We’ve all been on sightseeing tours that take us to the same tourist spots that everyone else visits—which means long entry lines, crowded spots, and jostling with other tourists for that perfect picture. 

If you want to break free from the usual itinerary, you can opt for different activities that let you explore Sikkim in a fun way.

8 ACTIVITIES THAT ARE WORTH EXPERIENCING

(1) HELICOPTER RIDE

Take a 15-min joy ride over Gangtok city in a helicopter. The ride will give you glimpses of the city, its forests, river, hills, and spectacular views of the snow-capped Himalayas.

Price: INR 9500 (seats 5)

(2) PARAGLIDING

For the adventurous at heart, paragliding has become an immensely popular way of enjoying an aerial view of Gangtok. You can opt for medium fly (1300-1400 m) or high fly (2,200 m). 

Price: Medium fly: INR 2500 per person/ High fly: INR 4500 per person 

Blog post: Flying without wings: Paragliding in Gangtok

(3) MOUNTAIN BIKING

The long roads of Sikkim are ideal for mountain biking. The roads take you past waterfalls and across wooden bridges, and on longer routes, there are small hamlets along the way where you can stop for a bite or tea. The mountain bikes are well-maintained, so riding on slopes won’t be a problem.

Price: INR 600-1000

Blog post: 5 Cycling Trails in Gangtok Worth Peddling This Weekend

(4) DAY HIKE

There are many nature trails across Sikkim that make for great 1-day hikes. National parks also offer incredible trails and give you the chance to spot wildlife, butterflies, and different types of foliage unique to the Himalayan region. The Teenjurey hike inside the Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary in East Sikkim is a popular hiking trail.

Entry fee: INR 55 per adult

Blog post: Why the Teenjurey hike was dreadfully wonderful

(5) BIKE RIDE TO ZULUK

Zuluk is a small hamlet that falls on the famed Silk Route. What makes this route special is the 32 hairpin bends. It promises a thrilling ride and the views from every corner are spectacular. 

Price: INR 1800 (+1000 permit)

Blog post: Travel the Zuluk Silk Route

(6) CULINARY EXPERIENCE

The presence of different communities such as the Nepalis, Bhutias, and Lepchas has resulted in a number of interesting cuisines in the state. Influences from neighbouring countries such as Nepal and Bhutan can also be seen in the food. MG Marg in East Gangtok is full of restaurants serving authentic food such as Thakali cuisine, Newari cuisine, Tibetan dishes, etc.

Book a food tour 

(7) RAFTING

The road from the airport/railway station to Gangtok is a 4-hour ride and it skirts the Teesta River. Midway, you can go for rafting on the Teesta. The ride takes you over 4-5 white water rapids and you can choose to cover either the 3 km or 7 km distance. 

Price: INR 3500 per boat (seats 6 people) 

(8) LEARN A CRAFT

The villages of Sikkim are known for skilled artisans. From bamboo crafts to hand-woven blankets, the craftsmanship is truly praise-worthy. The locals are more than happy to teach their craft, and it’s a good way to not just learn about the community but give back as well.  

Price: Depends on the activity

Blog post: Almost forgotten but still found in Parkha Village: Traditional handicrafts of Sikkim

CUSTOMISE YOUR ITINERARY

TourGenie’s packages are highly customisable, keeping your interests first. If you want to add any of these activities to your package, contact us. 

Note: You can also book any activity independent of a package.