This part of Sikkim is a base for some of the region's most classic sights. Gangtok, the state capital, is the primary hub for arranging permits and transport.
From Gangtok, you can arrange a day trip to Tsomgo Lake (also called Changu Lake), about 40km away. It’s a high-altitude glacial lake that often freezes over in the winter. A permit is required. Not far from the capital is Rumtek Monastery (24km), the grand seat of the Karmapa Lama and a centre for Tibetan Buddhism.
For those with more time and a permit for North Sikkim, Lachung (125km) is the gateway to Yumthang Valley, Sikkim’s own valley of flowers, which blooms spectacularly after the winter snows melt.
West Sikkim, with Pelling (115km) as its hub, offers what many consider the most direct views of the Kanchenjunga range. Here you can visit the historic Pemayangtse and Sanga Choeling monasteries. For serious trekkers, the classic Goecha La trek to the Kanchenjunga base camp begins from the small village of Yuksom.
By Air: The nearest major airport is Bagdogra (IXB) in West Bengal, 124km away. It’s a scenic, albeit winding, 4-hour drive from there. Sikkim has its own airport at Pakyong (PYG), just 30km from Gangtok, but flights are limited and often diverted to Bagdogra due to weather.
By Rail: The closest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), located 122km away, near Siliguri. It has good connectivity with major Indian cities. Taxis and shared jeeps are available at the station for the onward journey.
By Road: Sikkim is connected by road from Siliguri. Gangtok and Pelling are the main road hubs in East and West Sikkim, respectively, where you can find transport, book tours, and arrange permits.
The best seasons to visit are spring (March to May) and autumn (October to mid-December). Spring brings the famous rhododendron blooms, which cover the hillsides in colour. Autumn offers crisp air and the clearest skies for mountain views after the monsoon has washed the haze away. The monsoon season (June to September) sees heavy rain, which can cause landslides and road closures, particularly in North Sikkim.