Esikkim Tourism Peeragarhi, Delhi

Touching a towering height of 10,000ft, Zuluk is one of the least discovered destinations in the entire of Sikkim. Located on the ancient ‘Silk Route’, this quaint Sikkimese village takes the pride of being a vintage point to enjoy panoramic views of the Mt Kanchenjunga. In addition to the magical beauty of this hamlet, it is also popular among the adventure lovers as the ride to Zuluk takes them through 32 hair-pin bends. Zuluk Tips The best time to visit Zuluk is between the months of August and September to experience a flowery summer or between the months of January and April to experience the freezing snow. You will need a special area permit to visit Zuluk. While visiting Zuluk by road, beware of the zig-zag roads. If you are not comfortable driving on such roads, it is advisable to hire a local driver. There are no hotels in Zuluk. Homestays is the only option to stay in the village. Zuluk Facts The drive to Zuluk is considered as one of the best Himalayan drives in India. Main Highlights At 11,200 feet, Thambi View Point near Zuluk offers a panoramic view of Mount Kanchenjungha. Another major highlight of Zuluk is its serene lakes. One of which is Kupup Lake aka Elephant Lake. It is also considered as one of the sacred lakes of Sikkim.

A visit to yumthang valleys it truly a colourful affair! located at an elevation of 3,500m, this scenic valley is the home to several exotic, rare and wild flowers. It is often said, one who visits this quintessential valley, often gets pleasantly affected by its treacherous colours and alluring beauty! come the monsoons, the entire valley blooms at its best and displays the most enchanting colours of the nature. Primrose, cobra-lilies, louseworts and cinquefoils are some of the most commonly found species in yumthang. Yumthang valley tips the best time to visit the yumthang valley is between april end and mid-june to witness the flowering season. The valley usually remains closed from december to march due to heavy snowfall. You will need a special area permit to visit the yumthang valley. Keep two passport sized photographs and a valid identity proof handy as you will need it while obtaining the permit. It is advised to not disturb the wildlife in the valley. While visiting any monastery, do not make a loud noise or disturb people around. Carry sufficient cash as there are no atms in the region. Do not forget to carry medicines for headache, motion sickness and common cold. Do not forget to carry sufficient woollen clothes as it is usually cold in the valley. You can even rent an overcoat, gloves and snow boots from a local vendor. Yumthang valley facts the himalayan journal by dr. Joseph hooker compares yumthang to the valleys of switzerland. The yumthang valley is popularly known as the ‘valley of flowers’. Some of the beautiful himalayan flowers that you can find in the yumthang valley during the spring season are rhododendrons, poppies, primulas, cobra lilies, louseworts, and irises. Yumthang valley is located very close to the china border. Main highlights it is a nature sanctuary with free-flowing rivers, rolling meadows, yaks and hot springs.

Located in the Western parts of Sikkim, Yuksom is the origin of several enthralling treks into the Himalayas or the magical Kanchenjunga. The once a capital of Sikkim, this hamlet is more known for its pristine beauty and rustic appeal. Also known as the ‘Meeting place of Three Lamas’, this Sikkimese village has recently started gaining tourism attention. Well, this is also the reason, you can expect pristine beauty and untouched nature in Yuksom. Home to the oldest monastery in Sikkim, this pictorial hamlet is one amongst the most peaceful and serene places to visit in Sikkim. Yuksom Tips Being located at a moderate altitude, the weather in Yuksom remains pleasant throughout the year. The best time to visit Yuksom is from March to June and September to October. Although Yuksom has a motorable road, during rainy season travelling by public transport can be a hassle. Yuksom Facts Yuksom was the first capital of Sikkim in the 17th century and the coronation place of its first chogyal (king) in 1641. Dubdi Monastery in Yuksom is the first Buddhist Monastery in Sikkim, established in 1701 by the Chogyar Namgyal. Main Highlights It is an extremely charming historical town blessed with jaw-dropping gorgeousness. It is a perfect gateway to Mt. Kangchendzongha. Yuksom features many entrancing trails. The main highlight of the town includes historical monuments, ancient monasteries, tranquil waterfalls and serene lakes.

