5 Unexplored Places in Sikkim You Should Totally Check Out

The beautiful northeast of India is becoming a popular tourist destination, with Sikkim being one of the most visited states. This small Himalayan kingdom offers abundant natural beauty, mesmerizing tranquillity and majestic Himalayan views, apart from being India’s first fully organic state since 2016. Besides its touristy areas and must-see attractions, Sikkim is home to a number of hidden places waiting to be explored.

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Here is our pick of 5 unexplored places to visit in Sikkim that should totally be on your bucket list:

Ravangla

Set between Pelling and Gangtok, at a height of about 7000 feet above sea level,

Ravangla is one of the best places to watch the sunrise and sunset in Sikkim. It offers a number of hidden trails for trekkers and explorers, and is the starting point for the trek through Maenam Wildlife sanctuary. Its magnificent Buddha statue is a sight to see, as is its exotic variety of Himalayan birds. Add to that, breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga, Kabru, Sinialchu, and Pandim.

This small town is at its gorgeous best during summers when orchids, rhododendrons and other flowers are in full bloom. The Ralang Monastery and the Tibetan Carpet Factory at Ravangla are a must-visit while here.

Kaluk

With its breathtaking landscapes, picture-perfect sights, and exciting treks amidst snow-clad mountains, Sikkim is everything a nature lover could ask for. However, a number of its lesser-known villages, often overlooked by locals and tourists, are ideal for the ultimate peaceful retreat. One such village Kaluk, offers calm and quiet like no other. Walk its picturesque hills and valleys, explore its Durga Mandir and Rinchenpong Gumba, and savour 180-degree uninterrupted views of Kanchenjunga from this hilly hamlet.

Dzongu

Home of the Lepchas, the original inhabitants of Sikkim, Dzongu is bounded by mountains in the west, and the Teesta and Chu River in the east. This sparsely populated village can only be accessed with prior permission from the Sikkim Tourism Office. Owing to this restricted entry, Dzongu is full of dense forests, lush green valleys, cascading waterfalls, cardamom fields, and long stretches of untouched beauty. For the ultimate experience of this unexplored land, stay with a local Lepcha family, explore their traditions and culture, visit the Traditional Lepcha House Museum, and Hee Gyathang—the sacred lake of the Lepchas.

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Gyalshing

Set apart from the hustle-bustle of major towns like Gangtok and Darjeeling, but easily accessible from them, Gyalshing is the capital of West Sikkim. It serves as the starting point for a number of Himalayan treks and is close to the beautiful Glacier Valley as well. While here, explore the 17^th century Pemyangtse Monastery and make a wish at the Khecheopalri Lake, the legendary lake where no leaves or debris are ever seen floating on the surface!

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Chayatal

Besides the popular high-altitude lakes, Sikkim is home to a number of enchanting lakes that are unheard-of. One such lake, Chaya Tal, offers the perfect retreat, away from the chaos of crowds and cars. This beautiful lake has very few hotels, a limited number of tourists, and is, therefore, the ideal place for some quiet time in the lap of nature. Pick a homestay close to the lake overlooking its emerald green waters, enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Kanchenjunga from your balcony, and unwind amidst the serenity and untouched splendour of the pristine surroundings.

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