Sikkim Travel Guide 2025: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Sikkim, India's smallest state, packs more scenic beauty per square kilometre than almost anywhere on earth. From the snow-capped peak of Kanchenjunga (8,586m) — the world's third highest mountain — to the colourful Buddhist monasteries draped in prayer flags, this tiny Himalayan kingdom is one of India's most rewarding destinations.

Why Visit Sikkim in 2025?

Sikkim consistently ranks among India's cleanest and best-governed states. It was India's first fully organic state (2016) — not a single kilogram of chemical fertilizer is used. The state is also one of India's safest, most politically stable, and least commercialised hill destinations.

• Zero plastic — Sikkim banned plastic bags in 1998
• Clean, safe roads — military presence across North Sikkim ensures security
• Unmatched Kanchenjunga views from Pelling — closer than Darjeeling
• Adventure variety — trekking, mountain biking, river kayaking

Best Time to Visit Sikkim

March–May (Spring): Rhododendrons bloom in thousands — over 600 species. Kanchenjunga fully visible. Best for Pelling and Yumthang Valley.

October–December (Autumn): Crystal clear skies after monsoon. Best visibility. Best for Tsomgo Lake, Nathu La, and all sightseeing.

December–February (Winter): North Sikkim roads may close. Gangtok and Pelling accessible. Light snowfall. Fewer crowds.

Avoid: June–September (heavy monsoon, landslides common on North Sikkim roads)

Do You Need a Permit for Sikkim?

Yes. Sikkim requires an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Indian nationals (free, available at NJP station or Rangpo check post). For foreigners, a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) is required. Additional Protected Area Permits are needed for:

• North Sikkim (Lachung, Yumthang) — requires advance booking
• Tsomgo Lake and Nathu La
• Gurudongmar Lake (restricted area)

All good tour operators (including GoTravelista) handle permit arrangements as part of the package.

Top Places to Visit in Sikkim

1. Gangtok & MG Marg: The lively capital. Shop, eat momos, and watch the Kanchenjunga sunset from Tashi Viewpoint. Don't miss the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology and Do-Drul Chorten.

2. Tsomgo (Changu) Lake: At 3,753m, this glacial lake 40km from Gangtok is surrounded by snow-covered mountains year-round. Yak rides available.

3. Pelling & Kanchenjunga Views: The best place in Sikkim (arguably India) for sunrise views of Kanchenjunga. Pemayangtse Monastery, Singshore Bridge (highest in NE India).

4. Yumthang Valley — Valley of Flowers: At 3,564m in North Sikkim, covered in rhododendrons during April-May. Beyond Yumthang is Zero Point at 15,300 ft — snow year-round.

5. Rumtek Monastery: One of the largest and most important Buddhist monasteries in the world, seat of the Kagyu sect.

How to Reach Sikkim

By Air: Fly to Bagdogra Airport (West Bengal, 124km from Gangtok). Regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata. Gangtok also has Pakyong Airport (26km) with limited flights.

By Train: Nearest railhead is NJP (New Jalpaiguri) station in Siliguri. Then cab to Gangtok (4-5 hrs).

By Road: Shared cabs from NJP/Siliguri to Gangtok run throughout the day (₹200-300 per seat). Gangtok is well-connected by road to Darjeeling (4 hrs), Pelling (4 hrs) and Namchi (3 hrs).

Sikkim Budget Guide