Destination: India
LONELY PLANET'S OFFICIAL ITINERARY INFORMATION
Itinerary: Sikkim
THREE TO FOUR WEEKS
Flanked by Nepal, China and Bhutan, this ancient Buddhist region offers some truly jaw-dropping mountain scenery and trekking possibilities. This itinerary will also give you time to see some of Sikkim's historic gompas and catch a festival or two.
Wedged between Nepal, China and Bhutan, Sikkim sees surprisingly few travellers despite its stunning mountain scenery and trekking. A permit is required but obtaining one is straightforward. Try to coordinate your trip with one of the state's colourful festivals.
Most travellers do a circular route of Sikkim from Darjeeling, Kalimpong or Siliguri, all in the neighbouring state of West Bengal. Which route you follow will depend on whether you get your permit in advance or at the border.
The most traveller-friendly route starts in tea-laden Darjeeling and continues north to Gangtok, the Sikkimese capital. From Gangtok, take a tour northeast to Tsomgo (Changu) Lake or make your own way to Lingdum Gompa and Rumtek. Journey north to Mangan and Singhik, visiting the ancient gompas at Phodong en route. You could also take a tour to the splendid Yumthang Valley in the far north, before returning to Gangtok. Wiggle your way southwest to see the gompas of Ravangla (Rabongla) and the giant statue at Namchi to the south. Continue to Pelling for the Pemayangtse Gompa and breathtaking views of Khangchendzonga. With a few days to spare, you can trek or take jeeps around the Monastic Trek - start by heading northwest to Khecheopalri Lake, flanked by fluttering prayer flags and forested hills. From there, dart northeast to Yuksom, trailhead for the Yuksom-Dzongri-Goecha La-Yuksom trek, which offers eye-popping views of Khangchendzonga. After sweating it out on a trek, head to Tashiding to gaze at the Tashiding Gompa. Finish in Darjeeling, Kalimpong or Siliguri.
Lonely Planet recommends World Nomads Travel insurance
