Sikkim is one of the destinations where everyone wants to visit to watch and fee nature’s beauty. It is also the first choice for a solo backpacker. It is one of the smallest states of India filled with wonders and natural beauty. All you can find is peace and beautiful views amidst mighty mountains. Although 4-5 days are not enough to visit Sikkim as a whole, I hope this itinerary makes the best out of those 5 days for you.
Day 1-Nathula Pass, East Sikkim
The trip to Nathula Pass is around 1 day from Gangtok. It is the Indo-China border and requires a special permit to visit so you will need to carry your original Id proofs. Photography is not allowed in this region. It is better to enjoy the cold breeze and capture picturesque views in your eyes. One could visit Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir and Army Museum on the return journey. It will take around 8 hrs to complete the round trip.
Day 2-Lachen, North Sikkim
Get up at 9 AM. Arrange the permit to visit North Sikkim beforehand. North Sikkim is known to have difficult terrain, but for a backpacker, the real beauty lies there. It takes around 8 hrs to reach Lachen from Gangtok which is in North Sikkim. You will easily get a guest house in Lachen. On the way to Lachen, you can see seven sister waterfalls and many other waterfalls and river. The sounds of waterfalls with cold breeze brushing your ears are soothing and you will find peace in these parts of the hills.
Day 3-Lachung, North- East Sikkim
You have to start as early as 4 AM to reach Gurudongmar lake on time. While walking you will witness the outstanding view of the deserts and beautiful roads. Hangout at Gurudongmar lake and then return to the Guest House.
Now in the late afternoon start your journey to Lachung. The roads are irregular and muddy. You could visit some local attractions like waterfalls on the way. Stay in any guest house in Lachung in the night.
Day 4-Yumthang Valley, North Sikkim
Start your journey at around 5 AM. It will take around two hours from Lachung to Yumthang Valley and the other one and a half hour to reach zero points. Visit zero-point first where you can get to see some snowfall. Then on the return journey visit Yumthang Valley. You will enjoy the beautiful views of the valley and the journey. You can get back to the guest house in the afternoon and pack your bags for the journey to Gangtok. You will reach Gangtok at around 8 PM in the night when the market is closing. After taking some rest to prepare yourself to enjoy the nightlife of Gangtok.
Day 5- Gangtok, East Sikkim
You could visit the MG market in Gangtok which is a beautiful and peaceful place. Also, if you have time, you can visit some local attractions in Gangtok. Just remember, it will take almost 4-5 hours to reach the airport so plan everything well you don't want to miss your flight.
I hope the tips mentioned above can help you to enjoy your trip to Sikkim. To reach Sikkim and start your journey you can cut down the travel time by booking flights. Further, to make your journey more affordable, you can look for the best flights and affordable rates. To book your flight tickets on Vistara you can make the use of Vistara coupons available at TalkCharge. Here you can find all the latest Vistara offers.
Keep travelling :)