Sikkim Travel FAQs | Beera 'N' Baan Tours & Travels

Have Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about Sikkim tour packages, Gangtok sightseeing, travel permits, transportation and holiday planning with Beera 'N' Baan Tours & Travels.

How Many Days are enough for Sikkim Trip?

Ideally, 6-7 Days. Arrival and Departure takes a day each. Add a day or two for Gangtok.
Add 3-4 days for North Sikkim, and another 2 days if you can extend to visit Namchi, Rabangla and Pelling.

What is the Best time to Visit Sikkim?

April-May is the best time to visit Sikkim with sunny days and adequate snow in the higher altitude areas. June onwards, there is a chance of slight rainfall. Apart from North Sikkim, all other places are great during July-August-September. October-November-December is another amazing window for Sikkim. January onwards the North Sikkim again Starts to Close due to excess snowfall till the end of March.

Do Indian tourists need a permit to visit Sikkim?

The majority of places in Sikkim do not need a permit. However, places that lie in the border areas, including North Sikkim and higher altitudes of East Sikkim like the Silk Route, require a permit. But don't worry, your registered travel agent in Sikkim will take care of that.

Do foreigners need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) for Sikkim?

Yes, apart from the visa and Inner Line Permit, foreigners also require additional Permits to visit Restricted parts of Sikkim. These can be obtained after getting themselves registered in the website ''https://indianfrro.gov.in/efrro/myapp" . As per the latest update, this part will have to be done by the guest himself or herself. However, your travel agency counterpart in Sikkim would be ready to assist you in case of difficulty in Registration. Additionally, some highly sensitive border areas like Lake Gurudongmar and Nathula Pass is completely restricted for a foreign national.

How do I get permits for Nathu La, Tsomgo Lake, Gurudongmar, Yumthang and Zero Point?

Permits to Nathu-La Pass, Tsomgo Lake, Gurudongmar Lake, Yumthang Valley, Zero Point, and other restricted and protected areas will be applied on your behalf by your registered travel agent in Sikkim. You will, however, need to share your documents along with a passport size photo. Documents can be shared via any online medium and need not be a hard copy. You will have to provide your documents and photos a few days before your travel date, so that permit can be applied on time. One very important thing to note is that only a driving license, voter card, or passport will be treated as a valid identity document in Sikkim. An Aadhaar card is applicable only for person who is below 21 years of age. A PAN card is not considered a valid document for Permit.

Is North Sikkim open right now, or are roads closed by landslides?

All parts of North Sikkim are open as of mid-October 2026. They will remain open till mid-January, and then the higher altitudes of North Sikkim will start to close as time progresses. By mid-February, only the towns of Lachung-Lachen is most likely to be accessible. The snow will then gradually clear up by the end of March. The landslides usually occur during the monsoon season, i.e. from mid June onwards till the end of September, hence it may be closed if there is a landslide blocking the path.

How much does a Sikkim trip cost per person?

So, a cost per person for a Sikkim trip is a very subjective topic. Some guests require premium facilities, while others are budget travelers. It also depends upon the number of stays and the places visited. Typically on a very generalized itinerary, of 6 days for a family of 4 staying in a deluxe room on a three star category of Hotels with breakfast and dinner included in a mid season on an SUV end to end including permits will cost Rs. 16000-18000 per person.

What is the best 5-day or 7-day Sikkim itinerary?

Best 5-day itinerary would include arrival, departure, Gangtok local sightseeing, Nathula Pass, and South Sikkim. The best 7-day itinerary would include 4 days of North Sikkim along with one day of Nathula Pass, keeping two days for arrival and departure.

What is the best combined Darjeeling and Sikkim itinerary?

The most popular itinerary that combines Darjeeling and Sikkim would be to spend 3 nights in Gangtok and 2 nights in Darjeeling. This covers most of Gangtok, most of South Sikkim, and almost the entirety of Darjeeling.

How do I reach Gangtok from Bagdogra Airport or NJP station?

