7-Day Sikkim Itinerary: The Perfect Gangtok, North Sikkim & Darjeeling Loop
If you’re dreaming of snow-clad mountains, charming hill towns, and the soulful rhythm of the Himalayas — Sikkim and Darjeeling together make for one of the most unforgettable journeys in India.
In just 7 days, you can experience the best of Gangtok, North Sikkim (Lachen & Lachung), and Darjeeling — a perfect combination of natural beauty, adventure, and culture.
At Sikkim Diaries Tours & Treks, we’ve designed this ultimate 7-day Sikkim itinerary to help you explore the region comfortably, efficiently, and meaningfully.
Overview of the 7-Day Sikkim Loop
- Route: Gangtok → Lachen → Gurudongmar Lake → Lachung → Yumthang Valley → Gangtok → Darjeeling
- Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
- Best Time to Visit: March to June (spring–summer) and October to December (autumn–winter)
This route combines the vibrant capital of Gangtok, the raw Himalayan wilderness of North Sikkim, and the colonial charm of Darjeeling, making it the most balanced and fulfilling Sikkim experience.
Day 1: Arrival in Gangtok – Gateway to Sikkim
Arrive at Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP). From there, enjoy a scenic 4–5 hour drive to Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim.
Highlights:
- River Teesta views en route
- Evening stroll at MG Marg, Gangtok’s main street
- Try local food at popular cafés like Baker’s Café or Nimtho
- Overnight Stay: Gangtok
Tip: Sikkim Diaries Tours & Treks can assist with all transfers, permits, and comfortable hotel arrangements in Gangtok.
Day 2: Excursion to Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir
Spend your first full day exploring some of Sikkim’s most scenic high-altitude attractions.
Highlights:
- Tsomgo Lake (12,400 ft): A glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
- Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir: A revered temple dedicated to an Indian Army soldier.
- Optional: Nathula Pass (Indo-China border, subject to permit and weather conditions).
- Overnight Stay: Gangtok
Note: Permits for Nathula Pass and Tsomgo Lake are mandatory and will be arranged by Sikkim Diaries Tours & Treks.
Day 3: Gangtok to Lachen (Approx. 120 km / 6–7 hrs)
Start early for Lachen, a tranquil mountain village and the base for Gurudongmar Lake.
En Route Attractions:
- Seven Sisters Waterfall
- Naga Waterfall
- Singhik View Point (great view of Mt. Kanchenjunga)
- Overnight Stay: Lachen
- Tip: The air gets thinner as you ascend — stay hydrated and avoid alcohol.
Day 4: Lachen – Gurudongmar Lake – Lachung
- Rise early (around 4 AM) to visit Gurudongmar Lake (17,800 ft) — one of the highest lakes in the world. The journey through snow-filled valleys is surreal, and the turquoise lake is a sight you’ll never forget.
- After returning to Lachen, continue your drive to Lachung, another stunning North Sikkim village surrounded by rhododendron forests.
- Overnight Stay: Lachung
Day 5: Lachung – Yumthang Valley – Zero Point – Gangtok
- Today, explore the breathtaking Yumthang Valley, known as the “Valley of Flowers.” In spring, the entire valley blooms with colorful rhododendrons. In winter, it turns into a snowy wonderland.
- If weather permits, visit Zero Point (Yumesamdong) — the last civilian-accessible point near the Indo-China border.
- After sightseeing, drive back to Gangtok for overnight stay.
- Overnight Stay: Gangtok
Day 6: Gangtok to Darjeeling (Approx. 100 km / 4 hrs)
After breakfast, depart for Darjeeling, the “Queen of the Hills.” The route offers mesmerizing views of tea gardens, forests, and distant mountains.
Evening Highlights:
- Explore Mall Road and Chowrasta
- Sip authentic Darjeeling Tea at local cafés
- Overnight Stay: Darjeeling
Day 7: Darjeeling Sightseeing & Departure
Start early to witness one of the most iconic Himalayan sunrises.
Highlights:
- Tiger Hill: Panoramic sunrise over Mt. Kanchenjunga (and Everest on clear days).
- Batasia Loop: A historic spiral railway track.
- Ghoom Monastery: One of the oldest in the region.
- Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park & Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
- Peace Pagoda
- After sightseeing, depart for Bagdogra or NJP, marking the end of a spectacular 7-day Himalayan journey.
Travel Tips for This Itinerary
- Permits: North Sikkim & Nathula require special permits, easily arranged by Sikkim Diaries Tours & Treks.
- Altitude Caution: Gurudongmar and Zero Point are high-altitude areas; carry basic medicines and avoid exertion.
- Packing: Warm clothes, sturdy shoes, sunscreen, and ID proofs are a must.
- Connectivity: Internet and phone networks may be limited in remote areas.
- Cash: Keep cash handy; ATMs are scarce in North Sikkim.
Why Choose Sikkim Diaries Tours & Treks
With years of experience organizing customized Sikkim & North Bengal tours, we ensure every traveler enjoys a safe, comfortable, and memorable trip.
What We Offer:
- All required permits & documentation
- Comfortable vehicles with local drivers
- Handpicked stays in Gangtok, Lachen, Lachung & Darjeeling
- Experienced guides and 24/7 on-ground support
Let Sikkim Diaries Tours & Treks take care of every detail — so you can simply relax and experience the magic of the Himalayas.
Plan your 7-day Sikkim–Darjeeling adventure today!
Visit: https://sikkimdiaries.com
Phone no: 6295198565
Mail ID: hello@sikkimdiaries.com
Explore Package: sikkimdiaries.com
