How to Plan a Sikkim Trip

Before you start planning Sikkim

Sikkim is smaller than it looks, but mountain roads make every day long. The key to a good plan is permits, altitude and weather.

Work out the northern leg first. Gangtok is simple, and North Sikkim is where planning matters.

When to go to Sikkim

March to June is good for rhododendrons, especially April and May at Yumthang. October to December has clear skies and cold nights.

July to September is the monsoon, with landslides that can close roads, particularly in the north.

Getting there and getting around

The nearest airports are Bagdogra, about four to five hours by road from Gangtok, and Pakyong in Sikkim, where flights have been intermittent. New Jalpaiguri is the nearest big railhead.

Roads in North Sikkim can be rough and slow. Use an experienced driver and a suitable vehicle.

Where to base yourself

Spend two to three nights in Gangtok, then move north to Lachung or Lachen for two nights. Add Pelling or Ravangla if you have time.

Higher stops can be cold and basic. Check heating and hot water before you go.

What to book early

• Permits for Tsomgo Lake, Nathula and North Sikkim, which are arranged through authorised operators.
• Hotels in Lachung and Lachen in peak months.
• Nathula visits, which are restricted to specific days.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Ignoring altitude and trying to do Gurudongmar and Yumthang on back-to-back days.
• Arriving without ID for permits.
• Travelling in heavy monsoon without buffer days.
• Assuming mobile networks work in the north.

A simple route to start from

Treat this as a starting outline and adjust it to your dates and pace.