15 MUST-DO THINGS IN SIKKIM

Colorful valleys, foggy hills, semi-frozen lakes, gorgeous Buddhist shrines, smiling faces, and massive snow-capped Himalayan peaks defending these wonderful settings – it's no surprise that all of Sikkim's best things to do are on everyone's Travel Wishlist. There is something for everyone in the gorgeous regions of Sikkim, from paragliding to river rafting to cable car rides, hard climbs, shopping, sightseeing, and birding.

The following activities in Sikkim cater to backpackers, lovebirds, families with children, nature enthusiasts, tranquilly seekers, and travel photographers. So, take a closer look at these things to do in Sikkim and decide which activities you'd want to partake in during your Sikkim vacation.

1. Rafting in Teesta River

In the state of Sikkim, the Teesta is the most significant river. River Teesta runs across the whole state from Lhamo Lake, where it is formed, and has become Sikkim's lifeblood. There is lots of rafting opportunities in Teesta, with spectacular rapids strewn along the river's length. If you're interested, all you have to do is locate a reputable rafting service in Sikkim, and they'll take care of the rest. This is the pinnacle of adventure. Learn more about Sikkim rafting.

• Location: Created from so Lhamo Lake, and flows through entire Sikkim.

• Timing: March to May is the best time.

2. Paragliding

Feel the rush of jumping over a cliff and flying over snow-capped mountains. Paragliding is the ideal activity for anyone searching for excitement and adrenaline-pumping sports in Sikkim. For around 20-30 minutes, glide at a height of 2,200 metres over snow-capped peaks, majestic mountains, lush meadows, and distant farmland, taking in the strange splendour of this fascinating area. The greatest time to visit Sikkim for paragliding is during the Annual Sikkim Paragliding Festival, which takes place in Gangtok in the months of October and November when the weather is pleasant.

• Location: Gangtok and Ani Gompa

3. Ropeway

Ropeway is one of the must-do activities in Sikkim. This is a thrilling experience that any traveller, regardless of age, can enjoy. This activity allows you to see the entire city at a glance, with each view inspiring awe. The best part is getting a seat next to a window. The breathtaking vistas of the deep valleys and towering mountains below are simply breathtaking. One of the most memorable experiences in Sikkim is riding the ropeway.

• Where: Deorali – Gangtok

4. Goechala Trek

The Goecha La Trek is said to be one of those treks that will stick with you forever. This 10-day walk is difficult, but it is well worth the work and time invested. The walk offers several benefits, beginning with a breathtaking view of the Alps. Apart from that, the vista of Mt. Kanchenjunga will take your breath away when you reach a height of 4940 feet at the end of the trip.

• Location: Zuluk Sikkim

• Timings: October to November is the best time.

5. Bungee Jumping - Thrill at it's best

Fighting your anxieties is an important part of being human, and bungee jumping may help you do so. Bungee jumping, one of Sikkim's best adventure sports, gets the heart racing and the adrenaline flowing. Imagine falling from 200 metres, head first, with a cool breeze touching your face and views of beautiful greenery below you, and then finding yourself suspended in mid-air! It's one of those sports that embodies the word "adrenaline." The views of the neighbouring forested mountains are the icing on the cake.

• Location: Singshore Bridge – Uttarey Village (near Pelling)

6. Hang Gliding - Get A Bird’s-Eye View

Hang Gliding is another sport that allows you to get a bird's eye view of the entire city. This is just one of the exciting things that Sikkim has in store for you. Hang gliding, which is slowly gaining popularity among thrill seekers, is similar to paragliding but a little more difficult. There is no need for any prior expertise because specialists will be on hand to assist you at all times. It's a must-try for individuals on the lookout for less commercialised adventure activities!

• Location: Yumthang and Jorethang

• Timings: Early morning to afternoon (mid May to October)

7. Caving in the North Lha-Ri-Nying Phu

Sikkim is a spiritually oriented state, and the North Lha-Ri-Nying Phu is a sacred site. It is well-known as a spiritual and religious centre. The cave is a sacred spot that attracts travellers from all over the world. However, because to its tough terrain and natural beauty, cave exploration is an adventure that you will definitely love. Despite the fact that the trekking route is quite difficult, the experience is well worth the time and effort.

