Known for its 28 mountain peaks, nearly 100 glaciers, innumerable high-altitude lakes, scorching hot springs, and breathtaking scenery, Sikkim is widely regarded as one of the most unexpected and daring travel destinations in the East. Due to the current lack of railway access, travelers must either fly into Bagdogra Airport or take a train to Siliguri or Jalpaiguri before catching a taxi to Gangtok, which drives up travel expenses.
“The introduction of a railway station in Sikkim will increase connectivity for locals as well as travellers thus making it more accessible and cost-efficient to travel to the region,” added Daniel D’Souza, President & Country Head, Holidays at SOTC Travel, a provision which bought relief to many. “The Government’s initiative to increase rail connectivity across 27 states and union territories under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme will usher in a new era of rail connectivity in India.”
Hotel/ Lodge
Due to its accessibility and vibrant urban culture, the state capital Gangtok is the most well-liked option; but, if you’re on a tight budget, Pakyong, Namchi, Jorethang, or Rangpo are good options as well. Consider staying at one of the hostels or homestays like Zostel (₹1,300 per night) or Backpackers Den (₹1,000 per night) if your aim is to arrive in Gangtok and then tour other locations. For around the same price, you can find unusual resorts like Rangpo’s Betel Valley Resort (₹1,500) or Namchi’s Ahladara (₹1,000) homestays.
Food/ Cuisines to try
In Sikkim, there are two ways to eat on a budget: sharing a meal with a local and going on street snacks. No matter what city you are in, you may discover affordable regional foods like phagshapa (₹50-100), thukpa (₹100-200), sel roti (₹50-100), chhurpi (₹50-100), and dumplings (₹100-200). These dishes can also take you on a culinary adventure of their own.
Adventure/ Tour
A trip to the enormous Buddha statue at Ravangla Park (Free), Bakthang Waterfall (Free entry; ₹100 for rope sliding), a gondola ride in Gangtok (₹70 to ₹100), hand-gliding in Yumthang (₹2,500), a quick hike to Kichipudi Lake in Pelling (Free), and more are a few well-liked, suggested activities.
Travel expenses (local transportation or taxi) might range from ₹500 to ₹1,000. Monasteries that you visit from Gangtok or Pelling cost between ₹20 and ₹200 each monastery (for example, Pemayangtse in Pelling only costs ₹20).
The cost of accessing hot springs such as Yeshi, Borong, and Yumthang, which are well-known for their medicinal properties due to their high sulfur content, is approximately ₹100–200 per person, without including the cost of transportation to and from the location.
