It is a shame that so little information exists about Sikkim, other than Gangtok and Gurudongmar Lake. This tiny state is located in the north-eastern region of India and has much more to offer tired travellers. Sikkim’s remote destinations offer a lot to those who are tired of urban life.
If you are looking for a way to get away from the daily grind of the office, and to relax in Sikkim, here are some great spots. These 5 places are a must-see for anyone looking for unusual hill destinations in your Sikkim tour packages.
1 Rolep
A picturesque, small village of Virgins. It’s hidden in the middle of nature. It is located at 4000ft, and only 20 km from Rongli in East Sikkim. It is located on the slopes of the green Himalayan foothills and offers views of the Rangpo Khola River Valley.
Hanging Bridge at Rolep
This is the perfect place to birdwatch and find some solace. There is no need to bring an agenda. Test your angling skills by fishing for trout in Shokey Khola River. Take a walk through the village. Visit the Buddha waterfalls at 45 feet. Enjoy the lush greenery and a refreshing massage. Tourists love hot stone baths. Chochen Lake, Dekeling Monastery and other important spots are worth a visit.
Rolep is undoubtedly one of Sikkim’s most unusual destinations.
How to Get Rolep
Air: This is the closest airport. Pakyong. It’s located at 76km and takes about 3.5 to 4 hours to reach. Bagdogra International airport is also available, which is located approximately 143km away. You will need to travel approximately 4 hours to reach Bagdogra International Airport.
Train: New Jalpaiguri railway station is closest. It’s approximately 135km away. The journey will take between 4 to 4.5 hours.
Car Distance: Rolep is 687km from Kolkata. There will be two stops, one in Malda, and another in Siliguri. You will be able to move towards Rolep Village on the third day.
2 Singtam Village
Singtam, located 42 km from Gangtok and 98 kilometers from Siliguri, is a paradise for travelers. The village is located close to the Temi Tea Garden, and will surely catch the attention of all travelers. Singtam is surrounded by farmlands and forest on one side, and ideal for walking.
Paddyfield winter, Singtam
People come to this village to fish. Khalej Khola is only 2km away. The village is great for bird watching, fishing, and walking. Singtam is an excellent choice for forest treks. Trek to Maenam la, or Tendong Hill. You will need to walk through dense forest to reach Tendong Hill (an extinct volcano).
How do I reach Singtam
Pakyong Airport, which is the closest airport, can be reached by air. It’s approximately 50km away. The journey takes between 2 and 2.5 hours. Bagdogra International Airport is also available, located approximately 114km away. It should take between 3.5 and 4 hours.
New Jalpaiguri Station is the closest railway station. It’s approximately 108km away. The trip will take between 3.5 and 4 hours.
Distance by car: Singtam is 659km from Kolkata. There will be two stops, one in Malda and one in Siliguri. Your route will take you to Singtam on the third day.
3 Gangtok Offbeat
Capital of Sikkim is a mountainous northern state. It was established as a Buddhist pilgrimage site, and the Enchey Monastery built in 1840. The British ended their rule and the capital was created by an independent monarchy. It was annexed to India in 1975. It is situated at an elevation of 5,410 feet (1650 metres). It is located in eastern Himalayan.
Gangtok MG Marg, as seen via Ropeway
It is home to large numbers of Lepchas and Nepalese as well as Bhutias. Gangtok is Sikkim’s centre for tourism. The city is surrounded by the two streams Roro Chu, west, and Ranikhola, east. Gangtok has a stunning view of Mount Kanchenjunga and natural beauty.
It is organic and completely free from pollution. Visit the Tsomgo lake and Ban Jhakri Falls. Tashi viewpoints are also available. Enchey Monastery and Ganesh Tok are also available. Shopping at local restaurants is a must when you’re on MG Road. Gangtok is a friendly, lively hill station.
How do I reach:
Pakyong Airport is located at 29km. To get there, it will take between 1.5HR and 2Hr. Bagdogra International Airport is also available, located approximately 125km away. It takes between 4 to 4.5 hours to get there.
New Jalpaiguri Station is the closest railway station. It’s approximately 119km away. The journey will take between 4 to 4.5 hours.
Distance by car: Gangtok is 671 km away from Kolkata. You will need to stop in Malda, and Siliguri. You can then move towards Gangtok on the third day.
4 Ravangla
It is located at 7000 feet above sea level in South Sikkim. It’s located between Gangtok & Pelling, and is the starting point of the trek to Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary (65km from Gangtok). This picturesque town offers clear views of Mt Kanchenjunga, Mt Pandim, and Mt Siniolchu.
Ravangla Buddha Park
With its beautiful flora and fauna, this is a great tourist spot. The Bonn Monastery and Ralang Monastery offer inner peace. The historic Market of Kewzing is a wonderful place to shop, and the small, mysterious caves offer a good choice for adventure. Tourists love Borong and Ralang Cha Chu, which are sulfur springs. Temi Tea Gardens is a must-see to enjoy the tea journey from the Gardens up to your cup.
How do I reach Ravangla
Pakyong Airport is 75km away. It takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours for you to reach there. Bagdogra International Airport is also an option, located approximately 128km away. It takes between 4.5 to 5 hours to get there.
New Jalpaiguri Station is the closest railway station. It’s approximately 123km away. The journey will take between 4.5 to 5 hours.
Car Distance: Ravangla is 675 km away from Kolkata. You will need to stop in Malda, and Siliguri. Your route will take you to Ravangla on the third day.
5 Borong
Charming village in the south of Sikkim. It is situated at 5,800 feet and offers a stunning view of Mt Siniolchu, Mt Narsing and Mt Pandim. Climbing up River Rangil can give you an adrenaline rush.
Mount Narsing, Borong
From this location, you can also visit Ralong Monastery or Bating Monastery. Vyanjan Valley, Bamelli Bridge. Visit the paper factory to see paper made in an ancient Japanese way.
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How do I reach Borong
Air: Pakyong, at 81km, is the closest airport. It takes approximately 3 to 3.5 hours for you to reach there. Bagdogra International Airport is also available, located approximately 134km away. It will take approximately 4.5 to 5 hours to reach there.
Train: New Jalpaiguri station is the closest railway station. It is located approximately 141km away. It takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours to reach there.
Distance by car: Borong is 692 km away from Kolkata. Malda, Siliguri and Siliguri will require two halts. You will be able to move towards Borong on the third day.