If you have booked an end-to-end package from a travel agent, there would be a vehicle waiting for you outside the railway station or the airport. Whereas if you are traveling on the go, you've got three options. First one is to book a cab that is waiting in the parking lot outside the airport or the railway station(usually expensive), Second is to book a sharing cab from Bagdogra railway station to Gangtok via applications like sharingcabsikkim.com or wizzride.com. Third is to book a local taxi till Siliguri bus stand and take a bus from there.

What is the nearest airport and railway station to Gangtok?

The nearest airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra International Airport, and the nearest railway station is the new Jalpaiguri railway station. Both are around 120 km from Gangtok, and it will take roughly 4 to 5 hours to reach Gangtok from the respective point of arrival. There is another airport in Pakyong near Gangtok, but that is mostly nonfunctional. Please be careful.

Are flights to Pakyong Airport reliable?

Flights to Pakyong Airport are not reliable. There are often disruptions due to weather, and most flights are cancelled. Your best option would be to fly in to Bagdogra Airport.

Taxi, shared cab or self-drive: which is best in Sikkim?

Booking an entire taxi for your Sikkim trip would be the most hassle-free option. However, if you are a solo traveler or a budget traveler, it is recommended that you take a shared cab. The self-drive option is the least popular option, as there is much hassle in acquiring a permit to the best of places in Sikkim. Moreover, the mountain roads are treacherous and the driving skills need to be factored in.

Are Sikkim taxi fares fixed, and why are they higher than elsewhere?

Sikkim taxi fares are not fixed, and they depend heavily on the market status. Usually, there is a lean season, and there is a peak season. The vehicles are readily available during the lean season, and the fares are on the lower side. However, during the peak season, the inflow of tourists is generally more than the number of vehicles available in a tiny state of Sikkim. Hence, the taxi fares move towards the higher side. Also, the taxi fares are generally on the higher side compared to places like Manali, Shimla, or the northeastern side of India because of the rough terrain and the maintenance that is required for the vehicles.

Can a Siliguri or West Bengal taxi take me around Sikkim?

No, a Siliguri or West Bengal taxi can only drop you to your hotel, or pick you up from your hotel. They are not allowed to do sightseeing in Sikkim and are not given a permit to visit the restricted and protected areas of Sikkim.

Is altitude sickness a risk at Gurudongmar, Nathu La and Yumthang?

Altitude sickness is never a problem as long as you're in the vehicle. But the moment you come out of the vehicle, especially at places like Gurudongmar Lake, which is situated at 18,000 feet, you can feel a bit dizzy. Take a few deep breaths, and if you are still not okay, you need remain in the vehicle. Probably tell the driver to return to a lower altitude if you feel that you are having a problem. Other places like Nathu La Pass and Yumthang Valley aren't as much difficult as Gurudongmar Lake. You can do two things to avoid this situation. First is to get out of the vehicle a few times on the way and acclimatize yourself as you proceed towards the higher altitude. Second is to make sure you buy an oxygen cylinder at any shop in North Sikkim that costs barely ₹500, which, by the way, is refundable if you return it unopened.

Is Gurudongmar Lake worth the long drive?

Absolutely. It is the crown jewel of the Eastern Himalayas. Situated at 17,800 ft, it is one of the highest lakes in the world. Coming to Sikkim and not visiting the Gurudongmar Lake is like going to Agra and skipping the Taj Mahal.

On which days is Nathu La Closed to tourists?

Nathu La Pass is closed for tourists on all Mondays and National Holidays like Independence Day and Republic Day. They are also closed when there are unspecific events like Border Personnel Meetings and other meetings concerning security of the nation.

Can I visit Nathu La without a permit or on a closed day?

As a tourist, No.

Is Sikkim safe for solo women travellers?

It is generally safe for solo woman travelers. People are helpful, and local cultures respect women. But it would be wise to exercise caution nevertheless.

Where should I stay: Gangtok, Pelling, Lachung or Darjeeling?

Generally, Gangtok is a hub for visiting North Sikkim, East Sikkim, or South Sikkim. You need to stay in Pelling if you are proceeding towards the west. Staying in Lachung is mandatory if you want to visit Yumthang Valley or Zero Point. And Darjeeling is a hub for various points in the West Bengal region.

