Sikkim Tour Packages
A small state in the Northeast, Sikkim is like a hidden gem in India. Sikkim welcomes you with amazing mountain views, beautiful monasteries, and rich local culture. Visitors love Sikkim for its snow-covered peaks, flowing waterfalls, sacred lakes, and colourful Buddhist way of life. Sikkim is your starting point to the Himalayas, with stunning views, fresh air, and peaceful lakes. Whether you love quiet nature walks or thrilling adventures, this Indian state has something that will make you want to come back. From busy markets in Gangtok to quiet forests in North Sikkim, each part of the state has something special to share.
Our Sikkim travel packages offer you a chance to enjoy the charm of this scenic land and create wonderful memories along the way. Sikkim is a place where you can find spiritual calm and also enjoy action-packed adventures in the lap of nature.
Flamingo Travels brings 25+ years of travel expertise and knows what Indian tourists look for. Our tours to Sikkim are well-planned, flexible, and trusted by travellers worldwide. We offer a diverse range of Sikkim tour packages that you can further customize it as per your preferences.
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Things to know before travelling to Sikkim
- People speak Nepali and Bhutia. English is understood in tourist spots and cities like Gangtok.
- Sikkim has different heights, so pack warm clothes, light layers, and rain gear for all seasons.
- Carry a sturdy pair of shoes, gloves, and thermals are recommended.
- You will need permits to visit some places in Sikkim as they are close to borders. It is best to get these permits before your trip starts to avoid delays or cancellations.
- Carry a valid government-issued ID (Aadhaar/Passport/Voter ID) and passport-size photographs for permit applications.
- Mobile phones work well in cities but may not work in high mountains and faraway villages.
- Carry a power bank, as charging points may not be available everywhere.
- Roads can be winding and bumpy; carry motion sickness medication if needed.
- ATMs are in big towns like Gangtok and Pelling, but keep enough cash for remote areas.
- Travel insurance is a good idea as the weather and roads in Sikkim can change suddenly.
Why choose Sikkim for your next vacation?
If you are looking for a place with stunning nature, calm surroundings, fun adventures, and rich culture, Sikkim is the ideal choice. Set in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas, this small but soul-stirring state offers more than just scenic views.
This is why you should think about adding Sikkim to your travel bucket list.
- Unspoiled Himalayan Beauty
- Old Buddhist monasteries
- Adventure at Every Altitude
- Cultural Harmony
- Year-Round Accessibility
- Friendly People and Local Life
- Eco-Friendly Travel
- Biodiversity Hotspot
- Delicious local food
- Quiet and Relaxing
- Unique holiday destination
Best time to visit Sikkim
The weather in Sikkim changes with the seasons, so some times are better for visiting.
March to April
This is the summer season in Sikkim. Unlike other parts of India, the weather here stays cool and comfortable. It is one of the best times to visit Sikkim, featuring temperatures ranging from 5°C to 25°C. The weather is nice for trekking, rafting, biking, and enjoying hill views and flower shows.
One of the main highlights is the blooming of rhododendrons and orchids, especially in the Rhododendron Valley in Northern Sikkim. It is the peak season in the state, thus, prices will be on the higher side.
May to December
This is the monsoon season in Sikkim. During the monsoon, Sikkim receives heavy rainfall, especially in July. This season makes the entire region lush and green, and the waterfalls look amazing. The temperature stays around 17°C to 22°C.
While the constant rain might make travel tricky, this time is peaceful with fewer tourists and lower hotel prices. It is also a good time for bird watchers, as many rare birds can be seen. However, there may be chances of roadblocks and landslides, thus it is wise to check the weather updates before travelling.
January to March
This is the winter season in Sikkim. It is cold and snowy, with temperatures ranging from -5°C to 7°C. While the high-altitude areas may be closed due to heavy snow, other places remain open for sightseeing. Most parts of the state are covered in thick snow, creating a beautiful winter scene that attracts many tourists.
Winter is great for snow lovers who want to ski or go on snow treks. Admire the colourful landscape and enjoy the local festivals. If you plan to visit during winter, carry warm clothes, as the nights can be freezing even though the days are manageable.
How to Reach Sikkim from Major Indian Cities
Even though Sikkim is hidden in the Eastern Himalayan Mountains, you can still reach it from other parts of India in several easy ways.
By Air
Reaching Sikkim by Air is the fastest option. The closest airport to Sikkim is Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal, about 124 km from Gangtok. It has regular flights from major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai. From Bagdogra, you can reach Gangtok in about 4-5 hours by taxi, shared jeep, or bus. There is also a helicopter service operated by Sikkim Tourism that connects Bagdogra to Gangtok in just 20 minutes.
However, it is available during the day and weather permitting. Sikkim also has its airport, Pakyong Airport, located 35 km from Gangtok, but it has limited flight connectivity at the moment.
