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Writer's pictureAnjali Srivastav

The Top 10 Trekking Adventures in Sikkim


Beautiful scenery and a broad range of trekking excursion options may be found in the Himalayan region of Sikkim in the northeast. It is recognized as a site for exploring Sikkim's rich cultural legacy and the Himalayas' uncharted grandeur, both of which are known for leaving an unforgettable impression. So if you're looking for a little excitement, we suggest that you start planning a trip to Sikkim in 2023.


List of 10 Best Trekking Routes in Sikkim Himalayas

  • Goecha La Trek

  • Rhododendron Trek

  • Dzongri Trek

  • Sandakphu Trek

  • Varsey Trek

  • Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek

  • Kasturi Orar Round Trek

  • Singalila & Goecha La Trek

  • Dzongri Goecha La Trek

  • Green Lake Trek


Goecha La Trek



The breathtaking Goecha La Trek is the one and only way to get a genuine taste of everything that Sikkim and its surrounding area have to offer. As it climbs to a height of 4939 meters, this well-known hike takes hikers through some of the most breathtaking landscapes that the Himalayas have to offer. This trek is one of a kind and something to be treasured because it provides you the chance to watch not only Kanchenjunga but also the other 14 key peaks, such as Mt. Pandim, Mt. Thingchinkhang, and Mt. Jopuno. This is something to be cherished because it offers you the opportunity to observe not only Kanchenjunga but also the other 14 essential peaks. It is absolutely isolated in the forest, where there is a refreshing wind blowing all around it, and it is completely by itself.


Despite the fact that the weather in the Himalayas may appear to be pleasant and inviting, many people believe that this walk has a level of difficulty that runs from moderately difficult to demanding. This is because the weather in those mountains may sometimes be really severe. People who enjoy going on hikes frequently visit Goecha La, which is also known as the Pride of Sikkim, and the higher mountains of Bengal and the North-East. This location is one of the most popular places in the world to go trekking.


Altitude: 4939 meters


Grade: Moderate to Difficult


Best Time to Trek: The majestic razor sharp snow clad mountains are best visible in the months of March-May and mid-Sept to November


Base Camp: Yuksom


Getting There: Yuksom is an impeccably quiet little town source is a base camp for trekkers and the point to soaring up the mountains. Taxis and buses are available from Gangtok, Sikkim which may take around 4 hours to reach the base. However, getting here one can avail of transport from Bagdogra airport or NJP railways which may take around 4 to 5 hours to Gangtok.


Rhododendron Trek



The Rhododendron Trail is widely regarded as one of the more cutting-edge hiking routes available. This expedition will bring us to a meandering path that is fragrant and covered with a broad range of flowers in a rainbow of colors and sizes. It will take us to some of the most stunningly beautiful regions of the Himalayas, and it will lead us to the path. It is highly recommended that you take some time to admire the view. This trip is perfect for everyone who is interested in viewing beautiful settings and the slopes of the Himalayas. The reason for this is that it passes through some of the most spectacular Rhododendron forests in Sikkim.


The rhododendron species Arboreum, Falconeri, Barbatum Campanulatium, and Hodgsoni all provide stunning displays of color throughout the springtime blooming season, regardless of the height at which they are situated. The Rhododendron Trek will lead you through a number of beautiful meadows and a rich flower garden on its way to a few Sikkimese villages that are famous for the laid-back manner of life in which its residents live. There is no way to accurately convey the astounding beauty of this trek without mentioning the Kanchenjunga range, which is not something that should be missed.


Enjoy the gorgeous landscape of the surrounding hills as you take a leisurely stroll through the oak and rhododendron forests. While you are out there, make sure to stop and take in the sights. The Rhododendron Valleys are home to a diverse collection of avian species, many of which may be seen soaring over the valley in the springtime.


Altitude: 1728 meters


Grade: Easy to Moderate


Best Time to Trek: April to mid-May


Base Camp: Yuksom


Getting There: Yuksom is an impeccably quiet little town source is a base camp for trekkers and the point to soaring up the mountains. Taxis and buses are available from Gangtok, Sikkim which may take around 4 hours to reach the base. However, getting here one can avail of transport from Bagdogra airport or NJP railways which may take around 4 to 5 hours to Gangtok.