• Location: North Lha-Ri-Nying Phu – North of Tashiding, near Tashiding Monastery

• Timings: March to June, October to November

8. Zero Point Adventures

The Yumthang Valley's Zero Point is known for its recreational activities. It is covered in snow for the majority of the year, so if you enjoy snow, you are in for a treat. Skiing and snowboarding are among the adventurous sports available at the location. If you are hungry, you can stop by one of the few stalls near the Zero Point to satisfy your hunger. The kiosks are manned by locals who sell noodles, soup, and other regional delicacies. The vicuna China border is just beyond Zero points, though no tourists are allowed there. Despite the treacherous roads, Yumesamdong brings you exceptional rewards! Treat your eyes to the confluence of three magnificent rivers, flanked on either side by enormous, snow-clad peaks.

• Location: Yumthang Valley, Lachung

9. Sandakphu Trek - Base Camp Mane Bhanjang

At an elevation of 11,929 feet, this location is a trekker's paradise. It is the highest peak in both the Singalila range and West Bengal state. The hike to Sandakphu follows the Singalila mountains the entire way. Four of the world's five tallest peaks, including Mt. Everest, Makalu, Kanchenjunga, and Lhotse, may be seen during this walk. Apart from that, the Three Sisters and several more peaks in Nepal, Sikkim, Tibet, and Bhutan can be seen.

• Starting Point: Manebhanjan/ Chitrey

• Ending Point: Srikhola

• Best Time to do Sandakphu Trek: March to May, October to January

10. Nightlife in MG Marg

Although Gangtok does not appear to be a metropolis, it does have some of the most lively Cafes, which will quench your need for partying. There are also active music venues and vintage music venues in the area. In reality, the music clubs are well built and have spacious lounge areas. The interiors have fantastic bars and eye-catching graphics on the walls and ceilings. If you visit Sikkim, you must experience the state's nightlife.

• Location: Gangtok

• Timing: Every night

11. Attend the famous festivals of Sikkim

What better way to get up up and personal with a place's culture than to participate in one of its local festivals? If you visit Sikkim during one of its festivals, you will be in for a treat, since they are unique. There's the Drupka Teshi Buddhist celebration, the Losoong harvest festival, the Losar festival (which is similar to the Chinese New Year), the Sonam Lhochhar folk dance festival, and so on. During these events, the cultural game is on point, and everybody who attends will be treated to a visual feast.

• Location: Gangtok

12. Camping - All About Bonfire & Sceneries

Are you planning a trip to Sikkim during the winter? Then you won't want to miss out on camping, which is one of the most popular activities in Sikkim, India. Imagine your tent set up among the wildflowers, with a backdrop of tall mountains and a nice fire to keep you warm; isn't it the ideal setting for a vacation? So, without spending any more time, pack your bags for a walk and camping trip in Sikkim and see the unspoiled side of the state.

• Location: Goecha La, Dzongri, Varsey, and more places in Sikkim

13. Authentic Cuisine: Savour North-Eastern Delicacies

When it comes to the best things to do in Sikkim, we can't forget about cuisine. And the North East never disappoints when it comes to it. Sikkim, in fact, has the most mouthwatering array of gastronomic delicacies seen anyplace in the North East. The state is home to some of the top multi-specialty restaurants in the country, where you may take your taste senses on an exciting journey. When visiting Sikkim, foodies should try meals such as sisnoo, gundruk ka jhol, fermented soyabean chutney, and some delectable pig curry with a mouthwatering scent of fresh spices, to mention a few, which are among the best Sikkim cuisines.

• Location: Restaurants like 9INE Native Cuisine, Taste of Tibet, Gupta Restaurant

14. Yumthang Hot Spring

Yume Samdong Hot Spring in Yumthang Valley is the greatest of several well-known hot springs in North Sikkim. Bathing in this natural jacuzzi, which is said to have adequate therapeutic properties to cure physical diseases including joint and back issues, is one of the greatest things to do in Sikkim in December, especially for persons with arthritis. The hot springs are a few hundred yards from Yumthang village, and while one must cross a pedestrian bridge over the River Lachung to get there, it will be well worth the effort after a thrilling plunge. The area has been improved for bathers' comfort, and there is now a cabin with two pools, each containing the hot spring water. The water from the natural spring is directed to this pool, where visitors may refresh their senses by taking a relaxing plunge.