By Road
Travelling to Sikkim by road is by far the most scenic journey. You can reach Sikkim by road from Siliguri through Highway 31A, which gives you lovely views of forests and the Teesta River. You can travel by public/ private buses, private cabs, or rental bikes.
- Bus: Regular buses run between Gangtok and cities like Siliguri, Jalpaiguri, Bagdogra, and even Kolkata.
- Taxi/Private Car: Easily available from nearby cities like Siliguri and NJP. Great for comfort and sightseeing halts.
- Bike: Bikes can be rented from Siliguri or Jalpaiguri. This is ideal for adventure lovers wanting to enjoy a Himalayan road trip.
From Siliguri, you can also find shared jeeps and buses going to various parts of Sikkim, such as Gangtok, Namchi, Jorethang, Pelling, and Yuksom. While shared jeeps run frequently during the day, it is safer to avoid travelling after sunset due to hilly roads.
By Rail
Travelling to Sikkim by train is the most budget-friendly option. Sikkim does not have its own railway station yet. The nearest major station is New Jalpaiguri in Siliguri, West Bengal, about 130-148 km from Gangtok. New Jalpaiguri is well connected to big cities like Delhi and Kolkata. From New Jalpaiguri, you can reach Gangtok in 4 to 6 hours by bus, jeep, or taxi.
Other nearby stations include Siliguri Junction and Jalpaiguri, but New Jalpaiguri is the most preferred due to better connectivity.
Popular Places to Visit in Sikkim
Sikkim may be small in size, but its destinations are packed with beauty, spirituality, and culture. Here are some must-visit places to include in your Sikkim tour package.
Gangtok
The capital city of Sikkim, Gangtok, is at 5410 feet in the Eastern Himalayas. This beautiful hill town blends traditional local culture with a modern lifestyle and offers stunning views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Explore popular places in the city like MG Marg, Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo Lake, and Tashi Viewpoint. Gangtok is also great for adventure lovers, offering paragliding, trekking, river rafting, and mountain biking in the Teesta River.
The city has a fun nightlife with cafes and shops that stay open late, especially on MG Road. Spring brings bright rhododendron flowers all over the place. You can also shop for Tibetan handicrafts, woollens, and local tea. Whether you are seeking adventure, peace, culture, or family fun, Gangtok is a perfect starting point for exploring the beauty of Sikkim.
Nathula Pass
Nathula Pass is a high mountain pass in Sikkim, at 14,140 feet above sea level. It was once part of the ancient Silk Road and connects India with Tibet. Only Indian citizens can visit, and a special permit is needed, which requires ID proof and photos. Foreigners are not allowed. The pass is known for its scenic beauty, snowy mountains, and views of Tibet’s Chumbi Valley.
It is also home to wildlife like yaks, snow leopards, and Tibetan wolves. The road to Nathula is adventurous but can cause motion sickness. It stays shut on Mondays, Tuesdays, and during snowy winters. May to October is the best time to go. You can enjoy the stunning views, waterfalls on the way from Gangtok, and even meet Indian Army soldiers near the border.
Pelling
Pelling is at an altitude of 7,200 feet in West Sikkim. It is a beautiful hill town with amazing views of Mount Kanchenjunga and is a top tourist spot after Gangtok. The town is rich in natural beauty, with waterfalls like Kanchenjunga Falls and Rimbi Waterfall, and sacred sites such as the wish-fulfilling Khecheopalri Lake. If you love adventure, you can enjoy trekking, kayaking, rock climbing, and mountain biking.
The town also hosts the Khangchendzonga Festival, celebrating local culture and traditions. With its peaceful atmosphere, cultural richness, and opportunities for adventure, Pelling is a perfect getaway for nature lovers and those seeking a spiritual escape.
Gurudongmar Lake
Gurudongmar Lake, at 17,800 feet in North Sikkim, is one of the highest lakes in the world. It is both beautiful and sacred. The lake is also thought to have healing and fertility-boosting properties, and many visitors carry its water home. Gurudongmar offers breathtaking views, especially during the flowering season from April to May, when the entire region looks magical.
Visiting the lake requires a special permit for Indian nationals, and foreign tourists are not allowed. With its spiritual aura, natural beauty, and serene environment, Gurudongmar Lake is one of the most enchanting places to visit in Sikkim.
Yumthang Valley
Yumthang Valley, or the Valley of Flowers, is a beautiful and colourful valley in North Sikkim. This valley is at a height of 3,500 meters. It is famous for its wide variety of rare Himalayan flowers like rhododendrons, primulas, poppies, and cobra lilies, which bloom between late February and mid-June. The valley looks its best in spring and early summer when flowers bloom everywhere.
The valley also has natural hot springs believed to have healing properties. Yumthang stays closed from December to March because of snow. The valley is often compared to the valleys of Switzerland for its unmatched natural beauty and peaceful charm.
