Places to Visit in Sikkim

Sikkim is situated at the foot of Mount Kanchendzonga and boasts of an unexplored beauty. The lofty mountains dominate the skyline of Sikkim and invites tourists in its snow clad peaks, green emerald slopes, rushing streams, tall Rhododendrons and sparkling orchids. Hilltop monasteries emerge from the rugged terrains while multi-colored prayer flags wave in the mountain breeze.

Places to See in Sikkim

Sikkim Travel Map

Click to View Large Sikkim Travel MapGangtok

Category : History & Culture

The capital of Sikkim is a charming and picturesque town, straddling with striking houses spilling down the hillside. The city has a fusion of traditional customs and modern way of living which makes the place unique. It's a beautiful town with all modern amenities that one can ask for.

Category : History & Culture

This was the first capital of Sikkim, where historical records say that the first divine ruler of Sikkim was sanctified in 1641 by the three learned lamas. The evidence of the ceremony is still present in Norbugang Chorten. The place is considered sacred since the history of Sikkim began from here. It's also the base camp for the trek to the famous Mt. Khangchendzonga.

Category : Nature

The lake is about a kilometer long, oval in shape and is considered very holy by the locals. Between May to August, the lake area is spectacular with a display of rare flowers including the primulas, iris and blue & yellow poppies. The lake has a number of aquatic and aerial species and is a perfect habitat for the red panda. The lake freezes in winter.

Nathula Pass

Category : Nature

At an altitude of 14200 ft, the pass is located on the Indo-China border and connects Sikkim to Tibet Autonomous Region in China. The journey itself is an exhilarating experience, with mist covered peaks, zigzag roads and roaring waterfalls, the passage is simply amazing. Visitors are required to get a permit to visit the place.

Pelling

Category : Nature

Pelling is rapidly becoming a popular tourist destination. At an altitude of 6800 ft, it's the most excellent place to get a closest view of the world's 3rd highest peak Mt. Kanchendzonga. Apart from the innate beauty of the place, other attractions in Pelling are the Sanga Choeling Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery and the Khecheopalri Lake.

The Rumtek Monastery

Category : Religious

This magnificent monastery is among the top tourist attractions in Sikkim. It provides as a residence for the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa. The Monastery features some of the extraordinary works of art. The Golden Stupa is the most significant segment of the monastery.

Do-Drul Chorten

Category : History & Culture

Built by the head of Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism in 1945, it has one of the most beautiful Stupas of Sikkim consisting of 108 prayer wheels. It stores various Mandala sets, a set of relics and some other religious possessions. Statues of Gurus are also present there.

Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden

Category : Garden

Established in 1987 the Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden is situated near Rumtek Monastery and is looked after by the Forest Department of the Sikkim Government. The garden is distinguished by enchanting lush woodlands of Oak, different kinds of trees and orchids.

Sikkim Research Institute of Tibetology

Category : History & Culture

It is a nationally well known centre of Tibetan Studies & Research. The institute is renowned for its huge collection of rare manuscripts, Buddhist books and icons. The building is an excellent example of Tibetan architecture, surrounded by small forests of oak and birch trees. The institute also houses religious works of art and amazing silk embroidered paintings.

Apart from these popular places, Sikkim provides various other places that are popular among tourist. These are:

• Enchey Monastery
• Sa-Ngor-Chotshog Monastery
• Tashiding Monastery
• Phodong Monastery
• Phensang Monastery
• Saramsa Garden
• Tashi View Point
• Rabdentse Ruins
• Soreng
• Lachung
• Yumthang
• Guru-Dongmar Lake.

Tourist Destination Near Sikkim

Darjeeling

One of the most captivating tourist places near Sikkim with popular toy train ride to famous Darjeeling tea plantations. There are lots of tourist attractions at this place.

Siliguri

With its exquisite landscape, distant views of the snow capped peaks and myriad vegetation, Siliguri is a place where tourist can enjoy nature fully.

Kalimpong

A fascinating tourist destination near Sikkim which acknowledges its rustic charm, dotted with numerous orchids and monasteries. It's an ideal place for relaxed vacations against the picturesque backdrop of the Himalayas and also a great place for adventure junkies.

Mirik

Popular for its famous Lake and lovely surroundings, this exotic place is perfect for romantic holidays for the newly weds.