Sikkim offers some of the best trekking experiences in the Himalayas. Its majestic mountain ranges are a delight for adventure lovers. Here, we feature some of the most popular treks in Sikkim. By Karan Kaushik
While embarking on a trek in Sikkim is a sheer visual treat for the sore eyes, it also introduces you to the state’s rich biodiversity. Trekking through its calm terrains and remote villages offers discerning travellers a wonderful opportunity to see nature at its majestic best. If you are up for a little adventure in the Eastern Himalayas, we’ve some good recommendations.
7 treks in Sikkim you must embark on
Dzongri-Goechala Trek
View this post on Instagram
Perhaps the most popular trek in Sikkim, the Dzongri-Goechala Trek is also called the Khangchendzonga Trek. Expect great mountain views, birding opportunities, and dense forests. The trek begins from Yuksom and takes you through Tshoka, Dzongri, Kokchorung, Thansing, and Lhamune. Major attractions that you’ll come across during the seven to eight day-long trek include Samiti Lake and Goechala. The trek offers incredible views of Mt. Khangchendzonga, Mt. Goacha, and Mt. Pandim. The best time is from April to December, with May and October being peak seasons.
Monastic Trek
View this post on Instagram
This trek is special. It takes you through the several age-old monasteries that dot Sikkim’s landscape. The trek starts from Pelling and takes you through Pemayangtse, Sangaloching, and Rabdentse on the first day. Further up, you have the stunning Khecheopari Lake, Yuksom, and Norbughang Coronation Throne. The last stretch of the trek includes Dubdi Monastery and Tashiding Monastery. The trek ends at either Jorethang or Gyanzing, depending on the route.
Rhododendron Trek
View this post on Instagram
Sikkim is blessed with an impressive variety of Rhododendrons. The Rhododendron Trek is mostly done during the months from April to June as the flowers are in full bloom during this period. The first major stop on this trek is the Barsai Rhododendron Sanctuary. You can set base in either Okhre or Hilley and explore Barsai. Other important points in the trek are Jorbutri, Kalizar, and Chewabhanjan. The trek culminates at Uttaray, from where you can proceed to Gangtok.
Khedi Trek
View this post on Instagram
Mostly taken by the natives of Sikkim, the Khedi Trek is moderately easy. Largely untouched by tourists, the trek compels you to put up your camps owing to the lack of homestays and trekking huts. Most experts advise doing this trek with the help of a tour operator. The starting point of the trek is Assam Lingzey village, from where you trek to Chaurikharkha. This trek also takes you to pristine lakes such as Ramitey, Dunga, Bhaley Pokhari, and Pothi Pokhari. Another prominent point during the six-day trek is the Sela Pass, which offers rewarding views of Tsomgo and Kupup lakes. The last stretch includes Talkharka before you return to your base at Assam Lingzey.
Singalila Trek
View this post on Instagram
One of the most challenging treks in Sikkim, the Singalila Trek begins from Uttarey. Overnight stops during this long 10-11 days trek are Chewabhanjan, Dhur, Meghu, Dafeybhir, Tikipchu, Dzongri, Thangsing, and Tshoka. The best part about this trek is the hike from Lhamuni to Samiti Lake and further up to the Goechala Pass. It’s best that you embark on this trek through a travel agency since it’s an expert-grade trek.
Phoktey Dara Trek
View this post on Instagram
Possibly the most picturesque trek in Sikkim, this easy trek treats you with unparalleled views of Mt. Khangchendzonga and even the magnificent Mt. Everest. Both the mountains can be seen from Phoktey Dara and Singalila Ridge. The trek only takes three days. On the first day, you trek to Thulodhab from Uttaray. The next day requires you to trek from Thulodabh to Kalizar. You can also visit Phoktey Dara on this day. The third and last day of the trek takes you to Singalila Ridge. The last bit of the trek is from Chewabhanjan to Uttaray.
Tendong Trek
View this post on Instagram
Being a day trek, the Tendong Trek is quite popular among trekking lovers. It’s an easy trek and one needs to register with the Forest Department to take this trek. You’ll also be required to present your id proof at the Police Checkpost in Ravangla. The trek begins from Chemchey and takes you to Tendong Hill via Damthang. There’s another route you may take. This one takes you from Ravangla to Bhaledunga via Mainam before ending at Yangyang. The Tendong hilltop is a heritage site and holds immense significance for the Lepcha community. In August, the Tendong Lho-rumfaat festival is celebrated on the hilltop.
Related: By Air, By Road, By Train: A Complete Travel Guide To Gangtok
