Offbeat Places in Sikkim: When we are talking about Sikkim tour Most of the tourists visit famous places like Gangtok, Pelling and other popular sight. But there’s some secret places which known by very few travelers
Sikkim has many quiet and beautiful secret places that are still natural and unexplored. These offbeat spots are perfect for people who love nature, want to visit peaceful spiritual places, or just want to go somewhere calm and less crowded.
If you love to injoy peaceful places, raw beauty, and real experiences, this guide is for you.
Let’s explore the Top 10 Offbeat Places in Sikkim and trust me, you’ll want to pack your bags after reading this Article!
Top 10 Offbeat Places in Sikkim
1. Dzongu – The Lepcha Land
Dzongu is a peaceful site, and one of the best offbeat places in Sikkim, surrounded by greenery in North Sikkim. It is home to the Lepchas, people who have called this region home for centuries. Dzongu has pure rivers, thick forests, and nice mountains.
During your time in Dzongu, you can visit ancient monasteries, take a dip in pristine hot springs, and learn about the traditions of the Lepchas. Life here just seems to slow down. You can partake in adventure, but in order to do so, you have to make sure to get your permit, which is totally worth it!
How to Get There: Take a taxi or private vehicle from Gangtok (approximately 70 km away). Please note that you will need special permits to enter.
What to Do:
- Trek to Tholung Monastery
- Visit the hot springs at Lingdem
- Learn about Lepcha culture
Fact: Dzongu is referred to as the “bridge to Mount Kanchenjunga” and is included in the Kanchenjunga Biosphere Reserve.
Why Visit: If you’re designing your own Sikkim tour package, ensure Dzongu is included on your list of offbeat locations in Sikkim.
2. Zuluk – The Serpentine Wonder
Zuluk is a small village on a high mountain in East Sikkim. Zuluk is a twisting road and a village with an astounding view. One can find some of the magic of Zuluk, like watching the sunrise at Ganek Viewpoint whilst the sky changes colours, spread across a mountain in the background.
Zuluk was a place on the ancient Silk Route, and it was a stop along the route as well. In Zuluk, there is an amazing temple inside a cave. Be sure to drive the amazing Zuluk loops. Be sure to get your permit you won’t forget this experience!
How to Reach: One can reach there by the Silk Route from Kalimpong or Gangtok. A permit is required.
What to Do:
- Experience sunrise at Ganek Viewpoint.
- Tour the Nag Temple
- Ride through the renowned Zuluk loops.
Fact: Zuluk used to be a stopover on the ancient Silk Route that linked India with Tibet.
Why Visit: This is one of the top offbeat destinations in Sikkim, offering both adventure and history in one place. Do consider getting your travel agent to add Zuluk to your Sikkim tour package.
3. Ravangla – A Peaceful Retreat
Ravangla is a charming town in South Sikkim where you’ll find serene vibes and clean mountain air. The main attraction is Buddha Park, which has a 130-foot golden Buddha and snow capped peaks in the background.
This park is a nice place to read and relax. You can also do some birdwatching at the Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary or visit monasteries in the area. A great place for people who love peaceful places and the great outdoors.
How to Reach: Travel to Gangtok, which is 70 kilometres away, to reach this destination, which provides easy road access.
What to Do:
- Visit Buddha Park (Tathagata Tsal)
Position Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary among your destinations if you want to observe the local birdlife.
- Explore Ralong Monastery
The 130-foot-tall Buddha statue at the Ravangla Buddha Park can be seen across extensive regions of the landscape.
Why Visit: People must visit this destination because it stands among Sikkim’s most unique attractions and fits nicely into several travel packages for the region.
4. Yuksom – Gateway to Treks
Yuksom is a wonderful little village surrounded by forest and mountains. It is famous for being the starting point for treks to Dzongri and Goechala. It is also a historically very significant location, as it is where Sikkim’s first king was crowned.
You can see the Norbugang Coronation Throne, old monasteries like Dubdi, and enjoy quiet village life. If you like trekking or being close to nature, this is your destination.
How to Reach: The town is approximately 150 kilometres from Gangtok, and it is accessible by taxi services and shared taxis.
What to Do:
- Explore the Norbugang Coronation Throne
- Visit Dubdi Monastery
- Trekking and camping
Fact: The capital status of Sikkim’s foundation belongs to Yuksom, which holds great importance in historical records.
Why Visit: All trekking enthusiasts consider this destination a leading offbeat option in Sikkim, which needs to be included in your Sikkim vacation plans.
5. Barsey – A Rhododendron Paradise
Isn’t Barsey like a dream in springtime? From March to May, the whole forest is bursting with colorful blooms in vibrant red, pink, and purple colors. You can walk on soft trails through the woods, breathe in fresh air, and, of course, you might see a lovely red panda or some rare birds.
Barsey is not as popular as other Sikkim destinations, which is great for you if you want some peace and, of course, nature in the desirable dreamland sense of the word. A perfect temporary escape to nature from the busy city.
How to Reach: Gangtok is 110 kilometers away from Hilley, providing access to this location.
What to Do:
- Exploration of the Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary is possible through its trails.
- Many tourists search for red pandas together with exotic birds in these areas.
- Enjoy eco-stays and village life.
Fact: Barsey blooms with vibrant rhododendrons during April and May.
Why Visit: Visitors love Barsey because it stands as one of the top secret attractions in Sikkim that tour operators include in proper Sikkim tour packages.
6. Uttarey – The Scenic Sister of Pelling
Uttarey is also a beautiful, quiet little village very close to Pelling in West Sikkim. Uttarey is surrounded by green hills, large forests, and quiet valleys. You can visit Mainbass and other beautiful waterfalls, trek to the India-Nepal border, or just relax and meet cheerful, friendly local people.
