Sikkim

Sikkim Sojourn – A Soulful Journey After My Birthday

How Matheran Happened: A SpontaneIn July 2018, just after celebrating my birthday, I decided to take a trip that would change something inside me. I packed my bags and left Pune for Sikkim — a land I had only seen in postcards and travel shows. This wasn’t just a holiday, it was a healing journey. The route was long and unconventional: Pune → Kolkata → Siliguri → Sikkim, but every stretch added to the story I was meant to experience.ous Midnight Escape

Nestled in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas, Sikkim is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural richness, and spiritual serenity. From snow-capped peaks to serene monasteries, this small state has something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip from Kolkata to Sikkim, here’s your comprehensive guide covering travel options, accommodations, must-visit attractions, and the unique flavors of Sikkimese cuisine.

Places to Visit in Sikkim – More Than Just Gangtok

Sikkim is divided into four regions — East, West, North, and South — and each has its own unique charm. While I stayed mostly around Gangtok, here are the top places to visit across the state, including some I wish I had time for (next trip, for sure!).

East Sikkim (Around Gangtok)

• MG Road (Gangtok) – A clean, vibrant street full of shops, cafes, and local charm. A perfect spot to stroll in the evening.
• Tsomgo Lake (Changu Lake) – A stunning glacial lake that reflects the skies; can be partially frozen even in July.
• Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir – A sacred site dedicated to an Indian soldier with an intriguing legend.
• Tashi View Point – Offers panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range, especially during sunrise.
• Ganesh Tok & Hanuman Tok – Peaceful temples perched on hilltops with breathtaking views.
• Do Drul Chorten Stupa – Surrounded by 108 prayer wheels, this is one of the most spiritually significant places in Gangtok.
• Enchey Monastery – A beautiful and calm Buddhist monastery near the town.

North Sikkim (Adventure & Alpine Beauty)

• Lachung – A quaint mountain village, base for visiting Yumthang Valley.
• Yumthang Valley (Valley of Flowers) – Carpeted with flowers in spring/summer and snow-covered in winter. Hot springs nearby too.
• Zero Point (Yumesamdong) – A no-man’s land near the Indo-China border, covered in snow most of the year.
• Lachen – Gateway to Gurudongmar Lake; lesser-explored and tranquil.
• Gurudongmar Lake – One of the highest lakes in the world, sacred and surreal. A must-visit for high-altitude lovers.

Note: North Sikkim requires permits and is best visited on a 2N/3D or 3N/4D guided package from Gangtok.

South Sikkim (Spiritual & Scenic)

• Namchi – Known for its giant Char Dham complex, replicating the four dhams of India.
• Samdruptse Hill – Home to a massive statue of Guru Padmasambhava overlooking the valley.
• Temi Tea Garden – Sikkim’s only tea estate, offering breathtaking views and fresh tea tasting.

West Sikkim (Heritage & Hidden Trails)

• Pelling – A charming town with majestic views of Mount Kanchenjunga.
• Pemayangtse Monastery – One of Sikkim’s oldest monasteries, with intricate architecture and peaceful surroundings.
• Rabdentse Ruins – The ruins of Sikkim’s former capital, perfect for history lovers and photography.
• Skywalk & Chenrezig Statue – India’s first glass skywalk, with a huge Buddha statue and panoramic views.

Some additional places :

• Zuluk Loop (Silk Route) – A hidden gem of East Sikkim with crazy zigzag roads and Himalayan views.
• Ravangla – A peaceful hamlet with the famous Buddha Park (Tathagata Tsal).
• Siddhesvara Dham – Char Dham replicas on Solophok Hill, offering both spiritual and scenic vibes.

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What to Eat in Sikkim

Sikkim’s cuisine is a flavorful blend of Tibetan, Nepali, and local Himalayan influences. Most dishes are warm, earthy, and comforting — perfect for the cold mountain weather and the soul. Here are some must-try foods you shouldn’t leave Sikkim without tasting:

Momos You haven’t really been to Sikkim unless you’ve had their freshly steamed momos. Stuffed with vegetables, chicken, or pork — often with a local twist using herbs like timur (Sichuan pepper) — they’re served piping hot with fiery red chutney. Try them from MG Road street stalls or cozy cafés.

