Places to Visit in Sikkim

Goecha La is a high mountain pass in the Himalayan range. The trek starts at the sleepy little town of Yuksom in West Sikkim. The town is very pretty with lush green surroundings and a salubrious weather to go with it. You can shop for all supplies at Yuksom before beginning the trek as this is the only place where you will get to buy all your necessary items.

Furthermore, before trekking the Goecha La, you will have to do two things, first make an entry at the local police station and second pay the permit fees at the forest check post. Usually the agencies take care of all these hassles and you will not have to bother about them.

Enjoy the stunning 12,400 feet above sea level location of Tsomgo Lake as you lose yourself in its otherworldly beauty. Behold this treasure, commonly known as Changu Lake, as you drive the Gangtok-Nathu La highway. Encircled by majestic alpine forests and soaring snow-capped peaks, its charm is undeniably alluring.

Nathula Pass, perched at 14,140 feet in the Himalayas, connects Sikkim with Tibet. This historic pass was once a bustling segment of the Silk Route. It now offers visitors stunning views of snow-capped mountains and lush valleys. Open for trade and tourism, it embodies a mix of natural beauty and geopolitical significance.

Famous with the title of "Soldier Saint", Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple is dedicated to the brave warrior of the Indian Army, who sacrificed his life serving the nation. The shrine is located in the peaceful trails of the Sikkim mountains and attracts tourists from all over the world who want to experience this distinctive fusion of spirituality and military history. The sacred ground of the temple lets you enjoy breathtaking views with mystical tales and stories related to the brave hero. What makes this temple a must-visit place is the way soldiers honor the bravery of this legend and locals respect his legacy.

Take in the stunning views of Gurudongmar Lake, which is tucked away in Sikkim at an astounding height of 17,800 feet. This holy lake, which bears the name of Guru Padmasambhava, attracts with its pure charm. Experience the raw beauty of this undiscovered treasure as you travel through untamed landscapes dotted with rhododendrons and alpine pastures.

Tucked deep within the mountains of North Sikkim, Green Lake is a pristine alpine lake nestled at the base of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak. Known for its offbeat and challenging trail, the Green Lake Trek is a hidden gem for seasoned trekkers seeking solitude and raw Himalayan beauty. The lake sits at an altitude of around 5,000 meters and reflects snow-capped peaks like Simvo, Siniolchu, and Kanchenjunga in its clear glacial waters.

The trek begins from Lachen and takes you through rhododendron forests, remote valleys, and high-altitude meadows over 8 to 9 days. Along the way, you will spot rare Himalayan wildlife, camp under starlit skies, and connect with the cultural roots of Sikkim’s Bhutia and Lepcha communities. For anyone craving a remote, rewarding, and spiritually rich journey, Green Lake is an unforgettable experience in the world of trekking in Sikkim.

Buddha Park, or Tathagata Tsal, in Ravangla, ranks as one of the famous spiritual sites in Sikkim, the Land of Peace. Known for its 130-foot Buddha statue set against the stunning backdrop of the Eastern Himalayas and built to commemorate the 2550th birth anniversary of Lord Buddha, it features lush, beautiful gardens and peaceful prayer halls. Many travelers include Buddha Park in their Sikkim tour packages for a serene break amid nature and culture. Whether you're someone who loves capturing scenic views of the surroundings or simply wishes to meditate in a quiet space, the place offers it all.

Bhim Nala Falls, also called Bhim Nala Waterfall or Amitabh Bachchan Falls, is one of the tallest and most powerful waterfalls in Sikkim. Located near Karchung village in North Sikkim, about 13 km from Lachung, this majestic cascade plunges dramatically from steep rocky cliffs, surrounded by lush alpine greenery. The thunderous sound of water crashing down, the misty air, and the pristine surroundings make it a must-stop spot on the way to Yumthang Valley. 

A small viewing deck lets travellers capture panoramic shots, and there are tea stalls nearby for a warm break. It’s a peaceful and picturesque site that adds beauty to the already stunning North Sikkim route.

Located at a distance of 10 km from Yuksom and 30.4 km from Pelling is the spectacular Kanchenjunga Waterfalls. It is a perennial waterfall whose pristine water is believed to have originated high up from the glaciers of the mighty Mount Kanchenjunga. The waterfall is surrounded by dense thick forest and is known for its grandeur and beauty.

Yumesamdong, otherwise known as Zero Point, is one of the most frequented tourist's places in Lachung. It is located about 15 km away from Yumthang and sits at a mind-numbing altitude of 4,724 meters. Zero point marks the edge of civilization, and the road comes to a dead end here.

