Amazing North Sikkim 2 Nights 3 Days

Experience the natural beauty and remote charm of North Sikkim in just three days. For $153.35 per person, you get a private journey that covers stunning waterfalls, sacred lakes, and mountain monasteries, all with the comfort of included accommodation and transportation. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour is ideal for those eager to see a less-trodden side of Sikkim, away from crowded tourist spots.

What we love about this experience is the flexibility of private transport, allowing you to pause and soak in views without feeling rushed, and the opportunity to visit iconic sites like Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang Valley. However, a key consideration is the long driving hours—expect about 6 hours on the first day alone—and the remote nature of some stops, which may not suit everyone seeking a more leisurely pace.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind long drives and are eager to experience North Sikkim’s raw natural beauty and local culture. If you’re interested in mountain scenery and sacred sites, this might be just the trip for you.

Key Points

• Inclusive package: Includes two nights’ accommodation and breakfast.
• Private transportation: Offers flexibility and personal attention from your guide.
• Iconic sights: Features Seven Sisters Waterfalls, Gurudongmar Lake, Yumthang Valley, and Lachung Monastery.
• Long travel times: Expect several hours of driving each day, with scenic stops.
• Remote villages: Experience the tranquility of Lachen and Lachung, with their unique local charm.
• Limited reviews: Only two reviews, rating 2.5/5, suggest some inconsistency in experience.

Exploring the North Sikkim 3-Day Tour: An In-Depth Review

Setting the Scene: What Does the Tour Cover?

This private tour offers an ambitious itinerary that takes you from Darjeeling through the mountainous landscapes of North Sikkim in just three days. It includes visits to some of the region’s most photogenic and spiritually significant sites, all while offering the convenience of accommodation and transport organized for you.

The journey begins in Gangtok, with a long drive to Lachen on day one, a picturesque town surrounded by snow-capped peaks, then continues with a visit to the revered Gurudongmar Lake on day two, and concludes with a trip to Yumthang Valley on the last day, before returning to Gangtok. Along the way, you’ll encounter waterfalls, hot springs, and monasteries—each with its own story and scenery.

First Impressions: What’s Good?

One of the biggest advantages of this tour is the private setup, which means your group will have dedicated attention from your guide, and you can customize stops if time permits. Having accommodation included simplifies planning, especially in such remote areas where finding a place to stay can be challenging.

The stops are thoughtfully chosen. For example, the Seven Sisters Waterfalls offer a stunning cascade of seven separate streams, perfect for taking photos and stretching your legs during the long drive. The Lachung Monastery provides a peaceful moment to appreciate local religious life, and Gurudongmar Lake’s altitude and spiritual significance make it a memorable highlight.

The Drive and the Destinations

The first day’s six-hour drive from Gangtok to Lachen is the backbone of this experience. Expect to be on the road most of the day, but with plenty of scenic stops. The en-route waterfalls and villages break up the drive nicely, giving you a taste of the local landscape and culture.

The second day involves a two- to three-hour drive to Gurudongmar Lake, which is considered one of the highest sacred lakes in the world. The lake’s altitude of 11,800 feet means you should be prepared for cold weather and possibly snow, especially outside of summer months. The lake’s spiritual importance and surrounding rhododendron forests are what make it worth the effort, but keep in mind that the drive there can be challenging in winter or if weather turns bad.

Authentic Experiences and Local Life

The tour offers a window into Lachen and Lachung, two small towns that feel far removed from urban life. You’ll likely get to stroll through local villages and visit monasteries, which offer insight into the Lepcha and Bhutia cultures. One review highlights the Lepcha Village as a peaceful place to wander, adding a cultural layer to the natural scenery.

Highlights of Day Three

The final day is devoted to Yumthang Valley, a riot of color in spring and a white wonderland in winter. The hot springs along the way add a sensory element, with their reputed skin-healing powers. The lush mountain scenery, combined with spring blossoms or winter snow, makes this stop the visual highlight for many travelers.

On the way back to Gangtok, you’ll pass Bhim Nala & Twin Waterfalls, which are worth quick stops to appreciate nature’s artistry. The return drive is about two hours, making it a manageable end to a packed trip.

Authenticity and Value

The tour is priced at $153.35 per person, which includes transportation, accommodation, and select meals. For the remote nature of North Sikkim, where independent travel can be logistically complicated, this represents good value. It offers a curated experience that balances highlights with cultural insights, but it’s important to acknowledge the long hours of driving and the reliance on weather conditions.

What Could Be Better?

The mixed reviews suggest some inconsistency. One reviewer points out that “information they forgot to mention in the fine print”, such as the long drive from Darjeeling, which can be tiring if you’re not prepared. Others mention the incredible natural beauty, but with only two reviews, it’s hard to gauge overall quality. Verifying details like guide expertise and vehicle comfort before booking could enhance your experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who don’t mind long drives and are looking for an organized way to see North Sikkim’s iconic sites. If you want a more relaxed pace or are sensitive to altitude and travel fatigue, you might want to consider a longer or more leisurely option.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

In essence, this private tour offers a convenient way to explore some of North Sikkim’s most stunning landmarks without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s especially appealing for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts eager to see sacred lakes, waterfalls, and mountain monasteries in a short span.

The value for money is reasonable given the inclusion of transport and accommodation, but be aware of the long travel hours and variable weather conditions that can affect your experience. Traveling with a knowledgeable guide can make a big difference in navigating the remote roads and understanding local sites.

For those who relish adventure and are prepared for the drive, this tour provides a memorable snapshot of North Sikkim’s rugged beauty and spiritual depth. It’s less ideal for travelers seeking a slow-paced, luxury experience, but perfect for those eager to tick off iconic sights in a limited time.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Gangtok to Lachen?
It’s approximately a six-hour drive, covering about 135 kilometers, with scenic stops along the way.

Does the tour include all meals?
The tour provides free breakfast on days two and three. Lunch is included on day one in Chungthang, but other meals are generally not included.

What kind of accommodation is provided?
You’ll stay in hotels in Lachen and Lachung, designed for comfort in these remote areas, though specific hotel details aren’t provided.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the long days and altitude might be challenging for very young children or those sensitive to high elevations.

Are guides knowledgeable?
While specific reviews are limited, the tour emphasizes personal attention from guides, so expect some regional insights and assistance.

What should I pack?
Bring warm clothing, especially for Gurudongmar Lake, which is often snow-covered, and be prepared for variable weather.

How strenuous is the tour?
Expect a fair amount of driving and walking around scenic sites; it’s suitable for active travelers comfortable with long travel days.

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate, giving you flexibility and personalized attention.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable year-round?
You can book from September to June. During winter (December to April), snow and cold weather may affect accessibility and scenery.

This detailed look aims to give you a clear sense of what to expect from the Amazing North Sikkim 2 Nights, 3 Days tour. If you’re craving mountain vistas, sacred lakes, and a taste of local life, and don’t mind the long drives, this might just be the trip to add to your itinerary.