Are permits necessary for all destinations?

Permits are required for certain areas, and assistance will be available.

What kind of accommodation is provided?

Comfortable 3-star hotels with essential amenities.

Sikkim Backpacking Trip - The Trekkers Trail

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ACCOMMODATION TYPE
Hotels
PICKUP POINT
Bagdogra Airport
HIGHEST ALTITUDE
15,300 feet
BEST SEASON MONTH
All Months
DESTINATIONS
Sikkim
TRIP TYPE
Backpacking Trips

Frequently Asked Questions

Day 01 :

Arrival At Bagdogra Airport | Transfer To Gangtok

Pickup Time: Meet Our Representative At Bagdogra Airport At 15:00.
After Group Assembly, Begin Your Scenic Drive Toward Gangtok, Passing Through Charming Hill Views, Tea Gardens, And The Beautiful Teesta River.

Drive Duration: 4–5 Hours (Traffic And Road Conditions May Vary)

Upon Arrival In Gangtok:
• Check In To Your Hotel
• Relax After The Journey
• Explore MG Marg In The Evening For Cafés, Local Shops, And Peaceful Strolls

Meals: Dinner
Stay: Hotel In Gangtok

Day 02 :

Gangtok Local Sightseeing | Beautiful City Highlights

Morning: Enjoy A Delicious Breakfast At Your Hotel.
Begin Your Gangtok City Tour At 09:00.

Sightseeing Highlights:
• Tashi Viewpoint – Famous For Majestic Himalayan Peaks
• Ganesh Tok – Scenic Hilltop Temple With Beautiful Views
• Hanuman Tok – Peaceful Temple Surrounded By Pine Forests
• Directorate Of Handicrafts & Handloom – Traditional Sikkimese Art
• Enchey Monastery – One Of Gangtok’s Oldest Spiritual Sites
• Namgyal Institute Of Tibetology – Tibetan Culture & Heritage Museum
• Flower Exhibition Centre – Seasonal Flowers And Botanical Displays
• Banjhakri Waterfall – Beautiful Waterfall With Nature Trails

Evening: Return To Hotel And Relax Or Explore MG Marg For Food And Shopping.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Stay: Hotel In Gangtok

Day 03 :

Gangtok | Tsomgo Lake | Baba Mandir | Nathula Pass

Morning: Enjoy Breakfast At The Hotel And Begin Your Day At 08:00 For The East Sikkim Excursion.

Tsomgo Lake
Drive Through Winding Mountain Roads To Reach The Sacred Tsomgo Lake, Surrounded By Snow-Capped Peaks.
Enjoy The Scenic Beauty And Optional Yak Rides (Direct Payment).

Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir
Visit The Famous Baba Mandir, Dedicated To Soldier Harbhajan Singh And Known For Its Peaceful Atmosphere.

⭐ Nathula Pass (Complimentary – Not Guaranteed)
We Offer Nathula Pass As A Complimentary Add-On, But It Is Completely Subject To:
• Permit Availability
• Army Permission
• Weather Conditions
• Road Conditions
• Government Rules
• Closed Every Monday And Tuesday
If Permits Are Approved And Weather Allows, You Will Visit Nathula Pass (14,140 Ft), One Of India’s Highest Motorable Borders.
If Not Approved, You Will Proceed With The Regular Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir Plan Without Any Refund (As Per Govt. Rules).

Return To Gangtok
Drive Back To The Hotel By 17:00–18:00 And Spend The Evening Relaxing Or Walking At MG Marg.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Stay: Hotel In Gangtok

Day 04 :

Gangtok To Lachen | Scenic Mountain Journey

Morning: Enjoy Breakfast At The Hotel And Depart For Lachen At 08:00.

Drive Duration: 5–6 Hours
Route Highlights:
• Teesta River Valley Views
• Seven Sisters Waterfall
• Singhik Viewpoint
• Lush Forests, Charming Villages, And Beautiful Mountain Roads

Upon Arrival In Lachen:
• Check In To Your Hotel
• Freshen Up And Relax
• Enjoy A Peaceful Evening In This Beautiful Himalayan Village

Important Note:
Roads To Lachen May Sometimes Be Closed Due To Weather, Landslides, Or Army Restrictions. In Such Cases, An Alternative Plan Will Be Provided.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Stay: Hotel In Lachen

Day 05 :

Lachen To Gurudongmar Lake | Transfer To Lachung

Early Morning: Wake Up Early And Leave From Lachen At 04:00 For Gurudongmar Lake.