• Location: Donkia-la Pass base, near Yumthang village, Lachen

15. National Parks - See The Wild Side Of Sikkim

The national parks and wildlife sanctuaries of Sikkim are among of the best in the country, including plains, valleys, lakes, glaciers, snow-capped mountains, ancient forests, and more. Two remarkable national parks in Sikkim, Kewzing and Khangchendzonga, offer an unrivalled spectrum of sub-tropical to alpine habitats. While Khangchendzonga, one of India's most important biodiversity hotspots, is home to a diverse range of creatures such as the Red Panda, snow leopard, musk deer, and Himalayan tahr, the Kewzing is a birder's paradise. The Satyr Tragopan, Fire-tailed Myzornis, Scaly Laughingthrush, Sultan Tit, Puff-throated Babbler, Scarlet Finch, Cutia, and Streaked Spiderhunter are among the nearly 200 bird species that call Kewzing home.

• Location: Kewzing Bird Sanctuary – Kewzing | Khangchendzonga National Park – Chungthang

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read all the articles about Sikkim

We have published EVERYTHING that you need to know about Sikkim. From the top tourist attractions to the best time to visit, from the most adventerous activities to the most delicious food, WE HAVE IT ALL!

Best time to visit Sikkim

The ideal time to visit Sikkim, according to the Sikkim Tourism Board, is between the months of March and June or November and February. However, each season has its own distinct beauty that contributes to tourism.

South Sikkim

South Sikkim is more of a countryside region with plenty of options for adventure and leisure activities, making it a great getaway from the frenetic city life. The southern section of Sikkim is a hidden treasure that travellers must explore. It is a wonderful spot for unwinding and meditation, as well as romance.

North Sikkim

North-Sikkim is flourished with stunning landscape and splendid viewpoints to catch the soul nourishing glimpses of the mountains covered with lush greenery and fragrance of variety of freshly bloomed flowers. There are numerous waterfalls astride road reaching to this extremely picturesque part of Sikkim.

East Sikkim

East Sikkim is the most populous section of the state, around Gangtok, Sikkim's capital city, and serving as the centre of the state's administrative activity. The list of must-see attractions in Sikkim's Eastern region is endless.

West Sikkim

West Sikkim is a mountainous state with a diverse flora and fauna, beautiful high peaks, flowing waterfalls, tranquil lakes, and abundant animals. The breathtaking vista of Mount Kanchenjunga, which shares a border with Nepal, is the primary attraction of west Sikkim.

Winters in Sikkim

Sikkim's winters are cold, yet they are filled with mesmerising panoramic wonders. From afar, the snowy peaks, frozen lakes, and grey woodland appear indistinguishable. The temperature dips from a high of 7 degrees Celsius to a low of 4 degrees Celsius.

Summers in Sikkim

The greatest time to explore the famed Gurudongmar Lake, the sacred Lachung monastery, and the majestic Yumesamdong is during the summer. Another motivation to visit Sikkim in the summer is to participate in one or more festivals.

Monsoon in Sikkim

It is the time of year when nature awakens from its long slumber and renews itself. However, the monsoon in Sikkim manifests itself as constant rain from May to September, with July being the wettest month of the year. Every month, 600-700 mm of rain falls here, and the temperature ranges from 17 to 22 degrees Celsius.

How to reach Sikkim

Travelers must pick a feasible form of transportation to go to Gangtok from the closest and most accessible locations, which include Bagdogra, New Jalpaiguri, and Siliguri. To go to Gangtok, you may choose three distinct modes of transportation: air, road, and rail.

About Sikkim

The serenades from the religious communities, the thunders of Teesta River, and the attractive attractions of the Himalaya will ingest you in the immaculate and spiritualist excellence of Sikkim. Other than being a window to the Himalaya, Sikkim has numerous different things worth knowing.

Sikkim Tourist Destinations

It's astonishing to believe that Sikkim, India's second-smallest state, has so many beautiful places to visit. Tourists have been flocking to Sikkim for decades, yet many of the state's most beautiful spots remain undiscovered. Sikkim, India's entrance to the North-Eastern corridor, not only has enthralling natural beauty, but also a fascinating list of activities to do and places to see.

Things to do in Sikkim

There is something for everyone in the gorgeous regions of Sikkim, from paragliding to river rafting to cable car rides, hard climbs, shopping, sightseeing, and birding.