Is Gangtok or Darjeeling better for first-time visitors?

Both of them are beautiful in their own aspects. Gangtok is a raw and upcoming happening destination, while Darjeeling has an old heritage vibe. If you belong to the Gen Z or the Millennial category, Gangtok is the one for you. It also depends on how much time you have for vacation. If you have just 1, 2, or 3 days, then Darjeeling would be an ideal place since it is just a town. Gangtok and its surrounding areas need a little more than just 3 days.

How long does it take to travel from Darjeeling to Gangtok?

There are two routes if you want to travel from Darjeeling to Gangtok or vice versa. The first one is the highway route, which takes 3 to 4 hours, depending upon your stops and traffic. The other one is the long diversion route via Namchi, Rabangla, and Temi Tea Garden, and takes about 10 hours to reach Gangtok from Darjeeling and vice versa.

When does it snow in Sikkim?

Snowfall usually starts by November in the higher-altitude areas of Sikkim, like the Zero Point and Nathula Pass that is situated at around 14,000 feet. By mid-December, even places like Lachen and Lachung, which are at an altitude of about 9,500 ft experience snowfall. This continues until the entirety of North Sikkim remains inaccessible by the start of February. The snow then recedes starting April, making the places accessible again. By the start of June, only a small patch in Zero Point has snow.

Is Sikkim worth visiting in the monsoon?

Sikkim is a beautiful place to visit during the monsoons. The volume of water in waterfalls is lovely. A handy umbrella is all you need to experience the beauty of Sikkim during the monsoons. Although North Sikkim might be risky due to landslides, the other places of Sikkim, like the east, west, and south, are absolutely accessible. And the best part is, during the monsoons, both the taxi fares and the hotel fares are at their lowest.

Can I travel from Siliguri to Gangtok by shared jeep or bus?

Yes, you can travel from Siliguri to Gangtok by shared jeep or bus. In fact, it is much cheaper than reserving the whole vehicle. To catch a jeep or bus, you need to come to this place called '"Junction or "SNT" .

Do I need to change vehicles at Rangpo or Gangtok?

So, Sikkim-registered vehicles are not allowed to do sightseeing in West Bengal, and West Bengal-registered vehicles are not allowed to do sightseeing in Sikkim. However, vehicles from both sides are allowed to drop their respective guests in each other's location. Hence, you will not need to change a vehicle at the border checkpost. It is a different thing altogether if you are doing a break journey. But that change would happen in Gangtok and not in Rangpo Checkpost.

Can tourists drive their own car from Delhi or Kolkata into Sikkim?

Yes, tourists can drive their own car from Delhi or Kolkata into Sikkim. They can also visit all the non-protected and non-restricted parts of Sikkim. But for the protected and restricted parts of Sikkim, they need a special permit. This permit can be obtained from the Home Department. You can also find some agents who can do this work of getting the permit for you. But one important point to remember is that, you only get the permit to drive to these areas if the the owner of the vehicle is the driver of the vehicle. Father's car, mother's car, brothers' car, sisters' car: authorizations just don't work.

Can I rent a self-drive car or bike in Sikkim?

While you can rent a bike in Sikkim, you cannot rent a self-drive car.

What is the road condition from Siliguri to Gangtok (NH10)?

Post the glacial flood of 2023, the highway from Siliguri to Gangtok (NH10) was in a pathetic condition. There used to be landslides across the length and breadth of the highway during the year 2024. But that has improved a lot over the past two years. There are occasional temporary traffic during the monsoons. But for the rest of the year, it is as good as it was before the flood.

Is mobile network available in North Sikkim, and which SIM works best?

Mobile network is patchy starting Mangan, along the highway till you reach the towns of Lachen or Lachung. All networks are equally great in these two towns. Beyond these towns, except for probably BSNL, none of them work.

Do I need to carry cash in Lachen and Lachung? Do UPI and ATMs work?

