Mangan, a small town on the Tibetan plateau of the state, is the headquarters of the north eastern area of the state. It lays 65 Kms from the capital, Gangtok. The place attracts Indian and foreign tourists for its famous tourist destinations. The best places to visit when you come to Mangan are included below.

1. Rong Lungten Lee

Rong Lungten Lee is a heritage house, located 8 Kms from the main city of Mangan. Inaugurated in 2003, it is a resemblance of the Lepcha house, which is situated at Namprikdang. Here, artifacts of the Lepcha tribe are stored and displayed in three rooms. An attic, traditionally called a ‘Phodong’, is constructed to help store valuables. Lepchas believe that their ancestors belonged to Malay Lang, a mythical country, at the feet of Kanchendzonga Hills. The Lepcha community is small and said to hail from Tibet or Nepal.

2. Sirijonga Yuma Mangheem

Built in the year 1983, this heritage centre resembles Sirijonga Yuma Mangheem of West Sikkim, in Martam. It is the most visited during the month of January, to celebrate the festival of Maghey Sankranti. Celebrated by Nepalese and Sikkim people alike, this festival marks the commencement of a warmer and more pleasant weather. According to their Bikram Sambat calendar, the festival falls on the first day of the tenth month. This calendar was made and followed by the legendary Indian King, Vikramaditya. Different activities, fairs, huge meals and parties become part of the celebration. It brings out the culturally diverse side of Sikkim.

3. Phodong Monastery

Built in the year 1740, this Buddhist monastery of worship houses around 250 monks. Phodong Monastery was built by Chogyal Gyurmed Namgyal, who belonged to the Kargyupa sector. The monatery has been rebuilt and renovated, but old paintings and murals embedded in the walls, can still be seen in parts of the building. An annual festival called ‘Chaam’ is celebrated on the 28^th and 29^th days of the tenth month of the Tibetan calendar. The Phensang Monastery and Labrang Monastery can also be visited nearby. Buddhism was introduced here by Guru Rinpoche.

4. Singhik

Singhik is considered to be the best place to view the Siniolchu Mountain and Kanchendzonga Ranges. This picturesque village is located 5200 feet above sea level and around 4kms from Mangan. The hills surrounding it appear to touch the mountains, the peaks covered in white snow, the gushing waters of the river Teestha below seems to the only noise in this quiet village. Many trails start and pass though this place, for amateur as well as advanced trekkers. The citizens here belong majorly to three tribes, Nepali, Lepcha and Bhutia. A very ancient monastery lies on the border of the village, which is a must visit.

5. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary

This beautiful nature park has forty species of rhododendron trees. Located in the Yumthang Valley, it has incredible species of birds, which include wood snipes and hoary throated barwing. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is surrounded by two looming mountains on both sides, Chuba Sagochen and Chomzomei Tso. A spring goes though this 43 square feet territory, providing natural supply to the different varieties of plants and shrubs here. The best time to visit is during the months of April to July, since the winter snowfall doesn’t do well to the trees.

Mangan celebrates a three-day music festival too, during the month of December. Food festival, cultural events, traditional display of performing arts, folk music and dance, exhibitions of handicrafts are enjoyed by tourists and local citizens alike. Apart from this, the festival of Cham, a dance festival, dedicated to the Kanchendzonga Mountain Deity is famous.There are lots of places to shop and trek here. Summer months are largely sought after by tourists to visit.

Don’t Miss These Tourist Destinations In Sikkim:

• Do-Not-Miss Destinations In Namchi
• Do-Not-Miss Destinations In Geyzin
• Do-Not-Miss Destinations In Pelling

Spring in Sikkim arrives in full bloom. The weather is pleasant and borders on the colder side. The climate is ideal for sightseeing and if you drop by at this time, be at the flower festival, the rumoured grandest in Asia.

Summers in Sikkim are way cooler than major parts of India-in fact, it is not even hot, not uncomfortable in the least. But there’s a problem of persistent moisture in the air and environment, giving rise to a climate that is humid and prone to sudden showers of rain, but the Sun is also fairly visible in the skies.

