7N/8D – Discover North Sikkim: Lachen, Gurudongmar & Yumthang Valley Expedition

Overview

If you crave an experience that blends pristine landscapes, high-altitude adventure, and spiritual serenity, this 7 Nights / 8 Days Discover North Sikkim Tour is your perfect match.This itinerary goes beyond the usual — taking you from Gangtok’s urban calm to Lachen’s icy wilderness, from the holy Gurudongmar Lake to the flower-clad Yumthang Valley, and deep into local village life where culture and nature blend seamlessly.You’ll witness Sikkim’s soul — through its ancient monasteries, mountain drives, alpine lakes, and conversations with the warm-hearted locals.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival at Gangtok (1,650 m / 5,410 ft)

Your journey begins as you land at Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or arrive at New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP). Our driver will meet you for a scenic 4–5 hour drive to Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim.As you ascend from the plains, the landscape transforms — emerald hills, waterfalls, and tea gardens give way to winding mountain roads lined with fluttering prayer flags.Upon arrival, check in to your hotel, relax, and in the evening, take a walk along MG Marg, Gangtok’s lively promenade. Try some local momos, thukpa, and churpi cheese at one of the mountain cafes.

Overnight stay in Gangtok.

Day 2 – Gangtok Local Sightseeing

After breakfast, embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Gangtok — the perfect blend of culture, nature, and spirituality.

Attractions Covered:

  • Tashi View Point: Catch sunrise views of Mount Kanchenjunga.

  • Ganesh Tok & Hanuman Tok: Small temples perched high above the city.

  • Bakthang Waterfalls: Ideal for a short photo break.

  • Enchey Monastery: A 200-year-old monastery blessed by Lama Druptob Karpo.

  • Do Drul Chorten Stupa: Surrounded by prayer wheels, this stupa is a symbol of peace.

  • Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: A treasure trove of ancient manuscripts, thangkas, and Buddhist relics.

  • Ropeway Ride (Optional): Offers panoramic views of Gangtok city and the valley.

  • Evening free for leisure or exploring the local market.

Overnight stay in Gangtok.

Day 3 – Gangtok → Lachen (2,750 m / 9,022 ft)

After an early breakfast, check out and drive to Lachen, a peaceful Himalayan village located in North Sikkim. (Approx. 120 km / 6–7 hours drive).En route attractions:Seven Sister Waterfalls: Seven cascading falls tumbling from a high cliff — a must-stop for photography.Naga Falls: A thunderous waterfall surrounded by dense greenery.Singhik View Point: Offers captivating views of Mount Pandim and Mount Kabru.By afternoon, reach Lachen, a charming mountain hamlet that serves as a base for Gurudongmar Lake.After check-in, take a walk around the village — interact with locals, visit small monasteries, and soak in the crisp mountain air.

Overnight stay in Lachen.

Day 4 – Lachen → Gurudongmar Lake → Lachung (2,600 m / 8,530 ft)

Wake up early — today is one of the most memorable days of your journey. After breakfast (around 4:30 a.m.), begin the drive to Gurudongmar Lake (17,800 ft), one of the highest and most sacred lakes in the world.As the road winds through rugged valleys, you’ll witness snow-covered peaks and icy streams. Upon reaching Gurudongmar, you’ll find the crystal-clear blue waters reflecting the mountains and the sky — a surreal sight that leaves every traveler speechless.It’s believed that Guru Padmasambhava blessed the lake, and even in winter, one part of it remains unfrozen.After spending some time here, return to Lachen for lunch, and continue your journey to Lachung, a picturesque valley surrounded by apple orchards and rhododendrons.

Overnight stay in Lachung.

Day 5 – Lachung → Yumthang Valley & Zero Point → Lachung

Today, after breakfast, set out for a day trip to Yumthang Valley (11,800 ft) — the “Valley of Flowers.”The journey takes you through rhododendron forests, glacial streams, and snow-capped mountains. In spring (April–June), the valley bursts into color with blooming flowers, while in winter (December–February), it’s a serene white wonderland.If the weather permits, drive further up to Zero Point (Yumesamdong, 15,300 ft) — where the road literally ends and the snowy wilderness begins. You can play in the snow, take stunning photos, or simply breathe in the pure Himalayan air.Return to Lachung by evening. Relax with a hot cup of tea and a cozy dinner.

Overnight stay in Lachung.

Day 7 – Excursion to Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir

After breakfast, get ready for a full-day excursion to Tsomgo Lake (12,400 ft) and Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir.Tsomgo Lake (Changu Lake): A sacred glacial lake surrounded by steep mountains. In winter, it freezes completely; in summer, it reflects the blue sky and snow peaks.Baba Mandir: Dedicated to the late soldier Harbhajan Singh, whose spirit is believed to guard the mountains.Optionally, you can visit Nathula Pass (14,140 ft) — the historic Indo-China border crossing (open for Indian nationals on select days; permit required).Return to Gangtok by evening.

Overnight stay in Gangtok.

Day 8 – Departure from Gangtok

Enjoy your final breakfast amidst the mountains. Later, our driver will transfer you to NJP Railway Station or Bagdogra Airport for your onward journey.Carry back cherished memories, stunning photos, and the unshakable calm that Sikkim leaves in every traveler’s heart.

Tour Inclusions

  • Accommodation in verified hotels and cozy homestays

  • Daily breakfast and dinner (all meals in North Sikkim)

  • Private cab for the entire tour

  • Inner Line Permits for restricted zones

  • Experienced local driver-guide

  • All transfers and sightseeing as per itinerary

  • Taxes and service charges

Travel Tips

Carry warm clothing and sunscreen — weather changes quickly.Always keep photocopies of ID for permit formalities.Mobile network coverage is limited in North Sikkim.Hydrate well to avoid high-altitude sickness.Respect monasteries and local traditions — Sikkim thrives on peace and humility.

Why This Trip is Special with Incredible Sikkim

At Incredible Sikkim, we believe travel should touch the soul.This 8-day North Sikkim expedition isn’t just sightseeing — it’s a journey through mountains, myths, and memories. From the sacred Gurudongmar to the blooming Yumthang Valley, every moment is curated to inspire awe and inner peace.We ensure comfort, safety, and sustainability — so you experience the true spirit of the Himalayas, responsibly.

Day 6 – Lachung → Chungthang → Gangtok

After breakfast, begin your return journey to Gangtok, passing through Chungthang, a confluence point of the Lachen and Lachung rivers.On the way, stop at:Bhim Nala Falls: A towering waterfall that resembles a bridal veil.Mangan View Point: A great spot to admire the Eastern Himalayas.Reach Gangtok by late afternoon and check into your hotel. The rest of the evening is at leisure — explore cafes, shop for souvenirs, or just unwind.

Overnight stay in Gangtok.