Gurudongmar Lake Visit (17,800 Ft)
One Of The Highest And Most Sacred Lakes In India, Surrounded By Snow Peaks And Cold Desert Landscapes.
Important Conditions:
• Entry Depends On Army Permission
• Weather Can Change Suddenly
• Not Allowed For Children Below 05 Years
• Only Short Stoppage Allowed Due To Low Oxygen
• Carry Warm Clothing (Temperature Often Below 0°C)
Drive Duration: 3–4 Hours One Way
Return To Lachen: Around 10:00–11:00

Transfer To Lachung
After Returning To Lachen, Have Lunch And Proceed Toward Lachung.
Drive Duration: 2–3 Hours
En Route Stops:
• Bhim Nala Waterfall
• Scenic Valley Views And Photo Spots

Arrival In Lachung
Reach Lachung By 14:00–15:00, Check In To Your Hotel, And Enjoy A Relaxed Evening In This Beautiful Mountain Village.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Stay: Hotel In Lachung

Day 06 :

Lachung To Yumthang Valley | Zero Point Optional | Return To Gangtok

Early Morning: Enjoy Breakfast And Start From Lachung At 07:00 For The Beautiful North Sikkim Meadows.

Yumthang Valley – The Valley Of Flowers
A Stunning High-Altitude Meadow Surrounded By Snow-Capped Peaks, Colourful Flowers (Seasonal), And Breathtaking Landscapes.
Stop Duration: 45–60 Minutes
Best Spots: River Viewpoints, Snow Zones (Seasonal), Valley Photo Points

Zero Point Visit (Optional – Direct Payment)
After Yumthang, You May Visit Zero Point (Altitude ≈ 15,000 Ft) Depending On:
• Weather Conditions
• Road Conditions
• Local Permit Availability
• Army Permission
Zero Point Is Not Included In The Package Price, And Payment Is Made Directly To The Local Driver.
Return To Lachung: Around 12:00–13:00

Return To Gangtok
After Lunch, Begin Your Journey Back To Gangtok.
Drive Duration: 5–6 Hours
Arrival In Gangtok: 18:00–19:00
Evening: Check In To Your Hotel And Relax After A Long Travel Day.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Stay: Hotel In Gangtok

Day 07 :

Gangtok To Pelling | Scenic Himalayan Transfer

Morning: Enjoy Breakfast At The Hotel And Depart For Pelling At 08:00.

Drive Duration: 5–6 Hours
Route Highlights:
• Beautiful Mountain Roads
• Waterfalls And Deep Valley Views
• Calm Scenic Villages Along The Way

Arrival In Pelling:
Check In To Your Hotel And Relax After The Drive.

Evening:
Enjoy A Peaceful Walk Around The Hotel Area Or Explore Nearby Viewpoints Such As The Helipad Ground For Majestic Sunset Views (Time Permitting).

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Stay: Hotel In Pelling

Day 08 :

Pelling Local Sightseeing | Nature, Monasteries & Waterfalls

Morning: Enjoy Breakfast At The Hotel And Start Your Pelling Sightseeing Tour At 09:00.
Sightseeing Highlights:
• Khecheopalri Lake
A Sacred Wish-Fulfilling Lake Surrounded By Dense Forests And Peaceful Natural Beauty.
• Khecheopalri Monastery
A Serene Buddhist Monastery Known For Its Calm Environment And Spiritual Ambience.
• Rimbi Waterfall
A Scenic Waterfall Perfect For Photography And Relaxation.
• Kanchenjunga Waterfall
One Of The Most Powerful And Beautiful Waterfalls In Sikkim, Surrounded By Lush Greenery.
• Rabdentse Ruins
Historic Ruins Of The Former Capital Of Sikkim, Offering Stunning Valley Views And A Short Forest Walk.
Optional:
Visit The Famous Skywalk (On Direct Payment), Offering An Incredible Glass-Bridge Viewpoint Over The Valley.

Evening: Return To Your Hotel And Relax Or Explore Local Cafés And Markets.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Stay: Hotel In Pelling

Day 09 :

Pelling To Darjeeling | Tea Garden City Arrival

Morning: Enjoy Breakfast At The Hotel And Depart For Darjeeling At 08:00.

Drive Duration: 4–5 Hours
Route Highlights:
• Beautiful Mountain Roads
• River Valleys And Tea Garden Landscapes
• Scenic Himalayan Views

Arrival In Darjeeling:
Check In To Your Hotel And Relax After The Drive.

Evening Sightseeing (Time Permitting):
• Visit The Darjeeling Mall Road
• Explore Local Shops, Cafés, And Sunset Viewpoints
• Enjoy The Calm Hill Station Atmosphere

Optional:
You Can Stroll Around Chowrasta And Enjoy The Famous Darjeeling Tea (Direct Payment).