Monsoons in Sikkim are not a very popular tourist choice and its not too hard to see why. Monsoons border on dangerous at times, since it makes Sikkim prone to landslides, an environmental hazard. Also, the tropical het kicks in properly only now, and coupled with the remnant moisture gives rise to humidity in the weather and a hot weather that is sometimes oppressive.

There is a short autumn season wedged obscurely between monsoons and winters, during which Sikkim is full of vibrant beauty and nice weather, making it a pop pick for tourists.

Winters in Sikkim are as cold as proper winters should be. Snowfall is a given, so you can comprehend how chilly it gets. But there’s a downside-the winter weather makes landslides equally common, making it unsafe for tourists as the winter proceeds along the year. Also, the moisture in the air makes the place seem damp.

How to Reach Sikkim

Sikkim can be reached by air through the somewhat famous Bagdogra airport, and then you can take a taxi to a nearby hotel. By train, you can get to Sikkim through New JalPaiguri (NJP) station, which is well connected in turn to other famous locations like Darjeeling. By road, you can drive yourself effortlessly to Sikkim from neighbouring locations like Siliguri.

What to Do and See in Sikkim

• Gangtok, the most notable spot in the whole of Sikkim, is a veritable tourist spot in its own right. It has beautiful mountain views and breathtaking lakes, adventure sport openings and even a wax museum. It also has Buddhist monasteries and the ropeway.
• Ravangla, another of the most consolidated and complete tourist destinations of Sikkim, and boasts of backpacking opportunities, monasteries, rejuvenating hot springs, and is a particular favourite with honeymooners.
• Lachung, another tourist destination has shopping outlets, monasteries and goes au naturel with a bevy of waterfalls and lakes to flaunt. It also is a very popular honeymoon destination.
• Aritar, now this one is no chip off the old block-because the main attraction is a haunted house! Go in, adventure freaks. Beside that, it has lakes and waterfalls and monasteries galore.

Sikkim is one of the most interesting places to be right now if a refreshing mountainside holiday is what you are looking for, that is complete only with smatterings of Buddhist religious culture, water charms in the form of lakes and waterfalls, thrill embodied in a haunted house, and a ropeway right through the heart of the mountains thrown into the bargain. Yes, Sikkim has a lot in store and boy, does it deliver. To find the tailor made holiday here according to season, consult this weather guide and plan ahead. Colourful vacationing!

Gangtok has five seasons in one trip around the Sun, typical of hill stations.

The proverbial spring arrives at Gangtok in full bloom. Spring is a pleasant time throughout the world, so don’t expect it to be any different in Gangtok. The countryside is full of beautiful flowers like magnolias, and the flower show held this time in Gangtok is considered the best in Asia. It is cold and rainy at times, and very popular with tourists.

Summers in Gangtok are beautiful in a lot of ways. Tourists stay on till about June, till when the weather is on the cooler side and you can have fun sightseeing. There are rains and storm sometimes, typical of the tropics. But the real surprise comes latest in June, mysterious mists-enhancing the Goth-fairytale feel.

Monsoons in Gangtok are as rainy as can be expected of a generally watery place. The dampness and mist gives way to showers that sometimes turn powerful and thundering. Landslides are a sometimes frequent, dangerous incidence coinciding with this time. But all the rains give way in turn to a general setting chill towards when September begins to end.

Autumns are when Gangtok properly puts on all its exotic beauty. The skies are clear, making for enjoyable sightseeing and heavenly views abounding all around, and the weather starts getting progressively colder. This season again, is a hit with tourists.

Winters in Gangtok are very cold but do not experience frequent snowfall-its very rare. It becomes cold enough for tourists, even locals to flee during the hardest times, but winter festivals like Christmas and the New Year are rung in with much pomp and grandeur. Skies continue remaining clear.

How to Reach Gangtok

You can fly to this gorgeous location from through the well-known Bagdogra airport, and can also drive to Gangtok from around the same place. The railway station is the equally famous New JalPaiguri (NJP) Station, providing a passageway to other notable tourist destinations like Darjeeling, and well connected to places like Kolkata. The drive to Gangtok is pleasant, and the roads convenient except in few spots along the way.

