About North Sikkim
North Sikkim is the state most dramatic frontier – alpine valleys, hot springs, rhododendron blooms and Gurudongmar, one of the highest lakes on earth. It is raw, remote and breathtaking.
Best for adventure seekers and mountain lovers. Inner Line and Protected Area Permits are required, and we arrange them for you.
Best Time
Mar-Jun & Oct-Nov
Ideal For
Adventure & mountain lovers
Nearest Airport
Bagdogra / Pakyong
Nearest Station
New Jalpaiguri
Top Attractions
Gurudongmar Lake
Sacred high lake at ~17,800 ft.
Yumthang Valley
The Valley of Flowers in bloom.
Zero Point
Snow point at Yumesamdong.
Lachung Village
Alpine village base for Yumthang.
Lachen Village
Gateway to Gurudongmar.
Hot Springs & Gompas
Mountain shrines and warm springs.
Things to Do
- Gurudongmar Lake sunrise
- Yumthang Valley of Flowers
- Snow at Zero Point
- Experience Lachen and Lachung culture
- Relax at hot springs
- High-altitude photography
- Rhododendron trails
- Stargazing
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Months | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Mar-Jun | Flowers bloom, pleasant |
| Autumn | Oct-Nov | Clear skies, crisp air |
| Winter | Dec-Feb | Heavy snow, roads may close |
| Monsoon | Jul-Sep | Landslide risk, avoid |
How to Reach
Via Gangtok: All North Sikkim trips start from Gangtok after permit formalities.
By Air: Bagdogra (IXB). By Train: New Jalpaiguri (NJP).
By Road: Long mountain drives to Lachen and Lachung.
Getting Around
- Shared or reserved 4x4 through a registered operator
- Group travel required for permits
- No self-drive in restricted zones
- Permits arranged by us
Suggested Itineraries
Day 1: Arrive Gangtok, permits.
Day 2: Drive to Lachen.
Day 3: Gurudongmar Lake, then Lachung.
Day 4: Yumthang and Zero Point, back to Gangtok.
Day 5: Departure.
Add an extra day in Gangtok with Tsomgo Lake before or after North Sikkim.
Combine North Sikkim with Pelling for a fuller Sikkim tour.
Popular Packages
North Sikkim Explorer
5N / 6D - Gurudongmar & Yumthang
Gangtok + North Sikkim
6N / 7D - Complete Sikkim
Valley of Flowers Special
4N / 5D - Spring blooms
Photo Gallery
Travel Tips
- Acclimatise in Gangtok before Gurudongmar
- Carry heavy woollens year-round
- High altitude - avoid if you have heart or breathing issues
- Keep ID and photos ready for permits
- Network is limited beyond Gangtok
Food to Try
- Thukpa
- Momos
- Maggi at high points
- Sikkimese meals
- Hot butter tea
Shopping
- Local woollens
- Prayer flags
- Handicrafts in Gangtok
- Yak-wool items
- Herbal teas
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes – Inner Line Permit and Protected Area Permits are required, arranged through a registered operator. We handle all of it.
Around 17,800 ft, so acclimatisation and caution are important.
Some North Sikkim areas are restricted for foreign nationals; ask us for the latest rules.
March to June for flowers and October to November for clear skies. Winter roads may close with snow.
The high altitude is demanding; consult a doctor and plan a gentle pace.
At least 5 to 6 days including Gangtok and permit time.
North Sikkim on the Map
Plan Your North Sikkim Trip
Tell us your dates and budget – we will send a custom itinerary within 24 hours.