Travelling to Sikkim is like going to another world, full of surprises, monasteries warm people and of course momos! A place where the mountains meet the skies and the roads get curvier on every turn, and as you bask in the morning winter sun, you can breathe in the fresh air, whilst starring at the mountain ranges sitting majestically, yet so peacefully all around you.
But, when you think of Sikkim what is the first place that crosses your mind? If I am not wrong, it's Gangtok right? If you have been thinking of going on a month long 'workation', long working-holiday, or simply a break then some of the off-beat places in this article are the perfect getaway for you.
Take the Road Less Travelled
When it comes to these untouched destinations in Sikkim, you have to remember that the reason they have remained so flamboyant is because of the absence of development in a good way. Five star hotels and resorts are a far-fetched dream for people craving luxury in these remote villages. Located in North, West and South Sikkim, experience the traditional Sikkimese culture, warm people, the welcome in their homes and their simplicity. You can reach all these destinations from Gangtok, Pelling, New Jaigalpuri (NJP), Darjeeling, Siliguri or Bagdogra.
North Sikkim: Lachung, Dzongu and Darap
Location: Lachung
A mountain village close to the Tibetan border, also known as the base camp for Rhododendron Valley Trek, is Lachung. Known for the Buddhist Monastery, Yumthang Valley's Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary and waterfalls surrounded by pine forests and natural hot springs. It is a 6 hour drive from Gangtok, and once you reach Lachung, stay here and slow down to enjoy the nature, and explore Yumthang Valley ending your trip in Lachen, nothing less than a gem. Located at altitude of 14,500 ft and less oxygen, visit the Zero Point first, and then the Yumthang valley from Lachung.
Accommodation
1. OurGuest Homestay
This is a beautiful 'OurGuest' homestay, located at Lachung valley in North Sikkim. Food is home cooked by the family and you will love the authentic food that they serve. This place is located a fair way uphill from the actual town of Lachung.
2. Lachungpa Homestay
'Lachungpa Homestay' is situated at an evaluation of 7,500 above sea level, in an ideal place in the Valley of Flowers, Yumthang Valley and above Zero Point. Don’t miss out on the food, especially the soup and momos!
3. Tashi Gakhil Resort
Nestled amidst the exquisite Himalayan views of Sikkim, 'Tashi Gakhil Resort' is in a quiet and peaceful location. It is rare to find an accomodation with all amenities in these parts of Sikkim, and this one offers all comforts in the 'middle of nowhere'.
Location: Dzongu
Dzongu is specially restricted for Lepcha community, and looks like it is just out of a hamlet. This quaint village does not have proper hotels, but the absence of modernisation will certainly help you connect with nothing else but Mother Nature! For the first time visitors, you can ask your homestay owner to arrange a pick-up to reach the homestay for approximately INR 1,200 from Mangan.
Note: In order to enter the Lepcha area in Dzongu, you need to obtain a permit from the DC office in Mangan. Alternatively, send a scanned copy of a valid ID and address proof along with a passport size photograph to the homestay owner and he can take care of your permit.
Accommodation
1. Royal Dzongu Homestay
Experience the local culture and food as you are surrounded by nature at the 'Royal Dzongu Homestay'. This place is away from the concrete jungle! So you can choose to hike, eat organic food, mingle with the locals and learn about Lepchas or simply relax!
2. Lingthem Lyang Homestay
The 'Lingthem Lyang Homestay' is surrounded by paddy fields and cardamom groves, surrounded by streams gushing down the waterfall. Made from wood, this cosy house showcases the fine features of traditional Lepcha architecture. The owners also happily provides eco-friendly tours and a stay away from the City life!
Location: Darap
One of the very few undiscovered places in Sikkim, a humble abode amidst the lofty mountains, Darap Subba Village is a must visit if you truly want to discover the untouched. The village is settled on a sloping landscape, blessed with bio-diversity away from noise and City life. Darap is settled close to the town Pelling and is occupied by a small settlement of Limboo Community. It is one the places that you must visit and experience the peace and quiet like no other!
Accommodation
1. Daragaon Village Retreat
'Daragoan Village Retreat', also known as Gurung Homestay is located in Darap Village. Only eight kms away from Pelling, stay here to enjoy the secluded village life, slow down and relish the homely organic food. A beautifully nestled homestay amid greenery and mountains getaway from the busy City life and experience a different side of Sikkim.
2. Cherry Village Homestay Resort
'Cherry Village Resort' is only a 10 minute drive from Upper Pelling. This story book rustic homestay is perfect for bird watching, village walks, trekking, mountain biking and everything that will bring you closer to nature. Spend time with your loved ones here and disconnect from the stress from you City life, or stay here for a long time on a workation.
South Sikkim: Ravangla
Relatively a new tourist spot in Sikkim, a small town located in South Sikkim, at an altitude of 8,000 ft, Ravangla is between Maenam and Tedong Hill. Imagine a picturesque town surrounded by alpine trees, and jaw-dropping views of the Himalayas! Treat your eyes with uninterrupted views of the Mt. Khanchengdzonga, Mt. Pandim, Mt. Sinialchu, and Mt. Kabru. If you happen to travel in April or May, this place is blooming with flowers! Lately, tourists have started visiting Ravangla, as it is not yet as crowded as it is in Gangtok or Pelling.