What to Do and See in Gangtok

• NathuLa Pass

The historic and famous pass that connects Gangtok to Tibet.

• Hanuman Tok

Dedicated to Lord Hanuman of the Ramayana, a park that also has potential to delight history lovers.

• Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

Perhaps the most notable in Gangtok’s assortment of prominent monasteries, it has to display Buddhist culture and a museum for tourist benefit.

• Rumtek Monastery

Another monastery with splendid architecture as an added plus.

• The ropeway ride for a memorable foray into the heart of the hills.
• The famously beautiful Khecheopalri Lake.

Gangtok is one of the cosiest yet most endearing tourist spots of India, one that combines Buddhist culture with adventurous ropeway rides with elan. It has something for the architecture, history, nature, Buddhism and adrenaline lovers and seekers, rolled into one-this is one vacation that’s in no way going to disappoint you. So, whether it’s the winter beauty of landscape you’re seeking, or colourful flowers in their bloom of beauty and health and life, you better make use of this weather guide to plan ahead and make things right. So, go ahead and dive right in!

Pelling is located at an elevation of 7200 feet and is hidden far away from the busy cities and their commercialization. Pelling is most frequented by trekkers, hikers and adventure seekers, since this place serves as a base for all Himalayan and Kanchejunga summits and treks. It is subject to extreme winter conditions. The city covered in white snow appeals the eyes like nothing else.

Major tourist attractions are mentioned below.

1. Rimbi Waterfall and Karchen Power House

This gushing waterfall and its generated power house is the most beautiful during monsoon, when the rains fill up the water’s fall. Rimbi waterfall is the main and biggest waterfall along the Kanchenjunga Ranges. It is located around 12 kms from Pelling. The nearby power house, Karchen, had been constructed during 1970s, by the last ruling royal’s ministry. Its main purpose was to provide power to most towns in western Sikkim and it is the oldest power house here. Currently, it only serves as a tourist destination and fishing spot.

2. Sewaro Rock Garden

An enchanting display of natural beauty, Sewaro rock garden is situated not far away from Karchen Power House. It is located around 12 kms from Pelling.  This man-made structure by the Sikkim Government is a quiet and less frequented place, making it the perfect place for a picnic. Artificial pools, criss cross paths, rock structures, flora attract the attention of all tourists. Inside the garden, there is a small restaurant and a swimming pool and a lot of elevated points to view the Kanchenjunga peaks. The scenic natural beauty attracts many aspiring photographers too.

3. Yuksom

A historical place and unexploited tourist destination near Pelling, Yuksom is a major promoter of eco-tourism in the state of Sikkim. When the state was officially formed in the year 1642 AD, Yuksom served as the first capital under Chogyal Phuntsog Namgyal. He was the first ruler and religious promoter of Sikkim. For the next 333 years, Chogyals ruled Sikkim with justice and righteousness. Yuksom presently is a beautiful tourist destination and is the epitome of natural beauty and elegance. It has a base camp for the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute. Dubdi and Mallu Monasteries, Kanchenjunga National Park, coronation throne at Norbugang, Mani Hall are some places to visit in Yuksom.

4. Tashiding Monastery

The hidden village of Tashiding is revered all around for its monastery. Built in 1717 AD during the reign of the third Chogyal, this is a very important place of worship for Buddhists and they come here to connect with the Lord and to purify their souls. The Bhumchu festival is celebrated annually here by the residing lamas and attended by tourists and local residents. The monastery lies between the rivers Rathong and Rangeet, atop a small heart shaped hill. Prayer wheels and religious flags adorn the surrounding area of the monastery. It is rightfully called the ‘spiritual centre’ of Sikkim.

5. Singshore Bridge

This suspension bridge is the second highest in the continent and the highest in the state. This engineering marvel lies at a height of 100 meters and the length is around 198 meters. It connects two hills over the support of the gorge. It was built 16 years ago, to connect the two sides in a more convenient manner. Talks are going on about start the adventure sport of Bungee Jumping from Singshore bridge. The view from the bridge is absolutely mesmerizing; you can see waterfalls, the valley and the slopes of mountains all around in a panoramic view.

