A paradise nestled with the magnificent views of the great Himalayas, Sikkim is a state in the north eastern part of India. It is bordered by Bhutan, Nepal and Tibet. The alpine meadows, the lush greenery, snow-capped mountains, blue mountain lakes, majestic monasteries and holy temples makes this Hidden Himalayan Kindom one of the most visited tourist place in India. It is very difficult to compile a list of 10 best places to visit in Sikkim but the places mentioned below cannot be missed.

1. Gangtok

Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim is a piece of heaven. Situated at an altitude of 1650 metres above sea level, Gangtok is one of the most popular hillstations in India. Incredibly alluring and wreathed in clouds along with spellbinding views of majestic Kanchenjunga, Gangtok is a paradise of the northeast. Gangtok is an ideal destination for a tranquil vacation with friends, family and your partner. Situated in the eastern Himalayan range, Gangtok has a natural heritage where you can find monasteries, shrines, and temples.

2. Tsomgo Lake

Popularly known as Chhangu Lake, Tsomgo Lake is located at 12,300 ft above sea level. The Tsomgo Lake is one of the few high-altitude lakes in India. The pristine lake derives its water from the melting snows of the mountains surrounding the lake. this glacial lake changes its colors every season. The mesmerizing scenic beauty enveloped with snow-capped mountains and alpine forests makes it a popular tourist attraction of Sikkim.

3. Nathu La Pass

Situated at an elevation of 14140 feet, Nathu La is a high mountain pass in Sikkim. It is one of the highest motorable roads in the world and one of the most important Himalayan passes in the country. Nathu La is one of the trading border posts between India and China. Nathu La Pass receives heavy snowfall during winter and the Pass is closed from November to April for visitors. Nathu La is open only from Wednesday to Sunday of the week and It is ml closed on Mondays and Tuesdays for tourists.

4. Gurudongmar Lake

Situated at an altitude of 17,800 feet, Gurudongmar, located in Sikkim, is one of the highest lake in the world. It is also the second highest lake in Sikkim, after the Cholamu Lake located at an altitude of 18,000 feet. This high-altitude lake in Sikkim is a dream destination for tourists. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and crystal clear water, Gurudongmar is considered to be a very sacred lake. The magnificent and scenic beauty of the place is breathtaking and is one of the most tourist attractions from all across the world.

5. Yumthang Valley

Situated at an altitude of 12100 feet, Yumthang Valley is located about 140 kms from Gangtok in North Sikkim. This mesmerizing valley, popularly known as “Valley of Flowers” is a paradise of nature lovers. It is a home to the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary which has over twenty-four species of the rhododendron. It is a nature sanctuary with free-flowing rivers, yaks, lush green meadows and hot springs.With its alluring beauty and treacherous colours, this quintessential valley attracts tourists from all over the world. The entire valley blooms at its best during the month of April to June. The valley usually remains closed from December to March due to heavy snowfall.

6. Zero Point

A perfect destination for adventure and nature lovers, Yumesomdong or Zero Point is situated at an altitude of 15300 feet which offers stunning scenic views. It remains covered with snow for most part of the year. It is the last outpost of civilization and there is no road ahead. The Indo-Chinese border is a stone’s throw distance away from Yumesamdong. Zero Point is also very close to Dongkha La, a mountain pass that opens towards Tibet. The place remains closed from December to March due to heavy snowfall. The beautiful confluence of three rivers surrounded by snow clad mountains and picturesque landscape makes Zero Point one of the best places to visit in India.

7. Lachung

Situated at an altitude of 9600 feet, Lachung is a peaceful mountain village in North Sikkim. The village is home to the 19th-century Buddhist Lachung Monastery, surrounded by apple orchards. This quaint mountain village is decorated by the pristine beauty of the Lachung Chu River. Enveloped by snow covered mountains, Lachung is also a base to visit the famous Yumthang Valley and Zero Point. Snow covered mountains, amazing waterfalls, monastery, sparkling streams and picturesque landscape makes Lachung one of the best tourist spots in India for pleasurable holiday.

8. Lachen

Situated at an elevation of 8500 feet, Lachen is a small town in North Sikkim. The name Lachen means “Big Pass”. This place is surrounded by the Lachen Chu river and mountain ranges. Lachen works as a gateway to the sacred Gurudongmar Lake and Chopta Valley. It is also a base station for many trekking places in North Sikkim which includes the famous Green Lake and Kanchenjunga National Park. The quaint Sikkim town is also known for serene vegetation and Lachen Monastery. With beautiful vistas of the hills and amazing wooden houses this charming small hill town has become one of the popular tourist destinations in Sikkim.

9. Pelling

Situated at the foothills of Mount Kanchenjunga, Pelling is a small and beautiful town in Sikkim. Pelling is a paradise for peace lovers and travellers who looks for peace in the lap of nature surrounded by scenic views. Located about 130 kms from Gangtok, it has become the second biggest tourist destination in Sikkim after Gangtok. Sited at about 7200 feet Pelling attracts tourists for breath-taking views of the majestic Kanchenjunga, sparkling waterfalls, monasteries, lush greenery and picturesque landscapes.

10. Zuluk

Situated at an impressive altitude of 10100 ft. the picturesque hamlet Zuluk in East Sikkim is an emerging tourist destination. Nestled among the verdant lofty hill Zuluk marks the entry point to the famous zig zag road, and the other major attractions en route the old silk route. The place is also significant due to the presence of a large military settlement here. Zuluk offers magnificent view of Majestic Kanchenjunga. A cloudless night sky at Zuluk is a treat to the eyes of a nyctophile. Spend a day or two here to savour solitude and collect everlasting memories.