Sikkim is a beautiful and serene hill state in India and is known for its picturesque landscapes and diverse cultures. Here are 17 Tips to Know Before Traveling to Sikkim:
17 Things To Know Before Travelling to Sikkim, India
1. Destination Overview of Sikkim:
Sikkim is a state in the northeastern part of India located at the foot of the Himalayas. It is known for its rich culture, snow-capped mountain peaks, and breathtaking natural beauty. It is also home to several important Buddhist pilgrimage sites and is an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore nature, adventure, and spirituality.
2. Top Activities to do in Sikkim:
• Trekking: Trekking in Sikkim is one of the most popular activities to do. There are numerous trails ranging from beginner to advanced levels that offer stunning views of the Himalayan ranges.
• Sightseeing: There are many attractions in Sikkim that should not be missed. Popular sites include the Rumtek Monastery, Nathula Pass, Tsomgo Lake, and Yumthang Valley.
• Adventure Sports: Sikkim has become a popular destination for adventure sports such as paragliding, white water rafting, and mountaineering.
• Shopping: Shopping in Sikkim is an excellent experience as there are many unique handicrafts and souvenirs available.
3. Best Places to Stay in Sikkim:
| Category | Places to Stay |
|---|---|
| Luxury Places | The Denzong Regency, Norwood Green Resort & Spa, and Chumbi Mountain Retreat are some of the best luxury places to stay in Sikkim. |
| Mid Range | The Royal Plaza Gangtok, Summit Golden Crest, and Hotel Tibet are some of the mid-range places to stay in Sikkim. |
| Budget Friendly | Hotel Sunbeam, Hotel Snow Lion, and Hotel Royal Aroma are some of the budget-friendly places to stay in Sikkim. |
4. How to Travel to Sikkim?
The nearest airport to Sikkim is the Bagdogra Airport, which is located in Siliguri, West Bengal. From there, travelers can take a bus or taxi to reach Sikkim. There are also several railway stations located in Sikkim, including the Rangpo Railway Station, Melli Railway Station, and Jorethang Railway Station.
5. Must Try Local Food and Drink in Sikkim:
• Phagshapa: This is a dish made of pork, radish, and chillies.
• Momos: These are steamed dumplings filled with vegetables or meat.
• Sel Roti: This is a sweet, rice-based bread that is usually served during festivals.
• Thukpa: This is a noodle soup made with vegetables or meat.
• Chhurpi: This is a hard cheese that is usually eaten as a snack.
• Local Fruit: Sikkim is home to many varieties of local fruit, including apples, peaches, oranges, and plums.
6. Best Places to Eat in Sikkim:
• The Denzong Kitchen: This is a multi-cuisine restaurant located in Gangtok. It is known for its delicious momos and thukpa.
• The Orchid Restaurant: This is a fine-dining restaurant located in Gangtok. It is known for its delicious Tibetan and Chinese dishes.
• The Orchid Cafe: This is a popular cafe located in Gangtok. It is known for its delicious sandwiches and pastries.
• Noodle Bar: This is a popular restaurant located in Gangtok. It is known for its delicious noodles and soups.
• Delightful Restaurant: This is a popular restaurant located in Gangtok. It is known for its delicious Indian and Chinese dishes.
7. Weather and Climate:
Sikkim has a temperate climate with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit Sikkim is from March to June and from October to December. The monsoon season in Sikkim is from July to September and can be wet and humid.
8. Local Customs and Etiquette in Sikkim:
Sikkim is a very conservative state and travelers should be aware of the local customs and etiquette. It is important to dress modestly and respect local traditions. Women should avoid wearing revealing clothing and should cover their heads when entering religious sites.
9. Popular Scams in Sikkim:
• Fake Tour Guides: Tourists should be aware of fake tour guides who may offer their services at popular tourist attractions.
• Overcharging: Tourists should be wary of taxi drivers and shopkeepers who may try to overcharge them.
• Fake Monks: Tourists should be aware of fake monks who may approach them and ask for donations.
10. Suggested Trip Duration:
It is recommended to plan a trip to Sikkim for at least 5-7 days to explore the major attractions.
11. Total Estimated Budget Per Person:
The estimated budget for a 5-7 day trip to Sikkim for one person is approximately ₹15,000-20,000, including accommodation, food, activities, and tickets.
12. Nearby Cities:
The nearby cities to Sikkim are Darjeeling (66 km), Kalimpong (83 km), Gangtok (90 km), and Pelling (120 km).
13. Local Language and Communication in Sikkim:
The official language in Sikkim is Nepali, but English is widely spoken. Some common phrases in Nepali are ‘Namaste’ (hello), ‘Dhanyabaad’ (thank you), and ‘Cha’ (yes). There are also English-speaking guides available at the tourist attractions.
14. Accepted Currency and Money:
The Indian rupee is the accepted currency in Sikkim. Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs can be found in most cities. Tipping is not common in Sikkim but is appreciated.
15. Health and Medical Information:
It is recommended to get vaccinated against Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Tetanus before traveling to Sikkim. There are medical facilities and emergency services available in Sikkim, but they may not be up to Western standards.
16. Packing Tips for Sikkim:
When packing for a trip to Sikkim, it is important to bring appropriate clothing for the weather. Lightweight, long-sleeved tops, and long pants are recommended for the days, and a jacket or sweater is recommended for the evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended.
17. To Sum Up:
Sikkim is a beautiful and serene hill state in India known for its picturesque landscapes, diverse cultures, and spiritual sites. With its numerous trekking trails, adventure sports, shopping areas, and delicious local food, Sikkim is an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore nature and culture.