House on the Silk Route, Sikkim, with valley views
4.4· 93 stays
Things to do nearby.
The Old Silk Route itself is the main journey. This ancient trade route connecting Lhasa to India offers dramatic landscapes and high-altitude passes. The home is a stop along this route.
About 40km from Gangtok, on a detour from the main route, is Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake. It's a glacial lake that sits at an altitude of 12,313 feet and is frozen solid in the winter. The drive itself is beautiful, but be aware that you will need a special Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to visit, which can be arranged through a travel agent in Gangtok.
Not far from Gangtok is Rumtek Monastery, one of the most significant monasteries in Sikkim. It is the seat of the Karmapa Lama, the head of the Karma Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism. The complex is large, with intricate murals and a quiet, contemplative atmosphere. It's about a 24km drive from the state capital.
Getting there.
The most reliable airport for reaching Sikkim is Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in West Bengal, which is about 124km away. From there, it is a 4 to 5-hour drive by car. Pakyong Airport (PYG) is much closer, but its operations are often disrupted by weather, with flights frequently diverting to Bagdogra.
The nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), located near Siliguri. It is about 122km away, and you will need to hire a taxi or take a shared vehicle for the rest of the journey.
Gangtok, the state capital, serves as the primary hub for all travel in Sikkim. It is where you will arrange for permits, find most transport options, and can access hospitals and other major facilities.
Best time to visit.
The best time for clear skies and mountain views is from October to mid-December. The air is crisp, and the views of the Himalayan range are often unobstructed.
March to May is another popular season, when the rhododendrons are in full bloom across the state, painting the hillsides in colour.
The monsoon season, from June to September, sees heavy rainfall, which can cause landslides and frequent road closures, especially in North Sikkim. It is best to avoid this period for travel.



