Sikkim is one gem of a place which over time has established its base with travellers all over the world. This place is a favourite among adventure lovers, family crowds, honeymooners as well as those who just want to escape the mundane life and are in search of some peace and tranquillity. This gorgeous place will make all your travel dreams come to life. September is undoubtedly the best time to visit Sikkim as this is the time when Monsoon has just ended and one would see the beauty of the place being enhanced due to the recent episode with Monsoon and it all looks much more beautiful and green. We have created a wonderful Sikkim guide for you so that you would know how to plan a Sikkim trip in September and you can have a beautiful trip to Sikkim in September.
Table of Contents
Why Should You Visit Sikkim in September?
The beautiful greenery and exemplified natural beauty
After the monsoon, the valley of Sikkim just comes alive, the beautiful flowers are blooming everywhere, with the natural beauty of Sikkim being at its best. It is the time when the beautiful and clear skies make it wonderful for pictures. Another perk of a trip to Sikkim in September is that you will feel that you have landed in a travel picture straight out of Pinterest!
It is the time with the crowd is really less
September just initiates the entry of tourists in Sikkim as it is the start of the tourist influx to Sikkim so it is the time when you will find Sikkim a lot less crowded than the peak seasons such as November and December. Continue reading to know more on how to plan a Sikkim trip in September.
Festivals and Cultural Bonanza
It is also the time when a lot of local festivals are celebrated in Sikkim so one gets to witness an enthralling setup with the most magnificent culture and traditions of the wonderful Sikkim. The most famous festival celebrated in Sikkim in the month of September is Durga Puja when one would see the entire Sikkim being brought to life!
How to Prepare for Your Sikkim Trip?
Permits and Documentation
- Inner Line Permit (ILP): If you are a foreign national then you would require an ILP to enter the area of Sikkim. You can get it from the designated offices or even get it online.
- Protected Area Permit (PAP): Along with the ILP, you would also require a Protected Area Permit if you are looking to visit the restricted areas of Sikkim such as North Sikkim, Tsomgo Lake and Nathu La pass. You can get these permits from the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department of Sikkim.
Health and Safety
- Vaccinations: Make sure that you are on the top of your game with vaccinations such as tetanus, hepatitis A, typhoid, etc.
- Altitude Sickness: Since Sikkim is a significant number of feet above sea level, one can also experience mountain sickness here so make sure that you are well versed with being on the mountains to avoid situations like mountain sickness.
- Travel Insurance: It is important for you to get travel insurance that will help you cover emergencies, it will help you get refunds in the case of trip cancellations and will protect you from losing everything in the case of thefts.
Travel tips: Packing Edition
Clothing: Make sure to carry some layers of warm clothes, walking shoes, thermals and also a rain jacket (just in case!)
Accessories: Don’t forget to pack your sunscreen, apart from that, you can carry your sunglasses, hats, and gloves. If you are planning for some adventures, then a cool sturdy backpack is important and yes a water bottle is a must at all times.
Medication: Make sure to carry with you a personal kit for medicines, mountain sickness medicines as well as basic first aid because you never know when it can come in handy.
How can you Reach Sikkim?
There are the following ways to reach Sikkim:
By Air
If you are planning to visit Sikkim by air then the nearest airport to Sikkim is the Bagdogra Airport. This one is in West Bengal is approx 120 km away from the capital of Sikkim ie Gangtok. You can easily reach Gangtok from Bagodra via a taxi or a shared jeep.
By Train
The closest railway station that you have near Sikkim is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) which is in the West Bengal. Again, this one is approx. 150 km from Gangtok.
By Road
Sikkim is also well connected with the roadways, as you can either take a bus or drive to Sikkim. It is well connected with its bordering states.you can even find snow in Sikkim in September.
The best tourist places to visit in Sikkim in September
Being comfortably placed in the Eastern Himalayas, one cannot decipher the beauty of Sikkim in words. One cannot compare the natural beauty of Sikkim to anything else in the world. The gorgeous vistas, the rich culture and the enchanting biodiversity form the tapestry of Sikkim. If you are looking for some of the best places to visit in Sikkim then we have your back. You can visit the following places: on your trip to Sikkim in September
1. Gangtok
Whenever one hears the word Sikkim, Gangtok comes automatically into the mind. This gorgeous capital of Sikkim is often the point from where people begin their journey of exploring Sikkim. This one is comfortably rested at a height of approx 1600 m above sea level. One would be enchanted to find the most seamless blend of traditions with modernity being here. It is one of the most famous Sikkim tourist attractions to visit in September.
- Enchey Monastery: This one is a gorgeous monastery that not only offers you a peaceful environment but also gives you a sneak peek into the Buddhist culture. This one is a must-visit if you are planning to visit Sikkim in September.
- MG Marg: It is a busy street that is set up right in the centre of Gangtok, this one will be a wonderful place for you if you are looking to indulge in the Sikkim culture. But remember, the area can only be covered with feet, so make sure to carry a pair of comfortable walking shoes with you so that you can learn more about the culture, tradition and food of the people of Sikkim.
