North Sikkim Tour Plan

• Morning: Take a morning flight to Bagdogra (IXB) or an overnight train to New Jalpaiguri (NJP).
• Afternoon: Drive to Gangtok (approx. 4.5–5 hours). The road runs alongside the emerald-green Teesta River.
• Evening: Check in and head to MG Marg. It's a vehicle-free zone perfect for dinner and soaking in the mountain vibe.

• Morning: Depart early (around 10:00 AM) after permit formalities.
• En Route: Stop at Seven Sisters Waterfall and Singhik Viewpoint for a glimpse of Mt. Kanchenjunga.
• Evening: Reach Lachen (8,800 ft). It’s a quiet, remote village. Eat early and sleep early to acclimatize for the high altitude tomorrow.

• Early Morning (4:00 AM): Start the drive to Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. The landscape turns into a "Cold Desert" as you approach.
• Noon: Return to Lachen for lunch, then drive to Lachung (approx. 2 hours).
• Evening: Relax by the Lachung Chu river.

• Morning: Visit Yumthang Valley. In spring (April–May), the rhododendrons are in full bloom.
• Optional: Proceed to Zero Point (Yumesamdong) for 360-degree snow views (requires an extra payment to the driver, approx. ₹3,500 per vehicle).
• Afternoon: Drive back to Gangtok. It’s a long journey, so expect to reach late in the evening.

• Morning: Visit Tsomgo (Changu) Lake and the Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir.
• Optional: If permits allow, visit Nathula Pass (Indo-China border).
• Evening: Last-minute shopping at Lal Bazaar in Gangtok.

• Morning: Drive back to NJP or Bagdogra for your return journey to Kolkata.

North Sikkim is a sensitive border zone. You cannot visit without a permit.

• Documents: Carry at least 4-6 passport-size photos and original ID proof (Voter ID or Passport). Note: Aadhar is often not accepted for North Sikkim permits by the army.
• Foreigners: As of 2026, foreign tourists must apply for online permits via the e-FRRO portal and are only allowed up to Yumthang Valley/Zero Point (Gurudongmar is restricted).

• March – June: Best for blooming flowers and pleasant weather.
• October – December: Best for crystal clear views of the peaks.
• Avoid July – September: Heavy monsoons often cause landslides and road closures.

• AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness): Gurudongmar is at nearly 18,000 ft. Keep yourself hydrated. Consult a doctor about taking Diamox or carry portable oxygen cans if you have breathing sensitivities.
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• Clothing: Even in summer, Lachen and Gurudongmar are freezing. Pack heavy woolens, gloves, and thermals.

Pro Tip: Try the local "Thukpa" (noodle soup) or "Gya Kho" (Sikkimese chimney soup) in Lachen to stay warm!