Uttarey is also a great offbeat destination for travellers who are sick of crowds and want to enjoy more local village life outside of India’s metropolitan cities.
How to Reach: Travellers access this location through private automobiles, which require thirty kilometres of travel from Pelling.
What to Do:
- Visit Mainbass Waterfall
- Trek to Chewabhanjang Pass
- Interact with local Limboo communities
Fact: Uttarey serves as the starting point for various hikes that lead travellers to the border between India and Nepal.
Why Visit: This destination stands out as the preferred choice for any person creating customised Sikkim packages while prioritising undiscovered locations in Sikkim.
7. Borong – Hot Springs and Himalayan Bliss
Borong is a quiet little village located close to Ravangla. Borong is mostly known for its natural hot springs, something the village is very proud of, and the chance to relax in warm water with snowy mountain views.
Visitors may also enjoy exploring Borong Monastery or hiking around the stunningly beautiful pine trees. This peaceful place is on everyone’s list for kicking back and getting in touch with nature.
How to Reach: 17 km from Ravangla; local transport available.
What to Do:
- Dip yourself in the hot springs
- Explore Borong Monastery
- Walk through a pine forest
Fact: Borong is on the well-known trekking route from Damthang to Tendong Hill.
Why Visit: It’s one of those Sikkim offbeat destinations that blends wellness and nature, ideal for a relaxing Sikkim tour package.
8. Lachen – More Than a Gateway
Lachen is a gateway to Gurudongmar Lake, where most people go to visit, but discovering this village is worth your while. Established in North Sikkim with beautiful valleys, an exceptional and warm local populace, and wonderful remote monasteries, you could partake in homestay accommodations where you could enjoy the local lifestyle.
Everything is vastly surrounded by nature, where you can experience the local lifestyle; it feels like a peaceful little dreamland place in the hills.
How to Reach: 120 km from Gangtok, typically included in Sikkim trip packages that have North Sikkim.
What to Do:
- Visit Lachen Monastery
- Explore Chopta Valley
- Enjoy village homestays
Fact: The Lachenpas, an ancient community, inhabit Lachen and are famous for their generosity of spirit.
Why Visit: Lachen is worth a second visit as one of the top offbeat destinations in Sikkim.
9. Khecheopalri Lake – A Sacred Wish-Fulfilling Lake
Khecheopalri Lake is a holy and peaceful lake area near Pelling, and people say it is a lake that grants wishes if one makes one with a considerate heart. The number of trees combined with the hills surrounding this beautifully clean lake is unbelievable!
The lake is so clean that when a leaf falls on its surface, it disappears immediately; birds are quick to see it. The location has an interdisciplinary tree canopy for meditation, peaceful walking trails, and just hanging out with nature!
How to reach: Visitors can reach this offbeat place in Sikkim by taxi or vehicle because it lies 30 km from Pelling.
What to Do:
- Wander through the tranquil lake trail.
- Worship at the shrine located next to the edge of the lake.
- Observe the peaceful natural surroundings.
Fact: The water surface of the lake remains leaf free because it is commonly understood that birds maintain the cleanliness by collecting and removing leaves.
Why Visit: Spiritual tourists seeking natural beauty should make Khecheopalri Lake one of their main destinations in Sikkim tour packages.
10. Yumthang – The Valley of Flowers
Yumthang is one of the prettiest places in Sikkim in spring when the entire valley bursts into colorful flowers! It is referred to as a “Valley of Flowers,” and in the winter, it is a snow wonderland!
There are also several hot springs and a river flowing through Yumthang, with the Teesta River. You can find spring flowers or snow in Yumthang; it’s definitely Alice in Wonderland.
How to Reach: The journey to this destination requires visitors to travel 140 km from Gangtok by road, with Lachung as one of the stops.
What to Do:
- People visiting the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary should see the gorgeous flowers
- Experience full relaxation by taking a dip in the thermal hot springs.
- Enjoy snow covered landscapes in winter.
Fact: Yumthang achieves the title of “Valley of Flowers” in Sikkim during the spring months because it displays hundreds of flower species.
Why Visit: The destination of Yumthang serves nature enthusiasts and photographers who prefer tailored, unique Sikkim tours included in their package.
Final Thoughts
There’s more offbeat places in Sikkim to see. These offbeat destinations in Sikkim aren’t just places to visit these are experiences. Cultures, nature, adventures, or serenity the offbeat Sikkim attractions that are lesser known all guarantee a rich mix of everything.
While planning your next vacation, choose customised or theme-based Sikkim tour packages, Sikkim trip packages, or Sikkim holiday packages that highlight these off-the-beaten path attractions. The routes may be less travelled, but the memories are sure to last a lifetime.
So pack your bags, look for the undiscovered, and let the magic of Sikkim’s offbeat places determine your path.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best offbeat places in Sikkim to visit for nature lovers?
Dzongu, Barsey, and Borong are some of the best offbeat places to visit in Sikkim for someone who wishes to appreciate untouched nature and quiet landscapes.
Is a permit required for offbeat Sikkim destinations?
Yes, a few areas, Dzongu, Zuluk, and Lachen, might require you to acquire Inner Line Permits. Add to this, it is good to know that these are usually included in Sikkim tour packages.
Will I find budget Sikkim trip packages for offbeat locations?
Of course! A number of travel agencies have come up with budget Sikkim trip packages that include staying in offbeat places in Sikkim with homestays and local experiences.
What’s the best time to visit offbeat Sikkim?
March to June and September to November are the best times to visit offbeat Sikkim, as the weather is pleasant and the road accessibility to offbeat Sikkim will be impacted by the weather.
Are offbeat places in Sikkim safe for solo and family travellers?
Yes, offbeat Sikkim destinations would be safe and welcoming generally. Most of the Sikkim holiday packages would include solo or family travellers.
