North Sikkim is the most picturesque and thriving destination in India. Located on the Indo-China border in the state of Sikkim it is known for its astonishing natural beauty. Heavenly hills touching the sky, snow-covered mountains and picture-perfect landscapes in every corner make it a treat for the eyes. Tourists visiting Sikkim often long to explore North Sikkim to immerse themselves in its pristine natural beauty. North Sikkim district has many top tourist places everyone likes to visit once in a lifetime.
Known as the home of the sacred Gurudongmar Lake, it is a dream for every traveller to visit this stunning destination at least once in their lifetime. Lachung and Lachen, two serene hamlets in North Sikkim, serve as the connecting points to the breathtaking Yumthang Valley, Gurudongmar Lake, and other attractions in the region. The astounding views of the snow-covered Himalayan mountain ranges, exhilarating waterfalls, and snow-covered valleys make North Sikkim a must-visit for nature lovers. For those seeking an offbeat holiday North Sikkim offers a unique adventure, while its scenic beauty makes it a perfect destination.
Top 10 attractions in North Sikkim
Following is a list of the most attractive tourist places to visit in North Sikkim.
- Lachung
- Lachen
- Gurudongmar Lake
- Yumthang Valley
- Ziro Point
- Kala Pathar
1. Lachung
Lachung, a picturesque village in North Sikkim, serves as the base point for exploring two of the region’s most stunning destinations: Yumthang Valley and Zero Point. These breathtaking locations are known for their natural beauty, making them must-visit spots for travellers seeking serenity and adventure. Lachung is located approximately 110 km from Gangtok, requiring a scenic drive of about 6 hours, through winding roads and lush landscapes.
The village is blessed by the enchanting Lachung River, whose soothing gushing sounds can be heard throughout the area, adding to the charm of this serene destination. It is also surrounded by snow-capped peaks, vibrant apple orchards, and colorful rhododendron forests that bloom during spring.
From Lachung, it takes about 1.5 hours (25 km) to reach Yumthang Valley, also known as the “Valley of Flowers.” This valley is famous for its carpet of seasonal flowers and breathtaking views, especially in spring and summer. Another must-visit spot is Zero Point (Yumesamdong), located at an altitude of around 15,300 feet, where you can experience snow even during the summer months.
2. Mount Katao
Pristine vistas of Mount Katao are just 28 km away from Lachung. It is a great place to enjoy the snow and glance at the spectacular view of snow-clad peaks. A picturesque road passing through forests of Rhododendrons, Poppies and Primulas tress leads to Mount Katao which is a pleasant journey itself. If you like to do adventure sports like skiing, or snowboarding it is a great place for you.
3. Lachen: Most loved tourist attraction in Sikkim
The picturesque town of Lachen, nestled amidst the breathtaking mountains of North Sikkim, is a key place to visit in North Sikkim and serves as the starting point for the journey to the legendary Gurudongmar Lake. Known for its serene ambience and stunning views, Lachen offers the perfect base for travellers seeking to explore the pristine beauty of the region.
To experience the mesmerizing Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world at an altitude of 17,800 feet, you’ll need to stay overnight in Lachen. This ensures an early morning start for the journey to the lake, allowing you to witness the ethereal beauty of the lake and surrounding valleys during the morning light. The drive from Lachen to Gurudongmar Lake spans about 65 km and takes approximately 4-5 hours, passing through the scenic Chopta Valley and the quaint Thangu village.
Chopta Valley, located 31 km before Gurudongmar Lake, is a hidden gem surrounded by snow-capped peaks and adorned with colourful alpine flowers during summer. This valley, perched at an altitude of 13,000 feet, is a photographer’s paradise and offers incredible opportunities for nature walks and birdwatching. It is a must-visit spot on the way to Gurudongmar, especially for its tranquil ambience and stunning landscapes.
The journey to Gurudongmar Lake offers an otherworldly experience. Known for its crystal-clear blue waters, the lake is considered sacred by both Buddhists and Hindus. The stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks on the lake’s surface create a surreal sight, making it a highlight of any trip to North Sikkim.
4. Gurudongmar Lake
Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest alpine lakes in the world, is situated at an altitude of 17,000 feet above sea level, near the Tibetan border in North Sikkim. This stunning lake is not only renowned for its breathtaking beauty but also holds deep religious significance. According to Buddhist beliefs, the lake was blessed by Guru Padmasambhava, and it is said that a portion of its waters remains unfrozen even during the harshest winter months. For Sikhs, the lake is equally sacred, as it is believed to have been blessed by Guru Nanak Ji, adding to its spiritual aura. The name Gurudongmar is derived from Guru Padmasambhava, reflecting its rich religious heritage.
The pristine blue waters of the lake, surrounded by rugged snow-capped mountains, offer a surreal and almost otherworldly experience for visitors. It is a major attraction for both spiritual seekers and adventure enthusiasts exploring top attractions in North Sikkim.
However, due to the high altitude, travellers are advised to be cautious of altitude sickness. Symptoms like dizziness, nausea, or breathing difficulties are common. It is essential to carry the necessary medications, stay hydrated, and avoid overexertion. Tourists should also pack warm woollen clothes, as temperatures can plummet to extreme levels, even during summer.
A visit to Gurudongmar Lake is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, blending natural beauty with spiritual serenity, but it demands proper preparation to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
The best time to visit Gurudongmar Lake is from March until June as the weather is pleasant and one can see clear crystal blue skies,
5. Yumthang Valley
Yumthang Valley, a breathtaking destination in North Sikkim, is located on the banks of the Teesta River at an elevation of 3,564 meters. Known for its picturesque landscapes, the valley offers mesmerizing views of nearby hills, meandering rivers, natural hot springs, grazing yaks, and rolling meadows framed by the majestic Himalayan mountains.
