Sikkim
Kanchenjunga from your window, glacial lakes near the Tibetan border, rhododendron valleys in spring.
About Sikkim
Sikkim rises from the subtropical gorges of the Teesta to Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain on earth, all within a small, clean and very safe state.
Monasteries, glacial lakes near the Tibetan border and rhododendron valleys in spring make it one of the most rewarding regions for an easy-paced trip.
When to go
Best from March to May, October to December.
- January: good
- February: good
- March: best
- April: best
- May: best
- June: off season
- July: off season
- August: off season
- September: good
- October: best
- November: best
- December: best
Journeys in Sikkim
Before you go
- Getting there
- Fly to Bagdogra, about 124 km from Gangtok, or take the train to New Jalpaiguri. The drive up the Teesta valley takes four to five hours.
- Permits
- Indian citizens need a Protected Area Permit for Tsomgo Lake and Nathu La, and a separate permit for North Sikkim. Foreign nationals need a Restricted Area Permit and some areas stay closed to them. We apply through registered local operators.
- What to eat
- Momos, thukpa, phagshapa (pork with radish), gundruk, sel roti and chhurpi cheese.
- North Sikkim roads are still being repaired after the 2023 Teesta floods, so routes are confirmed close to departure.
- Mobile signal is patchy north of Mangan.
- Nathu La is open to Indian nationals only, from Wednesday to Sunday.
- Kanchenjunga is clearest from October to December.
Questions about Sikkim
When is the best time to visit Sikkim?
March to May for flowers and October to December for clear mountain views. June to September brings monsoon landslides.
Is Sikkim good for a honeymoon?
Yes. It is calm, safe and beautiful, with good stays in Gangtok and Pelling.
Can foreigners visit North Sikkim?
Partly. Foreign nationals can visit Tsomgo Lake and Yumthang in groups with a Restricted Area Permit, but not Nathu La, Zero Point or Gurudongmar.