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Stay: Hotel In Darjeeling

Day 10 :

Darjeeling Sunrise Point | Local Sightseeing Tour

Early Morning: Start Your Day At 04:00 And Drive To Tiger Hill To Witness A Beautiful Sunrise Over The Kanchenjunga And Eastern Himalayan Range.
Next Visit:
• Ghoom Monastery – One Of The Oldest Tibetan Monasteries In The Region
• Batasia Loop – A Fascinating Spiral Track With A War Memorial And Stunning Valley Views
Return To Hotel: Around 07:30–08:00 For Breakfast.

Darjeeling Local Sightseeing
Start Your Local Tour At 10:00 Covering:
• Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
• Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
• Tibetan Refugee Centre
• Tenzing Rock
• Tea Garden Viewpoint (Photography Stop)

Optional Activity (Direct Payment):
Darjeeling Toy Train Ride – Subject To Ticket Availability And Prior Booking.

Evening: Free Time To Explore Mall Road, Local Cafés, And Souvenir Shops.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Stay: Hotel In Darjeeling

Day 11 :

Darjeeling To Bagdogra Airport | Departure

Morning: Enjoy Breakfast At Your Hotel And Prepare For Your Return Journey.
Checkout: 10:00

Drive To Bagdogra Airport: Depart From Darjeeling At 10:30 For A Scenic 3–4 Hour Drive Through Tea Gardens, Mountain Roads, And Peaceful Valleys.

Arrival At Airport: Around 14:00–14:30, Depending On Traffic And Road Conditions.

Trip Ends: Bid Farewell To The Group And Carry Beautiful Memories Of Sikkim’s Mountains, Valleys, Culture, And Adventure.

Meals: Breakfast

GANGTOK - LACHUNG - LACHEN - YUMTHANG VALLEY - TSOMGO LAKE - NAMCHI - PELLING - DARJEELING

Nestled in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas, Sikkim is a land of unparalleled beauty and rich cultural heritage. Once an independent kingdom, it became the 22nd state of India in 1975. Bordered by Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet, Sikkim offers a unique blend of landscapes—from lush subtropical woodlands to soaring snow-capped peaks. Its diverse topography and vibrant traditions make it a haven for backpackers seeking adventure and tranquility.

Major Attractions

Gangtok:

The capital city, perched at an altitude of 5,410 feet, is a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. Key sites include the Enchey Monastery, the bustling MG Marg, and the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, which houses rare Buddhist manuscripts and artefacts.

Yumthang Valley:

Often referred to as the “Valley of Flowers,” this picturesque expanse is adorned with a myriad of alpine blooms during spring. The Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary within the valley is home to numerous rhododendron species.

Tsomgo Lake:

Situated at an elevation of 12,310 feet, the locals consider this glacial lake sacred. Its crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding snow-clad mountains, offering a mesmerizing sight.

Pelling:

A serene town known for the Pemayangtse Monastery and the majestic views of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world.

Namchi:

Home to the towering 118-foot statue of Guru Padmasambhava, the patron saint of Sikkim, and the aesthetically designed Temi Tea Garden, the state’s sole tea estate.

Darjeeling — The Queen of Hills

Perched at 6,710 ft, Darjeeling is a charming hill station that blends British colonial architecture with rich Tibetan and Nepalese culture. Famous for its world-class tea estates, breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga range, and the legendary Toy Train, Darjeeling is an unmissable part of your Sikkim backpacking journey.
Tiger Hill Sunrise – Witness the first rays of the sun paint Kanchenjunga in golden hues. This is one of India’s most breathtaking sunrises.
Darjeeling Himalayan Railway – Take a ride on the Toy Train, a UNESCO World Heritage site that meanders through tea plantations and hills.
Batasia Loop & War Memorial – A spiral railway loop offering panoramic views of the town and peaks beyond.
Tea Gardens & Tastings – Walk through lush tea estates, learn about organic tea production, and sip on the finest Darjeeling Tea, known as the Champagne of Teas.
Himalayan Mountaineering Institute (HMI) – Established by Tenzing Norgay, this legendary institute showcases mountaineering history and gear used in Everest expeditions.
Japanese Peace Pagoda – A serene Buddhist site offering a 360-degree view of the Himalayas and Darjeeling town.
Mall Road & Chowrasta – Enjoy street shopping, cafes, and local delicacies like Momos, Thukpa, and Darjeeling Tea in this lively area.

Challenges

Altitude: Certain regions, such as Tsomgo Lake and Yumthang Valley, are situated at high altitudes. Travellers may experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness. It’s advisable to acclimatize properly and stay hydrated.
Weather Variability: Sikkim’s weather can be unpredictable. While summers are pleasant, winters can be harsh, especially in northern areas. Monsoons (June to September) bring heavy rainfall, leading to potential landslides and roadblocks.
Connectivity: Remote areas might have limited connectivity. It’s essential to inform family or friends about your itinerary and expected return dates.

