The mesmerizing historical state of Sikkim lies in the Himalayan mountains landlocked by the regions of Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan and West Bengal. This small state was the last one to accept democracy and become a part of India in 1975. Now the least populous and the second smallest state of India, Sikkim is the land of lush green tea gardens, ancient Buddhist monasteries, snow-capped mountain ranges, gorgeous valleys and the brilliant blue sky with misty clouds scattered in it. Possessing a substantial variety of flora and fauna, Sikkim lies in one of the three biodiverse regions of India. A haven for vacationers and adventurers, this state offers some of the best holiday destinations in the country. Highly acclaimed for its arduous trekking experiences through a world of snow, rivers and forests, this state is a must-visit for those looking for an exciting challenge. We list 5 of the top treks in Sikkim you ought to experience.
1. Yuksom Goecha La Trek
One of the most popular treks is the Goecha La trek which begins at Yuksom and takes you to an altitude of about 4900 metres. While easier and shorter compared to other treks, this will still end up pushing you thanks to the rough terrain. Passing through the scenic beauty of the Rattan Chi River with dazzling views of Mount Pandim, Mount Thingchinkhang and Mt. Jopuno, this path to Goecha La will also take you through Dzongri, Bakhim, Simti Lake and Thangsing. The trek passes through a dense forest cover ending with a rocky terrain. Taking about 7-8 days, this trek is best experienced in the months of April – May or September – October.
2. Khangchendzonga Trek
One of the most fantastic and exhilarating trekking experience is given by the Khangchendzonga trek. Passing through the dense jungle of pink Rhododendron flowers, spruces and pines emerging into the breathtaking beauty of meadows and lively green pastures, gazing over the white snowy mountains, this long and exhausting trek will be worth every sweat and all the time you put into it. Beginning from the city of tea gardens and toy trains, Darjeeling, this trek takes you through some paradisiacal places like Chewabhanjang, Gomathang, Dzongri, Thangsing, Uttarey, Paharey Megu, Daphe Pass, Samity Lake, Goecha La, Lam Pokhari, Kasturi La, Kasturi Odar and Labdang. Spanning over a duration of about 20 days, this trek can be experienced in nature’s full glory in the months from March to mid-May and end of September to mid-November.
3. Yuksom Dzongri Trek
A rejuvenating trekking adventure is the Yuksom Dzongri Trek which begins at Yuksom and takes you through Goecha La, Gangtok and also provides a marvelous view of Mt. Pandim and the great Mt. Kanchenjunga. Acknowledged as ‘the paradise for trekkers’, Dzongri trek is easier and of a shorter time duration than its counterparts. The breathtaking route in this trek takes you through the Himalayan mountains, vibrant greenery and lush landscapes and some popular tourist destinations. Taking a maximum of 9 days, this trek will take you to a maximum altitude of about 4020 metres and is best undertaken in the months of March – May and September – November.
4. Lhaba Tarum Tsachu Trek
One of the best treks in the high altitude regions of the Himalayas, the exciting trek of Lhaba Tarum Tsachu goes through a dense forest cover, thickets of rhododendron bushes, a hot spring and under the wide expanse of sky on top of the mountains. Also providing of the nearest view of the surrounding mountain ranges, Lahbha or Labha trek goes through one of the most pristine and unexplored regions of India and gives a spellbinding view of Mt. Kanchenjunga over a distance of 16 kilometres. Ideal for moments of excitement, thrill, romance, spiritualism and serenity, this trek combines all the wondrous elements of nature and puts them together for you. Reaching an altitude of 2650 metres, this trek can be traversed in 6 days, best during the months of March – May.
5. Green Lake Trek
This unique trek is a perfect blend of mesmerizing sights and unblemished nature. The path till Green Lake is one full of enchanting landscapes filled with flowers, dazzling waterfalls and a glorious view of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Being a restricted area, not everyone can cover this trek. Prior permission is to be acquired in order to go past the lake region. The pleasant weather adds to the joy of this trek which passes through Lachen, Jakthang, Yabuk and Siniolchu. Although mountain sickness can hinder some people, Green Lake trek provides a wonderful adventure experience. Taking you to an altitude of about 4935 metres, it takes about 11 days to cover this trek, which is the most pleasant during the months from November till March.
Holding some of India’s most pristine sights and unexplored regions, Sikkim is a paradise yet to be experienced completely. The rough and rocky terrain with the lush green landscape honors it with the title of one of the most beautiful states in the country. The above 5 treks will find you experiencing Sikkim in the most enchanting and thrilling way possible.
