Remember those days as a child, when you'd pick up a blank sheet and start drawing on it, without any definite plan or idea, just allowing your imagination to take control? And somehow, every single time, you'd find yourself drawing mountains in the background, with trees and streams – all coming together, and then suddenly, there's a hut or a bridge in the middle of it all. That's the charm of Sikkim, a tucked away gem nestled in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas. And just like those childhood drawings, Sikkim is a place full of offbeat wonders, waiting to be discovered and admired.
From colourful monasteries perched on cliff tops to hidden lakes and waterfalls, Sikkim has a way of surprising and delighting its visitors with its unique and offbeat locations. Here are 7 must-visit offbeat places in Sikkim that will surely take your breath away!
1. Ravangla:
Perched at a lofty altitude of 7,000 feet, Ravangla treats its visitors to sweeping views of the majestic Khangchendzonga range. For the adventurous, this tranquil town offers endless opportunities for trekking and exploring the unspoiled beauty of the Himalayas. But Ravangla is more than just a scenic spot, it is also home to ancient monasteries and cultural festivals that offer a chance to immerse in the local traditions and heritage.
Things to do in Ravangla:
Explore the spiritual side of Ravangla by visiting the Tathagata Tsal Buddha Park, Ralang New Monastery, Bon Monastery, and Doling Monastery, or get in touch with nature at the Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, Kanchenjunga Falls, and Rayong Sunrise View Point, and rejuvenate your soul at Ralong Hot Springs before embarking on a hike to the Samdruptse Statue or taking a dip in the healing waters of Kewzing.
2.Yuksom:
At an elevation of 5,800 feet, this charming hamlet is a nature lover's utopia, with its snow-capped peaks, verdant forests, and pristine lakes. But Yuksom also holds a significant place in Sikkim's history, as it was once the capital of the state. Immerse yourself in the region's rich culture and tradition by visiting ancient monasteries and learning about its unique past. And if that's not enough, Yuksom is also the starting point for the famous Kanchenjunga trek, a must-do for every adventure seeker.
Things to do in Yuksom:
Explore Dubdi Buddhist Monastery, hike to Kathok Lake, witness the stunning Tashiding Monastery, swim in Phamrong Falls, visit the sacred Khecheopalri Lake, and tour the mystical Kartok Monastery!
3. Lachen:
High up in the clouds, lies a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by the adventurous at heart - Lachen. Embraced by snow-capped peaks and the sparkling Lachen Chu River, this picturesque village at 9,000 feet is a paradise on earth. But beware, for it is no ordinary destination. Lachen serves as the starting point for the challenging Gurudongmar Lake trek, rewarding brave souls with unparalleled views and a sense of accomplishment. As you breathe in the crisp mountain air, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the indigenous Bhutia community, the Lachenpas, who have preserved their traditions in this serene haven.
Things to do in Lachen:
Visit the magnificent Lachen Monastery, the breathtaking Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, and the dramatic Gurudongmar Lake, then journey through the stunning landscapes of Thangu Valley, Tso Lhamo Lake, Chopta Valley, and Lhonak Valley, and test your endurance on the Green Lake Trek.
4. Dzongu Valley:
Enveloped by the towering Himalayan mountains, Dzongu valley is a haven for those seeking solace and a connection with nature. With its lush forests, gushing rivers, and snow-capped peaks, Dzongu is a nature lover's dream come true. But its beauty is not limited to its natural surroundings, for the Lepcha community, who call this valley their home, have preserved their rich cultural heritage, giving visitors a glimpse into the traditions and way of life of this secluded paradise.
Things to do in Dzongu:
Trek to Thangu Valley, Visit Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Explore Tholung Monastery, Take a dip in the Hot Springs, Visit Lepcha Museum, Go for a village walk, Admire the Lingzya falls, Visit the cardamom fields of Dzongu, Explore Hee-Gyathang.
5. Chalamthang:
With its rolling meadows, lush forests, and pristine rivers, this village at an elevation of 4,500 feet is a nature enthusiast's dream come true. But what truly sets Chalamthang apart is its untouched beauty, making it a haven for those seeking peace and tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of tourist destinations. Take a step back in time and experience the traditional Sikkimese lifestyle, while basking in the breathtaking landscapes. Chalamthang is a reminder that sometimes, the most beautiful things in life are the ones that are left undisturbed.