It would be wise to carry at least some amount of cash while traveling up north. There are ATMs and a network for UPI in the towns of Lachung and Lachen. But beyond that, it is mostly a cash-based system.

What are hotels like in Lachen and Lachung? Is heating available?

Hotels in Lachen and Lachung are mostly basic. You cannot expect the kind of premiumness the hotels in Gangtok have. Few premium hotels have DG power backup. Most hotels and homestays provide heaters on a chargeable basis, but that also depends upon the intermittent electricity. Homestays usually have the traditional bhukari burning in the kitchen, which burns till dinner time.

Are homestays better than hotels in Sikkim?

Homestays win on authenticity, connection, and value. Hotels win on comfort, convenience, and consistency. It all depends upon what your preference is. If your Sikkim trip includes both Lachung and Gangtok, our advice is simple: don't pick one over the other — experience both, and let each place give you what it's actually good at.

What should I pack for Sikkim in winter, summer and monsoon?

For Winter, Thermals, Gloves, Caps, Waterproof Boots for Snow, Woolen Socks, Muffler, Moisturizer are a must. You can also buy small items and rent the bulkier ones if you do not want to carry them. For Summers, cotton clothes plus thermals for higher altitudes. For Monsoons, umbrella, quick dry clothes, insect repellants, plastic bags for electronics and documents.

Is vegetarian food easily available?

Vegetarian food is easily available in most places.

What local foods should I try in Sikkim and Darjeeling?

Of course Momos. We understand they are ubiquitous but authentic momos of SIkkim and Darjeeling beat the ones found in any other place. Dont forget to explore this shady little outlet below Metro near MG Road in Gangtok for Momos.

Apart from that there is chowmein, Shaphaley, Selroti, Thukpa, thenthuk, and lot others.

If you are looking at full meal, ask for Thakali Khana. It includes other special local items like, Kinema, Gundruk Soup, Ningro, Churpi, Sollar.

Not to Forget Darjeeling and Sikkim Tea.

Is alcohol available, and what are the rules?

Alcohol is available at a very cheap rate in Sikkim. However, it might cost a bit higher in Darjeeling, as Darjeeling falls in West Bengal. There are fixed bars and pubs in Sikkim where you can consume alcohol. You may drink in a hotel room or dedicated Bar in Hotel, if they allow. It is not recommended to drink in a vehicle, as you may feel nauseous due to mountainous terrain.

But one thing is for sure: it is forbidden to drink in public spaces.

Is MG Marg in Gangtok pedestrian-only? Can taxis enter?

Yes, MG Marg in Gangtok is a pedestrian-only road. No vehicles or taxis can enter the premises. If your hotel is in the middle of MG Road, then you might have to walk to your hotel. However, there is a peripheral road around MG Mark, which will be the drop-off point to your hotel.

Is the Tsomgo Lake yak ride worth it, and how much does it cost?

It is a one time worth the money, especially because you may want to have the photos as memories.You may want to skip, if you have already been there and done that. Charges usually range from Rs 500 for a short ride to Rs 1,500 for a long ride. Even if you do not want to ride and just take photos, they will charge you probably ₹200 to ₹300. Yak is a high-maintenance animal after all. It all depends on your bargaining skills and volume. If you have a couple of persons doing the yak ride, you may be at an advantage as far as bargaining is concerned.

What is the Gangtok ropeway cost and timing?

A round trip would cost approximately ₹150 for adults and ₹75 for children (exact pricing varies slightly).

It starts from 0900 am to 0430pm. It may not operate in bad weather.

How early should I book hotels and taxis for Sikkim?

If you are traveling:

Around the festivals of Durga Puja, Lakshmi Puja, Christmas, New Year, or Holi: Month and Half Ahead.

Off-season (the monsoon season of July, August, and September, or the winter season of mid-January to mid-March): Onspot.

During the springtime till June: At least 30 days before your date of arrival.

In the autumn season till mid-January: Two weeks before your date of arrival.

Which months are most crowded in Gangtok and Darjeeling?

April, May, October, November, December.

