The North Sikkim Himalayas
Gangtok, Lachen & Lachung — Into the Heart of North Sikkim
This five-night journey takes you deep into the remote, breathtaking landscapes of North Sikkim. Begin in Gangtok, Sikkim's lively capital at 5,480 ft, with a full-day excursion to the glacier-fed Tsomgo Lake and the sacred Baba Mandir. Drive on to Lachen, a hidden Shangri-La cradled by snow peaks, and rise before dawn for the sacred Gurudongmar Lake at 17,800 ft — one of the highest lakes on earth. Continue to Lachung for the famed Yumthang Valley, the "Valley of Flowers," where alpine blooms and hot springs sit against a backdrop of snow-clad mountains, before returning to Gangtok. With private transfers, all North Sikkim permits and comfortable stays, it's the definitive Sikkim high-mountain experience.
Tsomgo Lake · Baba Mandir · Gurudongmar Lake · Yumthang Valley · Chopta Valley · Thangu · Lachung Monastery · Yumthang Hot Springs
Day by Day
The itinerary.
Day 01
Arrival & Transfer to Gangtok
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On arrival at NJP railway station, Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or Tenzing Norgay Bus Stand, our representative will receive you and assist with the transfer to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim at 5,480 ft (roughly 135 km, 4½–5 hours). Check in to the hotel, with the evening free to explore MG Road (Mall) and the local shopping area. Overnight stay at Gangtok.
Day 02
Excursion to Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir (Full Day)
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After breakfast, drive about 40 km to the oval, glacier-fed Tsomgo Lake, home to Brahminy ducks and migratory birds, and the nearby sacred Baba Mandir. Nathula Pass (about 20 km further) is available as an optional add-on. Return to Gangtok with the evening free at MG Road. Overnight stay at Gangtok. (If Tsomgo Lake is closed due to landslides or other reasons, alternate sightseeing is provided.)
Day 03
Gangtok to Lachen
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After an early breakfast, drive about 135 km (5–6 hours) to Lachen via Chungthang, stopping there for lunch. Reach Lachen by late afternoon — a remote hamlet cradled by towering snow peaks, near the Shingba Wildlife Sanctuary and the start of the Green Lake Trek. Enjoy welcome tea and a stroll to the Lepcha village. Overnight stay at Lachen.
Day 04
Gurudongmar Lake Excursion & Transfer to Lachung
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Set off early for the sacred Gurudongmar Lake at 17,800 ft (about 55 km, 2½–3½ hours), one of the highest lakes in the world, fed by the Lachen Chu and surrounded by cold-desert scenery towards the Tibet border. Return to the resort for lunch, then drive about 50 km (2 hours) to Lachung. Check in, with the evening free to visit Lachung Monastery. Overnight stay at Lachung.
Day 05
Yumthang Valley & Transfer to Gangtok
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After breakfast, drive to the Yumthang Valley at nearly 11,800 ft, stopping at the famous hot spring known for its curative properties. Yumthang — the "Valley of Flowers" — bursts with rhododendrons, primulas and alpine blooms in spring, and turns starkly beautiful under snow in winter. Return to Lachung for lunch, then transfer back to Gangtok, arriving in the evening. Overnight stay at Gangtok.
Day 06
Transfer to Airport / Railway Station
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After breakfast, transfer to Siliguri / NJP railway station / Bagdogra Airport (IXB) / Tenzing Norgay Bus Stand (about 135 km, 4½–5 hours). Guests are advised to start early. Onward journey.
What's Covered
Inclusions & exclusions.
Included
- Accommodation on twin-sharing basis
- Meal plan as per selected package (CP / MAP / AP)
- Exclusive non-A/C vehicle for transfers & sightseeing (point-to-point)
- All permit fees & hotel taxes as per itinerary
- Rates valid for Indian Nationals only
Not included
- Air fare / train fare
- Personal expenses, tips, drinks, Toy Train ride & porterage
- Extra sightseeing or vehicle use beyond itinerary
- Entrance fees & guide charges
- Anything not listed in the inclusions
Price on request · Rates valid for Indian Nationals only · Per person on twin-sharing basis
Your Stays
Where you sleep.
Good to Know
Common questions.
What does the 5 Nights / 6 Days Gangtok–Lachen–Lachung package include?
The package covers 3 nights in Gangtok, 1 night in Lachen and 1 night in Lachung on a twin-sharing basis, with a private non-A/C vehicle for all transfers and sightseeing, all North Sikkim permits and hotel taxes, and the selected meal plan. Sightseeing includes Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang Valley. Air fare, entry fees, guide charges and personal expenses are not included.
What permits and documents do I need for North Sikkim?
Tsomgo Lake requires a permit, and North Sikkim (Lachen and Lachung) needs an additional Protected Area Permit. Every traveller, including children, must carry an original photo ID with a photocopy and several passport-size photographs (4 copies for Tsomgo plus 2 more for North Sikkim); children can use a School ID or Birth Certificate. Permits are arranged through the operator, so documents must be submitted in advance.
What is the best time to visit for Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang Valley?
March to June is ideal, when Yumthang's rhododendrons and alpine flowers bloom and Gurudongmar is accessible, while October to November offers clear skies. Winters bring heavy snow and possible road closures at high altitude. Carry heavy woollens year-round for Lachen and Lachung, and take altitude precautions for the 17,800 ft Gurudongmar Lake.