With a population of only 43,709 inhabitants, North Sikkim is the least inhabited district in Sikkim and is a traveller’s haven. This district is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sikkim and is extremely beautiful and charming. 

North Sikkim shares its boundary with India’s two neighbouring countries: China and Nepal. The temperature in this district is always lower than that of the other areas of the state. However, during the winters, the temperature drops down drastically and you can see the valleys and the mountains draped in a thick layer of snow.

Anyone who visits North Sikkim will see a slice of heaven in India. The majestic Himalayan peaks and the mountains like Mount Khangchendzonga guarding the beautiful valleys in the north of Sikkim is a sight to behold. 

Top 7 places to visit in North Sikkim

(1) Mangan – The Headquarter

Mangan is a mystically beautiful area in North Sikkim and is situated at an altitude of 956 m above sea level. This place serves as a base for hiking and trekking trips in the mountains and the forests of North Sikkim. 

To travel to most of the places in North Sikkim, an Inner Line Permit (IPL) is required. However, you do not need any ILP to visit Mangan. You can go for short treks in Mangan and also visit some old British Heritage Bungalows in Singhik.

Some of the common things to do in this area of North Sikkim are going for day picnics, camping, visiting organic vegetable and orange farms, etc. While heading towards North Sikkim, you can also see the famous Seven Sisters Waterfall and the Naga Waterfall. 

(2) Phudong Monastery – One of the Important Monasteries in Sikkim

Located about 28 km from Gangtok, Phudong Monastery is one of the important and oldest monasteries of Sikkim in the north. Phudong Monastery was built in the 18th century and is a popular place to visit. Its striking architecture with vibrant and beautiful walls, stunning exteriors, and delicate interiors can make anyone who visits the monastery happy.

Towering at an altitude of 4500 m with the gorgeous backdrop of huge green hills and calm valleys, Phudong Monastery houses around 260 monks. 

(3) Dzongu Valley – Calm and Beautiful

Dzongu is a beautiful valley in North Sikkim with icy cold rivulets, hot springs, luscious green forests, and exotic flora and fauna. With Himalayan peaks on the horizon that surround the calm and beautiful valleys of Dzongu, you can go on village excursions and explore the valley. There are also several homestays to stay at Dzongu. 

(4) Lachen – A Noteworthy Place for Buddhist Pilgrims

Lachen is a beautiful town in the northern district of Sikkim. Its natural beauty, serene vegetation, and beautiful villages attract a large number of tourists from all over the world. Lachen is one of the most noteworthy places for Buddhist pilgrims and tourists. 

This less-populated place is also the gateway to the famous and sacred Gurudongmar Lake in the north. You can visit Lachen Monastery, Lachen Chu, Angora Rabbit Farm, David Neel Cave, Tarum hotspring, Chopta Valley, and more in and around Lachen.

Lachen also makes the base station for many trekking areas like Green Lake, Khangchendzonga National Park, Zemu Glacier trek, Mount Siniolchu base camp, etc in North Sikkim. 

(5) Lachung – A Valley Under the Mountains

About 47 km from Lachen is a splendid destination with many waterfalls and mesmerizing hills called Lachung. Lachung is quite a landmark in Sikkim’s tourism scene with several snow-capped mountains, sparkling streams, and spectacular valleys. 

Lachung is one of the best holiday destinations to visit in North Sikkim and is also a preferred base to visit the beautiful Yumthang Valley. Some of the places that you can visit in Lachung are Handicraft Centre, Lachung Monastery, and Katao.

(6) Yumthang Valley – The Valley of Flowers

Yumthang Valley also called the ‘Valley of flowers’ in North Sikkim, is a rare and exotic location that offers astonishing views like yaks grazing the valleys, hot springs, green meadows, and rivers. This valley houses over 24 species of rhododendron flowers at Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, which bloom between late February and mid-June. 

Yumthang Valley is truly a paradise for nature lovers. However, this valley remains closed to tourists for a few months in the winter due to heavy snowfall in the region. The hot springs in this valley are believed to have healing powers and cure diseases.

(7) Gurudongmar Lake – The Scared Lake 

Gurudongmar Lake is a must-visit place in North Sikkim. This lake rests at an altitude of 5154 m amidst the bewitching snow-covered mountains and is believed to be one of the sacred lakes in the state. 

This stunning lake freezes during the winters except for a small area which is believed to have been blessed by Guru Padmasambhava in the 8th century. The water of this lake is also believed to have miraculous healing powers that can cure many diseases and grant children to childless couples.

North Sikkim may be one of the uninhabited areas in the country, yet it is extremely captivating and beautiful. Perhaps there is none who can ignore the landscapes, beautiful terrain, mountains, pristine rivers, waterfalls, and the hot springs of North Sikkim. 

Sikkim Tour Packages