Ankit Tiwari's Sikkim Tour Experience
Ankit Tiwari belongs from Dhanbad. He is a travel enthusiast. He likes Bike touring the most.
My Mesmerizing Journey Through Sikkim
Day 1: Arrival in the Land of Mystical Beauty As I stepped off the train at NJP station at 6 AM, a rush of excitement filled me. This was my long-awaited trip to Sikkim, and I couldn't wait to experience its breathtaking landscapes. I was warmly welcomed by my tour assistant from thetripbuddy.in, who ensured a smooth transfer to Gangtok. The drive through the winding mountain roads, with misty peaks and lush greenery, was nothing short of magical.
By midday, I arrived in Gangtok and checked into my hotel. The afternoon was mine to explore, and in the evening, I took a leisurely stroll to MG Marg, where I enjoyed steaming momos and the lively atmosphere. As night fell, I returned to my hotel, eagerly anticipating the adventures ahead.
Day 2: A Day of Spiritual Serenity and Snowy Wonders After an early breakfast, I set off for Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir. The drive itself was mesmerizing, with snow-capped peaks surrounding me. When I reached Tsomgo Lake, I was awestruck by its pristine blue waters reflecting the sky. I couldn't resist hopping onto a yak for a short ride—an experience I will never forget.
Next, I visited Baba Mandir, a revered site with a deep sense of calm. Luckily, I managed to get a permit for Nathula Pass, where I traveled in a shared jeep to the Indo-China border. Standing there at such a high altitude, surrounded by snow, was surreal. By evening, I was back in Gangtok, feeling grateful for an incredible day.
Day 3: Journey to the Tranquil Hamlet of Lachen At 9 AM, I departed for North Sikkim. The drive to Lachen was a feast for the eyes, with cascading waterfalls and breathtaking valleys. We stopped at Seven Sisters Waterfall and Singhik Viewpoint, where I captured some stunning pictures.
By 6 PM, I reached the quiet and charming village of Lachen. The warm hospitality made me feel at home. After a delicious dinner, I went to bed early, excited for the next day's high-altitude adventure.
Day 4: The Breathtaking Gurudongmar Lake and Lachung At 4 AM, I set off for Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world. As we ascended, the landscape transformed into a snow desert. The moment I reached the lake, I was left speechless—the serene, turquoise waters amid the towering mountains looked like something out of a dream.
After a quick breakfast at Thangu Valley, we returned to Lachen for lunch before heading to Lachung. The road to Lachung was equally scenic, and I enjoyed the outer view of Chopta Valley along the way. By nightfall, I reached my hotel, had a delicious meal, and drifted into a peaceful sleep.
Day 5: The Blooming Paradise of Yumthang Valley The morning began with an excursion to the enchanting Yumthang Valley, also known as the 'Valley of Flowers.' As I entered, I was greeted by a riot of colors—rhododendrons in hues of red, pink, and purple were in full bloom. I also visited the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary and took a relaxing dip in the hot springs, which was a wonderful experience in the cold weather.
The optional trip to Zero Point was too tempting to pass up. Luckily, the road was accessible, and I found myself in a snow-covered wonderland. After lunch, we began our journey back to Gangtok, and I reflected on the sheer beauty I had witnessed in North Sikkim.
Day 6: Discovering Gangtok’s Cultural and Natural Beauty My last full day in Gangtok was dedicated to exploring the city's top attractions. I started with Ganesh Tok, which offered a panoramic view of Gangtok. The lush Plant Conservatory, Lhasa Falls, and Tashi Viewpoint were equally captivating.
I also visited Bakthang Waterfall, the Cottage Industry, the Flower Show, and Ridge Park. Enchey Monastery provided a peaceful retreat, while Do Drul Chorten and the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology deepened my understanding of Buddhism. I ended the day with a thrilling self-operated ropeway ride, taking in the spectacular aerial views of Gangtok.
Day 7: Farewell to Sikkim As I packed my bags and prepared to leave, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. The drive back to NJP was filled with nostalgia, and I couldn't stop reminiscing about the breathtaking landscapes, the warmth of the locals, and the unforgettable experiences.
A heartfelt thank you to thetripbuddy.in for arranging such a well-organized and beautiful tour. Their seamless planning and attention to detail made this trip truly memorable. As I boarded my train at 6 PM, I knew that Sikkim had left a permanent mark on my heart, and I couldn't wait for my next adventure.