You know when people plan a trip to Sikkim, most of them just stop at Gangtok, visit a few popular points, Tsomgo Lake maybe Nathula Pass and that’s it. But honestly that’s not even half of what Sikkim is about.
The real beauty starts when you go up north. The roads get quieter, mountains look bigger, and you see the kind of nature that doesn’t show up in travel ads. If you really want to see what Sikkim feels like, North Sikkim is the place. It’s peaceful, full of hidden tourist spots, and every turn looks like a painting. And ya, the best time to visit Sikkim or Gangtok is usually from March to June when the weather stays nice and clear.
So if you are planning a trip, or looking at some Sikkim travel packages, these are few offbeat North Sikkim sightseeing places you must not miss.
Yumthang Valley
Yumthang Valley is located about 140 km from Gangtok and it is one of the most famous places in North Sikkim. It is famous as “Valley of Flowers” (when you go there, you will see why).
Between the months of February and June the whole place gets covered with rhododendrons and small bright colored flowers everywhere.There are hot springs also here, which are believed to be good for health
On the way, you get to see pine trees, small rivers, and some of the tallest peaks in the area.The valley stays closed from December to March because of snow. But if you go during spring, it’s one of the most beautiful views you will ever see in Sikkim.
Best Time to Visit: February to October
Lachen
Lachen is a small town in North Sikkim. It’s very calm and clean, and honestly feels like time moves slow here. The name Lachen means Big Pass, and it connects to many famous places like Gurudongmar Lake and Chopta Valley.
There is a nice monastery here also called Lachen Monastery. From there you can see the whole village and snow mountains around. People here are simple and friendly. Many Sikkim tour packages include Lachen now because it’s becoming a favorite for people who love nature but don’t like too much crowd.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Seven Sisters Waterfalls
This one is near Gangtok, around 32 km away. It’s called Seven Sisters because the waterfall falls in seven parts. You can see four parts from the bottom and the rest are hidden behind the rocks. When it rains or when the snow melts, this place looks really amazing.
There’s a small cafe and a viewpoint where you can stop, click photos and just sit for some time. It’s a good stop on the way if you are going to North Sikkim.
Best Time to Visit: May to July
Mt Katao
Mt Katao is around 28 km from Lachung and almost 144 km from Gangtok.It’s one of those places that feels made for adventure lovers.You can do skiing, snowboarding or just enjoy walking on snow. The mountain is around 15000 feet high and stays covered in snow most of the year.
You do need a permit from the army to visit, but it’s easy to get through local travel officials. The best time to go Sikkim for visiting Mt Katao is March to June because the weather is pleasant. But if you love snow, go in winter, the view will totally blow your mind.
Best Time to Visit: March to June
Yumesamdong
If you want to feel on top of the world, Yumesamdong, or Zero Point, is the place. At 15,300 feet, the views of snow-capped mountains and quiet valleys are just breathtaking. It’s also a stop on the way to Gurudongmar Lake, making it perfect for trekkers and adventure lovers.
You might even spot yaks or mountain birds, and nearby villages give a glimpse of local life and food. Since it’s near the Indo-China border, a Protected Area Permit is required.
Best time to visit: Late March to mid-November for clear skies and safer roads.
Mangan
You know Mangan is the main town in North Sikkim and a lot of travelers use it as a base before heading to other places. It’s not very crowded, which makes it nice if you want to enjoy some calm and also get really good views of the Kanchenjunga range.
Mangan is also famous for events like a three-day music festival in December. Bands from Northeast India come, there’s local food, dances, handicrafts and people just enjoy the mountains and cold weather while listening to music.
There are some nice places to check out in and around Mangan like Tso Lhamo lake (the highest lakes in the world),Singhik, Labrang Monastery, Sirijonga Yuma Mangheem and Rong Lungten Lee.
Best time to visit: April to July or in early winter.
Chungthang
It is a small town in North Sikkim, located where the Lachen and Lachung rivers meet, at about 1790 meters above sea level. It is roughly 95 km from Gangtok, and though small, it’s really a special place to visit.
The town is considered holy because it’s believed to be blessed by Guru Padmasambhava. You can actually see a rock here with his handprints and footprints, and there’s a tiny patch of land where paddy grows all year, which is said to be blessed by him. It’s also believed that Guru Nanak Dev Ji visited this place during his travels to Tibet and China.
Best time to visit: March to June
Thangu Valley
Thangu Valley is a tiny village located in North Sikkim, at approximately 3900 m altitude and 2 hours drive away from Lachen. Tyumenchen is a popular halt for tourists before they proceed to Gurudongmar Lake, Muguthang or Cho Lhamu Lake.
The village itself is peaceful, with trees lining the streets, and as you ascend you begin to find views of the Tibetan Plateau. It’s a good destination for people who love nature but are ready to see something new.
Best time to visit: March to June
Chopta Valley
Chopta Valley in North Sikkim is vibrant, particularly in the summer. People call it the Valley of Flowers, and it absolutely is. The valley is busy, but here’s the thing: though it’s crowded in parts, you always have a sense of untouched peace.
Chopta Valley is heaven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. You can also find rare birds, plants and even some animals that you don’t see in more touristy parts of the place.The view of the valley with its bright flowers and green hills is just amazing. For those who want to see a side of Sikkim that feels pure and natural, Chopta Valley is definitely worth visiting.
Best time to visit: April to June
Naga Falls
Naga Falls is a beautiful waterfall in North Sikkim, on the way to Lachung and Yumthang Valley. It has multiple tiers and flows down a rocky cliff, surrounded by green forests. The name comes from the way the water twists and turns, like a mythical serpent, or Naga.
It’s a well-known rest stop for those traveling north, and a wonderful place to take photos or kick back for a bit.
Best time to visit: May to September
Honestly, North Sikkim is something else. The villages are peaceful, the valleys burst with color, and the mountains… well, they just take your breath away.
Waterfalls, frozen lakes, and quiet spots to adventure activities, make it feel like you’ve stepped into a different world. If you really want to feel Sikkim, don’t just stick to Gangtok—head up north and let the views do the talking.