Often referred to as the “Valley of Flowers”, Yumthang is renowned for its vibrant flora, especially during spring when the valley comes alive with blooming Himalayan flowering shrubs and unique alpine plants. This seasonal spectacle makes it a paradise for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Yumthang’s pristine beauty, combined with its serene ambience, makes it one of the most cherished attraction in North Sikkim. Whether you wish to soak in the enchanting views, stroll through its lush meadows, or explore its rich biodiversity, Yumthang Valley promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller.
You may like Picture journey through Yumthang valley.
The Shingba rhododendron sanctuary which is well known for its variety of rhododendron is a part of the Yumthang valley. It looks pulchritudinous with colourful Rhododendrons flowers in full bloom during spring. The valley is also renowned for sulfurous hot springs.
Zero Point is 28 km away from Yumthang Valley. There is a small market at the starting of the valley where you can enjoy tea and Maggi and buy woollen garments or rent woollen clothes and boots from various shops before proceeding to Zero Point.
6. Zero Point
Perched at an altitude of 15,300 feet, Zero Point, locally known as Yume Samdong, marks the last point in India accessible to civilians before the China border. This mesmerizing destination in North Sikkim is a snow-covered paradise, attracting tourists year-round to experience its pristine beauty and play in the snow.
The journey to Zero Point is an adventure in itself. Starting from Lachung, you’ll pass through the enchanting Rhododendron Sanctuary, where both sides of the road are adorned with blooming rhododendrons, pine trees, and dreamy mountain views. The winding mountain trails with narrow bends and sharp cuts make for a thrilling and scenic drive.
Zero Point is a haven for snow lovers, offering breathtaking landscapes and a chance to revel in the serenity of untouched snow. The panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks add to its ethereal charm, making it a must-visit tourist place in North Sikkim.
Temperature at Zero Point
The weather here remains extremely cold throughout the year.
- Summer (March to May): Temperatures range from 4°C to 18°C, offering slightly warmer conditions.
- Winter (December to February): Temperatures can plummet to as low as -17°C, creating a magical snow-laden landscape.
If you’re seeking a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and a snowy retreat, Zero Point promises an unforgettable experience.
7. Kala Patthar
If you’re a lover of misty weather and snow, and you dream of playing in the snow during your winter vacation, then Kala Patthar is the perfect destination for you. Located at an altitude of 14,850 feet, this uninhabited location is surrounded by majestic Blackstone mountains that are covered in a pristine blanket of snow, making it a winter wonderland. You can enjoy snow here until the summer months of May-June, offering a unique opportunity to experience snow even in the warmer seasons.
Kala Patthar is one of the most scenic viewpoints in the Khumbu Valley in North Sikkim. The striking contrast between the pitch-black mountains and the white snow covering them gives it a magical, almost surreal appearance, resembling a black jewel amidst the snow. The view from here offers a panoramic spectacle of the towering Himalayas, making it a dream location for photographers and nature lovers.
Though the road leading to Kala Patthar is not in the best condition, the breathtaking views make it a journey worth taking. It’s important to note that car drivers often charge extra to take tourists to this remote destination. Despite the road conditions, the experience of standing in the midst of snow-covered peaks and soaking in the magnificent Himalayan vistas is unforgettable.
Hope you are tempted enough to visit North Sikkim and enjoy these beautiful places once in your life. time.
North Sikkim Tour Packages
Gangtok the capital of Sikkim is the base point of North Sikkim tour. You can consider staying 1 night at Gangtok for acclamation before starting your tour. You can consider 3 days / 2 nights or 2 days/ 1 night North Sikkim tour. Check our Sikkim tour packages to find the most suitable package for you.
Lots of budget tours are available for North Sikkim but contact a trusted agent to make your tour comfortable and enjoyable. For a comfortable family vacation, you can request Innova/ Xylo from your travel agent. Try to book your tour package at least 3 months in advance to avoid rush and get your preferred stay easily. Since tourism is booming rapidly in the Northeast reason book your package from a govt. registered agency to avoid any problems.
We at Nexplore provide custom tours in the entire Sikkim. Check our tour package or contact us to find your preferred North Sikkim package.
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Weather of North Sikkim
April to June is the best season to visit North Sikkim. The weather remains pleasant during this time. Temperatures range from -7°C to 10°C during this time. Rhododendron flower and valley of flowers are in full bloom during this time. You can enjoy snow-covered Himalayan peaks and play with snow to your heart’s content during the spring months of April to June. Generally, all tourist spots are open after winter in April and you can enjoy the beauty of all the places fully during the spring season.
Generally, Sikkim is accessible all year round. You can also plan during the winter months of November to February to visit Sikkim. Except for monsoon month from July to August, you can visit North Sikkim all year round.
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Causation
North Sikkim is situated at a high altitude so be careful before visiting these places. Keep an oxygen cylinder handy for any problem caused by high altitude such as breathing problems and headache. Try to bring chocolate and camphor with you to relieve you from problems caused by low oxygen.
2. Be careful if you are with kids.
3. There are very limited food options on the roadside eateries as well as hotels.
4. Follow rules to avoid mishaps.
Already dreaming about your North Sikkim Tour? We at Nexplore will guide you with the best travel packages, top suggestions and hand-curated itineraries. Check out some of the top-selling Sikkim itineraries here.
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