Pelling offers many tourist places and destinations in and around. Some of them are historically significant, others religiously, while the rest are simply flaunting their natural beauty and breathtaking views. Pelling is a must stopover while visiting Sikkim.

More Places To Visit In Sikkim:

• Top Tourist Places In Gangtok
• Top Tourist Places In Yuksom
• Top Tourist Places In Namchi

Geyzin or locally called as Gyalshing, is the capital and the headquarters of western part of the state. The town is densely populated by Nepali population. It is situated 6500 feet above sea level. It is a beautiful place to visit during the winter season. Top 5 places to visit here are mentioned below.

1. Pemayangtse Monastery

The second oldest monastery of Sikkim, Pemayangtse means ‘lotus’. It is over 300 years old and still houses around 100 Buddhist monks. They belong to the Bhutia clan of Sikkim. It was originally built by Lama Lhatsun Chempoway in the 17th century. Monks learning and living here are called ‘Ta-Tshang’. Guru Rimpoche is worshipped here and many paintings, murals and ancient scrolls can be seen here. During the dance festival of Cham, monks rejoice and dress in colorful traditional attire to dance. This place also serves as the commencement point of a 46 kms trail of trekking, called Dzongri trail. It passes through Khangchendzonga National Park.

2. Sanga Choeling Monastery

Built in the year 1697, Sanga Choeling monastery is called as the place of ‘Secret Spells.’ It was established by Lama Lhatsun Chempo and is a very renowned holy place in Sikkim. In ancient times, Guhyamantra i.e. secret mantras were taught here.  The monastery only houses male monks and belongs to the Nyingma sector. It is said that only people belonging to Lepcha and Bhutia clan are allowed to go to the inner shrine. You can reach the monastery by hiking for around 40 minutes.

3. Khecheopalri Lake

Called the ‘Heaven of Padmasambhav’ (Lotus), Khecheopalri lake is a sacred place of worship of Buddhists. It is located amid the hill of hidden treasures, Khechoedpadri Mountain. Local believers say that any wish asked here is always fulfilled. A mystical and rather interesting fact about this serene lake is that not a single leaf is allowed to fly to the surface of the water. If, by any chance, a leaf flies in, the birds pick it away gently. The lake is said to be a footstep of Goddess Tara and it is believed that Lord Shiv used to meditate in a cave nearby. The forest surrounding the lake is dense and covered with different types of flora and fauna.

4. The Ruins of Rabdentse

Between the years 1670 and 1814, Rabdentse served as the second capital of Sikkim. The ruins of the royal palace and city still lie here. The city was invaded by and destroyed by the army of Gurkhas.  A notifying sign on the highway towards Rabdentse reads ‘Follow the path and you will reach the palace.’ The most interesting thing to see here is the still standing stone throne; it stands between 2 other stone structures. The palace was constructed by the second Chogyal of Tensung Namgyal. The other chambers which you can see here are the king’s chambers, the queen’s rooms, courtyard, hallways, royal kitchen and also the public assembly. The Archeological Survey of India has undertaken the task of restoring and preservative measures of the palace and surrounding ruins.

5. Vershey

Vershey is an enchanting, but abandoned sanctuary. It is well known for its rhododendron trees. Trekking trails start from here, going through age old oak and pine trees, prickly shrubs, rare types of flowers, moss etc. the flora and fauna bloom completely during the months of April and May. The flower valley is very famous among tourists. Many local species of animals can also be spotted. A small settlement named Hilley is often the end point of the trail. From here, the unreal snow covered ranges of Khangchendzonga can be seen.

The best time to visit Geyzin is during summer months, as the tourist places can be seen in a pleasant weather. The river Rangeet flows along the outskirts. Geyzin is also an important stop over during Buddhist pilgrimages.  This small town will charm you with its natural essence, peaceful surroundings and welcoming citizens.