On a visit to Gangtok, do not miss the chance to visit the Tsomgo Lake or the Changu Lake! Located only 38km from Sikkim’s capital, it lies at an altitude of 12,400ft and is one of the highest lakes in India. While the lake remains frozen during the winters, summer brings in a magical charm and appeal to Tsomgo. It is during this time of the year, the turquoise waters of the lake reflects the amazing views of the nearby peaks and the azure sky above! Tsomgo Lake Tips Tsomgo Lake is a day trip from Gangtok. It is advisable to leave for the lake early in the morning to reach on time and enjoy the views. You will need a special area permit to visit the lake which can be obtained from the Sikkim tourism department at MG Marg Gangtok or you can ask your travel agent to arrange for the same. You will need your photo identity proof and two passport size photos to get the permit. Beware of roadblocks due to heavy snow during the winter season. Tsomgo Lake Facts Tsomgo Lake (also called as Changu Lake) is one of the highest lakes in India set at an elevation of 3,753 meters. The lake is considered sacred by the local people and the water here is believed to have medicinal value. The surface of the lake reflects different colours in different seasons, making it even more alluring. The lake remains frozen during the winter season. Tsomgo Lake also serves as the venue for the Guru Poornima festival. Main Highlights During the winter season, travellers enjoy trekking along the lake coast, ice skating on the thick sheet of ice and yak ride on the frozen lake. During the summer and autumn season, the sight of Primula flowers and other alpine vegetation growing near the lake is a key attraction. Bird watchers flock here during October to catch a sight of the native birds waddling in the lake’s water.

Positioned on an elevated hilltop, the town called Trongsa is known for its scenic beauty and panoramic views. Owing to its topology, this pictorial place to see in Bhutan can also be called as the ‘Balcony of Bhutan’! Magnifying the enchanting charm of this town, there is its rich history, traditional white-washed buildings and colourful plants spreading all across its perimeter. Visitors often throng this place to enjoy panoramic views of its surrounding valleys and the magical mountainous glimpses. Among the many attractions in this quaint town, the Trongsa Dzong that resembles as a flying dragon, serves as a major attraction. To mention here, the dzong is estimated to be built in 1648! Best Time to Visit: Year-Round Destination Tourist Attractions: Trongsa Dzong, Ta Dzong, Chendbji Chorten, Kuenga Rabten, Chökhor Raptse Dzong, Thruepang Palace, Trongsa Tower Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (230km / 6 Hours) Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) (484km / 12 Hours) Weather: Summer (April to June), Winter (September to April), Monsoon (July to September)

The capital city of the country, Thimphu (previously called Thimbu) is undoubtedly the first place to visit in Bhutan. Situated towards the western-central region of the country and on the banks of gushing Raidak River, this city is dotted with scenic vistas and mountain peaks that reaches 2,000-3,800m. A city that showcases the indigenous cultures and traditions of Bhutan in the most splendid ways, Thimphu also boasts of being the commercial centre of this happy kingdom. The official residence of Bhutan’s royal family, this beautiful city has an abundance of luxury stay options, tourist attractions, places to see in Bhutan, and other modern facilities. Best Time to Visit: March to May Tourist Attractions: Buddha Point (Kuensel Phodrang), Tashichho Dzong Fortress, Memorial Chorten, Centenary Farmers’ Market, National Library of Bhutan, National Institute of Traditional Medicine, The Folk Heritage Museum, Changangkha Lhakhang, Dechen Phodrang, Dochula, Takin Preserve, Zangto Pelri Lhakhang Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (54km) Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) (302km / 8 Hours) Weather: Summer (September to November), Winter (November to March), Monsoon (June to September)

This beautiful valley situated in Northern Sikkim, Thangu Valley is a prevalent trekking place in Lachen. The valley is home to snow-topped pinnacles, orchids, winding streams and its beautiful magnificence is unparalleled! Stunningly excellent, the valley is the best arrangements of Lachen touring places. Trekking trails around the valley attracts explorers from everywhere throughout the globe while untamed life spotting and bird viewing are different exercises you can appreciate here. 5 km far from Chopta Valley, this pleasant valley is a heaven for nature sweethearts. In spite of the fact that there are numerous eminent Lachen touring places, Thangu Valley surpasses them all. Because of its high elevation, the valley is covered with snow nearly all year and is encompassed by armed force camps. The valley is perfect for those looking for a tranquil and serene trip and additionally a relief from the blasting Indian summers.

