Seven days is a great length for a first trip to Sikkim. It lets you combine the capital, a high-altitude lake, the valleys of North Sikkim and Pelling's close-up views of Kanchenjunga. Here is a balanced itinerary with practical details.
Route Overview
NJP/Bagdogra → Gangtok (2 nights) → Lachung (2 nights) → Gangtok or en route → Pelling (2 nights) → NJP/Bagdogra.
Permits for Tsomgo and North Sikkim are arranged in Gangtok, so plan these early in the trip.
Day 1: Arrive – Drive to Gangtok (4–5 hours)
Pick-up from Bagdogra or NJP. Drive along the Teesta river into Sikkim. Evening walk on MG Marg.
Stay: Gangtok.
Day 2: Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir
Morning excursion to Tsomgo (Changu) Lake at about 3,750 metres, and Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir. Nathula Pass can be added on permitted days for Indian nationals. Return to Gangtok for the evening.
Stay: Gangtok.
Day 3: Gangtok to Lachung (6–7 hours)
Drive north via Kabi Lungchok, Seven Sisters Falls, Bhim Nala Falls and Chungthang. Arrive in Lachung by evening.
Stay: Lachung (meals usually included).
Day 4: Yumthang Valley and Zero Point
Early start to Yumthang Valley, the "Valley of Flowers", with hot springs nearby. Optional extension to Zero Point (Yumesamdong) for snow, subject to road and weather. Return to Lachung or drive back towards Gangtok.
Stay: Lachung or Gangtok.
Day 5: Drive to Pelling (via Gangtok) – long day
Return to Gangtok and continue to Pelling in West Sikkim, or break the journey at Ravangla. Pelling sits at about 2,100 metres with views of Kanchenjunga.
Stay: Pelling.
Day 6: Pelling Sightseeing
Sunrise views of Kanchenjunga, the Pelling Skywalk and Chenrezig statue, Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse ruins, Khecheopalri Lake and Kanchenjunga Falls.
Stay: Pelling.
Day 7: Pelling to Bagdogra/NJP (5–6 hours)
Drive back to the plains for your onward journey.
Variations
Add Gurudongmar Lake (+1–2 days)
Go to Lachen instead of (or in addition to) Lachung and visit Gurudongmar Lake at over 5,000 metres early in the morning.
Add Darjeeling (+2 days)
From Pelling, drive to Darjeeling for Tiger Hill, the toy train and tea gardens.
Add Ravangla and Namchi (+1 day)
Visit Buddha Park and the Char Dham complex.
Permits
Protected Area Permits are needed for Tsomgo/Nathula and North Sikkim, arranged by registered agents. Carry photo ID and passport-size photos.
Tips
- Keep a buffer day for landslides or road closures.
- Spend at least one night in Gangtok before going higher.
- Carry warm clothes even in summer.
- North Sikkim stays are basic – manage expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 7 days enough for Sikkim?
Yes. Seven days covers Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake, Lachung and Pelling at a comfortable pace.
Can I add Gurudongmar Lake in 7 days?
Yes, but it makes the trip tighter. Adding one or two days is better.
Do I need permits for this itinerary?
Yes, for Tsomgo/Nathula and North Sikkim. These are arranged in Gangtok.
Which airport is best for Sikkim?
Bagdogra has the most flights; Pakyong is closer but flights can be affected by weather.
Can I combine Sikkim and Darjeeling?
Yes, add two days to include Darjeeling.
Plan Your Trip with On Travel
Book this Sikkim itinerary with On Travel – we arrange permits, hotels, local vehicles and drivers.
- Phone / WhatsApp: +91 9220564155
- Email: info@ontravel.in
Plan Your Trip with On Travel
Ready to go? These itineraries cover the places in this guide and can be customised to your dates and budget:
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- Darjeeling, Gangtok & Lachung – 5 Nights / 6 Days
- Sikkim Explorer – Gangtok & Pelling, 5 Nights / 6 Days
- Darjeeling, Gangtok & Lachung Grand Tour – 7 Nights / 8 Days
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Related reading: Sikkim Trip Cost · How to Reach Sikkim · Sikkim Food Guide
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