Some More Tourist Attractions In Sikkim:

• Best Places To Visit In Gangtok
• Best Places To Visit In Yuksom
• Best Places To Visit In Mangan

1. Yuksom Goecha La Trek

One of the most popular treks is the Goecha La trek which begins at Yuksom and takes you to an altitude of about 4900 metres. While easier and shorter compared to other treks, this will still end up pushing you thanks to the rough terrain. Passing through the scenic beauty of the Rattan Chi River with dazzling views of Mount Pandim, Mount Thingchinkhang and Mt. Jopuno, this path to Goecha La will also take you through Dzongri, Bakhim, Simti Lake and Thangsing. The trek passes through a dense forest cover ending with a rocky terrain. Taking about 7-8 days, this trek is best experienced in the months of April – May or September – October.

2. Khangchendzonga Trek

One of the most fantastic and exhilarating trekking experience is given by the Khangchendzonga trek. Passing through the dense jungle of pink Rhododendron flowers, spruces and pines emerging into the breathtaking beauty of meadows and lively green pastures, gazing over the white snowy mountains, this long and exhausting trek will be worth every sweat and all the time you put into it. Beginning from the city of tea gardens and toy trains, Darjeeling, this trek takes you through some paradisiacal places like Chewabhanjang, Gomathang, Dzongri, Thangsing, Uttarey, Paharey Megu, Daphe Pass, Samity Lake, Goecha La, Lam Pokhari, Kasturi La, Kasturi Odar and Labdang. Spanning over a duration of about 20 days, this trek can be experienced in nature’s full glory in the months from March to mid-May and end of September to mid-November.

3. Yuksom Dzongri Trek

A rejuvenating trekking adventure is the Yuksom Dzongri Trek which begins at Yuksom and takes you through Goecha La, Gangtok and also provides a marvelous view of Mt. Pandim and the great Mt. Kanchenjunga. Acknowledged as ‘the paradise for trekkers’, Dzongri trek is easier and of a shorter time duration than its counterparts. The breathtaking route in this trek takes you through the Himalayan mountains, vibrant greenery and lush landscapes and some popular tourist destinations. Taking a maximum of 9 days, this trek will take you to a maximum altitude of about 4020 metres and is best undertaken in the months of March – May and September – November.

4. Lhaba Tarum Tsachu Trek

One of the best treks in the high altitude regions of the Himalayas, the exciting trek of Lhaba Tarum Tsachu goes through a dense forest cover, thickets of rhododendron bushes, a hot spring and under the wide expanse of sky on top of the mountains. Also providing of the nearest view of the surrounding mountain ranges, Lahbha or Labha trek goes through one of the most pristine and unexplored regions of India and gives a spellbinding view of Mt. Kanchenjunga over a distance of 16 kilometres. Ideal for moments of excitement, thrill, romance, spiritualism and serenity, this trek combines all the wondrous elements of nature and puts them together for you. Reaching an altitude of 2650 metres, this trek can be traversed in 6 days, best during the months of March – May.

5. Green Lake Trek

This unique trek is a perfect blend of mesmerizing sights and unblemished nature. The path till Green Lake is one full of enchanting landscapes filled with flowers, dazzling waterfalls and a glorious view of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Being a restricted area, not everyone can cover this trek. Prior permission is to be acquired in order to go past the lake region. The pleasant weather adds to the joy of this trek which passes through Lachen, Jakthang, Yabuk and Siniolchu. Although mountain sickness can hinder some people, Green Lake trek provides a wonderful adventure experience. Taking you to an altitude of about 4935 metres, it takes about 11 days to cover this trek, which is the most pleasant during the months from November till March.

Holding some of India’s most pristine sights and unexplored regions, Sikkim is a paradise yet to be experienced completely. The rough and rocky terrain with the lush green landscape honors it with the title of one of the most beautiful states in the country. The above 5 treks will find you experiencing Sikkim in the most enchanting and thrilling way possible.

1. Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary

The Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary is home to numerous medicinal plants and herbs. Spread over an area of 3500 hectares, the sanctuary has the Red Panda, Barking Deer and leopard cat. Birds like the common hill partridge, magpies, black eagle and the Blood pheasant are found in this wildlife sanctuary. Near the end of the wildlife, there exists a Buddhist monastery which is known as the Maenam Gumpa. A beautiful stream flows through the mountainous region later merging into the Teesta river. A must visits for nature lovers as well as peace-seeking tourists.