Thukpa A hot, hearty noodle soup packed with vegetables, meat, and Himalayan spices. This dish is a winter staple and a perfect cure for mountain chills. You’ll find both clear and spicy versions in almost every eatery across the state.

Gundruk Soup Made from fermented leafy greens, this dish has a strong, tangy flavor that’s unique to the region. Usually served with rice or as a side dish, it’s full of probiotics and reflects the Sikkimese-Nepali influence.

Sael Roti with Aloo Dum A ring-shaped deep-fried rice bread often served during festivals, paired with spicy potato curry. It’s a beloved combo in Sikkimese homes and a must-try if you’re exploring local dhabas or homestays.

Butter Tea (Po Cha) Traditional Tibetan-style tea made with yak butter, salt, and tea leaves. It’s rich, salty, and definitely an acquired taste — but worth trying at least once for the experience and warmth it brings in cold weather.

Local Fermented Drinks Ask locals about Tongba (millet beer served in a bamboo tumbler) or Chhang, a mild, fermented rice drink. Often homemade and shared during special occasions, these drinks offer a glimpse into traditional Himalayan hospitality.

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Hotels to Stay in Sikkim

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Route: From Pune to Sikkim – My Journey

• I flew from Pune to Kolkata and spent a day soaking in the humid monsoon vibes of the city.
• Then I took a night bus from Kolkata to Siliguri, a long but adventurous ride with monsoon rains tapping the windows.
• From Siliguri, I got a shared Sumo through a tourism service, heading into the misty hills of Sikkim. The change in scenery — from plains to pine-covered mountains — felt like therapy.

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5-Day Itinerary in Sikkim

Day 1: Arrival in Gangtok

• Check-in and rest
• Evening walk on MG Road, trying local snacks and shopping souvenirs

Day 2: Gangtok Local Sightseeing

• Visit Tashi View Point, Ganesh Tok, and Hanuman Tok
• Explore Enchey Monastery and Do Drul Chorten Stupa
• Sunset view at Bakthang Waterfall

Day 3: Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir

• Scenic drive to Tsomgo (Changu) Lake
• Visit the sacred Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir
• Enjoy hot Maggi and momos by the lake

Day 4: Namchi or Optional North Sikkim Day Trip

• If time allows, day visit to Namchi, explore Char Dham
• Alternatively, start a 1N/2D tour to Lachung and Yumthang Valley

Day 5: Return to Siliguri and Depart

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Budget Breakdown (Ex-Pune, 5 Days for 1 Person)

Category	Approx. Cost
Pune to Kolkata flight	₹3000
Kolkata to Siliguri bus	₹1000
Siliguri to Sikkim (shared Sumo)	₹500
Stay (4 nights)	₹4000
Food & local travel	₹2000
Entry & sightseeing	₹1000
Return journey	₹4000
Total	₹15,500 – ₹17,000 approx.

Tips for Visiting Sikkim

• Best Time to Visit:
  • March to June for pleasant weather and blooming rhododendrons.
  • October to December for clear skies and snow-capped peaks.
• Permits Required:
  • Obtain Inner Line Permits (ILP) for visiting places like Tsomgo Lake, Nathu La Pass, Lachung, and Yumthang Valley.
  • Permits can be arranged through travel agencies or at the Tourism Office in Gangtok.
• What to Pack:
  • Warm clothing, sturdy footwear, and a good camera for capturing the mesmerizing landscapes.
• Local Transport:
  • Shared cabs and private taxis are the primary modes of transport.

Sikkim in July felt like a gentle hug from the mountains. Mist, rain, warmth, and stillness all blended into this five-day journey that gave me space to breathe. What started as a random post-birthday plan turned into a soul-cleansing experience. Sometimes the best trips aren’t planned to perfection — they just happen when you decide to let go.

Travel, wander, and heal – one road at a time.