Dzongri Trek



Participants on this excursion, which takes place in the Indian state of Sikkim at an elevation of around 4,020 meters, are treated to a breathtaking view of the huge Kanchenjunga as well as Mount Pandim from a very close distance. If you go up one of Sikkim's many paths, you might be able to get a glimpse of the state's breathtaking beauty at a few different spots along the journey. When you take in the broad view of the mountain and the gorgeous valleys that lay below it, it will be difficult for you to catch your breath since the scenery is so breathtaking. During this walk, you will make your way through a variety of stunning valleys that are full to the brim with rhododendron, magnolia pine, maple, and oak trees, in addition to an abundance of vivid flowers and lush green flora.


This path does not need any strenuous effort from the visitor, and it delivers them to intriguing sights along the way, so it is perfect for tourists who are just starting out on their travels. The Dzongri Trek begins at Yuksom Village and makes its way through lovely, small settlements like Tshoka Village, where hikers may stop for a rest before continuing on with their journey.


Altitude: 4020 meters


Grade: Easy to Moderate


Best Time to Trek: Mid-March to May and September to November


Base Camp: Yuksom


Getting There: Yuksom is an impeccably quiet little town source is a base camp for trekkers and the point to soaring up the mountains. Taxis and buses are available from Gangtok, Sikkim which may take around 4 hours to reach the base. However, getting here one can avail of transport from Bagdogra airport or NJP railways which may take around 4 to 5 hours to Gangtok.


Sandakphu Trek



You will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the great Kanchenjunga, Mount Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu as you make your way up the beautiful pathways of Sandakphu. In its most literal interpretation, the term "Sandakphu" refers to the height of the poison plant that substitutes for the deadly aconite trees. The presence of many distinct kinds of Rhododendrons along the whole length of the route is one of the most appealing aspects of the area. These flowers bloom from the middle of March to the middle of May and from the middle of September to the middle of November. This hike begins in Mane Bhanjang, which is approximately 58 km from Darjeeling. Along the way, you will pass through a number of small towns, including Meghma, Tonglu, Tumling, Garibas, and Kala Pokhari, on your way to Sandakphu. The entirety of the trip takes between four and five days, during which time passengers can stop and recover in these friendly communities.


The peak of the mountain of paradise has an elevation of 3636 meters and is blanketed with snow at its highest points. The majestic Sandakphu may be reached by foot from a number of different trails in the Darjeeling and Sikkim area. On a day when the weather is bright and sunny, the tallest mountain in the world may be viewed from Sandakphu. One may receive the whole Sikkim cultural experience by traveling down the twisting and narrow route that runs along the border between India and Nepal.


Altitude: 3636 meters


Grade: Easy to Moderate


Best Time to Trek: It is best visited in the months of April and May to see blooming flowers and the months of October to December to witness its scenic beauty.


Base Camp: Mane Bhanjang


Getting There: Mane Bhanjang is the starting point of the trek which is about an hour from Darjeeling and four hours from Bagdogra/ NJP. You can avail taxi or bus from these two locals as it is much closer and convenient. You can also travel via Gangtok which may take around 4 hours.


Varsey Trek



Varsey offers everything you could possibly want, from friendly locals to attractive mountain peaks. On this Himalayan adventure, one may come across wonderful hiking trails in Sikkim that are adorned with red and pink rhododendrons. The casual hikers and nature enthusiasts who seek the thrill and contentment that comes from being in close proximity to the natural world are the ones who will get the most out of this stroll in the park.


The Varsey Trek, which travels up to an altitude of 3,300 meters, is an excellent option for a leisurely stroll over the course of a weekend since it is surrounded by a variety of gorgeous mosses as well as several varieties of flora and fauna. A riot of colors can be seen all about you as you go down the path that is so lovely, passing by the hills and valleys that are so vividly colored.