Things to do in Chalamthang:
Soak in the breathtaking views of the rolling green hills, meandering Teesta River and the Himalayan foothill, while listening to the sweet melodies of colourful Himalayan birds and sipping on a cup of freshly brewed Temi tea from the 453 acre Tea Garden, before embarking on a thrilling walk along the 10000 feet long Tarey Bhir cliff edge with its 3500 feet drop!
6. Rinchenpong:
Located at an altitude of 5,500 feet, this quaint village is surrounded by dense forests and boasts stunning views of the Himalayan range. Rinchenpong offers a chance to escape the crowds and immerse in the local way of life, with its traditional houses, beautiful monasteries, and friendly locals. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding forests and spot exotic species of flora and fauna. And for those seeking a spiritual experience, Rinchenpong is also home to a 300-year-old Rinchenpong monastery that exudes a sense of peace and serenity.
Things to do in Rinchenpong:
Visit the Poison Pokhri with an interesting history, take a look at the rare Ati Buddha statue in the Rinchenpong Monastery, enjoy the 360 degree views of Kanchenjunga in Reesum Monastery, visit Maggi Dara where Rabindranath Tagore wrote verses inspired by the beauty of the region, and experience the religious practices and rituals in Sribadam forest village.
7. Kewzing:
Tucked away in the Tashiding region of West Sikkim, lies the small and serene village of Kewzing. This offbeat destination is perfect for those looking to experience the local way of life, away from the chaos of city life. With its terraced fields, ancient temples, and picturesque valleys, Kewzing is a paradise for nature lovers and offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by the majestic Himalayan range. The village is also known for its ecotourism initiatives and homestay accommodations, providing visitors with an authentic Sikkimese experience.
Things to do in Kewzing:
Explore the monasteries, witness rural life, trek on Tendong and Maenam Hills, visit caves and hot springs, learn about tea processing at Temi Tea Estate, and visit popular nearby destinations like Pelling, Rimbi Waterfalls, Sewaro Rock Garden, Khecheopalri Lake, Rabdentse Ruins, and Khangchendzonga Waterfalls.
Best time to visit Sikkim:
Sikkim is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from March to May (spring) and October to December (autumn), when the weather is pleasant and clear, and the hills are alive with blooming flowers and colourful festivals. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) as many roads may be closed due to landslides, and the winter (January to February) can be extremely cold and covered in snow.
How to reach Sikkim:
The nearest railway station to Sikkim is New Jalpaiguri in Siliguri, West Bengal, which is well connected to major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. From there, you can take a private cab or shared taxi to reach Sikkim. The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport, which has regular flights from major cities in India. You can also take a shared taxi or private cab from the airport to reach Sikkim. Sikkim is also well-connected by road, with regular bus services from neighbouring states like West Bengal and Assam.
In Sikkim, there is no cacophony of city life, no hustle and bustle of tourist crowds. Instead, you will find a peaceful and serene way of life, with the locals following their age-old traditions and living in harmony with nature. It is a place that beckons the curious and adventurous souls, offering them a chance to go beyond the well-trodden paths and discover the hidden gems that Sikkim has to offer. So pack your bags, leave behind the chaos of the world, and let Sikkim work its magic on you. Trust us, it will be an experience like no other.
Ready to travel for free? Earn credits and redeem them on Tripoto’s weekend getaways, hotel stays and vacation packages.
' fill='%23359391'%3e %3cpath d='M46.1538462%2c43.5714286 L41.5%2c50 L36.8461538%2c43.5714286 L36.8670256%2c43.5714286 C36.3173077%2c42.7142857 36%2c41.6851429 36%2c40.5714286 C36%2c37.4854286 38.4535641%2c35 41.5%2c35 C44.5464359%2c35 47%2c37.4854286 47%2c40.5714286 C47%2c41.6851429 46.6826923%2c42.7142857 46.1329744%2c43.5714286 L46.1538462%2c43.5714286 Z M41.4294872%2c39 C40.6150641%2c39 39.9487179%2c39.675 39.9487179%2c40.5 C39.9487179%2c41.325 40.6150641%2c42 41.4294872%2c42 C42.2439103%2c42 42.9102564%2c41.325 42.9102564%2c40.5 C42.9102564%2c39.675 42.2439103%2c39 41.4294872%2c39 L41.4294872%2c39 Z' id='Location-white'%3e%3c/path%3e %3c/g%3e %3c/svg%3e)