The Tashi Viewpoint is one of the prevalent spots to visit in Gangtok. Really popular for its dawns and dusks, this place offers startling view of the Himalayan Mountain. Tashi Viewpoint is a picturesque place. Come here to enjoy sunrise and sunset and experience the breath-taking view of the city here. Tips The best time to visit Tashi View Point is from March to June when the weather remains pleasant. By paying Rs. 10, you can get a closer view of the enthralling peaks, Phodong and Labrang Monasteries from the binocular or telescope that is present here. There is a nice cafeteria here, where you can eat snacks and drink warm tea while soaking in the beautiful views. Facts Tashi View Point offers the best sunrise and sunset views. In fact, you can witness the changing of colours on Mount Kanchenjunga as the sun rises and sets. Main Highlights Tashi View Point is a must visit place for nature lovers as it offers splendid views of the imposing view of the snow-capped Himalayan mountains, specifically Mount Kanchenjunga and Mount Siniolchu.

Explore the unexplored, witness the magic of nature and start believing in fairy tale! With this amazing and wonderful 7 days and 6 nights Darjeeling Sikkim tour, witness the eternal beauty of India’s unexplored North-Eastern corners! Darjeeling, which is fondly called as the ‘Queen of Hills’ is amongst the most beautiful and gorgeous hill stations in the country. And while on this tour, you will get to know why this hill station is called such. Quite similar to Darjeeling, Sikkim also boasts of being one of the most beautiful and highest visited tourist destinations in the country. During your visit to both these destinations, you will be visiting some of the must-to-visit places and tourist spots. Also, things to do like sunrise view, tea garden visits, nature excursions within the tour will offer you a heavenly chance to be an eye-witness of the fascinating beauty Darjeeling and Sikkim holds! Be prepared to start believing in fairy tales, where dreams does come true!

Encompassed by striking Himalayan Mountains, the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is home to an astounding accumulation of forty Rhododendron species. The best time to visit is from April to July when the blossoms are in full sprout. This haven is situated close to Lachung in Yumthang valley in North Sikkim and it is around 7 hours from the capital Gangtok. There are various cabs that are accessible from Yumthang and Gangtok for this place. Notwithstanding, trekking from Yumthang Valley is one of the best ways to explore the nooks and corners of this place. Potentillas, primulas, saxifrages, poppies, aconites, gentians are available in abundance here.

Counted amongst the largest monasteries in Sikkim, Rumtek Monastery is also one of the oldest monasteries in the state. An ode to the Buddhist cultures and traditions, this monastery is located near Gangtok and is also known as the ‘Dharma Chakra Centre’. A testimony to the Buddhist architecture and teachings, it is a perfect place to attain mental peace and know more about Buddhism. Its spiritual appeal and grandeur makes it an integral part of any Gangtok travel packages! Rumtek Monastery Tips The monastery remains open from 9 am to 6 pm, so plan your visit accordingly. Wear comfortable shoes as it is a long and steep walk from the taxi drop off location. Cameras are prohibited inside the monastery. If you want to catch a glimpse of monks doing morning prayers, plan to reach early. Rumtek Monastery Facts Rumtek Monastery popular worldwide for Kagyu teachings. The architecture of the monastery is considered to be one of the finest in the world and resembles the original one in Tsurphu, Tibet. The monastery houses some of the sacred items and rarest Buddhist religious artwork in the form of 1001 miniature golden models of Buddha, Thangkas and wall murals which were brought in the year 1963 by Rangjung Rigpe Dorje, 16th Karmapa. Main Highlights Golden Stupa at the Monastery, mystical ancient relics and down the hill river.

