16-06-2025Places to Visit in Sikkim: Top 8 Tourist Destinations
Sikkim, a hidden treasure in the Himalayas, is rich in beautiful lakes, ancient monasteries, vibrant culture, and many beautiful places to visit in Sikkim. While small in size, this captivating state has so much spiritual dynamism and stunning natural beauty. Each traveller may encounter magic in Sikkim, from the scenic lakes, colourful festivals, to the world’s 3rd highest peak, Kanchenjunga. Here are some places to visit in Sikkim, which will provide a truly exceptional experience as outlined in our TripzyGo guide.
List of Places to Visit in Sikkim
Sikkim offers the perfect blend of adventure, peace, and cultural richness. These places to visit in Sikkim will leave you amazed by their beauty and culture.
Gangtok
As the capital of Sikkim, Gangtok is a beautiful hill station and one of the most popular tourist spots in Sikkim. Located at an elevation of 1,650 meters, this vibrant city is known for its clean roads, friendly locals, and rich Buddhist culture and sightseeing places in Sikkim. It offers breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga range.
| Location | Located in East Sikkim district, Sikkim, India |
| Entry Fee | No entry fee for the city |
| Timing | The city is accessible throughout the day |
| Best Time to Visit | March to June and September to December for pleasant weather |
| Things To Do | Explore MG Marg for shopping and dining, and the flower exhibition at Ridge Park |
Suggested read: Gaumukh Tapovan Trek 2025: A Complete Guide For Trekkers
Nathula Pass
At an elevation of 4,310 meters, the Nathula route is a historic mountain route between Tibet and India. The tourist destination in Sikkim holds great historical value, as it is part of the Silk Road route. The pass offers a glimpse of the Indo-China border, and the picturesque Himalaya, making it a top Sikkim tour spot.
| Location | Located 56 km from Gangtok on the Indo-China border, East Sikkim |
| Entry Fee | No entry fee, but special permits are required |
| Timing | Open from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays) |
| Best Time to Visit | May to October for clear weather and accessible roads |
| Things To Do | Witness the Indo-China border and experience the historical significance of the ancient Silk Route |
Pelling
Pelling is a picturesque hill station in West Sikkim that offers some of the most stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range. This peaceful town is famous for its ancient monasteries, waterfalls, and the famous food of Sikkim.
| Location | Located in the West Sikkim district, approximately 115 km from Gangtok |
| Entry Fee | No entry fee for the town |
| Timing | Accessible throughout the day |
| Best Time to Visit | October to May for clear skies and pleasant weather |
| Things To Do | Visit Pemayangtse Monastery, explore Rabdentse Ruins, and witness the stunning Kanchenjunga Falls |
Yuksom
Yuksom is historically important as the first capital of Sikkim (Yuksom means “Meeting Place of Three Learned Men”). Nestled amongst mountains and forests, this delightful town is the place to see the famous Goecha La trek. It is one of the more well-known sites for tourists in Sikkim, making it a Sikkim tourist attraction.
| Location | Located in the West Sikkim district, approximately 32 km from Pelling |
| Entry Fee | No entry fee for the village |
| Timing | Accessible throughout the day |
| Best Time to Visit | March to May and September to November for trekking and sightseeing |
| Things To Do | Visit the coronation throne of the first Chogyal and explore Dubdi Monastery |
Suggested read: Manali In May: Weather, Places & Travel Tips
Gurudongmar Lake
One of the highest lakes in the world, at an altitude of 5,183 meters, Gurudongmar Lake is a sacred site revered by Buddhists, Hindus, and Sikhs alike. The crystal-clear waters of the lake create a surreal and spiritual atmosphere that makes it one of the top Sikkim tourist attractions.
Rumtek Monastery is one of the most significant monasteries in Sikkim and serves as the seat of the Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. Built in the 16th century and later reconstructed, this magnificent monastery houses precious Buddhist artefacts, manuscripts, and beautiful murals.
| Location | Located 24 km from Gangtok in East Sikkim |
| Entry Fee | No entry fee |
| Timing | 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Evening: 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM |
| Best Time to Visit | Throughout the year |
| Things To Do | Attend prayer ceremonies and enjoy peaceful meditation sessions |
Rumtek Monastery
Rumtek Monastery is one of the most significant monasteries in Sikkim and serves as the seat of the Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. Built in the 16th century and later reconstructed, this magnificent monastery houses precious Buddhist artefacts, manuscripts, and beautiful murals.
| Location | Located 24 km from Gangtok in East Sikkim |
| Entry Fee | No entry fee |
| Timing | 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Evening: 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM |
| Best Time to Visit | Throughout the year |
| Things To Do | Attend prayer ceremonies and enjoy peaceful meditation sessions |
Yumthang Valley
Known as the ‘Valley of Flowers,’ Yumthang Valley is one of the best Sikkim tourist attractions, located at an altitude of 3,564 meters. During spring, the valley transforms into a colourful carpet of rhododendrons, primulas, and other alpine flowers.
| Location | Located in North Sikkim, approximately 150 km from Gangtok |
| Entry Fee | No entry fee, but permits are required for North Sikkim |
| Timing | Accessible from 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM |
| Best Time to Visit | April to June for flowers in bloom, and September to November for clear skies |
| Things To Do | Experience the natural hot springs and capture stunning valley views |
Zuluk
Known as one of the best places to visit in Sikkim, Zuluk is a small hamlet located on the historic Silk Route. It is famous for its zigzag roads and stunning sunrise views over the Kanchenjunga range. This destination offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history and provides panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas.
| Location | Located in East Sikkim on the old Silk Route, approximately 92 km from Gangtok |
| Entry Fee | No entry fee, but permits are required |
| Timing | Accessible throughout the day |
| Best Time to Visit | March to May and September to December for clear weather and mountain views |
| Things To Do | Witness sunrise views, experience the famous zigzag roads, and visit attractions like the Seti River and the Lung Poep |
Suggested read: Things To Do In Munnar: TripzyGo’s Complete Travel Guide
Visit Sikkim with TripzyGo
Sikkim could be heaven on earth for lovers of nature, adventure, and spirituality. Sikkim offers so many different experiences – we could go from the busy streets of Gangtok to the serene heights of Gurudongmar Lake. The best time to visit Sikkim is from March through June and from September through December, when you can enjoy pleasant weather and spectacular views of the mountains. If you want to experience the Himalayan sanctuary, do not miss out on these places to visit in Sikkim. So, book your Sikkim tour packages today with TripzyGo, and get ready to have your breath taken away by the beauty of this Himalayan paradise!