Sikkim Trip

The state of Sikkim is nestled in the North Eastern part of India, and is the smallest state amongst all the north eastern states. It has a unique distinction of being bound by 3 sovereign nations of China, Bhutan and Nepal. It also shares its southern border with the Indian state of West Bengal.

This Sikkim trip starts with a visit to Martam. Martam is a little village which is located on the Hee-Bermiok road away from the hustle and bustle of the main touristic places. The word Martam means “The lap of God” so one can only imagine how beautiful the place would be. There are small houses which have colourful gardens which makes it a serene sight to behold. When the weather is clear, one can see the glimpse of the mighty Khangchendzonga from Upper Martam. Martam is renowned for its birds and hence it makes a perfect place for birdwatching.

Dzongu is a region which is located in North Sikkim and forms a triangular shape. Two rivers namely Tholung Chu and Teesta flows by it and the Himalayan mountains make up for its third side. It borders the Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve. It is home to the aboriginal inhabitants of Sikkim, the Lepchas. The village is sparsely populated and rice and cardamom fields can be seen here. While here, you can enjoy village walks and fishing by the river side.

Located at the edge of the Himalayas, Aritar is a town which is located in the Eastern part of Sikkim. It's an offbeat destination in Sikkim, but it has some hidden gems such as Aritar Lake, Lampokhari lake and Aritar Gompa. The journey to the “old silk route” starts from Aritar.

Located at an altitude of 13,500ft, Gnathang Valley was once home to yak herders from Tibet. It falls in the middle of the old silk route and is the most scenic place to stay. Gnathang valley doesn’t have many trees and it's an endless view of grasslands as far as eyes can see. It has a Hindu temple and a small Buddhist monastery on the fringes of the village. From some vantage points, you can even see the valleys of Bhutan right from Gnathang.

Changu/Tsomgo Lake is a glacial lake in the East Sikkim district around 40kms from the capital Gangtok. It is one of the highest glacial lakes in the world with a height of almost 3,753 mts. This lake remains frozen for almost throughout the year. You can enjoy a Yak ride while here and there is also a Shiva Temple which is located here which is considered sacred by the locals. You can also try a local cable car ride here which will offer you a panoramic view of the lake and surroundings from a vantage point.

These places make up for a perfect tour in the little northeastern state of Sikkim. The best time to visit Sikkim would be in the months from April to June in summers. In summers, you can expect to see rhododendrons and orchids in full bloom in the valleys of Sikkim which makes for a really surreal experience. The summer months are really pleasant with temperatures ranging from 12 degrees centigrade to 28 degrees centigrade.

During winter months, you can expect to see the mountains and valleys covered in snow, which make up for a beautiful experience.