Nestled amidst the Maenam and Tendong Hills, Ravangla is among the best places to visit in Sikkim; especially in the southern part of the state. A scenic town between Gangtok and Pelling, this hill-town also hosts some of the most popular treks in Sikkim. More popular as a paradise for the bird watchers, it is home to some of the most rare and endangered birds in the world. On a usual visit to Ravangla, you can spot dark-throated thrush, verditre flycatchers, blue whistling thrush, babblers, cuckoos and several others. Ravangla Tips The weather in Ravangla is very volatile so be prepared for the occasional rains. It is advisable to carry a raincoat or umbrella for protection. Ravangla Facts During the months from April and May, lots of the flowers are in full blossom in Ravangla. Tourists come here to see the various species of migratory birds and for the breathtaking views of the peaks like Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Pandim and Mt. Sinialchu. Main Highlights Ravangla is famous for its temples, monasteries, picturesque tea gardens, exotic flora and fauna, sightseeing spots, ethnic culture, snowy mountains, gushing waterfalls and adventure sports. One of Sikkim’s most beautiful sights is Ravangla’s gigantic golden Buddha.

The once a capital of Bhutan, Punakha Valley is one of the most scenic year-round places to see in Bhutan. Home to Punakha Dzong – The Palace of Great Happiness or Bliss, this Himalayan marvel is seated at a height of 1,200m, and proves to be a serene tourist attraction in the entire country. Tucked away amidst Pho chu and Mo Chu rivers, the Punakha Valley is around 3.5 hours’ drive away from Thimphu and can be easily reached from across the country. Pleasant climate, bountiful beauty, warm locals, and the diverse Buddhist culture and traditions make this valley a must visit place in Bhutan. Best Time to Visit: Year-Round Destination Tourist Attractions: Punakha Dzong, Chimi Lakhang, Jigme Dorji National Park, Rishta Village Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (122km / 3 Hours) Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (376km / 10 Hours) Weather: Summer (July to September), Winter (October to April), Monsoon (May to June)

Located at the foothills of the great Himalayas and sharing border with an Indian town called Jaogaon, Phuntsholing or the ‘Gateway to Bhutan’, is a must visit place in the list of best places to visit in Bhutan! Owing to its proximity to the Indian territory, one can always expect a mix of crowd in this magnificent town. However, the town resonates Bhutan’s unique cultures and tradition in the most vivid ways. Located around 5-6 hours’ drive away from Thimphu and Paro, visitors from India, Bangladesh, and Maldives can reach this scenic town without any tourist visa. However, while crossing the border, national of these countries need to show valid ID proofs and seek entry permission. Best Time to Visit: Year-Round Destination Tourist Attractions: Bhutanese Gate, Karbandi Monastery, Chukha Hydrothermal Project, Amo Chouu, Zangtho Pelri Lhakhang Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport (167km / 5 Hours) Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) (155km / 4 Hours) Weather: Summer (March to June), Winter (November to February), Monsoon (July to August)

Outstanding amongst many other places to visit in Gangtok is Phodong Monastery. This particular monastery was built in eighteenth century. The paintings, sculptures and overall architecture of this monastery has been completed with perfection. You can spend hours humming to the sound of monks performing the rituals. The location of this monastery adds on to the beauty. You can enjoy a scenic view of the surroundings here and spend time unwinding. The popular Cham dance is held annually in this monastery. Tips The best time to visit the Phodong Monastery is between the months of March to May and October to December. The monastery remains open for visitors from 8 am to 5 pm. You must dress appropriately while visiting the monastery Maintain peace and decorum while you are inside the monastery and do not disturb the monks as that might offend them. Facts Phodong Monastery is rated as the most beautiful monasteries in Sikkim. It secures a position in the list of six most important Buddhist monasteries in Sikkim. The monastery houses over 250 monks. The monastery was originally built in 1740 AD by the fourth king of Sikkim – Chogyal Gyurmed Namgyal. Main Highlights The monastery is famous for its architectural style. The walls are adorned with beautiful murals, paintings and frescos which never fails to astonish visitors. Phodong Monastery offers a picturesque view of the mountains and the surrounding valleys. The Chaam Dance along with religious rituals is performed by the monks on the occasion of the annual festival, which is held on the 28th and 29th day of the 10th month of the Tibetan calendar corresponding to the month of December to January.