The vicuna China border is just beyond Zero points, though no tourists are allowed there. Despite the treacherous roads, Yumesamdong brings you exceptional rewards! Treat your eyes to the confluence of three magnificent rivers, flanked on either side by enormous, snow-clad peaks.

While yaks often graze here, the land is nearly competent devoid of vegetation. The place sits beneath thick, powdery snow, and brings extremely cold weather conditions. But there’s a great respite in the form of Hot Springs by the river Sebu Chhu!

Location: Sikkim 737120

Distance from Lachung Bus Stand: Approx. 50 km

Mount Katao is also known as the “Switzerland of Sikkim”, as it is always adorned with snow throughout the year. The peak lies about 28 kilometres from Lachung, North Sikkim, and rises to roughly 15,000 feet, giving visitors a sweeping view of glaciers, craggy ridgelines, and bright alpine flowers that pop up in spring. When fresh snow blankets the ground, the valley falls quiet, providing a perfect backdrop for snowball fights, short treks, and peaceful moments.

Mount Katao is heaven for adventure people as it provides a mix of high-altitude thrill, unpolished solitude, and jaw-dropping scenery. This is one of the best places to visit in North Sikkim with your friends and family.

Visit the Yumthang Valley also called the Sikkim Valley of Flowers, located in the foothills of the Himalayas. Here, you can marvel at the valley’s verdant meadows, clear rivers, and hot springs. Only 150 km from Gangtok, this nature sanctuary, at 3,564 metres above sea level, offers you an enchanted hideaway.

Lachung Monastery (Samten Cheoling Gompa) is a Nyingma sanctuary that was built in 1880 and is located at the intersection of the Lachen and Lachung Rivers at 3,000 m. It is surrounded by apple orchards and pine-covered hills.

Two floors of wooden halls are beautifully decorated with murals of the life of Buddha, the Wheel of Life, and Tibetan gods and goddesses. In the middle of the halls is a statue of Guru Padmasambhava, which has immense importance to the locals. Visitors walk along the porch, which has two metal dragon designs, and spins heavy prayer wheels before going inside, which is calm and sacred.

On the 28th and 29th days of the Tibetan calendar in December, monks perform the colourful Cham masked dance, which is a religious and meditative ritual. The monastery is also a good place to start trips to Yumthang Valley, Zero Point, and Shingba Sanctuary.

The Aritar Gumpa, also known as the Ari Gumpa, is a monastery located near Pakyong, Sikkim. This monastery is famous for being an important vantage point for the best views of the Himalayas. From lush green mountains and winding roads, the views from this monastery are definitely worth it. This monastery is one of the oldest of its kind but is often missed by tourists. It is loaded with the most interesting artefacts worth checking out, ranging from ancient manuscripts, painted murals, and traditional architecture. 

Paha Khola Bridge is situated along the famous Goechala Trek route, approximately 8 kilometres from the town of Yuksom. This sturdy suspension bridge crosses over the rushing Paha Khola stream and serves as the official entrance to Kanchenjunga National Park. The bridge is surrounded by thick forest where you can hear birds singing and water flowing beneath the bridge. Many trekkers stop here to take photos and catch their breath before continuing deeper into the mountains. 

The area around the bridge is peaceful and lush, with tall trees providing natural shade and the calming sound of flowing water creating a calm and fresh atmosphere.

Perched at around 3,650 meters on the Goecha La trail, Phedang Village is a tranquil alpine meadow cradled by rhododendron forests, pine-covered ridges. Trekkers stop here for packed lunches next to a simple shelter in the middle of the day. They can see mountains all around them while yaks graze nearby.

The air smells like pine, moss, and yak dung, and you can hear birds calling as you walk along trails that go from thick forest to alpine meadows. Frost settles in the clear, starry skies at night, and friends gather around warm tea and bonfires. This peaceful village-cum-campsite serves as both a place to get acclimatised to the altitude. It also provides a spiritual threshold, where trekkers can slow down, introspect, and get their bodies and minds ready for the climb to Dzongri and beyond.

Flowing gracefully through the picturesque landscapes of Sikkim, the Prek Chu River offers a serene retreat for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

The Srikhola River meanders gracefully through the breathtaking landscapes of Sikkim, adding to the region's natural charm.

The Lachen River, located in the picturesque region of North Sikkim, India, is a pristine waterway that originates from the snow-clad mountains near Lachen village. It flows through breathtaking landscapes, merging with the Lachung River to form the Teesta River, a lifeline for the region's ecosystems and communities.