The path is lined with flaming rhododendron and serves as a haven for birds who are accustomed to living at higher elevations. All that is required is a drive of 17 kilometers to reach Damthang, followed by a strenuous trek of 12 miles to reach Varsey. You will want to embark on another excursion after experiencing this one, which takes place at an elevation of around 30,600 meters and is located close to the border with Nepal.


Altitude: 3060 meters


Grade: Easy to Moderate


Best Time to Trek: April and May get awe-inspired by vibrant red and pink rhododendron spread across the hills and valley.


Base Camp: Damthang


Getting There: You can reach the base camp by driving for about 17 kilometers from Gangtok till you reach your destination to ascend uphill.


Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek



The trek up Kanchenjunga is perhaps one of the most well-known excursions that can be taken advantage of in Sikkim. Despite the difficulty of the hike itself, the view of Mount Kanchenjunga that you will be rewarded with at the end of the journey will be unparalleled. Starting in Yuksom, the journey to Samiti and Kokchorung travels via the cities of Tshoka, Thangsing, Dzongri, Lamune, and Goecha La on its way to Samiti and Kokchorung. The trail also crosses the Goecha La pass. When traveling in the opposite direction, the trail starts at Yuksom. It is home to the Kanchenjunga Biosphere Reserve and has views of a rich variety of flora and fauna in addition to the thriving greenery that can be found within the reserve itself.


The base station is not only one of the most aesthetically appealing camps in the Himalayas, but it also serves as the starting point for a variety of challenging mountain treks in the region. People who do not have a strong sense of adventure and who do not live an adventurous lifestyle may find it challenging to complete this walk because it takes trekkers through some harsh terrain in the Himalayas. The trekkers are going to be treated to stunning panoramas that include not just Mount Kanchenjunga but also a number of other stunning mountains of varying heights.


Altitude: 5086 meters


Grade: Moderate to Difficult


Best Time to Trek: March to May or if you like snow-clad mountains then between September and November is the month to be.


Base Camp: Yuksom


Getting There: Yuksom is an impeccably quiet little town source is a base camp for trekkers and the point to soaring up the mountains. Taxis and buses are available from Gangtok, Sikkim which may take around 4 hours to reach the base. However, getting here one can avail of transport from Bagdogra airport or NJP railways which may take around 4 to 5 hours to Gangtok.


Kasturi Orar Round Trek



The Kasturi Pass is a walk that can be done in either direction, and it takes you past numerous stunning glaciers on the route to Tashiding, including the Goecha La, Dzongri, and Thangsing Valley. The Kasturi Pass is a walk that can be done in either direction. This location is a traveler's paradise due to the breathtaking scenery that can be found there. In order to reach Kasturi, you will have to go on several routes that have never been traveled before within Kanchenjunga National Park as well as through a few small settlements. There, you will have the chance to rest and get your strength back before continuing your journey.


During the course of this fascinating journey, you will have the chance to learn about the culture of Nepal as well as participate in activities that are typical of that country. This thrilling journey will take you to heights of up to 4,500 meters, and it is typically regarded as a more challenging activity than other regular sorts of treks due to the higher elevations you will reach. The hikers travel through a variety of scenic and isolated towns in this region on both their trek up the 3,800-meter-high slopes of Mount Pandim and their descent down the perilous glacier crevasses. This region is known for its natural beauty and isolation.


Altitude: 5002 meters


Grade: Moderate to Difficult


Best Time to Trek: The best month to visit Kasturi is between the months of March–May, and September – November.


Base Camp: Yuksom


Getting There: Yuksom is an impeccably quiet little town source is a base camp for trekkers and the point to soaring up the mountains. Taxis and buses are available from Gangtok, Sikkim which may take around 4 hours to reach the base. However, getting here one can avail of transport from Bagdogra airport or NJP railways which may take around 4 to 5 hours to Gangtok.


Singalila and Goecha La Trek



You will get the chance to explore some of the most stunning mountain peaks, valleys, and tea plantations in the area while you are on this tour. On the Everest Trek, you will make a stop at the Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, which is renowned for its vibrant blossoms and spectacular vistas of the mountains in the area, including Everest and Kanchenjunga. The towering Rhododendron bushes and majestic Oak trees are the greatest homages that could possibly be paid to the Himalayan mountains. These plants are found in the foothills of the Himalayas.


Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for a wide array of one-of-a-kind birds as they whiz quickly in the air above you as you take in the magnificent view of the towering Kanchenjunga Range. As you do so, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the breathtaking panorama of the towering Kanchenjunga Range. You won't want to miss out on those opportunities! As you continue to climb, you will see that the dense, green forest gives way to a magnificent rhododendron forest as you reach higher elevations. You will be able to distinguish between the two. When you get to that point in the adventure, the path will lead you through the meadows, thus you will have no choice but to walk through them. On this journey, it would be to your benefit to have as many individuals with you as you possibly can manage to bring along with you. Bring with you the greatest number of people that you are able to.


Altitude: 4940 meters


Grade: Moderate to Difficult


Best Time to Trek: The best month to visit Kasturi is between the months of March–May, and September – November.


Base Camp: Mane Bhanjang


Getting There: Mane Bhanjang is the starting point of the trek which is about an hour from Darjeeling and four hours from Bagdogra/ NJP. You can avail taxi or bus from these two locals as it is much closer and convenient. You can also travel via Gangtok which may take around 4 hours.


Dzongri – Goechala Trek



Hikers are treated to a beautiful panorama of snow-capped mountains in the distance as they make their way down the trail, which passes through the Rathong Valley and Bakkhim. You will get the opportunity to take in some of the most breathtaking vistas of the Kanchenjunga Range on your hike. Hikers have a great opportunity to get up close and personal with the Himalayan mountain range here in this location, which is located in this country.


The path that travels to Goecha La and Dzongri follows in the footsteps of the Tshoka routes that initially lead to Phedang and ultimately arrive at Dzongri. Dzongri is located at an altitude of 4,020 meters, and it offers breathtaking views of the mountain ranges that are located in the surrounding area in addition to the possibility of seeing uncommon animals. The Goecha La pass is the location of the route's highest elevation. Hikers who explore the area around Goecha La may have the opportunity to see magnificent mountains such as Kanchenjunga and Pandim. The trail weaves its way up till it reaches its highest point, and on the way, it passes through a number of valleys and woods that are really stunning.


Altitude: 4020 meters and 4939 meters respectively


Grade: Moderate to Difficult


Best Time to Trek: The best month to visit Kasturi is between the months of March–May, and September – November.


Base Camp: Yuksom


Getting There: Yuksom is an impeccably quiet little town source is a base camp for trekkers and the point to soaring up the mountains. Taxis and buses are available from Gangtok, Sikkim which may take around 4 hours to reach the base. However, getting here one can avail of transport from Bagdogra airport or NJP railways which may take around 4 to 5 hours to Gangtok.


Green Lake Trek



The Green Lake Trek is not only one of the most well-guarded secrets in the Himalayas, but it is also one of the tourist spots in Sikkim that draws the fewest number of people in its entirety all at once. It is surrounded on all sides by breathtaking landscapes, such as rugged mountains and vibrant meadows, both of which are home to a huge diversity of plant and animal species. It is a natural habitat for a wide range of flora and fauna. A real paradise reveals itself to be an all-inclusive hiking adventure that can be appreciated by all visitors, in addition to those individuals who have an interest in the natural world. This kind of outing is perfect for those who are interested in the natural world.


The visitors who stay at this inn are met with a view that takes in the entirety of the Himalayan range, including the cloud-covered peaks of Kanchenjunga, as soon as they step outside their rooms. Taking in the stunning natural environment that can be seen along the winding highways will be the highlight of the walk that you are going to take. Along the twisting roads, you will find this breathtakingly beautiful setting, which may include rare orchids in addition to broad vistas of the surrounding area.


Altitude: 5050 meters


Grade: Moderate to Difficult


Best Time to Trek: April or October


Base Camp: Lachen


Getting There: To reach the base, you can get taxis from Gangtok, the entire journey will take you about 6 hours to reach the base i.e. 135 kilometers.

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