Top Things to Do in Sikkim
Sikkim has many different things to do, from learning about local life to trying fun outdoor activities. Check out these top things to do in Sikkim to the fullest.
Yak Safari
Yak Safari in Sikkim is a special activity you can try while visiting tourist spots in Sikkim. This fun adventure lets you ride on big, strong, gentle yaks while seeing the beautiful mountain scenery. One of the best places to enjoy this adventure is near Tsomgo Lake, about 40 km from Gangtok. As you ride, you can enjoy amazing views, fresh mountain air, and the gentle rocking motion of the yak walking.
Yaks are calm animals, making the ride safe and enjoyable for all ages. The best time for a yak safari is during the winter months, when the surroundings are especially beautiful. Do not forget to carry your camera to capture the memorable moments!
Gondola Ride
The Gangtok Ropeway gives you a fun and scenic view of the city and mountains. This cable car ride offers stunning views of Gangtok, lush green valleys, and even the Kanchenjunga mountain range. The ropeway starts at Deorali, the lowest station, and travels up to Tashiling, with a stop at Namnang in between.
The ride covers about 935 meters and takes around 15 to 20 minutes. The best views can be enjoyed if you stand near the glass pane, as the cable cars do not have seats. You might have to wait in line, especially during peak hours, but the scenic beauty makes it worthwhile. The ropeway runs daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Ticket prices for adults is around Rs. 110 and for children under six years of age is around Rs. 70, while kids below three ride free.
River Rafting
River rafting on the Teesta River in Darjeeling is an exciting adventure that mixes the fun of moving through fast-moving water with the beautiful mountain views. The Teesta River has different levels of rapids, good for both experienced and beginner rafters. The rafting areas are divided into different skill levels, from easy to hard, so you can pick what matches your skills.
While rafting, you will see thick forests, small villages, and amazing views. Safety is important, so you will get proper safety gear and help from experienced guides. The best time to go rafting is from September to June, avoiding the rainy season when water levels can be unpredictable.
Admire the Beautiful Rumtek Monastery in Gangtok
Rumtek Monastery is 23 km from Gangtok. It is one of the most beautiful and important monasteries in Sikkim. Known as the Dharma Chakra Centre, it belongs to the Kargyu sect of Buddhism and attracts spiritual seekers from across the world. Set on a hill surrounded by green mountains, it offers peace and spiritual vibes to all who visit.
The architecture of the monastery is grand, with a lovely shrine, a walkway for prayer rounds, and a huge prayer hall filled with murals, statues, and thangkhas. It also houses a golden stupa and rare religious items.
Take a Walk on the Pelling Glass Bridge
The Pelling Glass Skywalk in West Sikkim is the first glass-bottom skywalk in India. It is located 7,200 feet above sea level and gives amazing views of the Himalayas, including the Kanchenjunga mountains. The skywalk is part of the Chenrezig complex, which also has a 137-foot statue of Chenrezig, the tallest one in the world. Walking on the glass panels lets you see the deep valleys and rivers below, making it an exciting experience.
The Pelling Glass Skywalk is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The entry fee is INR 20 for Indian nationals and INR 50 for foreign nationals. This unique attraction combines adventure, spirituality, and stunning natural beauty, making it a must-visit spot for anyone travelling to Sikkim.
Must-Try Foods in Sikkim - A Culinary Experience
A trip to Sikkim is not complete without trying its delicious local food. Influenced by Tibetan, Nepalese, and traditional Sikkimese flavours, the cuisine is warm, filling, and made with fresh local ingredients. Whether you are eating at a small local restaurant or enjoying street food in Gangtok, each dish gives you a real taste of the rich culture in Sikkim.
A few of the best local dishes to try in Sikkim are.
- Momos
- Gundruk Soup - fermented leafy greens
- Thupka - noodle soup
- Phagshapa - pork with radish
- Sha Phaley - bread stuffed with meat
- Sinki – fermented radish
- Sel Roti – sweet rice bread
- Kinema – fermented soyabean curry
- Chhurpi – traditional cheese
- Nimtho – Sikkimese Thali
- Shapta – thin slices of stir-fried meat
Top Shopping Spots on the Sikkim Tour
Shopping in Sikkim is a special experience. Local markets are filled with handicrafts, woollen clothes, and organic products that reflect the rich culture and traditions of this region.