The Char Dham Temple in Namchi is well-known for its innovative replica of the four holy Dham pilgrimage sites—Puri, Rameswaram, Dwarka, and Badrinath—all in one location. Be it devotees or tourists, all are drawn to the complex because of its towering Shiva statue, famed to be one of the tallest in Asia. Furthermore, the temple features replicas of 12 Jyotirlingas, making it a perfect place to see them all without making the travelers visit different places for it. Because of its unique architecture, serene atmosphere, and breathtaking scenery, travelers like to include it in their Sikkim tour packages. Along with that, the Char Dham Temple is a heaven for folks who wish to spend some spiritual time amidst the Himalayan scenery.

In the centre of Sikkim is Khangchendzonga National Park, one of India's most beautiful and unspoiled natural areas. It is well-known for its abundant biodiversity and is home to endangered species like snow leopards and red pandas. It is a haven for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts, with towering glaciers, high-altitude lakes, and thick forests. The cultural significance of this national park, which is dotted with traditional villages and sacred sites, is what really sets it apart. It also lets you marvel at the scenic views of Mt Khangchendzonga, the third-highest peak in the world. Many Sikkim tour packages include this UNESCO World Heritage Site, allowing travellers to combine nature, adventure, and spirituality in a single journey.

Hot Springs Yumthang is one of the famous hot springs, located a few kilometres far from Yumthang Village, North Sikkim. The place is at a height of more than 11,800 feet above sea level. The local people also refer to this hot spring as Yumthang Tsachu. The water is rich in sulphur, and the average temperature of this hot spring water is around 50 degrees Celsius.  

Kupup is a tiny village close to the Indo-China border, nestled high in the East Sikkim mountains. Located at an elevation of more than 13,000 ft, the village is considered one of the highest inhabited ones in the country. What makes it unique is its significance along the Old Silk Route and how closely it is located to the Jelep La. With only a few houses located in the village, it lets visitors take a glimpse at the rural life of Sikkim closely. Since it is a strategically important place and lets you enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas, the village is one of the major attractions people include in their Sikkim tour packages.

Nathang Valley is a peaceful and remote village in East Sikkim, often called the “Ladakh of East India”. Nestled at an altitude of 13,500 feet along the historic Silk Route, Nathang Valley offers breathtaking views of snow-covered peaks, including the mighty Kanchenjunga. The valley remains peaceful and untouched by the usual tourist crowds, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking tranquility in nature. The cool mountain breeze, vast grasslands, and serene silence create a truly magical atmosphere. In winter, frozen streams add to the beauty, while summer brings a burst of wildflowers that paint the valley with vibrant hues. Nathang Valley also serves as a perfect base to explore nearby gems like the Eagle's Nest Bunker and Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple. With its unspoiled charm, it's a must-visit destination on the old Silk Route.

Khecheopalri Monastery is a sacred Buddhist retreat tucked neatly amidst the breathtaking landscape of Sikkim, India. Established in the early 17th century, this monastery allows visitors to delve into the rich cultural and spiritual traditions.

Kokchurang Village is about 3,750 meters above sea level and is next to the roaring Prek Chu River. It is a peaceful, mystical place to escape to in the Himalayas on the Goecha La route. There is a clearing in the middle of the oak and rhododendron forests, where a single wooden rest hut stands. Inside, it is warm, the air smells like pine, and the sound of the river can be heard through the mist.

As dusk falls, local legends speak of unseen presences that lend an eerie mystique to the moss-covered chestnut trunks and hushed forest paths. This adds a layer of intrigue to the atmosphere and stillness of the woods. Trekkers stop here for chai, to laugh with each other, and to rest their tired legs before moving on to higher alpine camps like Thansing. Kokchurang is quiet in the winter, when the snow covers everything, and bright in the summer, when the sun shines on the ground. Kokchurang feels like stepping into a timeless, off-the-grid Himalayan village, whether you're there to learn about its folklore or just enjoy the peace of the mountains. It's a small gateway between forested footpaths and soaring peaks.

Situated at an altitude of 13,066 ft, Kupup Lake is a pristine water body located in the serene Kupup Village. The lake is also referred to as the ‘Elephant Lake’ due to its structural resemblance to an elephant. It is one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes, surrounded by snow-capped mountains from all sides. The Kupup Village played a major role in the history of the silk trade as it served as the transit point between India and Tibet. Today, it is a tourist attraction where people come looking for tranquillity and peace. 

A visit to the Rabdentse Ruins, an archaeological site, must be on your travel itinerary if you are visiting Pelling. Founded by Tensung Namgyal in the year 1670 AD, Rabdentse remained the second capital of the former kingdom of Sikkim till 1793 CE. The place was destroyed by the Nepalese invasion in the 18th century and transformed into ruins. Currently, the Archaeological Survey of India is maintaining and restoring the place.