2. Ralang Monastery

The Ralang Monastery is known as the most sacred monastery of Sikkim and said to have been built to honour the pilgrimage of the fourth Ghogyal to Tibet. The monastery is home to over a hundred monks and is also known to be the home to beautiful paintings. The annual festival, Pang Lhabsol is celebrated here and the monastery lights up more than it already is to embrace the festival. The monastery is truly the epitome of Buddhist culture and is a must visit to experience the local way of life.

3. Guru Padmasambhava Statue, Samdrupste Hill

The word Samdruptse in the Bhutia language means ‘wish fulfilling hill’. The place is home to the state of Guru Padmasambhava for which the town is famous. Other than being a part of history, the statue is visually amazing and inside the complex, there exists an exhibition of rare photos and artefacts from the history of India. The statue is visited by tourists the most and is the most popular place to visit in the area. Considered to be a sacred and pious place, the place is a must visit for everyone.

4. Solophok Chardham

The statue of Lord Shiva which is 87 feet long is one of the most sacred places in Sikkim. The statue is surrounded by the replicas of the twelve jyotirlingas and the four dhams of pilgrimage places in India. The temple complex has a number of other temples as well as a musical fountain. The temple is situated on the Solophok hill from which it derives its name. The center also hosts an array of cultural activities and seminars for which the place is famous both nationally and internationally.

5. Ngadak Monastery

The The meaning of the word Ngadak is ‘promise’. Constructed under the reign of the Chogyal Gyurmed Namgyal, the prayer flags welcome the tourists while they enter inside the complex. The monastery was partially damaged during an earthquake but is being reconstructed. The monastery is known to be a great example of the old city of Sikkim.

6. Tendong Hill

The meaning of Tendong means, “the upraised horn“. The hills are known to be the natural saviour of the city of Namchi from the flood waters. The Tendong hill is thus considered to be holy and people still pray to the hill to keep away from calamities.

7. Doling Gompa

The Doling Gompa is from the Nyingmapa sect of Buddhism and is known to be the oldest sects of the religion. The gompa is situated inside the cardamom plantations which make it a great place to visit to see the amazing flora and fauna present here.

Sikkim has won the “most innovative and unique tourism award” in 2010 for the implementation and construction of the pilgrimage and tourism complex of Siddeswara Dham at Solophok, Namchi. The city of Namchi has a lot to offer throughout the year and every February, there is a flower show that the city hosts which is known to be the largest in the entire state. The city is no just a cultural centre but is also home to a lot of tourist attractions and festivals that cannot be missed at any cost!

Also Checkout These Hot Destinations In Sikkim:

• Top Tourist Destinations In Gangtok
• Top Tourist Destinations In Geyzin
• Top Tourist Destinations In Pelling

The meaning of the term Yuksom is “meeting place of the three lamas”. It has been said that at the famous Norbugan Coronation Throne located in the city, the three lamas who originally came from Tibet met here to strengthen their own hold in the state of Sikkim. Apart from having religious importance, the town also has numerous lakes and monasteries to visit. Let us look at the top 7 places to visit in Yuksom–

1. Khecheopalri Lake

The Khecheopalri Lake is situated at a height of 6000 ft. and is about 28 km from the city of Pelling. The lake is known as one of the largest lakes in the entire state and therefore attracts a lot of tourists. Not only is the lake very big, it is also known to be sacred and is located inside a forest.

According to legends, the lake is known to be connected with the Goddess Tara. Different stories about the lake can be heard from locals but all of them deem the lake to be sacred. The lake has clean and pristine waters and the surface of the lake always remains clear. Pilgrims come to the lake every year and offer prayers.

2. Tashiding Monastery

The Tashiding Monastery is a very important place for Buddhists because according to the legends, the place was visited by the Buddhist master Guru Padmasambhava. Amazingly, the area has suffered numerous earthquakes and every time, the monastery is rebuilt and reconstructed with the help of funds from the State government. The beautiful building has dazzling colours and beautiful Buddhist architecture. Many sacred ceremonies are hosted here and one should definitely visit the place to experience the local way of life!