- MG Marg Market – Gangtok
- New Market - Gangtok
- Pelling Market
- Old Market – Gangtok
- Yuksom Local Market
- Directorate of Handicrafts & Handlooms - Gangtok
- Ravangla Local Market
- Namchi Bazaar - Namchi
What to Buy on Your Sikkim Tour,
- Tibetan Carpets
- Thangka Paintings
- Handwoven Textiles
- Local spices
- Organic Sikkim Tea
- Colourful Buddhist prayer flags
- Masks
- Handcrafted Wood and Bamboo Items
- Traditional Jewellery and Beaded Necklaces
- Local herbal products
Experience the Vibrant Nightlife of Sikkim
Sikkim may be known for its calm and quiet nature, but its nightlife is also worth exploring. In the evening, some places light up with cosy cafes, fun pubs, and cultural shows. You can enjoy local drinks, live music, or just relax and soak in the cheerful atmosphere. It is a nice way to end your day in Sikkim.
The best places to enjoy nightlife in Sikkim are
- Live Music Cafes in Gangtok
- MG Marg – Gangtok
- Tashi Viewpoint – Gangtok
- The Casino at Mayfair Spa Resort – Gangtok
- Moonlit Walks near Tsomgo Lake
- Nightclubs in Gangtok
- Rooftop Dining at Bakers Café – Gangtok
- Rumtek Monastery Night Visit
Experience the Festivals of Sikkim
Sikkim is not just known for its mountains and monasteries, but also for its colourful festivals. These festivals show the rich culture and traditions of the people. Attending a festival in Sikkim offers not just a cultural experience but a heartfelt glimpse into the soul of the region.
1. Losar (Tibetan New Year)
- When - February or March
- Where - Mainly celebrated in and around monasteries across Sikkim
- Why - Marks the Tibetan New Year with prayers, dances, and purification rituals, inviting peace and prosperity.
2. Saga Dawa
- When - May or June (Full moon day of the fourth lunar month)
- Where - Celebrated across monasteries, especially in Gangtok and West Sikkim
- Why - One of the most sacred Buddhist festivals, it honours Lord Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and nirvana.
3. Maghe Sankranti
- When - 14th Jan
- Where - Throughout Sikkim, especially in the Terai and lower hill regions
- Why - It marks the end of winter with river baths, special food, and family time.
4. Sakewa
- When - April or May (Full moon day of Baisakh)
- Where - in the Rai-majority regions of Sikkim
- Why - to honour Mother Earth and pray for a good harvest.
5. Drukpa Tshechi
- When - July or August (4th day of the 6th Tibetan lunar month)
- Where - in key monasteries across Sikkim
- Why - to mark the day Lord Buddha gave his first sermon on the Four Noble Truths.
6. Dasai
- When - September or October (15-day celebration, starts from the bright lunar fortnight of Ashwin month)
- Where – Gangtok and Namchi
- Why – Dasai - the Nepali version of Dussehra celebrates the victory of good over evil with family gatherings and traditional rituals.
Tips for Hassle-Free Sikkim Holiday
- To get around Sikkim, hire a local taxi or rent a vehicle. The roads are hilly, so it is safer to travel with drivers who know the area well.
- Mountain sickness can affect you, so take time to adjust to the height and drink plenty of water when visiting high places.
- Respect local customs, especially at monasteries, remove shoes, ask before taking photos, and stay quiet in prayer areas.
- Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a cap or hat because the sun is strong in high places.
- Places like Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang are at high altitudes, so you may feel altitude sickness. Rest well, drink lots of water, and carry medicines after checking with your doctor. Avoid too much activity on the first day.
- Sikkim is culturally rich. Respect local traditions, monasteries, and dress codes.
- Do not litter or pluck rare Himalayan flowers.
- Sikkim is the first organic state in the country and is very clean. Do not throw garbage around. Try not to use plastic bags or bottles that you use only once.
- Photography is not allowed inside most monasteries without permission.
- Keep the volume low and avoid making loud noises.
- Bargaining is normal, so feel free to ask for a better price.
- Always ask if it is okay before taking photos of people or religious events.
- Keep your valuables safe by using a money belt or a hidden pouch for cash and important papers.
- Try local food in small portions first, as it may be different from what you are used to.
- Stay away from lonely places at night - stick to busy, well-lit areas.
- Add buffer days to your travel plan, as the weather may impact roads and schedules.
Best Places to Stay in Sikkim
Sikkim has stay options for everyone, from fancy mountain-view resorts to simple homestays that offer a taste of local culture. Stay at the best hotels in Sikkim as part of our Sikkim tour packages and make your trip extra special with comfort and convenience.
Top 10 Hotels in Sikkim for all price ranges,
- Mayfair Spa Resort and Casino – Gangtok
- Vivanta Sikkim – Pakyong
- The Chumbi Mountain Resort and Spa - Pelling
- Yashshree – Lachung
- Lemon Tree Hotel - Gangtok
- Udaan Hotel Pine Crest – Pelling
- Treenz – Gangtok
- Summit Alpine Abode Continental – Gangtok
- Sterling Gangtok Orange Village
- Udaan Olive Hotel and Spa – Pelling
- The Golden Crest - Gangtok