Essential Notes

Permits: Certain regions, especially those near international borders like North Sikkim and Tsomgo Lake, require special permits for both domestic and international travellers. Ensure all necessary documentation is arranged in advance.
Sustainable Tourism: Sikkim prides itself on its eco-friendly initiatives. Travelers are encouraged to minimize plastic usage, dispose of waste responsibly, and respect local customs and traditions.
Health Precautions: Carry a basic medical kit, including medications for common ailments. Due to varying altitudes and temperatures, appropriate clothing is essential.

Best Time To Do the Sikkim Backpacking Trip

The ideal time to embark on the Sikkim Backpacking Trip is during the spring and autumn seasons, when weather conditions are most favorable for trekking, sightseeing, and enjoying the breathtaking Himalayan landscapes. These periods offer clear skies, moderate temperatures, and vibrant natural beauty, making your journey safe, comfortable, and visually spectacular.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a spectacular season to explore Sikkim, as the valleys and hills burst into color with blooming rhododendrons, magnolias, and orchids. The weather is mild, with daytime temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C, perfect for trekking and outdoor activities. Clear skies provide uninterrupted views of the snow-capped peaks, making this an excellent time for photography and nature lovers. Additionally, local festivals like Losar offer cultural immersion during this vibrant season.

Autumn (September to November)

Autumn follows the monsoon season, bringing crisp, fresh air and crystal-clear mountain views. Temperatures during the day hover between 12°C and 22°C, with cooler evenings ideal for camping and relaxation. This season is favored by most trekkers for stable weather and exceptionally scenic landscapes, with post-monsoon greenery and abundant wildflowers. It is also a great time to experience traditional harvest festivals and cultural events in the region.

Avoiding Monsoon and Winter

The monsoon season (June to August) is generally not recommended due to heavy rains, slippery trails, and the risk of landslides, which can affect road and trail accessibility. Winter months (December to February) bring extreme cold, snowfall at higher altitudes, and challenging trekking conditions, best suited only for experienced trekkers equipped for high-altitude cold-weather adventure.

Summary

Planning your trip during the spring or autumn seasons ensures the best combination of weather, safety, and scenic beauty for an enriching Sikkim trekking experience. Proper preparation and timing allow travelers to fully embrace the region’s majestic Himalayas, vibrant culture, and unforgettable natural wonders.

What To Pack For Your Sikkim Backpacking Trip

Packing right is key to enjoying a comfortable and safe trekking adventure in Sikkim’s diverse mountain terrain. Here is a carefully curated packing list to help travelers prepare efficiently for the varying weather conditions and activities on the trip.
Essential Clothing

Layered clothing: Thermal base layers, fleece jackets, and waterproof windcheaters to adapt to changing temperatures.
Trekking pants and comfortable shirts: Lightweight, quick-dry fabrics are ideal for day hikes.
Warm hat and gloves: Crucial for chilly mornings and evenings, especially at higher altitudes.
Sturdy trekking shoes: Waterproof, well-broken-in hiking boots with good grip for rough and slippery trails.
Extra socks: Wool or synthetic options to keep feet dry and warm.
Daypack: To carry water, snacks, camera, and essentials during daily excursions.
Water bottle or hydration system: Staying hydrated is vital at higher elevations.
Sunglasses and sunscreen: Protection against strong UV rays and glare from snow.
Reusable rain jacket or poncho: Weather can be unpredictable, especially in spring and autumn.
Trekking poles (optional): Helpful for stability on uneven terrain.
Personal medications and basic first aid kit: Altitude sickness tablets, painkillers, band-aids, and insect repellent.
Travel documents: ID proofs, permits, booking confirmations, and insurance.
Camera or smartphone: Capture stunning landscapes and memorable moments.
Power bank and chargers: For electronic devices during extended travel days.
Toiletries and quick-dry towel: Keep personal hygiene comfortable on the trail.
Sleeping bag liner: For added warmth in hotels or homestays.
Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, and dried fruits for quick energy boosts while trekking.
Binoculars: For bird watching and appreciating distant views.

Packing thoughtfully ensures a smooth, enjoyable, and safe journey while allowing trekkers to fully experience the majestic beauty and cultural richness of Sikkim. Travelers are encouraged to balance preparedness with lightness for ease of movement.

Sikkim Backpacking Trip

Trip Info

Itinerary

Overview

Inclusions And Exclusions

Best Time To Do

What To Pack

Frequently Asked Questions

DETAILED Itinerary