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A holiday in Sikkim is like a detox from the chaotic exuberance of city life. The serene landscape is dominated by the staid majestic mountains that have stood proud since time immemorial. Interspersed with meditative Buddhist monasteries that add a splash of colour to the emerald canvas, Sikkim still retains its remarkable personality.
With such a bounty of natural beauty and an abundance of experiences, there is no dearth of places to visit in Sikkim. The maze of deep valleys, lush forests and the soaring mountains make for a Zen holiday experience that is liberally sprinkled with the adrenaline-pumping euphoria of adventure sports.
The rugged beauty of the vast open plains complements the jagged grandeur of the mountains quite beautifully. The colourful prayer flags outside the monasteries stand braving the elements as a testament to faith and belief, in this rough-hewn landscape.
Wherever you go in the state, the Sikkim tourist places will offer you a memorable experience that will keep you coming back for more. Here’s a handy list of places to visit in Sikkim. So, what are you waiting for? Simply choose a Sikkim tour package from SOTC and embark on an exotic adventure.
This unique temple complex is dedicated to Lord Shiva whose 87-feet-tall statue towers above the compound. The main attractions here are the replicas of the 12 Jyotirlingas and the 4 Dhams. Hence the name. Nestled amidst the mountains of South Sikkim, the complex also houses a Cultural Centre that promotes religious awareness. Open 12 hours a day, the best time to visit is between March and May, and September and January.
Witness nature’s magic in the riot of colours that carpets the entire valley floor when the ‘Valley of Flowers’ is in full bloom. Explore the bounty as you walk amidst 24 species of Rhododendrons at the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary. All this is framed amidst a beautiful setting of lush green mountains and a gurgling river skipping along the valley floor. This is one of the must-visit places in Sikkim. Best time to visit is from April to May.
The clear waters of the Tsomgo Lake faithfully mirror the colours of the vast Sikkim sky and take on a different hue according to the season. It is considered sacred by the locals and is the site where Sikkim’s Jhakris (faith healers) gather on Guru Poornima day. Frozen in winter, it comes alive in summer with a beautiful palette of colours. The surrounding forest also supports plenty of indigenous wildlife. It is definitely one of the most recommended Sikkim tourist places.
Beautiful in any season, the Nathula Pass is one of the three functioning border posts between India and China. Sitting pretty at a height of 14,140 feet, it is a part of the historic Silk Route. Climb a flight of steep stairs right up to the Indo-China border as you take in the picturesque views from the height. The air up here is thinner, and the terrain is steep. Take time to acclimatize before any further explorations.
This quaint hill station is blessed with a rich cultural heritage and an abundance of natural scenic beauty. Covered in lush forests and home to a rich variety of wildlife, this is the second most-visited town after Gangtok. The attractions here include the Changey and Kanchendzonga waterfalls whose milky churning cascades make for some great photo opportunities. Find peace at the Pemayangtse monastery amidst the soothing chants of the Buddhist monks. This is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Sikkim.
This ancient capital of Sikkim is also known as the ‘Gateway to Kanchendzonga’. It symbolically represents the third eye of Sikkim. When in Yuksom, you can explore the local wildlife at the Kanchendzonga National Park or pursue spiritualism at one of the many monasteries. Gaze at the Norbugang Coronation Throne and explore the royal Tashi Teenka complex as you take in a 360-degree view of the city. Do not miss this gem among Sikkim tourist places.
Peek into Sikkim’s glorious past at this beautiful monastery built in the early 18th century. This is an important pilgrimage site in Sikkim. Come here to admire the beautiful murals and frescos that adorn the walls inside.
With an altitude of 17,800 feet, this is the second-highest lake in Sikkim. The Gurudongmar lake is a mirror of Sikkim’s natural beauty. Located just 5 km north of the Kunchenjunga range, this stunning lake feels like a postcard come alive. When it is frozen in winter, you feel as if you’re walking above the clouds as you gaze across the lake. Quite simply, this is one of the most beautiful places to go in Sikkim.
This beautiful monastery is home to some of the rarest Buddhist artworks. It is a treasure trove of art that includes unique murals and paintings, 1001 miniature gold sculptures and a beautifully preserved Golden Stupa. Come here at the end of the Tibetan year and watch the monks perform Chaam (ritual dances) in the main courtyard.
Located along the Singalila Ridge, this beautiful National Park is a treat for nature lovers. Children will especially enjoy here as they catch a sighting of the Himalayan Black Bear or the exotic Red Panda. Apart from these, there are around 120 species of birds that call this home. Take in the breath-taking views of the Kanchenjuga and marvel at the peaks of the Everest visible in the far-off distance.
