Detailed Itinerary :-
Sikkim
Day 1: Gangtok
Morning:
- Arrival in Gangtok: Arrive in Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
- Visit Rumtek Monastery: One of the largest monasteries in Sikkim, it’s a beautiful place to start your journey.
Afternoon:
- Explore MG Marg: Enjoy lunch at one of the many cafes or restaurants on MG Marg, Gangtok's main street.
- Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: Learn about Tibetan culture and history. The museum here is quite fascinating.
Evening:
- Enchey Monastery: Visit this serene monastery, known for its peaceful surroundings and beautiful architecture.
- Tashi Viewpoint: If the weather is clear, head to Tashi Viewpoint to get a stunning view of the Kanchenjunga range.
Day 2: Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir
Morning:
- Tsomgo Lake (Changu Lake): Start early and head to Tsomgo Lake, located at an altitude of 12,400 feet. Enjoy the scenic beauty and maybe a yak ride.
Afternoon:
- Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple: Close to Tsomgo Lake, this temple is dedicated to an Indian soldier who is revered as a saint by locals.
- Return to Gangtok: Head back to Gangtok and have lunch at a local restaurant.
Evening:
- Cable Car Ride: Take a cable car ride for a panoramic view of Gangtok and the surrounding hills.
- Ropeway Ride: Experience the Gangtok Ropeway for a beautiful aerial view of the city.
Day 3: Day Trip to Nathula Pass
Morning:
- Nathula Pass: An early start is essential. Nathula Pass is located on the Indo-China border and is one of the highest motorable roads in the world. Note that it is open to Indian nationals only and permits are required, which need to be arranged in advance.
Afternoon:
- Visit to Old Baba Mandir: On the way back, visit the Old Baba Mandir, which is located at a lower altitude compared to the new one.
Evening:
- Shopping at Lal Bazaar: Return to Gangtok and explore Lal Bazaar, a local market where you can buy handicrafts, souvenirs, and local produce.
- Relax at the Hotel: Enjoy a relaxed evening at your hotel or take a leisurely walk around MG Marg one last time.
Travel Tips:
- Permits: Ensure you have all the necessary permits, especially for Nathula Pass and Tsomgo Lake.
- Weather: Sikkim's weather can be unpredictable, so carry warm clothing, even in summer.
- Transport: Hire a reliable taxi or join a tour group for visits to Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, and other far-off places.
- Altitude Sickness: Some places are at high altitudes, so take it slow and stay hydrated.