Sikkim is small in size but enormous in variety. From the gentle streets of Gangtok to the high deserts of North Sikkim, every corner offers a different landscape and mood. If you want to make the most of your trip without wasting time on back-and-forth drives, following the right route makes all the difference.

Below I share practical, tested routes that cover Gangtok, East Sikkim highlights, Pelling and West Sikkim, and the high-altitude wonders of North Sikkim. These are the routes we at Sort My Trip commonly recommend and build into our Sikkim itineraries.

Planning basics before you start

1. Permits: Several places in Sikkim require permits, especially for North Sikkim and border areas. It is easier to arrange permits from Gangtok. Sort My Trip helps get these permits in advance.

2. Acclimatisation: If you are heading to North Sikkim or high passes, spend a day in Gangtok to adjust.

3. Road conditions: Roads are generally good on main routes but can be bumpy in remote stretches. Expect slower travel times than maps suggest.

4. Best time to travel: For clear views and easier travel, choose March to June or September to November. For snow and winter scenes, pick December to February for specific high altitude sections.

5. Transport: Private cabs, shared taxis, and package vehicles are common. Hiring a local driver familiar with mountain roads is highly recommended.

Classic loop for first time visitors: Gangtok, North Sikkim, back to Gangtok

This is ideal if you want to experience both city life and high Himalaya landscapes.

Suggested flow and highlights:

1. Arrive Gangtok: Local sightseeing including MG Marg, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Hanuman Tok. Book permits here.

2. Gangtok to Lachen: Overnight at Lachen, short village walk.

3. Lachen to Gurudongmar Lake, return to Lachen: Early morning visit to the lake, then back.

4. Lachen to Lachung: Village visits and local markets.

5. Lachung to Yumthang Valley and Zero Point: Full day, return to Lachung or proceed to Gangtok.

6. Return to Gangtok: Relaxing evening in the city.

Why this works: Minimum backtracking and gradual gain in altitude. Sort My Trip often recommends this route for travellers who want North Sikkim highlights in a single run.

Suggested duration: 5 to 7 days for this loop from Gangtok.

Gangtok plus East Sikkim shorter loop

When you have limited time and want main East Sikkim experiences.

Suggested flow and highlights:

1. Arrive Gangtok: Permits and local sightseeing.

2. Day trip to Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir and optionally Nathu La if permits are available.

3. Explore nearby viewpoints such as Tashi and Ganesh Tok.

4. Optional day trip to Ravangla or Namchi for Temi Tea Garden and local walks.

Why this works: Short drives, good for families and first time travellers. Sort My Trip packages often pair Gangtok day trips with comfortable city stays.

Suggested duration: 3 to 4 days.

West Sikkim circuit: Pelling, Yuksom, and surrounding views

This is for travellers who want dramatic Kanchenjunga views, heritage, and quieter towns.

Suggested flow and highlights:

1. Arrive Gangtok or Siliguri, drive to Pelling: Visit Pemayangtse Monastery and Skywalk.

2. Pelling local: Khecheopalri Lake, Rabdentse ruins, Singshore Bridge.

3. Pelling to Yuksom: Historical trails, short village walks.

4. Optional: Ravangla or Namchi en route back to Gangtok or onward to Siliguri.

Why this works: West Sikkim is compact and offers some of the most reliable Kanchenjunga views. Sort My Trip recommends Pelling for travellers looking for photography and calm stays.

Suggested duration: 2 to 4 days.

Combined full Sikkim circuit for 10 days or more

If you have enough time, combine East, West, and North in one continuous route.

Suggested flow and highlights:

1. Gangtok and East Sikkim local days.

2. Transfer to Lachen, Lachung and North Sikkim highlights including Gurudongmar and Yumthang.

3. Return to Gangtok and transfer to Pelling and Yuksom for western views.

4. End at Gangtok or Siliguri.

Why this works: Smooth progression across the state with minimal retracing, offering both cultural and high altitude experiences.

Suggested duration: 9 to 12 days.

Tips to optimise your route and save time

1. Start early: Mountain mornings are clear and roads are less busy.

2. Group nearby sights: Visit Tsomgo and Baba Mandir on the same day.

3. Book a local driver: They know the micro-routes, speed limits, and safe timings. Sort My Trip connects travellers with trusted local drivers.

4. Keep buffer days: Weather and road work can delay travel. One buffer day protects your itinerary.

5. Permits first: Arrange permits and identification early in Gangtok to avoid delays for North Sikkim and border passes.

Sample itineraries we often build at Sort My Trip

1. Four day quick trip: Gangtok local, Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, optional Nathu La.

2. Seven day classic: Gangtok, Lachen, Gurudongmar, Lachung, Yumthang, back to Gangtok.

3. Ten day full circuit: Gangtok, North Sikkim run, Pelling and Yuksom, Ravangla day trip.

Each plan can be customised by interest, fitness level, and season. If you want, Sort My Trip can prepare a day by day plan with travel times, stay options, and permit handling.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q 1: Which place should I start from when visiting Sikkim?
A: Most travellers start from Gangtok. It is the permit hub, well connected, and central to East and North Sikkim routes.

Q 2: Do I need permits for North Sikkim and Nathu La?
A: Yes. Permits are required for North Sikkim, Nathu La, and some other protected areas. Sort My Trip helps arrange permits as part of the package.

Q 3: How many days do I need to cover major destinations in Sikkim?
A: For a comfortable tour covering Gangtok, North Sikkim, and Pelling, plan for 8 to 10 days. Shorter trips can cover highlights in 4 to 5 days.

Q 4: Is it safe to travel by road across Sikkim?
A: Generally yes, if you travel with experienced local drivers and avoid night driving on remote roads. Road conditions can change, so always plan conservatively.

Q 5: Can I do North Sikkim in winter?
A: Some North Sikkim areas close in peak winter due to heavy snow. Check local updates before planning. Sort My Trip provides season specific advice.

Q 6: Should I hire a local guide for treks and viewpoints?
A: Guides add value for safety and local knowledge, especially on treks like Dzongri or routes around Yumthang and Gurudongmar.