“I visited Dzongu for 2nights in April-May2026. I stayed at this newly built homestay. The rooms are spacious.. Have attached bathrooms with wstern toilets( which is not available in many homestays of the Dzongu region). They also have family rooms that can accomodate 4 people in one room. You will get good view from the room and terrace. This homestay is acc...”
Dzongu itself is a protected area, a quiet space to walk and explore. Further afield, you can visit some of Sikkim's most well-known sights.
Yumthang Valley, the valley of flowers, is a highlight of North Sikkim. The best time to see the rhododendrons in full bloom is from March to May. A North Sikkim permit, which Sonam can help with, is required to visit.
Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, is a glacial lake located 40km from Gangtok. It often freezes over in the winter. You will need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to visit, which is typically arranged in Gangtok.
Rumtek Monastery, the seat of the Karmapa, is 24km from Gangtok. It's one of the most significant monasteries in the region and a worthwhile stop if you are spending time in the capital.
Pelling and the monasteries of West Sikkim, such as Pemayangtse and Sanga Choeling, are a longer journey away, known for their direct views of Kanchenjunga. For serious trekkers, the classic Goecha La trek to Kanchenjunga base camp begins from Yuksom, also in West Sikkim.
By Air: The most reliable airport is Bagdogra (IXB) in West Bengal, which is 124km from Gangtok. The drive from the airport to Gangtok takes about four hours. Sikkim's own airport, Pakyong (PYG), is only 30km from Gangtok but is weather-dependent and flights are often diverted to Bagdogra.
By Rail: The nearest major railhead is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), located 122km from Gangtok. Taxis are readily available at the station for the drive up to Sikkim.
By Road: Gangtok is the state capital and the main hub for arranging transport and permits. From Gangtok, Sonam can help arrange a car for the final leg of the journey to the home in Dzongu.
Sikkim has two main tourist seasons. The first is from March to May, when the weather is pleasant and the rhododendrons are in bloom across the state. The second is from October to mid-December, after the monsoons, when the skies are clear and offer the best mountain views. The monsoon season, from June to September, is best avoided as heavy rains can cause landslides and road closures, especially in North Sikkim.