3. Dubdi Monastery

The Dubdi Monastery translates into ‘the retreat’. It was built in the year 1701 and is said to have been established by Chogyar Namgyal. The monastery is also known as the Yuksom Monastery and is situated on a beautiful patch of green land. The interiors have beautifully painted and carved Buddhist designs and houses pictures of saints, Buddhist symbols and even manuscripts. The monastery is a must see while in Yuksom.

4. Kangchendzonga National Park

The Kangchendzonga National Park is said to be over at least 820 sq km. The park is home to animals like the snow leopard, the sloth bear, Himalayan black bear, Red Panda and various other Himalayan creatures. The park is considered to be one of the best national parks in India because it is located at a very high altitude and remains untouched by human intervention. The park is also home to over 500 different species of birds and flora.

5. Tashi Teenka

The royal complex of Tashi Teenka was constructed when the town of Yuksom was still the capital of Sikkim. It is located on a ridge and therefore, offers a full 360-degree view of the entire city. Tourists must visit this place to witness the heritage of Yuksom city as well as to take in the natural scenic beauty around the spot.

6. Norbugang Coronation Throne

The Norbugang Coronation Throne is of great religious and cultural importance because this is where Phutsog Namgyal was crowned as the first Chogyal of Sikkim. This is also the place where the three lamas used to gather to preach Buddhism. The site also has a park that has a prayer hall, a prayer wheel and a stupa. The complex also has a little holy lake which is called the Kathok Lake. The Buddhist prayer flags adorn the entire place and emit a divine feeling into the air. This place is the epitome of Yuksom’s cultural and religious heritage.

7. Kartok Monastery

The Kartok Monastery is located opposite to the Kartok lake; the monastery is one of the most important monasteries in town. It has been named after the Lama who was part of the coronation of the first sovereign of Sikkim. Donned in intricate Buddhist architecture and colours, the Monastery offers a glimpse into the Buddhist way of worship.

Yuksom is one of the best hill-stations to visit while in Sikkim. Unlike the other commercially important hill stations of the state, Yuksom is rather rich in culture and heritage. The place is largely home to the locals and the occasional tourist. Owing to its Buddhist heritage, Yuksom is the best place to go for a peaceful vacation away from the city-life.

• Top Places To Visit In Gangtok
• Top Places To Visit In Mangan
• Top Places To Visit In Geyzin

Climatic Conditions

Namchi does not see much extremities in the weather. In the summer months of March to June, temperatures average 22 degrees. The monsoon season of July to September is famous for its dense fog which is beautiful but also treacherous. Winters last from November to February and are mild, with temperatures averaging 4 degrees Celsius. Spring and autumn in this city are the best time to experience it rich flora and fauna and enjoy the surroundings.

Best Time To Visit

Namchi is a year round destination. However, due to its altitude, the best time to visit Namchi is during the months of March to October. This covers the spring and autumn time, when the city is in full bloom and makes for a wonderful experience for nature lovers. Summers are also mild, pleasant and refreshing.

Attractions/ Things To Do

Namchi is a well-known pilgrimage amongst the Buddhist culture. As such, the most renowned tourist destination in this area is the Namchi monastery, located on the hill along with the Ralong Monastery and the Tendong Hill. Another major spiritual site is the 118 feet tall statue of Guru Rinpoche, the patron saint of the Sikkimese people, on top of the Samdruptse Hill. This hill, which is actually a dormant volcano, is often referred to as the wish fulfilling hill. There is also the Siddhesvara Dham, a government built spiritual tourism center, which houses a 108 feet statue of Lord Shiva and an excellent replica of the mythical Char Dham on the Solophok Hill. For all nature lovers, the biggest treat in Namchi is the Rock Garden. One can find exotic flora and fauna here, as well the highlight of the city which is the breathtaking view of the snow clad Mt. Kanchenjunga. Other than these, there is also the Baichung Stadium, built in honour of football star Baichung Bhutia. Many important football tournaments take place here. The Temi Tea Garden is a tea estate where one can relax and unwind and enjoy the freshly plucked and brewed tea of Sikkim.

