Adventure Route
Arrival IXB/NJP 01 Night Gangtok 01 Night Lachen (North Sikkim) 01 Night Lachung (North Sikkim) 02 Nights Gangtok Departure IXB/NJP
Tour Overview
Prepare yourself for an adrenaline-pumping journey into the extreme altitudes of the Himalayas with our North Sikkim Adventure Tour Package (05 Nights / 06 Days). Expertly managed by The Holiday Trips' certified mountain specialists, this itinerary is designed for travelers who seek the raw, untamed beauty of frozen lakes, alpine valleys, and rugged mountain passes.
Your expedition begins in the capital city of Gangtok, serving as your base camp. From here, you will venture deep into the restricted zones of North Sikkim. Stay in the remote, high-altitude villages of Lachen and Lachung, experiencing the authentic lifestyle of the Bhutia community.
The absolute pinnacles of this tour include the breathtakingly thin air of Gurudongmar Lake at a staggering 17,800 ft, and the vibrant rhododendron blooms of the Yumthang Valley. Upon returning to Gangtok, you will also conquer the iconic Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir. Navigating North Sikkim requires specialized knowledge of terrain and strict military permits; our package includes expert local drivers and handles all Restricted Area Permits (RAP) to ensure your adventure is 100% safe, compliant, and unforgettable.
Altitude Safety & Assured Alpine Permits
Safety is paramount in North Sikkim. We utilize highly experienced local drivers accustomed to extreme mountain roads. Furthermore, we take full responsibility for processing all mandatory Protected/Restricted Area Permits for Gurudongmar, Yumthang, and Tsomgo Lake well before your arrival.
Adventure Highlights
- Conquer Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes globally at 17,800 ft.
- Explore the vibrant alpine blooms of Yumthang, the 'Valley of Flowers'.
- Experience the thrill of visiting the glacial Tsomgo (Changu) Lake at 12,400 ft.
- Pay respects at the legendary high-altitude Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir.
- Stay in the remote, ruggedly beautiful mountain villages of Lachen and Lachung.
- Enjoy mesmerizing road trips passing by Seven Sister and Naga Waterfalls.
Day-wise Itinerary
Welcome to Sikkim! Upon your arrival at Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), our representative will receive you. Embark on a highly scenic 4 to 5-hour drive following the Teesta River up to the capital city, Gangtok (Altitude 5,500 ft). Upon arrival, check into your hotel to rest and acclimatize. In the evening, explore the vibrant, vehicle-free MG Marg for local shopping and dining. Overnight stay in Gangtok.
Today, the real adventure begins. After breakfast, we drive towards the remote, high-altitude village of Lachen (Altitude 8,800 ft). The 5-6 hour drive is breathtakingly scenic. We will stop at multiple majestic waterfalls and viewpoints that define the rugged North Sikkim terrain. Arrive in Lachen by late afternoon and check into your homestay/hotel to acclimatize to the higher altitude in preparation for tomorrow's extreme journey. Overnight stay in Lachen.
Scenic Stops Covered:
- Seven Sister Waterfalls
- Naga Waterfall
- Singhik Viewpoint (Mt. Khangchendzonga view)
Start your day extremely early (around 4:00 AM) for a thrilling drive through the high-altitude cold desert to the spectacular Gurudongmar Lake. Situated at a dizzying 17,800 ft, this sacred lake is one of the highest in the world and remains partially unfrozen even in harsh winters. After spending a brief, awe-inspiring time at the lake, drive back to Lachen for lunch. Post lunch, transfer to the picturesque valley village of Lachung (Altitude 8,600 ft). Overnight stay in Lachung.
Altitude & Safety Advisory:
- Extreme Altitude: Gurudongmar Lake is at 17,800 ft. Oxygen levels are very low.
- Health Check: Strictly not recommended for infants below 5 years or persons with cardiac/respiratory conditions.
- Thangu Valley: Stop at the high-altitude Thangu Valley en route to acclimatize.
After breakfast, drive towards the breathtaking Yumthang Valley (Altitude 11,800 ft), famously known as the Valley of Flowers. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and hot springs, the valley is a natural paradise that blooms with rhododendrons during spring. After soaking in the valley's beauty, return to Lachung for lunch. Post lunch, begin the long, 5-6 hour scenic drive back to the capital city, Gangtok. Check into your hotel and rest. Overnight stay in Gangtok.
Attractions Covered:
- Yumthang Valley (Valley of Flowers)
- Yumthang Hot Spring
- Zero Point (Optional, subject to weather and extra cost)
After an early breakfast, we begin a thrilling day excursion to East Sikkim's most famous sites. We drive to the magnificent glacial Tsomgo Lake (Changu Lake) situated at 12,400 ft, known for its pristine waters that reflect the surrounding peaks. Further up, we visit the Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir (13,200 ft), a highly respected shrine built in memory of an Indian army soldier. Return to Gangtok by late afternoon to relax or shop. Overnight stay in Gangtok.
Monuments Covered:
- Tsomgo (Changu) Lake
- Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir
- Nathu La Pass (Optional, subject to permit & extra cost)
Your extreme adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of North and East Sikkim comes to an end today. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel before our team assists you with checking out. You will be driven safely back down the mountains to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or NJP Railway Station for your onward journey, carrying home memories of a lifetime.
Package Inclusions
- 5 Nights Accommodation (3N Gangtok, 1N Lachen, 1N Lachung)
- Daily Breakfast (All Meals included during North Sikkim stay)
- Dedicated private vehicle (Xylo/Scorpio/Innova) for extreme terrain
- Highly experienced local driver trained for high altitudes
- Restricted Area Permits (RAP) for Gurudongmar & Tsomgo Lake
- All toll taxes, state taxes, parking fees, and driver allowances
Package Exclusions
- Airfare / Train tickets to and from Bagdogra/NJP
- Monument Entry Fees & Camera charges
- Lunches and Dinners in Gangtok (Only Breakfast included)
- Excursion to Nathu La Pass & Zero Point (Available at extra cost)
- Tips, room service, and personal expenses
- Any costs arising due to natural calamities like landslides/snowfall
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time is from March to May when Yumthang Valley is full of blooming rhododendrons, and from October to early December for clear skies and stunning views of frozen Gurudongmar Lake. Heavy monsoon (July-Aug) is not recommended due to landslides.
Yes. Because North and East Sikkim share international borders, Restricted Area Permits (RAP) are strictly mandatory for visiting Lachen, Gurudongmar, Lachung, and Tsomgo Lake. We will collect your ID proofs and passport-size photos in advance and process all permits for you seamlessly.
Gurudongmar Lake is situated at an extreme altitude of 17,800 ft. Due to very low oxygen levels, it is strictly NOT recommended for children below 5 years of age, elderly citizens, or anyone with cardiac or respiratory issues. We prioritize your safety above all.
Gangtok is a bustling capital city with numerous excellent restaurants, cafes, and bakeries, allowing you the flexibility to explore local cuisines. In contrast, Lachen and Lachung are remote alpine villages with almost no dining options outside of your homestay/hotel. Hence, all meals are included during your stay there.
Nathu La Pass (near Tsomgo Lake) and Zero Point (near Yumthang) are optional add-ons. Nathu La entry is highly regulated by the Indian Army, closed on Mondays/Tuesdays, and depends on permit availability. Both require an additional cost paid directly to the local transport syndicate on the day of the tour.
