Sikkim is a state in northeast India. It borders Bhutan in the east, the Tibet Autonomous Region of China in the north and northeast, Koshi Province of Nepal in the west, and West Bengal in the south. Sikkim is one of the two Indian states that share their border with just one other Indian state — West Bengal. Sikkim is also close to the Siliguri Corridor, which borders Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan. Sikkim is the least populous and second-smallest among the Indian states. Situated in the Eastern Himalaya, Sikkim is notable for its biodiversity, including alpine and subtropical climates, as well as being a host to Kangchenjunga, the highest peak in India and third-highest on Earth. Sikkim's capital and largest city is Gangtok. Almost 35% of the state is covered by Khangchendzonga National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sikkim sits at an elevation of 1,650 m and is typically explored in about 5-6 days. The most favourable months to visit are June, December, July, and August, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Nearby points of interest include Rumtek Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery, and Nathu La Pass. Other notable highlights include gangtok’s MG Marg and monasteries with Kanchenjunga views, tsomgo Lake, a glacial lake framed by snow peaks, and the high-altitude Indo-China border crossing at Nathu La Pass. It falls within Chungthang district.
State: Sikkim
Ideal Duration: 5-6 Days
June, December, July, August
March-June and September-December offer the clearest mountain views; Yumthang Valley’s rhododendrons peak in April-May.
Pakyong Airport (PYG) near Gangtok is the state’s own airport; Bagdogra in West Bengal is the larger, more established gateway.
Most of Sikkim is open without special permits, but restricted areas like Tsomgo Lake, Nathu La and parts of North Sikkim require permits arranged through a local travel agent.
Five to six days covers Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake, Nathu La and a trip to North Sikkim’s Yumthang Valley.
Views of Kanchenjunga, high-altitude lakes and passes, Buddhist monasteries, and being one of India’s cleanest states.