- Tashi Viewpoint: If you are looking to get yourself some beautiful views of the Kanchenjunga Peak as well as some of the surrounding peaks.
- Gangtok Ropeway: This one is again a beautiful way to witness the city of Gangtok from a height, just that it combines the elements of thrill along with beauty. Through the ropeway ride, you will see some of the most beautiful views amidst that adrenaline rush.
- Rumtek Monastery: Rumtek Monastery is just a little distance away from Gangtok and will give you an insight into the Tibbetan Buddhist culture.
2. Tsomgo Lake and Nathu La Pass
Well, if you ever plan a Sikkim trip then the places that you simply cannot miss are the iconic places named Tsomgo Lake and Nathu La Pass. Probably, these are the most popular tourist destinations in Sikkim.
- Tsomgo Lake: The enchanting views of this glacial lake will enchant you with its captivating beauty. The snow-covered mountains will captivate you and you will be astonished to know that the lake is frozen in the winter months!
- Nathu La Pass: Nathu La Pass is one of the highest motorable roads in the world, this one also serves as a border between India and China and will captivate you with its stunning views.
3. North Sikkim
North Sikkim is also one tourist hotspot. You will find a lot of must-visit places in North Sikkim that will enchant you. The famous destinations of North Sikkim are:
- Lachen and Lachung: These are the two gorgeous scenic towns These picturesque towns serve as the base for exploring some of North Sikkim’s most stunning sites.
- Gurudongmar Lake: Nested on a height of over five thousand metres, it is one of the highest lake in the world. The lake is also half frozen in the winter offering a beautiful sight to behold.
- Yumthang Valley: Famous by the name of “Valley of Flowers,” you would find the best flora here, the best time to visit this place is in the spring as the entire place just comes alive and you would see all the flowers blooming. This place is a must visit for the nature lovers.
4. Pelling
Pelling is one gorgeous destination with huge tourist influx in Sikkim. It is famous for its panoramic vistas and the backdrop of Kanchenjunga range.
- Pemayangtse Monastery: It is one of the oldest and the most famous monasteries of Sikkim that will give you an insight into the Buddhist culture and traditions.
- Rabdentse Ruins: This one is famous for its gorgeous landscapes, rich history and magnificent surroundings.
- Sky Walk: Skywalk is one place in Sikkim that will not only give a spike to your adrenaline levels as you get to witness the valleys below and get to enjoy the stunning views of the mountains.
5. Ravangla
Ravangla is one magical town which is about one thousand metres above sea level. This place is known for its spiritual aspect as well as its peaceful ambience. The following places are a must-visit in Ravangla:
- Tathagata Tsal: This is an important Buddhist site for pilgrimage that has tourists from all over the world. This is also a major place for Buddhist studies and meditation.
- Buddha Park: Home to a stunning 130-foot statue of Buddha, with the Himalayas showing a beautiful backdrop, it is a must-visit place that will help you get closer to meditation.
6. Namchi
The word ‘Namchi’ literally means the “top of the sky,”. This beautiful town will provide you with the best vistas of the city and will provide you with an insight into the rich culture and traditions.
- Char Dham: This is the place with a major influx of people for religious visits. This site has replicas of all the four dhams namely Badrinath, Puri, Dwarka and Rameswaram. It also has a huge statue of Lord Shiva.
- Samdruptse Hill: This place has a huge statue of Guru Padmasambhava and it offers beautiful scenic views of the landscape.
- Temi Tea Garden: This one is the only tea garden in the entire Sikkim, it is said that this is the place where the first tea was brought to Sikkim. You can visit here for a tea estate tour.
7. Zuluk
Zuluk is a beautiful tiny village which is amidst the old Silk Route and has a lot of popularity among tourists because of its rich history and scenic beauty. This place is unmissable for the history buffs.
- Zuluk Loop (Zig Zag Road): The roads are truly different from the rest of the world as these will not only provide you with the magical views of the Eastern Himalayas but will also create an adrenaline rush with its hairpin bends.
- Thambi View Point: Another magical place to visit in Sikkim is Zuluk, it will not only provide you with the most beautiful Kanchenjunga views but the sunrise views here will form a place in your heart.
8. Yuksom
Yuksom is also known by the name of “Gateway to Kanchenjunga,”. This is the place where the adventure lovers will come together and begin their trekking from. It is one of the most famous places to visit in Sikkim in September.
- Dubdi Monastery: The oldest monastery of Sikkim, Dubdi Monastery will enchant you by its magnificent views and the peace that it offers.
- Norbugang Coronation Throne: This one is again the most prominent historical site where the crowning ceremony of the first Sikkim King happened.
- Khangchendzonga National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site will fill your heart with joy as you get to witness the most enticing flora and fauna with the most stunning routes and the beauty of nature.
9. Goechala Trek
If you are an adventure lover then the famous Goechala Trek is the one you simply cannot miss taking on. This trek will not only feed the adventurer in you but will also provide you with stunning views of Kanchenjunga and other high peaks and lakes so make sure not to miss the Goechala Trek while being here in Sikkim.
