Himalayan Majesty: A 6-Day Winter Expedition to Gangtok & North Sikkim
Complete Journey Overview
Himalayan Majesty: A 6-Day Winter Expedition to Gangtok & North Sikkim
Day 1: Arrival in Gangtok & Himalayan Welcome
Arrival and Transfer to Gangtok
Arrive at Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP). Take a pre-booked taxi or a shared cab for the scenic 4-5 hour drive up to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. The journey winds through lush green hills along the Teesta River.
Check-in to Hotel
Check into your hotel and take some time to rest and acclimatize to the altitude (approx. 5,410 ft). Drink plenty of water.
Evening Stroll on MG Marg
Take a leisurely walk along the vibrant MG Marg, a litter-free and smoke-free pedestrian street. It's the town's social hub, lined with shops, cafes, and benches to sit and soak in the atmosphere.
Dinner at The Coffee Shop
Enjoy a warm and hearty dinner. This restaurant offers a mix of Indian, Continental, and local Sikkimese dishes in a cozy setting.
Day 2: Glacial Lakes & Mountain Passes
Excursion to Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir
Embark on a full-day trip to the stunning Tsomgo Lake (also known as Changu Lake), located at an altitude of 12,400 ft. In January, the lake is usually frozen, creating a breathtaking winter wonderland. Continue to Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, a shrine honoring a revered Indian army soldier.
Lunch near Tsomgo Lake
Have a simple but warm lunch at one of the small eateries near the lake. A hot bowl of Maggi noodles or Thukpa feels incredibly comforting in the cold.
Return to Gangtok & Rest
Drive back to Gangtok by late afternoon. The high altitude can be tiring, so it's best to rest for the evening to prepare for the North Sikkim journey starting tomorrow.
Dinner at Taste of Tibet
Experience authentic Tibetan and Sikkimese cuisine. This restaurant is famous for its delicious momos, shyaphale (meat pies), and other local delicacies.
Day 3: The Scenic Drive to Lachen
Journey from Gangtok to Lachen
Start your 2N/3D North Sikkim tour. The drive to Lachen is long (6-7 hours) but incredibly scenic, passing through numerous waterfalls and quaint villages. Lachen is a small town that serves as the base for Gurudongmar Lake.
Lunch at Mangan
Stop for a simple lunch at Mangan, the district headquarters of North Sikkim. The meal is usually part of your tour package.
Check-in at Lachen
Arrive in Lachen (altitude approx. 8,800 ft) by evening and check into your hotel or homestay. Accommodation here is basic but clean and functional, designed to provide warmth against the extreme cold.
Day 4: The Sacred Lake & Transfer to Lachung
Excursion to Gurudongmar Lake
Start very early (around 4 AM) for the drive to Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world at 17,800 ft. The landscape transforms into a high-altitude desert. Witness the partially frozen sacred lake, believed to have healing powers.
Drive from Lachen to Lachung
After returning to Lachen and having breakfast, check out and drive to Lachung (approx. 8,600 ft). The journey takes about 2-3 hours. Lachung is a picturesque village and the base for Yumthang Valley.
Check-in and Lunch at Lachung
Arrive in Lachung, check into your hotel, and have lunch. Spend the afternoon at leisure, exploring the quaint village and the Lachung Monastery.
Day 5: Snowscapes of Yumthang & Return
Yumthang Valley & Zero Point
After breakfast, drive to Yumthang Valley, famously known as the 'Valley of Flowers'. In January, it will be a spectacular 'Valley of Snow', blanketed in a thick white layer. If roads and weather permit, you can continue to Zero Point (Yumesamdong) for even more dramatic snow-clad vistas close to the Tibetan border.
Return Journey to Gangtok
After exploring the valley, begin the long drive back to Gangtok. You'll retrace your path, carrying memories of the pristine northern landscapes.
Check-in to Hotel in Gangtok
Check back into your hotel in Gangtok. Enjoy the comfort of a warm room and a hot shower after the rugged North Sikkim trip.
Farewell Dinner at Nimtho
Celebrate the successful completion of your Himalayan adventure with a farewell dinner at Nimtho, which offers an authentic Sikkimese dining experience in a traditional setting.
Day 6: Farewell to the Himalayas
Breakfast and Check-out
Enjoy a final breakfast in Gangtok. You can do some last-minute souvenir shopping for local handicrafts or Sikkim tea on MG Marg if your flight/train schedule permits.
Transfer to Airport/Railway Station
Depart from Gangtok for Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or NJP Railway Station for your journey home.
Q.What documents are required for Sikkim permits?
For Indian tourists, a valid Photo ID (Voter ID, Passport, Driving License) and passport-sized photos are needed. Aadhaa...
Q.How cold will it be in North Sikkim in January?
Extremely cold. Expect temperatures in Lachen and Lachung to range from -5°C to -15°C, especially at night. Gurudongmar ...
Q.What should I pack for a January trip?
Heavy woolens are essential. Pack multiple layers including thermal wear, fleece jackets, and a down/padded waterproof a...
Q.What if North Sikkim is closed due to snow?
This is a real possibility in January. The tour operator will provide an alternative plan. The most common alternative i...
Q.Is it safe to travel to such high altitudes?
It is generally safe if you take precautions. Acclimatize properly on Day 1 and 2. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and smok...
Q.What kind of food and accommodation should I expect in North Sikkim?
Accommodation in Lachen and Lachung is basic and functional, focusing on providing warmth. Do not expect luxury. Meals a...
Q.Are there ATMs in North Sikkim?
ATMs are scarce and often non-functional in North Sikkim. It is crucial to carry sufficient cash from Gangtok for the en...
Q.What are some famous local food items to try?
Don't miss out on Momos (dumplings), Thukpa (noodle soup), Phagshapa (pork stew), Gundruk (fermented greens soup), Sael ...
