Sikkim is considered as one of the paradise nestled in the North-Eastern part of India. If you want to wander the magnetic views of this state which is tucked away in the lap of the magical Himalayas than pack up your luggage and rush towards this beautiful state today only. It is being the second smallest state of India with an area of 7096 square kilometers, it is bounded by China from North to East, Bhutan from East to South, West Bengal in the South and Nepal in the West. You can reach Sikkim from any part of India via air, railways or by hitting the road. If you are planning to enjoy the mesmeric charm of this lovely state and to get explore some really impressive hospitality from this place. You can check below the list of Top 10 places to visit in Sikkim.
1.Gangtok
It is known as the Capital City of Sikkim because for its prominent beauty and for tourist destinations in the state. It is incredibly beautiful, lush greenery and with garlanded clouds all over. You can visit Sikkim mainly through road by enjoying the gigantic view and mesmerizing hilly region of this place. Gangtok is known to be one of the most beautiful Hill Station in India. If you are coming to Gangtok in the Month of May than you can enjoy the International Flower Festival which displays a wide variety of flowers like roses, Orchids, etc.. If you are looking for a place to catch an aerial view of the city, visit Ganeshtok and Tashi viewpoint, etc.
2.Tsomgo Lake
If you are visiting Gangtok, than do not miss the chance to visit the Tsomgo Lake which is located 38km from Gangtok city which lies at an altitude of 12,400ft and it is also considered as the highest lakes in India. The mesmerizing glacier lake is one of the top tourist destinations of Sikkim. The best time to visit Tsomgo Lake is in Winter and Summer Season. During the time of Summer the visitors get a sight view of Primula flowers which is growing near the lakes and at the time of Winter travelers enjoy trekking along the lake coast, ice skating and finally the yak ride on the frozen lake.
3.Nathula Pass
Nathula Pass is known to be as the tourist hotspot in Sikkim. This pass is 53km away from the Gangtok city. It is located at an height of 4,310m above the sea level and connects Sikkim with Tibet. Before visiting to this pass you have to obtain permission from the tourist department. This pass remains unreachable at the time of Winter Season due to heavy snowfall as the temperature falls down to -25 degree C. There is a place called Kupup which is near to Nathula Pass and this place is always under the cloud and visiting it might be a unique experience for your trip to Sikkim.
4.Pelling
It is also considered as the second hotspot for tourist destination after the capital city Gangtok. Pelling is located at a height of 7,200ft above the sea level. It lies in the foothills of Himalayas and the Kanchenjunga range mountain ranges which helps the visitors to get a closer view of those mountains. This town is bestowed with several waterfalls, natural beauty, peace lovers and has many adventure options like rafting, trekking, mountain biking, etc.
5.Lachen
This immensely beautiful village soaked in Sikkim’s culture surely hit your list of places to visit in India. Lachen is situated a height of 8,610ft and is located at the northern part of Sikkim which makes it popular snow destination. This Lachen village is the home for Tibetan nomadic tribes during winter Season. It is also adorned by the beauty of its Lachung chu River which is also known as Lachung Gompa. Lachen region is popular for its tall dark mountains, glacier rivers, gushing waterfalls and for fruit orchids.
6.Zuluk
Zuluk is considered to be one of the most least discovered destinations in entire Sikkim. It is located a height of 11,200ft and also Zuluk is known as one of the best Himalayan drives in India. The main attractions for tourist in Zuluk is that a pristine and unique temple named Nag Devta is situated here, it has an idol of King Cobra. If you are visting Zuluk than remember that there are no hotels and the only option to stay in Zuluk is Homestays. Other major attractions of Zuluk are to enjoy the panoramic views of snow-clad Mt. Kanchenjunga and Thambi View Point.
7.Yumthang Valley
The Yumthang Valley is popularly known as the “Valley of flowers”. It is mainly located at a very close to china border which is towards the extreme range of Sikkim and situated at a height of 3500m, this scenic valley is the home to many exotic, rear and wild flowers. The best time to visit this lovely valley between the time of April end and Mid-June to witness the flowering season because from December to March it remains close due to heavy snowfall. You can also enjoy the variety of wild flowers such as irises, cobra lilies, poppies and primulas.
8.Gurudongmar Lake
It is considered to be one of the highest altitude and fresh water natural lakes in the world. This lake is situated at a height of 17,800ft and is also known as Tso Lhsmo Lake. This Lake looks much similar to Pangong Tso Lake which is located in Leh. As this lake is close to Indo-China Border so to visit this lake you need a special permission. The most interesting believe of the locals of this area is that drinking the lake water could resolve the fertility issues of women.
9.Goechala
It is a mountain pass which is a favorite place for adventure lovers and trekkers. The entire mountain is covered by the cloud as it is situated at a extreme height. This mountain pass is also famous for its hiking and sikking which satisfies the soul of the travelers. This place is really a paradise for peace lovers and couple can enjoy this mountain pass most.
10.Yuksom
we have kept the best for the last so that you cannot miss this after reading all the above mentioned places. Yuksom was the first capital of Sikkim in 17th century. This place is also known for the oldest monastery in Sikkim. Yuksom is a “Meeting place of Three Lamas” for which recently it has started gaining tourist attraction. The main highlight of this town includes historical monuments, tranquil waterfalls, etc.
