Top 8 best places to visit in Sikkim for thrilling adventure
Sikkim is one of the smallest states located in the northeastern region of India and it is a favorite for the adventure lovers. This state is located in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas and provides a perfect destination for adventure lovers as well as for those who prefer to spend their holidays in the lap of nature. The Best adventures places to visit in Sikkim has some of the finest adventure tourism areas in the country, ranging from snow clad peaks and alpine pastures to the babbling rivers and tough terrains. From hiking, white water rafting, mountain biking among others, the state offers an unparallelly experience for every adventure lover.
Another factor that makes Sikkim attractive is its proximity to a wide range of adventure activities all over the rugged terrains. The capital city Gangtok is full of life and is near many thrilling attractions like cable car and white water rafting. For the adventurous types there are trekking trails, yaks for riding and breathtaking views of the Himalayas at Yuksom, Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass. Every place is a problem and a prize for the traveler who decides to go beyond the tourist routes.
If you are in need of an adventure vacation, Sikkim offers exciting things to do. From the height of the Nathula Pass to the peaceful but rigorous hikes in and around Yuksom and Pelling, the state’s best adventure tourism spots are not just beautiful but adventurous too. Sikkim is a perfect destination for those who want to combine spiritual experience with adventurous one being surrounded by monasteries and wild territories.
Here is the list of 8 adventurous places to visit in Sikkim that offers the tourists an exciting thrilling experience:
1. Gangtok
Adrenaline junkies should visit the capital of Sikkim, a city called Gangtok. This colourful city is located in the Eastern Himalayas and has a perfect blend of quiet and exciting tourist attractions. You can also take a cable car where you will have a view of the valleys or even river rafting in the Teesta River. This is especially because the trails that are available for mountain biking and the beautiful forested area will provide thrill to the adventure lovers. It also serves as a base to some of the popular trekking trails that lead you through the Himalayas.
Travel Tip:
It is advisable to visit Gangtok between the months of March and April, as well as between October and November. Do not travel during the monsoon season because roads are often blocked.
2. Yuksom
For an adventure freak, Yuksom is a place which you should not miss in Sikkim. Situated in the west of the West Bengal, Yuksom is the starting place for some of the most exciting treks in the region including the Kanchenjunga circuit. The village has history and tradition in its backdrop and also some of the old monasteries like the Dubdi Monastery. Trekking tracks are available at Yuksom which include forest tracts, alpine meadows and steep rock paths, so it is an Beautiful places to visit in Sikkim.
Travel Tip:
The best time to visit Yuksom is during March-June and September-October as the climate is favorable for outdoor trips.
3. Tsomgo Lake
Located at 12,400 feet above sea level, Tsomgo Lake or Changu Lake is an exciting trip in the Sikkim Mountains. It is a small lake that does not freeze during winter and provides the visitors with a chance to ice skate and yack on the ice. During summer the water of the lake is as blue as the sky and the surrounding mountains which makes it a paradise for trekkers and bird lovers.
Travel Tip:
Tsomgo Lake is restricted and a special permit is needed for one to gain access to the area. For the permit purpose, it is recommended to bring identification documents and two passport size photographs.
4. Nathula Pass
Nathula Pass is one of the highest motorable roads of the world and you are in for an exciting high altitude tour here. This pass at an altitude of 4,310 meters separates India from Tibet and was a part of the famous Silk Road. The enthusiasts of adventurous trips can drive through the curvy and snowy roads to feel the breathtaking nature of the surrounding territories. The scenery of Chumbi Valley and snowy mountains is quite breathtaking.
Travel Tip:
Nathula Pass is closed for tourists on Monday and Tuesday, and winters are very chilling with snowfall mostly during the day.
5. Pelling
Pelling is a perfect destination for those who are in search of adventurous trip with the backdrop of Kanchenjunga. Located at an altitude of 7,200 feet, Pelling has many treks that pass through the forest area and over hills. Besides trekking, one can enjoy many adventures such as rock climbing, river rafting, mountain biking. It is also easier to use Pelling as a base for visiting waterfalls, monasteries, and bridges that characterise this part of the world.
Travel Tip:
The best time to visit Pelling is in the months of May to July as the weather is perfect to enjoy the outdoor activities.
6. Ravangla
Ravangla is one of the least explored tourist destinations in Sikkim which offers a lot of adventure amidst the serene environment. The town is located at an altitude of 7,000 feet and presents stunning views of the Greater Himalayas. It is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim to trek and to watch different species of birds. The trek from Ravangla to Maenam Hill is quite an exciting one as it provides the views of snow capped mountains and virgin forests.
Travel Tip:
The ideal time to come to Ravangla for trekking should be between March and June or September and November since the climate is perfect.
7. Lachung
The travellers who are in search of some adventurous but beautiful destination should visit Lachung, a beautiful village in North Sikkim. This area is famous for its steep slopes and the possibility for climbing at high altitudes. The Yumthang Valley also called the Valley of Flowers is near to it and there are trekking trails to most beautiful landscapes with flowers in the alpine region. Winter activities like skiing are also enjoyed in this place during winter.
Travel Tip:
Lachung is best to be visited during April to June for trekking and from October to December for snow activities.
8. Zuluk
If one wants a little out of the ordinary experience, then Zuluk, a small village at an altitude of 10,000 feet above sea level is ideal. This village situated on the Silk Route, has exciting road tours with hairpin bends and stunning views of the Kanchenjunga Mountain. Zuluk also serves as a perfect starting point for treks to higher altitude and other exploration of the virgin territory. Even the ride to Zuluk is thrilling with sharp turns and more over beautiful landscape.
Travel Tip:
The best time to visit Zuluk is during August to September for viewing the beautiful flowers or during October to November for clear mountain sightseeing.
Conclusion:
Sikkim is a veritable Mecca for the adventure traveler with a great combination of activities that are exhilarating in the backdrop of the great Himalayas. From the beautiful mountain trails for trekking to the rough water of Teesta River for rafting or the valley for paragliding Sikkim offers the tourists a chance to explore the terrains of the region and the adrenaline rush. Every one of them is not only a survival challenge but also a hike through some of the most striking landscapes in India.
Apart from its adventurous side, Sikkim’s serene landscape packed with ancient monasteries and villages is a nice break from the hustle and bustle. The visitor can go for a day of sightseeing; subsequently, in the evening, they can relax in the serene environment. Moreover, they can also feel the culture and the spirituality of the area. This combination of the adventurous and the serene makes Sikkim a perfect holiday destination for anyone who wants to take back memories that will last a lifetime.
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