Frequently Asked Questions About Sikkim Tour Packages
Ques. How much does a trip to Sikkim cost?
Ans. A Sikkim tour package will not cost you much, in comparison to many other popular destinations for vacationers. You can find packages at varying prices to suit almost every budget. For example, a 7 nights and 8 days package will cost you ₹ 64,342 per head. It includes Sikkim, Lachung, Gangtok, Darjeeling and Pelling. You can also choose a budget tour at ₹ 38,751 per head, covering Gangtok and Darjeeling over 3 nights and 4 days.
Ques. Which is the best time to visit Sikkim?
Ans. Booking your Sikkim tour package means choosing the time of the visit with care. The best time to visit is between the months of March and May, with the lovely spring weather and spectacular natural landscapes all around. Many people also choose the stretch between October and December to grab mesmerising views of the imposing Himalayan Range. The off-season in Sikkim is the monsoon season from July to August as the region witnesses heavy rainfall.
Ques. Is 3 days enough for Sikkim?
Ans. A Sikkim tour package for three days is sufficient for exploring some of the top wonders of the beautiful Himalayan state. You can consider visiting North Sikkim for three days and two nights, since it is the minimum time required. You may also visit East Sikkim for three days if you wish. Other options include three-day itineraries encompassing Pelling and Gangtok. If you’re looking at a whirlwind tour that includes the neighbouring Darjeeling, then you can choose to include it with only Gangtok in your itinerary.
Ques. Can I drive my own car in Sikkim?
Ans. Once you are done booking your Sikkim tour package, you should know a few rules and regulations pertaining to transportation in the picturesque Himalayan state. You must know that you can drive your vehicle in Sikkim. However, some zones may need special permits, although driving is still allowed. Permits are readily available at several areas including Rongli in East Sikkim, Gangtok and Mangan in North Sikkim.
Ques. Is Zero Point worth visiting?
Ans. Zero Point should be an integral part of your Sikkim tour package. Going on a drive to Zero Point from Lachen will be a thrilling experience, worth savouring for a lifetime! Here are some facts about Zero Point that make it worth visiting: Zero Point is also called Yume Samdong and lies 15,000 feet above sea level. It is positioned on the border with China. Zero Point is regarded as the last civilian outpost without any roads beyond the point. It is where three lovely rivers meet, surrounded by imposing mountains with their snow peaks and stunning views all around. The drive goes through mesmerising landscapes, with the lush greenery and trees everywhere. Permits are needed for the destination since the China border is in close proximity to the location. A PAP (Protected Area Permit) is necessary for this purpose.
Ques. What is the entry fee for Nathula Pass?
Ans. Your Sikkim tour package will incomplete without including the Nathula Pass in the itinerary, especially if you seek an exhilarating experience. The entry fee for the pass is ₹ 200 per individual. The Nathula Pass tour can be done in shared vehicles that will charge ₹ 900-1,000 per head. It will cover not just the Nathula Pass (inclusive of the permit), but also other popular landmarks like the Baba Mandir and the Tsomgo Lake.
Ques. Do we need a permit for the Tsomgo Lake?
Ans. Your Sikkim tour package will incomplete without including the Nathula Pass in the itinerary, especially if you seek an exhilarating experience. The entry fee for the pass is ₹ 200 per individual. The Nathula Pass tour can be done in shared vehicles that will charge ₹ 900-1,000 per head. It will cover not just the Nathula Pass (inclusive of the permit), but also other popular landmarks like the Baba Mandir and the Tsomgo Lake.
Ques. What is the famous drink of Sikkim?
Ans. Do take time out from your Sikkim tour package itinerary to taste the local brews of the state. The most famous drink in the region is Tongba, an alcoholic beverage that uses millets. It is consumed throughout Darjeeling, Bhutan and Nepal. Tongba is a traditional beverage of the Limbu community and also of those hailing from the Kirati communities. Tongba is a must-have at various festivals and auspicious occasions. The fermented millets are enclosed in the Tongba or container and this is filled up with boiled water. After a few minutes, the beverage is consumed with a bamboo straw that has a blind end. It is inserted into the container for drawing out the warmer water and alcohol from the grains. More hot water is added into the mixture and the procedure is repeated until the alcohol runs out.
Ques. What is the traditional food of Sikkim?
Ans. Your Sikkim tour package itinerary should include visits to local eateries to taste the delicious local cuisine. Some of the best traditional delicacies in the region include the following: Thukpa Momo Dal-Bhaat Phagshapa Dhindo Sael Roti Sha Phaley Sinki and Gundruk These are must-haves during your trip to Sikkim.
Ques. What should you avoid in Sikkim?
Ans. While booking your Sikkim tour package, make sure you have an idea of what to avoid during the vacation. Here are a few pointers worth noting: Avoid straying from the designated trekking path and venturing into surrounding grasslands. Do not litter anything in forested zones and anywhere else, since you may be punished. You should always carry your waste and dispose it responsibly. Do not play any loud music in the forested areas of Sikkim. You should avoid swimming in the lakes and rivers in protected zones, which is not allowed. Drinking and smoking is punishable in public zones, places for sightseeing and religious or sacred spots. You should avoid touching any local individual while conversing with them. Avoid public displays of affection, since locals are conservative by nature. Be careful with the words that you use too. Locals and tourists are expected to avoid entering temples if they are witnessing their menstrual cycles.
Ques. How can we reach North Sikkim
Ans. North-Sikkim does not have its own airport. The nearest airport is located at Bagdogra which is nearly 125 km away. You can find taxis and buses outside the airport, to take you to North Sikkim.
Ques. Which part of Sikkim is best for a holiday?
Ans. Some of the best places in Sikkim to include in your Sikkim itinerary include Gangtok, Pelling, Lachung, Yuksom, Ravangla, Namchi and the Yumthang Valley.
Ques. Is there snowfall in Sikkim? When?
Ans. Yes, there is snowfalls in Sikkim during the winter months. You can see snow in towns like Lachung, Lachen and Gangtok (high altitude spots like Nathula Pass and Changu Lake) between the months of December and February.
Ques. Where should we go in Sikkim for our honeymoon?
Ans. If you are considering a Sikkim honeymoon package, you cannot go wrong. Couples will enjoy the scenic waterfalls and landscapes around Gangtok, and the opportunity to get blessed at one of the revered monasteries here. Tsomgo Lake is one of the most stunning honeymoon locations in Sikkim, making couples feel closer to nature. Namchi is also a popular destination in a Sikkim honeymoon package due to its natural beauty. Couples will love its lush gardens and monastery, and the opportunity to relax and spend some time with each other.
Ques. What can I buy in Sikkim?
Ans. The best souvenirs of your Sikkim trip would be prayer flags, singing bowls and prayer wheels from the Lal Bazaar market in Gangtok.