One of the most enchanting places to visit in Bhutan, Phobjikha Valley is a treat to every visitors’ eyes! A glacial valley, this is also the place where one can find the rare black-necked cranes in abundance. Unique from the rest of the Happy Kingdom, the valley showcases heart-warming cultures and is adorned with rich faunal biodiversity. Resembling much to the shape of a bowl, the grace of Phobjikha Valley is further enchanted by the great Black Mountains and endless expanses of evergreen fields. Irrespective of which month or season it is, one can always expect a surreal and serene experience in this valley; all these surely makes Phobjikha Valley one of the most sought-after places to see in Bhutan. Best Time to Visit: May, July, April Tourist Attractions: Black Necked Crane Informatino Centre, Gangtey Goemba, Damchen Lhakhang, Nyingma Dzogchen, Kuezang Chholing Shedra, Khewang Lhakhang, Kumbhu Lhakhang Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (173km / 5 Hours) Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) (427km / 11 Hours) Weather: Summer (June to July), Winter (December to February)

A city studded with glorious history and numerous sacred sites, Paro Valley is often revered as the ‘Last Shangri-La’ on earth! One of the most wonderful places to visit in Bhutan, this district is a vibrant mix of natural beauty, rich cultures, semi-modern lifestyle, and colourful traditions. Flaunting its meticulous beauty from the confluence point of Paro Chuu and Wang Chuu rivers to the towering Mt Jomolhari, Paro is the home to the much-acclaimed Taktsang Monastery or the ‘Tiger’s Nest’. To mention here, this valley is also famed for its famous terraced farming and ‘red rice’ cultivation. Best Time to Visit: September to November Tourist Attractions: Taktshang Lhakhang (Tiger’s Nest), Ugyen Pelri Palace, Rinpung Dzong, Kyichu Lhakhang, Jangsarbu Lhakhang, Haa Valley, Chelela Pass, Kila Goemba, Druk Choeding, Dungtse Lhakhang, Ta Dzong, Drukgyel Dzong. Nearest Airport: Paro Airport Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal, India) (297km / 8 Hours) Weather: Summer (June to August), Winter (December to May), Monsoon (September to November)

Nestled amidst lush and evergreen thickets, the namgyal institute of tibetology is an ideal centre to learn about buddhist cultures and traditions. Established in 1958, this institute is in fact the home to the largest collection of tibetan preaching outside tibet, and this include relics from 11th and 12th century collected from different parts of the world. Namgyal institute of tibetology tips it is open from 10 am to 4 pm, from monday to saturday. Namgyal institute of tibetology facts it is one of the largest repositories of tibetan works, located outside the tibet region. It displays some of the rarest and oldest collection of ritual objects, mementos, religious art, jewellery, tibetan iconography, documentaries and books on sikkimese tradition and culture. There is also a library which boasts unique buddhist tomes, some of which are a hundred years old. Main highlights one of the striking features of the institute is its sikkimese architecture. The institute is surrounded by verdant forests of oak and birch.

Translated into the native Tibetan language, Namchi means the ‘top of the sky’. And on a visit to this magnificent Sikkimese city, this will be proved! Located around 92km from Gangtok and at a height of 1,675m above the sea level, it is also one of the most gorgeous cities in the state. More than tourism, Namchi is more considered as a pilgrimage centre for the Buddhists. Amongst the important religious sites, the Namchi Monastery, Tendong Hill and Ralong Monasteries are the pre-dominant. The city also has a 108ft Lord Shiva statue and is visited a large number of Hindu devotees as well. Namchi Tips The best time to visit Namchi is from March to October. If you are travelling during monsoon season, beware of muddy and slippery roads and landslides Namchi Facts Namchi is the capital of south Sikkim. Namchi is home to 118 feet tall world’s biggest statue of the Buddhist Padmasambhava (holy saint of Sikkim). It is also a well-known pilgrimage amongst the Buddhist culture. Main Highlights Namchi is known for its breath-taking scenic beauty and serenity. Every year in the month of October, Namchi hosts the popular Namchi Mahotsav, a tourism, culture and food festival. In addition, it also hosts a flower festival displaying the beautiful blooms.