How To Reach

The best way to travel to Namchi is by road. Various private bus and taxi services are available to take tourists and vacationers to Namchi every day. The city is well connected to all major neighboring cities in Sikkim and West Bengal such as Gangtok, Pelling and Siliguri. One can also travel here by railways and air. The nearest airport is the Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri at a distance of 95 kilometers from Namchi. The closest railway station is the New Jalpaiguri Railway Station at Siliguri, at a distance of 93 kilometers from Namchi. Both these means of transport connect Namchi to all major cities of India.

Distance From Major Cities

• Gangtok – 76 kilometers
• Siliguri – 88 kilometers
• Guwahati – 516 kilometers
• Kolkata – 649 kilometers
• Delhi – 1551 kilometers
• Hyderabad – 2012 kilometers
• Ahmedabad – 2163 kilometers
• Chennai – 2285 kilometers
• Mumbai – 2317 kilometers
• Pune – 2339 kilometers
• Bangalore – 2601 kilometers

Accessibility And Accommodation

Namchi is a city that welcomes tourists and offers them a comfortable, pocket-friendly and yet memorable visit. There are various venues of accommodation within Namchi, which include the well-known Hotel Mayal and Hotel Tareeba Namchi. One can choose between staying in a luxury resort or in a comfortable budget hotel, lodge or homestay.

The Yumthang Valley is located at an elevation of 11,693 feet, at the short distance of 150 kilometers from the state capital Gangtok and very close to the hill station Lachung, bordering Tibet. The Valley boasts of wonderful views of the neighboring Teesta river as well as the hills and trees around it. Yumthang is much sought after for trekking as well as adventure sports such as skiing.

Climatic Conditions

The Yumthang Valley has a mild climate leaning towards the colder side due to its elevation. Summers last from March to June and are comfortable and pleasant. Monsoons are often heavy and frequent over here, and rather hazardous. The winter season, which lasts from October to February, is extremely cold during the peak time, which temperatures averaging 7 degrees Celsius.

Best Time to Visit

Although this valley is worth visiting all year round, the best time to visit Yumthang is during the late winter and spring season, leading up to the onset of summer. These constitute the months of October to May. This way, one can enjoy the best of the pleasures of the winter, such as winter sports, and also have an excellent experience of the flowers in full bloom during the spring. However, extreme cold means that this area should be avoided in December and January.

Attractions/Things to do

One can visit Yumthang to connect with the beauty of Mother Nature. The area is a patch of untouched beauty and makes for a wonderful break amongst the flowers. The Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is found here. Flowers found here include twenty-four different species of the rhododendron, which is honored as the state flower, the primula, poppy, iris and many others. One can also participate in challenging physical activity such as trekking and skiing. One can also witness the simple lifestyles and traditions of the local Sikkimese inhabitants. The Chungthang countryside and the Kanchenjunga National Park is another breathtaking experience worth having.

How to Reach

Yumthang is a remote location and can only be accessed by road or on foot. The nearest settlement to Yumthang is Lachung, which is two hours away from Yumthang and connected to Gangtok and other major locations. The Sikkim State Road Transport Corporation and other private bus and taxi services will take one to Yumthang. The closest airport is the Bagdogra Airport at a distance of four and a half hours from Yumthang, while the closest railway station is the Darjeeling Railway Station at a distance of 171 from Yumthang.

Distance from Major Cities

• Gangtok – 130 kilometers
• Darjeeling – 193 kilometers
• Siliguri – 210 kilometers
• Guwahati – 638 kilometers
• Kolkata – 771 kilometers
• Delhi – 1674 kilometers
• Hyderabad – 2134 kilometers
• Ahmedabad – 2286 kilometers
• Chennai – 2407 kilometers
• Mumbai – 2440 kilometers
• Pune – 2461 kilometers
• Bangalore – 2723 kilometers

Accessibility And Accommodation

Since Yumthang is a small hill station that must preserve its natural beauty, there is only one permanent residence over there, that is, the forest rest house. Most visitors spend the night in the neighboring Lachung, where many comfortable resorts, hotels, lodges and homestays can be found, and travel to Yumthang, which is merely two hours away.