Being a popular tourist destination, Sikkim offers a wide range of adventurous things to do, and the thrill of it is beyond comparison. Gangtok city, Tsomgo Lake, Ranka Monastery, and Lachung are some of the must-see places in Sikkim. This surreal Northeastern State offers adventurous activities such as rafting, paragliding, trekking, mountain biking, etc. All of these activities here seem to be irresistible for an ardent lover of nature and adventure.

With snow-capped hills, this Indian state is blessed with scenic beauty, where tourists visit throughout the year to witness it. The magical views of the landscapes with an array of flora and fauna look like Sikkim is straight out of fiction. Besides, there are 28 mountain peaks, 80+ glaciers, 227 high-altitude lakes, five major hot springs, 100+ rivers and streams. Moreover, the heart-warming hospitality of the people and their spirit in celebration of life itself make Sikkim a great place to spend your holidays. Booking a Sikkim tour package with Veena World offers a peaceful getaway. It also offers the opportunity to witness the world's third-highest mountain, Khangchendzonga. Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, offers a unique perspective into Sikkimese culture that echoes from every corner of its streets.

List of Adventurous Activities to do in Sikkim

Mountaineering

It is only recently that mountaineering in Sikkim has been introduced. This Indian state has no rivals when it comes to experiencing the thrill of mountaineering, as it is one of the top things to do in Sikkim. The Government of Sikkim has made an exception for some peaks to allow climbing. There are many peaks in Sikkim, of which only 5 peaks that are below 7000 M are open for mountaineering. Some of them are:

• Frey Peak - Situated in west Sikkim, this peak stands at an elevation of 5830 M. The difficulty level is moderate to fairly difficult.
• Jupono - With a difficulty level being high, Mt. Jupono stands at an elevation of 5603 M and lies in the western part of Sikkim.
• Brumkhangse - Situated in the north of Sikkim, this peak stands at an elevation of 5635 M with a moderate level of difficulty.
• Thinchenkhan - Standing at an elevation of 6010 M, this peak is appreciated by many climbers and people alike. It is located in Goecha La, the Gyalshing district of Sikkim.

Trekking

Mount Khangchendzonga is the jewel of the state of Sikkim, where the summit lies at 8589 M. Its beauty lures mountain lovers from all around the world. Even though trekking here is prohibited, trekkers find alternate ways to get close to it, to witness the majestic mountains and feel the energy. Sikkim offers some of the finest trekking experiences. The trekking route to Green Lake is considered one of the most beautiful in the whole of Sikkim. As you follow the trail, you will witness the enticing view of Himalayan peaks, thick forests where beautiful rhododendron and other colourful flowers bloom on both sides of the trail.

(Important notice: Foreign Nationals need permission to trek in these regions, which they can apply for through trekking agencies that are registered with the Department of Tourism & Civil Aviation, Government of Sikkim. However, Indian nationals can trek with their guides but need to inform their itinerary and plan at the local police check post.

Yak Safari

The Yak safari in Sikkim offers an immersive sightseeing experience and is ideal for all age groups. It covers places such as Tsomgo Lake in East Sikkim and also in the Chopta Valley, Lachen and Lachung in North Sikkim. An interesting fact about the Yak is that they are found in alpine zones, where the temperature is just right for these mammals to exist. Tourists come from all around the world to experience this, making it one of the best things to do in Sikkim. Yak safari offers a truly unforgettable experience, and Veena World encourages you to solely focus on creating an itinerary for creating similar experiences and memories that linger forever.

Camping

Camping is widely adopted as a part of recreational travel activity, ideal for all age groups. It has gained popularity among the younger generations of India. The Himalayan region is one of the most sought-after destinations for camping. Camping amongst the panoramic beauty of Sikkim and its snow-capped mountain ranges side by side is every adventurer’s calling. Popular camping sites in Sikkim are:

• Lamuney campsite – It is a high-altitude campsite that offers a thrilling experience.
• Teesta Riverside – The banks of the river offer rafting and multiple camping sites nearby.

Paragliding

Paragliding is considered an extreme sport which must be performed under the supervision of a professional or by professionals. This adventure sport is gaining popularity in India. For those who want to get close to nature, indulging in paragliding in Gangtok, Sikkim, is probably one of the best things to do. Sikkim is the home to perfect launching ridges and sites. For paragliding, it is a place you surely wouldn’t miss visiting. The scenic view of the Himalayas and the tiny villages from the top is simply breathtaking. For those who want to have the best paragliding experience in the country, Gangtok and its nearby areas are simply unmatched.

Best Time to Visit Sikkim

The best time to visit Sikkim is when the weather is dry and clear. However, for most people, it depends on what they want to do and where they want to be. For instance, if you want to avoid freezing temperatures, then Summer would be the best time to visit Sikkim. Regardless of the season, you can visit at any time of the year if you are looking for spontaneity and thrill.

Veena World offers an option for those who want to customise their holiday package. Our extensive range of tour packages gives you the freedom to plan your trip according to your preferences. You can choose the sightseeing destinations that pique your interest, ensuring that your holidays are filled with memories to cherish. For more information about our services, contact our travel advisor to learn more.

FAQs

Q1. Is it true that Sikkim was the first fully organic state in India?

Yes. Sikkim became the world’s first fully organic state in 2016, meaning all agriculture in the state is organic with no chemical fertilizers or pesticides used.

Q2. Do I need a special permit to visit restricted areas in Sikkim?

Certain areas like North Sikkim (e.g., Gurudongmar Lake, Lachen, Lachung) require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) issued by the Sikkim government. Foreign nationals require a Protected Area Permit (PAP).

Q3. What is the best time to witness local festivals in Sikkim?

Sikkim hosts many unique festivals like Losar, Bumchu, and Saga Dawa. The best time depends on the festival, but generally, spring and autumn are festival-rich seasons.

Q4. Are there any wildlife restrictions or do I need special permission for trekking?

For some protected areas, especially in national parks or wildlife sanctuaries, special permits or guidelines are necessary. For example, trekking in Khangchendzonga National Park requires permits.

Q5. How eco-friendly is tourism in Sikkim?

Sikkim promotes eco-tourism strongly, with initiatives to maintain cleanliness and preserve the environment. Tourists are encouraged to respect local culture and environment.