Sikkim is a state in northeastern India. It borders Tibet in the north and northeast, Bhutan in the east, Nepal in the west, and West Bengal in the south. Sikkim is also located close to India's Siliguri Corridor near Bangladesh. Sikkim is the least populous and second smallest among the Indian states.

Sikkim

A part of the Eastern Himalaya, Sikkim is notable for its biodiversity, including alpine and subtropical climates, as well as being a host to Kangchenjunga, the highest peak in India and third highest on Earth. Sikkim's capital and largest city is Gangtok. Almost 35% of the state is covered by the Khangchendzonga National Park. Trekking in Sikkim is a popular activity that can be tailored to any visitor, as long as you get the right tour package from a reputable company. Durations can range from short to lengthy stays, but you should consider at least five days and four nights so that you have enough time to enjoy the sights and sounds of the region.

Also read about: (Home to the wild in Sikkim)

Here are some of the experiences you can consider:

Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary

The Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary or Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary occupies 104 km2 in the Singalila Range in western Sikkim. It borders on Nepal to the west, and on the state of West Bengal to the south across the Rambong Khola stream. The rhododendrons bloom during March and April. The most popular entry is Hilley since it is approachable by road and Varsey is only 4 km trek from this point along an undulating path shaded by different species of rhododendron. Sikkim government has an arrangement for tourists to stay on top of the hill in a forest barrack. There are now several home-stays at the entrance of Versay Rhododendron Sanctuary as well as at Okhrey, which is a small village inhabited by mainly the Sherpa community.

Dzongri Trek

Sikkim has always been a great host to those in love with increasing altitudes, and this time the season calls for Dzongri. The trek to Dzongri may be one of the most difficult treks along the Himalayas, but the energy spent is worthwhile. The green-gold patchwork-like view and the feel of something abstract in a place so surreal are what make the journey a memorable one. It’s a 8 days trek and is best in October to January months.

Fhambong Lho Trek

It is exciting to know that this hike to Teenjurey peak has recently opened up within Fhambong Lho Sanctuary. The hike is very close to Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. This is a beginner’s hike on the difficulty level. The hike is very easy and you will be rewarded with one of the most wonderful and heartwarming views of the mountains. If you keep really quiet during your hike, you might get lucky and spot a red panda.

Goecha La Trek

This extended trek upto Goecha La (4950m) offers a majestic close up of the southwestern face of Mt. Khangchendzonga (8586m), the third highest peak in the world. The best time to visit for clear views is post monsoon, i.e, between September and December, and the best time to view the vegetation, especially rhododendron blooms, is in spring (March-April). In the lower altitudes, from Yuksom to Dzongri, the route is covered with dense vegetation of the Himalayan region.

Green Lake Trek

Originating from Lachen, the hamlet in North Sikkim, this 8 days trek continues to the Mt. Kanchendzonga Base Camp on the captivating Zemu Glacier. Most of the ascends and descends in this trek takes the participants through scenic patches of forests that are ornamented with rhododendrons, colourful flowers, rare orchids, pine and oak trees. Along the trek, the trekkers can also spot varieties of birds and scenic waterfalls.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek begins from Yuksom, a small village in West Sikkim. It continues in Dzongri, Laxmi, Pokhari, Rathong Glacier, Kanchenjunga Base Camp and back to Yuksom. The trekking camp duration is of 11 days. Trekkers get to see the fantastic views from Mount Khangchendzonga (8,586 m), Mount Pandim (6,691 m), Mount Kokthang (6,148 m) and many other peaks located in the region.

Lama Angden Base Camp

Trekking in Sikkim can include a visit to the Lama Angden Peak where you can bask in the natural beauty of the environment while overlooking the snow-clad mountains in the surrounding area. The giant Lama Angden Peak shadows the picturesque village of Lachen. It can be seen standing right on the top of the village. This is the shortest and at the same time the most exciting trek in Lachen. Anticipate salubrious air, lush greenery, and snow-clad mountains during the trek.

Maenam Hill Trek

The trek starts at an altitude of 7000 feet from Ravangla and goes up to 10,500 feet. It is around 12 km trek that starts from Ravangla and takes around 4 hours to climb up. The path of the trek is really steep and the trek trail goes through Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary where one can spot rhododendron, oak, chestnut and magnolia trees. Red Panda, Himalayan Black Bears and different varieties of deer are also can be seen in the sanctuary.