Best Treks in Sikkim

Table of ContentsIntroductionExploring the Best Treks in SikkimTips for Trekking in SikkimConclusionIntroduction Located in the eastern Himalayas, Sikkim is one of the mountain states of India. Famous for towering mountains, pristine jungles, apple orchards, Buddhist shrines, monasteries, and breathtaking views of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga, Sikkim offers a wide variety of treks of all classifications, from easy walks and nature trails to strenuous high-altitude journeys. The gorgeous diversity of the landscape is yet another attraction of treks in Sikkim. Depending on the trail you pick, you will find yourself walking through a dense forest of rhododendrons, mountain hamlets, river valleys, mountain lakes, passes, mountain meadows, and the snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas. Amazing places to visit in Sikkim: Come and see the amazing, beautiful, and scenic places in Sikkim. The trails take you through cultural villages, places inhabited by Buddhists, and the region of the Himalayas. For the adventurous, photographers, and nature lovers, Sikkim is the place to be for a Himalayan adventure.Exploring the Best Treks in Sikkim1. Goechala TrekSTARTING POINT: YuksomENDING POINT: Goechala viewpoint / surrounding high-altitude regionDIFFICULTY LEVEL: DifficultTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 80–90 km, depending on itineraryBEST SEASON: April to May and October to NovemberThe Goechala Trek is one of the highest altitude treks in Sikkim. Starting from Yuksom, you will gradually ascend to the tranquil mountains of Kanchenjunga. There is traversing through thick woods and up alpine grasslands, mountain brooks, and high passes. The scenery of the Himalayan ranges from all sides of Dzongri is awesome, and no doubt this trek is one of the best in the Himalayas. Goechala Point: Goechala Point offers a very good panoramic view of the entire mountain range and the Mt. Kanchenjunga range. Noted for the spectacular scenery, difficult walk, and beautiful Himalayan scenery, it is a very interesting trek for experienced trekkers. Be prepared to walk for long periods of time, in all weather conditions, at high elevations, and with quite a few climbs.2. Sandakphu TrekSTARTING POINT: ManebhanjanENDING POINT: SandakphuDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Moderate to DifficultTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 45–55 km, depending on itineraryBEST SEASON: April to May and October to NovemberThe Sandakphu Trek is ranked among the most popular Himalayan treks on Singalila Ridge. Sandakphu also happens to be the highest point in West Bengal with views of beautiful mountain ranges. The trail takes you through forests, mountain villages, expansive skies, and over high altitude terrain. When the weather is clear, trekkers have the opportunity to look out over some of the tallest peaks of the Himalayas, including Everest and Kanchenjunga, from the ridge. Sandakphu trek is a very interesting trek for adventure seekers as well as people who are into photography because the mountain ridge, sunrise, forest, and the view of the Himalayas all make this trip truly romantic.3. Dzongri TrekSTARTING POINT: YuksomENDING POINT: DzongriDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Moderate to DifficultTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 30–40 km, depending on itineraryBEST SEASON: April to May and October to NovemberThe Dzongri Trekking trail in the Sikkim Himalayas. Starting from Yuksom, this trek takes the trekker through scenic forests and mountains to the Dzongri alpine region. The trail snakes through thick undergrowth, all along streams, and through meadows in the changing Himalayan landscape. The mountains of the mountain viewpoint trek, Dzongri, offer the most prominent view of the snow-capped summit of Kanchenjunga and other peaks. It is also popular as an introductory trek to high-altitude trekking in the Kanchenjunga.4. Kanchenjunga Base Camp TrekSTARTING POINT: Yuksom / Sikkim Himalayan regionENDING POINT: Kanchenjunga Base Camp regionDIFFICULTY LEVEL: DifficultTREK DISTANCE: Varies depending on itineraryBEST SEASON: Spring and autumnThe trek to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp pushes trekkers into the lesser-known part of the Himalayan range near Kanchenjunga. Trek to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp offers wilderness, mountain vistas, forests, valleys, and high-altitude landscapes. As the trekkers venture into the wilderness of the Himalayas away from the populated areas, from the mountain forestlands and valleys and river beds, the land becomes akin to alpine country and mountain wilderness. Who is this trek suitable for? A good trekker who is comfortable facing extreme trekking conditions and who is able to trek in tough terrain, high altitude, weather, and extreme distances.5. Green Lake TrekSTARTING POINT: Lachen regionENDING POINT: Green Lake regionDIFFICULTY LEVEL: DifficultTREK DISTANCE: Varies depending on itineraryBEST SEASON: April to May and October to NovemberGreen Lake Trek is an isolated trek that is situated in North Sikkim. The trek provides amazing views of the mountains and the Kanchenjunga range of mountain ranges. The trail leads walkers past silent valleys, forests, watercourses, alpine areas, and high mountain terrain. Vegetation gets scarcer the higher up you go, and the terrain gets denser. This trek offers a quiet backdrop, a far cry from the more popular treks of the region. Green Lake