Accommodation
1. The Barfung Retreat
Nestled in the foothills of the mighty Himalayas, in the quaint village of Barfung, situated near Ravangla, South Sikkim lies 'The Barfung Retreat' is designed exclusively as a weekend getaway to reconnect with nature, history and tradition. For anyone who wants to stay in the outskirts but wants to have all amenities, this is a good choice.
2. Hilltop Rabong Resort
Situated atop a hill, overlooking Kanchenjunga, 'Hilltop Rabong Resort' in Ravangla, Sikkim, is nestled in amidst serene Pine Forest. The resort is located 4 km away from Ravangla main market. Known to being surrounded by snow-capped Kanchenjunga stay here to get away from the City life.
3. Lungchok Farms
Lungchok Farms is a cosy and rustic homestay. Offering beautiful view of the Himalayas in Kewzing, this cosy home stay is a perfect get away for anyone who wants to getaway from the City life and surround yourself by birds and nature!
West Sikkim: Chaaya Tal, Kaluk, Okhrey, Yuksom and Dzongri
Location: Chaaya Taal
Chaaya Taal is a small offbeat village, at an altitude of 6,000 ft. Chaaya Taal or Chayatal comprises of a mainly of hills, natural views, birds, lake and is guarded by Mt. Kanchenjunga. Getting known as one of the newest tourists spots, visit this place for it's dense forests, monasteries, red pandas and 65 species of different bird activities!
Accommodation
1. Chayatal Heritage Home
The best thing about 'Chayatal Heritage Home', a heritage property offers a peaceful stay with clear views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. This heritage property is situated on a hill top, so be ready to hike a bit to reach here.
Locations: Kaluk, Okhrey & Uttarey
Far away tucked in the Himalayan mountains is a small town called Kaluk, at an elevation of 1,620 feet. Kaluk is slowly getting known to voyagers due to the famous natural resources, culture and slow life in the mountains! This place offers breathtaking views of most stunning views of the Mt Kanchenjunga. Experience living in a postcard and sharing basic amenities with the locals, that is nothing but priceless!
Okhrey is an another small village, on the way to Varsey which is known as the Valley of Rhododendrons. If you visit between March and April, the colours are unbelievable across the valley! Another small village is Uttarey, near Nepal border and a trekking point to Singalila Range. Both these villages offer mountains and pristine views of the valleys! Reach these destinations from Siliguri, Darjeeling, Pelling or Gangtok, NJP, Ravangla, Rinchenpong or Dentam by taxi or bus.
Accommodation
1. Mandarin Village Resort
'Mandarin Village Resort' in Kaluk, is very well known for their hospitality. Surrounded by nature only, the food is delicious. Enjoy some thukpa as you bask in the sun rays in the morning. The clear views of Mt. Kanchendzonga from your rooms window is perfect for a postcard perfect getaway!
2. The Gyaltsen's Home Stay
'The Gyaltsen's Home Stay' is a Sikkimese traditional home, only 10 minutes away from Kaluk and only 30 minutes from Pelling. Get your trekking shoes on as you will have to trek for 10 minutes from car park to this wonderfully hidden place in nature!
Locations: Yuksom & Dzongri
Yuksom or Yuksum is a historical town in Geyzing subdivision of West Sikkim district. This is where the first Chogyal was crowned in 1642, and till date this place is considered very special in Sikkim. Dubdi Monastery, Sikkim's oldest is only 2 km uphill from Yuksom. Take up some high altitude treks starting in Yuksom, visit the local bazaar or try the local Tibetan food.
Among the best trekking destinations in India, Dzongri is located at an altitude of 4,200 m. If you are doing a 8 day trail trek, you can stay here on the way to your trek to view the white peaks all around Dzongri. Starting from Yuksom, you can either stay in Yuksom and finish this trek or choose to take a pit stop in Dzongri. For the treks you can easily get it from the local bazaar. Reaching Yuksom and Dzongri is easier from Darjeeling, Gangtok, Silliguri or New Jaigalpuri (NJP).
Accommodation
1. Limboo Homestay
'Limboo Homestay' is a family run beautiful homestay to experience the Sikkimese village lifestyle. Go for village walks or enjoy the local organic food. Enjoy the nature by going on hikes and nature walks.
2. Sikkim Lake House
'Sikkim Lake House' homestay is a 10-minute walk from the famous Khecheopalri Lake. Enjoy the views of this lake from your rooms balcony. The house is made of stone and wood in a traditional Sikkimese style. Discover caves such as Guru Rinpoche Cave and Green Taradevi Cave for a unique experience.
So are you planning to take a trip anytime soon to Sikkim? And will you explore one of these beautiful off beat locations tucked away in the mountains? Make sure you spend time in the nature and disconnect from the City life!
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