Overview
This 8-day itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of Sikkim, taking you through stunning landscapes, vibrant cultures, and thrilling adventures. From the serene beauty of Tsomgo Lake and Lachung Valley to the cultural richness of Gangtok and Pelling, this trip provides a memorable experience.
Highlights
- Explore the breathtaking beauty of Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass.
- Witness the stunning landscapes of Lachung Valley and Yumthang Valley.
- Visit ancient monasteries and explore the cultural heritage of Sikkim.
- Experience the thrill of high-altitude trekking to Gurudongmar Lake.
- Indulge in adventure activities like river rafting and trekking.
- Discover the vibrant local markets and handicrafts.
Itinerary
Arrive at Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP).Transfer to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.Check-in at your hotel and rest for the day.
Embark on a day trip to Tsomgo Lake, a high-altitude alpine lake near the Indo-China border. Enjoy the scenic beauty, play in the snow (seasonal), and visit the Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir. Optionally, visit Nathula Pass (14,000 ft) for stunning views of the Himalayas (requires prior permission and additional cost).
Drive to Lachen, a picturesque village nestled in the North Sikkim Himalayas. En route, visit Singhik, Seven Sister Waterfalls, and Chungthang Confluence. Check-in at your hotel and rest for the evening.
Embark on a challenging journey to Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest altitude freshwater lakes in India. Pass through Thangu Village, a remote Tibetan nomadic settlement.Explore the breathtaking beauty of Chopta Valley and Gurudongmar Lake. Return to Lachung for the night.
Drive to Yumthang Valley, a beautiful alpine valley known for its vibrant flowers. Explore the scenic landscape, visit hot springs, and capture stunning photos. Return to Gangtok in the evening.
Explore the city of Gangtok, visiting Do Drul Chorten, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Botanical Garden, Rumtek Monastery, Banjhakri Falls & Flower Show.
Drive to Pelling, a charming hill station nestled amidst the Himalayas. Check-in at your hotel and rest for the evening
Explore Pelling, visiting Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdtense Ruins, Kanchenjunga Waterfalls, Rock Garden, Orange Village, and Khecheopalri Lake
Transfer to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) for your departure
Include/Exclude
Cost Inclusion
- Accommodation in hotels as per the itinerary (Pelling: 2 nights, Gangtok: 3 nights, Lachung: 2 nights)
- Daily breakfast & Dinner
- Return airport transfers
- Transportation as per the itinerary
- Sightseeing as per the itinerary
- Permit fees
Cost Exclusion
- 5% GST.
- Air Fare/Train Fare
- Heater Charges
- Ravangla / Zero Point/ Nathulla Pass Vehicle Cost
- Personal expenses (laundry, tips, etc.)
- Optional activities (additional sightseeing, Yak rides, etc.)
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Travel insurance
- Any additional expenses due to unforeseen circumstances
- Tour Manager/Guide.
- Entrance charges during sightseeing.
- Any other which is not mentioned above.
FAQs
Annapurna Base Camp is a Grade B or a moderately difficult trekking route. So any fit person can do this trek, even if you do not have any previous experience. You should be aware of what to expect and mentally prepare for it. Then, as long as you will too, you can.
On average, you walk about 4 to 6 hours per day. One or two days can be as less as 3hrs and one or two days can be as long as 7hrs.
The highest altitude reached is 4190m. This is the elevation of Annapurna Base Camp. ABC is the highest we will climb in this trek.
Yes, you can charge batteries en route. Charger should be brought. There are hot shower facilities as well. You may have to pay a certain amount for both ($1-$2). Negotiate. Also, a hot water facility could be free at a lower elevation.
No. There are no ATMs on this trek route. You will have to draw enough cash in Pokhara or Kathmandu. There are a number of ATMs in these cities. Everything is paid in Nepali rupees. So money should be exchanged before the start of the trek.
Yes. The Internet can be accessed in most places. Sometimes, there might be some technical problems. The Internet in Nepal is not as fast as you are used to and at times you can just lose connection.
Not really. It depends on you. If you want, ABC trekking can be done independently. You could hire a guide and a porter by yourself instead of going through an agency or not hire a guide at all. Although, not having a guide can be a little problematic during the offseason.
It really depends on you. Is it your first time in Nepal? How confident are you of being able to find your way around? How pressed on time are you? If you go through an agency, it will be costlier but everything will be planned. You will only have to come, trek and return.
For the Annapurna region, pay for guides range from $20 to $30 per day and porters take $15 to $25 per day.