Guarding the borders of Bhutan, the Chomolhari Mountian (also called Jomolhari Mountain) is a part of the great Himalayas. Rising around 2,700m above the ground level, this enthralling mountain is affectionately called the ‘Bride of the Kangchenjunga’ due to its proximity with the latter. A sacred site among the Buddhists; mostly the Tibetan Buddhists, legends have it that it is the abode of Goddess Jomo, who is believed to be the protector of Happy Kingdom. Chomolhari Mountain remained unclimbed until 1924 as the folklore said that anyone trying to scale this sacred mountain will be thrown or pushed down. However, it has now become a hot-spot among the trekkers and thrill seekers alike. Even if you don’t wish to climb Mount Jomolhari, you must not miss the chance of having a close look at it! Best Time to Visit: March to June (Peak Trekking Season) Nearest Airport: Paro Airport (49km / 1 Hour)

Lhonak Valley is a standout amongst the most famous trekking places in Sikkim and a standout amongst the most visited destinations in Lachen. The valley is generally uninhabited aside from uncommon settlements of Tibetan migrants. The valley is under steady vigil by the Indian Army as it’s the last Indian station in Sikkim. Guests can enjoy birdwatching and natural life spotting amid their trek to this valley.

Lachung has multiple reasons to make you fall in love with it! While its location at an enthralling height of 8,610ft makes it a popular snow-destination in Sikkim, its untouched and surreal beauty makes it one of the scenic as well as charming tourist places in Sikkim. Located in the northern part of Sikkim, this quaint mountain village is adorned by the immaculate beauty of the Lachung Chu River and is also known for the Lachung Gompa. Though this village is one of the mostly visited regions in Sikkim, it still holds an alluring charm that can hardly be found in any other destinations. Lachung Tips Lachung becomes absolutely inaccessible in the monsoon season because of heavy rainfall and in the winter season due to heavy snow closing down significant routes. Although scenic, the roads in Lachung are often not in good condition so have sufficient time in hand while you plan your visit. Lachung Facts Joseph Dalton Hooker, a British botanist had labelled Lachung as the ‘most picturesque village of Sikkim’ in his book ‘The Himalayan Journal’. Lachung has innumerable fruit orchards and glacial rivers that add to its already existing charm. Main Highlights Lachung is an unexplored but stunning Himalayan village in Sikkim. It is popular for its tall dark mountains, meandering glacial rivers, gushing waterfalls and striking fruit orchards.

There are various spots to visit in Lachen Sikkim, however among those, a visit to the Lachen Gompa or Lachen Monastery ought to be over everybody’s rundown. This is a standout amongst the most well-known monasteries in Sikkim and a fine case of Tibetan engineering. The premises are decorated with supplication haggles petition banners. The Annual Mask Dance is held in this monastery. It was built in 1858 A.D and offers spell binding view. It is decorated with colourful flags, feel the air of peace as you spend time here.

Khecheopalri Lake, otherwise called Kha-Chot-Palri, is a characteristic lake close to Gangtok and is one of the places you unquestionably should visit in Gangtok. The lake is dedicated to two Hindus and Buddhists for their legendary deeds. The shores of the lake are surrounded with statues of Guru Padmasambhava, Lord Shiva and Goddess Tara separated from other essential legendary figures. Also pay a visit to the Khechoedpaldri hill close to the lake thought to be a sacrosanct spot by local people. Trekkers on the Yuksom-Dzongri-Goechha La trail will get an opportunity to visit this lake on the course. Setting off to the lake with a guide will enable you to comprehend the historical backdrop of the place better. If you visit Gangtok in October, then you will likewise have the capacity to appreciate the custom Chho-Tsho celebration that is praised on this lake. Tips The best time to visit Khecheopalri Lake is from February to March when the weather remains pleasant. Facts Khecheopalri Lake is believed to be a wish-fulfilling lake. It is also believed that Lord Shiva meditated in a cave above the lake. From an elevation, the lake appears to be in shape of a foot, which is believed to be the footprint of Lord Shiva. Another interesting fact is that birds don’t let any leaves or dirt to float in the lake. As soon as a leaf falls, birds come and pick it up. Main Highlights The serene environment of the lake attracts many tourists to this spot. Maghe Purne, one of the biggest festivals celebrated in March/April every year and Chho-Tsho, celebrated in October draws thousands of pilgrims and tourists to this place. Trekking is another popular activity here.