is spring time (March – May), another best time is (October- November).

4th day Going-

Mongan(1 day):

The lap of Eastern Himalayas, Mangan counts amongst one of the top tourism places in Sikkim, attracting vacationers, nature lovers and soul seekers from different parts of India and the world. The place is no less than an empyrean for spirituality seekers too; soaked in deep aura of Buddhism with colourful prayer flags fluttering all around and chanting of Buddhist mantras reverberating in the air. The bubbling streams and melodious chirps of colourful little birds, often casts a magical spell on every nature. Mangan also has in its store, something for spirituality seekers; the little town houses one of Sikkim’s six of the oldest and most revered monasteries, the ‘Labrang Gompa’. This state is called ‘Heaven on Earth’ by people around the globe, and rightfully so, the beauty and charisma of Sikkim has proved it. Visitor in complete awe of a spiritual splendour in just no time.

Other attractions include an exhibition cum sale of local handicrafts, a presentation of traditional cultural songs and dances and a food festival.

5th day Going-

Singhik(2 days):

Singhik is a tiny settlement on a hill, around 1560 m above the sea level, considered to be the most popular viewpoint that offers the splendid and unobstructed view of Mt. Khangchendzonga and Mt. Siniolchu. The place comes with many short nature treks along with itself, the surrounding lush green hills with higher ridges provides the rewarding bird’s eye view of the converging point of River Teesta and River Kanaka at the foot hills. Exceptional greenery and array of iced mountains while the majestic Teesta River gurgles below it.

Singhik is a paradise for an adventure enthusiast as it offers them with many short day treks and remote treks such as Jhandi viewpoint and Tosha Lake trek. One can travel 15 km to visit the Dzongu and Tingchim village to dwell into the traditional lives of Sikkim people. While returning from Singhik to Gangtok, you can stop at the beautiful Seven Sisters Waterfalls. On the way back to Gangtok, the Naga Waterfalls. Singhik, a charming hamlet, is in proximity with Mangan town. Singhik is between March and May during summer and Sept – Oct during winter is the time to visit.