Is Zuluk and the Old Silk Route open, and how do I get a permit?

Yes, Zuluk and the Old Silk Route is open throughout the year, except in the extreme cold months of mid-Jan to March. The permits will be taken care of by your travel agency.

Is Zuluk worth visiting in winter?

Yes, Zuluk is worth visiting during the start and end of winter months. It is, however, closed during the peak winter months between January and March. Apart from the snowy mountains and the zigzag loops, Zuluk is also known for the clouds that would be seen from the Thambi viewpoint down in the valley.

Are bandhs or strikes common in Darjeeling and Sikkim, and how do they affect trips?

Although Bandhs and strikes are extremely rare in Darjeeling, they are nonexistent in Sikkim. The only bandh we've had in Sikkim in the past three decades is during the COVID time.

Is Darjeeling safe to visit given political unrest?

We have not had political unrest in Darjeeling for the past 9 to 10 years.

Is Kalimpong worth adding to the trip?

The crown jewel of this side is the North Sikkim. Then come the places in and around Gangtok, around South Sikkim and West Sikkim. And then, if you have a day or two, you might want to visit Darjeeling. Only once you are done with all of these, and you still have time remaining in your hand, and you might want to add Kalimpong to the trip.

How do I reach Pelling from Gangtok or Darjeeling?

There are two ways to reach Pelling from Gangtok.

One is the direct highway route via Rangpo(4 hrs) and the other is via Namchi, Rabangla, and Temi Tea Garden(10 hrs) which falls in the South part of Sikkim.

There are two ways to reach Pelling from Darjeeling.

One is via Singla Tea Garden, and another is via Pesok. Both are equally beautiful routes.

How long should I spend in Pelling, and what is worth seeing?

One full day, apart from the day of arrival or departure, is enough for Pelling.

Pelling is the hidden gem in Sikkim and is absolutely worth visiting. If given a choice between Pelling and Darjeeling, we would you any day choose Pelling.

Is Sikkim good for a honeymoon?

Sikkim, in recent times, has become the go-to place for honeymoons. It is peaceful, it is beautiful, it is safe, and most importantly, it is less crowded than the traditional honeymoon destinations like Shimla, Manali, Kashmir, etc

Is Sikkim suitable for families with young children?

Sikkim is suitable for families and young children, especially because this part of India is very safe, beautiful, peaceful, and clean. However, caution should be exercised when taking infants and young children to higher-altitude places. Please consult your travel agency for safety measures and precautions before taking them to the higher altitudes of Tsomgo Lake, Natula Pass, Baba Mandir, and the Northern Parts of Sikkim.

Is Sikkim manageable for senior citizens or people with knee problems?

Contrary to popular belief, there are no steep climbs in Sikkim for senior citizens. The majority of the places are accessible by vehicle. The only place that has about 15 minutes of walking is Rabdentse Ruins in Pelling, West Sikkim. All the other places are accessible within less than a 5-minute walk.

Is it safe to travel to Sikkim during pregnancy?

It is generally safer for pregnant women to travel to lower altitudes. But for higher altitudes, due to a low amount of oxygen, it would be advisable to consult a gynecologist before they arrive. Apart from the safety concerns, pregnant women may experience a greater degree of nausea on the winding mountain roads.

Is Sikkim worth visiting in winter (December to February)?

Sikkim is a winter wonderland. The higher altitudes may be closed starting mid-Jan, but whatever remains open is an absolute delight to visit. There are no landslides in winter. There are no rains in winter, so it is all sunshine and beautiful nature. Plus, the hotel and taxi fares are at their lowest during the month of February.

When do rhododendrons bloom in Sikkim?

Rhododendrons bloom in the springtime in Sikkim. There is no fixed timing about when it would bloom within the springtime, but then they got a bloom time of just 15 days. It starts to bloom earlier at the low altitudes and the bloom location rises higher up as days pass.

Still Have Questions?

Contact our team for help planning your Sikkim or Darjeeling holiday.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Still Have Questions?

ABOUT US

CONTACT US

QUICK LINK

Locate us