For a girl from North Bengal, Sikkim always felt like a nearby escape. But now that I live in Kolkata, I cherish every memory of our annual trips to this clean and plastic-free paradise. So in May 2022, my friends and I – a group of 8 – decided to revisit North Sikkim. This blog documents our 6-day, 5-night journey, full of scenic beauty, challenges, and moments that made us fall in love with Sikkim all over again.
Day 1: NJP to Gangtok – The Journey Begins
We started our journey from NJP in a Bolero. The scenic drive with the Teesta River flowing beside us was mesmerizing. Our car dropped us at the Gangtok Siliguri stand, from where we hired small hatchbacks as larger vehicles aren’t allowed in town after 7 AM.
Hotel Stay: Hotel Yalung Retreat – walking distance from Mall Road, courteous staff, and healthy food.
Evening at Mall Road: We enjoyed shopping, tried smoothies from a shop at the far end, and noted that most restaurants close by 8 PM.
Travel Tip: Arrange all permits on Day 1. You’ll need: ID proof (except Aadhaar), vaccination certificate, and four passport-size photos.
Day 2: Gangtok to Lachen – Waterfalls & Landslides
Started late due to permit issues. Visited Seven Sisters and Naga Waterfalls along the way. The road was rough in parts and delayed due to a landslide. We missed Lachen Monastery as we arrived late.
Hotel Stay: Hill Hotel – Not recommended. Rude staff and charged unfairly for damage caused by their candle. Also, no electricity or signal.
Day 3: Lachen – Kalapatthar & Gurudongmar – Ice Capped Bliss
We left Lachen at 6:30 AM to Kalapatthar – a snowy valley with black hills and rocky mountains. Experienced light snowfall in May!
Next, we headed to Gurudongmar Lake. Though the road was bumpy, the stunning crystal-blue lake made it all worthwhile. Carry water, food, camphor, and an oxygen can as altitude sickness is common.
On the return journey, we stopped at Chopta Valley, then reached Lachung by 7 PM. Power was available till 9 PM – candles and power banks are essential.
Day 4: Lachung – Zero Point & Yumthang Valley – Nature’s Palette
We started early for Zero Point – though there was no snow, the views were hypnotizing. Next stop was Yumthang Valley, known as the Valley of Flowers. A tributary of the Teesta and a hot spring added charm.
Best Time: March–April (for snow), October–November (for rhododendrons).
Day 5: Nathula Pass, Baba Mandir & Tsomgo Lake – Highs & Hiccups
We faced delays due to a confusing car-tagging system at check posts. Finally visited Baba Mandir and Nathula Pass (completely fogged out). Photography is restricted due to army presence.
Tsongmo Lake: Beautiful but beware of yaks while taking pictures! Ended the day with authentic Tibetan cuisine at Taste of Tibet – pork momos and deep-fried beef sausages are a must-try.
Conclusion: Clean, Green, & Unforgettable
Despite some hurdles, our North Sikkim tour was a breathtaking experience. From snowy peaks to serene lakes and vibrant valleys, every place had a story. And above all – hats off to Sikkim for maintaining such a clean, plastic-free environment.
Experienced shared by Dr. progyanika IG – www.instagram.com/aweirdohead
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