10. Aritar
If you want to reach out to a non-conventional place in Sikkim then Aritar is the place that you must visit as this one will not only give a lot of pleasure to your eyes as you indulge in witnessing the most gorgeous locations but will also provide you with the much-needed peace away from the maddening city life.
- Lampokhari Lake: Known for being one of the oldest lakes in Sikkim, one simply cannot miss out on the opportunity of boating while being here. A,lso the vistas here are too scenic and gorgeous to be missed.
- Aritar Monastery: Known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful environment.
- Parbateyswar Shivalaya Mandir: A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.
Thus, these are the best places to visit in Sikkim, read on for more tips on how to plan a Sikkim Trip in September.
The best options for a stay in Sikkim:
We have listed some of the best options for your stay in Sikkim, creating a stratification based on region as well as budget.
If you are looking to stay in Gangtok, these are the options that you can consider:
- Luxury: If you are looking for some luxury options, then you can try the famous Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino, The Elgin Nor-Khill.
- Mid-Range: For mid range accommodations, Summit Norling Resort & Spa, Bamboo Grove Retreat, is a great option.
- Budget: If you are on a shoestring budget, then Zostel Gangtok, Tagalong Backpackers, etc are the best options for you.
Lachen
- Luxury: If you are looking for luxury options then Apple Orchard Resort is the place for you.
- Mid-Range: For mid rangers, Delight Royal Lachen is an interesting option.
- Budget: For budget travellers, Rufina Hotel Lachen Deezong is a delight.
Lachung
- Luxury: For luxury travelers, Yarlam Resort is a great option.
- Mid-Range: For people with average budget, Lachung Continental is a great option.
- Budget: For people with low budget, Lachung Deezong is a good option.
Pelling
- Luxury: If you are looking at luxury options, The Elgin Mount Pandim is a great option for you.
- Mid-Range: For people with average budget, The Chumbi Mountain Retreat is a great option.
- Budget: For budget travel, Hotel Hill Retreat is a wonderful option.
Food and Cuisine
Sikkim is a great place for the foodies out there, so if you are in Sikkim, make sure not to miss out on the following lip-smacking dishes:
- Momos: The momos of Sikkim are famous all over the world. Make sure to try the steamed or fried ones, depending on your preference, Also, you will get to taste a wide variety being here.
- Thukpa: This is again a speciality in Sikkim, you would love to try the noodle soup that is served with veggies or meat.
- Phagshapa: The next one on the list is only for non-vegetarians out there. This one is a pork dish served with veggies and chillies.
- Chhurpi: You must try and also carry back home the famous Chhurpi which is a traditional cheese made from the yak’s milk.
Popular Restaurants
- Gangtok: The Coffee Shop (MG Marg), Parivar Restaurant (MG Marg), Baker’s Café (MG Marg).
- Lachen: Lachen Hotel Restaurant, Lachen View Point Restaurant.
- Lachung: Lachung Hotel Restaurant, Snow Lion Restaurant.
- Pelling: Melting Point (Middle Pelling), Hotel Kabur Restaurant.
Tips for a Smooth trip:
- If you are looking for a smooth trip to Sikkim then these are the things that you must keep in mind:
- Book in Advance:
Make sure to book in advance so that you get to book the best accommodations at the best prices Also, it is strongly advised that you take the permits beforehand to avoid any last-minute hassles. - Local Guides: Well, it is said that the best way to visit a place is to be there like a native, not a tourist. So, if you hire a local guide, you will be able to move closer to the goal.
- Respect the Culture: Make sure that you pay your respect to the local culture and traditions of Sikkim.
- Sustainable Travel: Make sure to carry with you some reusable bottles and not use plastic bags and be cautious of where you dispose the waste.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sikkim Travel Guide
The most famous places in Sikkim include the famous Buddha Park, the Nathu La Pass, Namchi, Revangla, Zuluk, Pelling, Tsomgo Lake, etc
There is no dearth of great things to try while being in Sikkim, You can try a helicopter ride in Sikkim, rafting in Teesta River, paragliding and rope walking in Gangtok, pay your respects to Rumtek monastery, etc
You can buy traditional Sikkim dresses, Tibetan prayer flags, silver and pearl jewelry, etc. from Sikkim.
The best time to visit Sikkim is from September to March as the weather is the most pleasant at this time and you can enjoy outdoor activities during this period.
By Air: If you are planning to visit Sikkim by air, then the nearest airport to Sikkim is the Bagdogra Airport.
By Train: The closest railway station that you have near Sikkim is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) which is in the West Bengal.
By Road: Sikkim is also well connected with the roadways, as you can either take a bus or drive to Sikkim.
Conclusion
If you are looking to travel to Sikkim in September, then you are undoubtedly making the right choice, as this place is at its most beautiful during this time. It is the time when you will find the picturesque beauty that will captivate you. It is the time when the monsoon has just ended and the tourism season has just begun. So, this time promises the most beautiful landscapes, and the crowd is much lesser which makes it a beautiful escape from your mundane life. The beautiful backdrop of the Himalayas will give you the most stunning vistas, along with the pristine beauty of frozen lakes increases the beauty of this place, making it a delight for the tourists. So, September is the ideal time to visit Sikkim for the tourists.