The location is well known for its historical significance and scenic beauty. The ruins are surrounded by dense forest, and you will need to go on a 15-minute scenic trek to reach them. Once there, you will be rewarded with a spectacular vista of the Kanchenjunga range, the Pemayangtse Monastery and the rushing river flowing through the foothills. Explore the ruins and look out for its various attractions such as the Namphogang, the ruins of Taphap Chorten, the Dab Lhagang, and the remnants of Risum Gompa. 

Rathong Peak, nestled in the heart of Sikkim's Himalayas, stands as a majestic sentinel, captivating climbers and trekkers alike. Rising to an elevation of approximately 6,679 meters, it offers a challenging yet rewarding ascent for adventurers seeking to conquer its icy slopes. The peak's rugged beauty is enhanced by its surroundings, with pristine glaciers, lush alpine meadows, and awe-inspiring vistas of the Kangchenjunga massif. Rathong Peak's allure extends beyond the thrill of mountaineering, offering a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts and photographers drawn to its diverse flora and fauna. It remains a testament to the raw splendor of Sikkim's mountainous landscapes.

Goecha La View Point 1 is the best place to see mountains in Sikkim, situated at 4,940 meters high inside Kanchenjunga National Park. This mountain pass gives trekkers the closest look at Kanchenjunga, the world's third-tallest mountain. From here, you can see 14 big mountain peaks all at once, making it one of India's most amazing mountain views. To get here, you need to trek for 8-10 days from Yuksom, walking through thick flower forests and high mountain meadows. This viewpoint is special because it's where people start their climb to Kanchenjunga Peak. For mountain lovers who want to see something really special, this is the place to go.

Mount Kanchenjunga, located in Sikkim, is the third highest peak in the world and a revered destination for trekkers and mountaineers. Its snow-capped summit, diverse flora and fauna, and cultural significance make it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. Trekking routes around Kanchenjunga offer stunning views of Himalayan landscapes, making it a memorable experience for adventurers.

Samiti Lake is famed for its panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and its crystal-clear blue waters. Located on the route to Goechala Trek, the lake is known to be the resting place for hikers and trekkers. Samiti Lake provides tranquil surroundings and a chance to appreciate nature away from busy areas. Its location within Kanchenjunga National Park adds to its value for conservation and wildlife. Many Sikkim travel packages include Samiti Lake, which makes it easier for tourists to explore this remote area with the proper permission and guidance. Hikers, nature lovers, and those who appreciate Himalayan landscapes all love this place.

Dzongri Plateau is one of Sikkim's most popular trekking spots, sitting at 4,200 meters high in Kanchenjunga National Park. This wide area gives trekkers amazing close-up views of Kanchenjunga and Mount Pandim without needing a very long or hard trek. The plateau has a trekkers' hut and lots of good camping spots with a clear stream running nearby. What makes Dzongri special is that it offers great mountain views in just 5-7 days of trekking from Yuksom. The trek goes through beautiful rhododendron forests and is perfect for people new to mountain trekking. Many trekkers use Dzongri as a base to visit the nearby Dzongri Top viewpoint or continue to other places like Goecha La.

Nestled in the heart of the Himalayan foothills, Manebhanjan Market exudes the vibrant essence of mountain life in Sikkim, India.

Reshi Hot Spring, also known as "Phur Cha‑chu," is a peaceful geothermal retreat on the banks of the Rangit River in West Sikkim. It is only 25 km from Gyalshing and a two-hour scenic drive from Gangtok or Pelling.

Its sulfur-rich waters stay at a comfortable warm temperature, which is said to help with skin and joint problems, making it a popular place to visit in the winter. The area combines healing with history, with a small monastery, and the mysterious Lho Khandro Sang Phug ("cave of occult fairies") nearby. Visitors commonly combine a peaceful soak with a short trek to the cave for a culturally complex experience.

Tukla Valley is a serene and picturesque location nestled amidst the rugged mountains of the Himalayas. Located in the northeastern Indian state of Sikkim, this enchanting valley offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and lush greenery. Popular among nature enthusiasts and trekkers, Tukla Valley provides an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its tranquil ambiance, glistening streams, and charming landscapes make it a perfect destination for those seeking serenity and communion with nature.

Holy Rock Chungthang is a mesmerising place located in Chungthang, near Bhim Nala Waterfalls. Devotees believe that Legend Guru Padmasambhava, one of the founding fathers of Tibetan Buddhism, left his footprints on the sacred rock. During your visit, you can spot these footprints of Guru Padmasambhava.