and its Himalayan habitat are a far cry from the bustling trekkers' routes. Being remote and high-altitude, Green Lake Trek is suitable for seasoned trekkers.6. Singalila Ridge TrekSTARTING POINT: Manebhanjan / Singalila regionENDING POINT: Sandakphu–Phalut regionDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Moderate to DifficultTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 50–65 km, depending on itineraryBEST SEASON: April to May and October to NovemberThe "Sweet mountain forest" P.13 The Singalila ridge's narrow line is a breathtaking mountain ridgeline in the eastern Himalayas. It is the trail that goes from woodland locations, farms, and open ridgelines to high land. Meadows with snow-capped mountains, including Kanchenjunga on a sunny day. The Rhododendron forest of Singalila trek is popular for its Rhododendrons and, when springtime comes, the entire outlook changes to vibrant colours. Mountain views & mountain ridges, forests, Himalayan villages- this trek has everything that one needs and is one of the most sought-after routes by photographers & nature lovers.7. Barsey Rhododendron TrekSTARTING POINT: HilleyENDING POINT: Barsey / Varsey regionDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Easy to ModerateTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 10–20 km, depending on itineraryBEST SEASON: March to MayThe Barsey Rhododendron Trek is relatively short and scenic in Sikkim. It is especially popular during the spring season when rhododendron flowers bloom across the forests. The trail passes through beautiful forests and gentle mountain terrain. The peaceful surroundings and colourful flowering landscapes make it suitable for travelers looking for a shorter Himalayan trekking experience. From the higher areas, trekkers can also enjoy views of the surrounding mountains. The trek is ideal for nature walks, photography, birdwatching, and exploring Sikkim's forest landscapes.8. Kasturi Orar TrekSTARTING POINT: Yuksom / Dzongri regionENDING POINT: Kasturi Orar regionDIFFICULTY LEVEL: DifficultTREK DISTANCE: Varies depending on itineraryBEST SEASON: April to May and October to NovemberA tough hike through the high altitude plains of western Sikkim. The trek is located in the isolated mountain terrain around the Kanchenjunga region. Trekkers will pass through woods, alpine pastures, high mountain passes, and rocky mountains. The trail is more wilderness than some more heavily trekked routes in the Himalayas. Good physical shape and use of suitable trekking equipment at high altitude are necessary. Be aware that the weather can change very fast.9. Phoktey Dara TrekSTARTING POINT: Uttarey / surrounding regionENDING POINT: Phoktey DaraDIFFICULTY LEVEL: ModerateTREK DISTANCE: Varies depending on itineraryBEST SEASON: March to May and October to NovemberPhoktey Dara Trek Phoktey Dara Trek Phoktey Dara is a large trek in western Sikkim which offers awe-inspiring mountain views as well as a cooler walk on the forest trail. The trail goes through forests and meadows and ridges around the high passes, giving a sense of the Himalayas at elevation. Reasons you should not miss: Rhododendron woods on the trek make it one of the most vibrant trails in spring. Ideal for: The trek will enthrall mountain trekkers and shutterbugs, apart from those interested in discovering new sides of Sikkim.10. Varsey TrekSTARTING POINT: HilleyENDING POINT: VarseyDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Easy to ModerateTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 10–15 km, depending on itineraryBEST SEASON: March to MayThe Varsey Trek is one of the short treks in Sikkim. What is the highlight of the Varsey Trek? From Hilley, the road gradually ascends along the forested slopes of the Varsey. The forest is filled with a variety of rhododendrons when in flower. Varsey is the best choice for those who want to explore Himalaya's ‘ ‘forests without any long, high-altitude hike. The trail is also perfect for photography and peaceful nature walks.11. Singalila Pass TrekSTARTING POINT: Singalila regionENDING POINT: Singalila Pass / surrounding ridgeDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Moderate to DifficultTREK DISTANCE: Varies depending on itineraryBEST SEASON: April to May and October to NovemberThis trek takes you through the beautiful mountain ridge setting of the Himalayan region of Sikkim and West Bengal. The path takes you through the jungle paths, mountain farms, village settlements, and high altitude places. The ridge has views of the mountain ranges of the Himalayas. For adventure lovers, it will be a thrill to trek on the uneven surface and long ridge walks. You need to take proper trek gear and clothes as the weather can change suddenly at higher altitudes.12. Tholung TrekSTARTING POINT: North SikkimENDING POINT: Tholung Valley / surrounding regionDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Moderate to DifficultTREK DISTANCE: Varies depending on itineraryBEST SEASON: March to May and October to NovemberThe Tholung Trek guides you into North Sikkim Tholung Trek introduces you to the remote terrains of North Sikkim. This trail passes through forests, mountain ranges, rivers, and tranquil Himalayas. The trail will take you through an undiscovered area of Sikkim along with the most beautiful mountain and nature landscapes. The higher you go along the way, you'll see the changes in vegetation and the mountainous scenery. The trek is especially suitable for those wanting a more remote and quiet experience in the Himalayas.13. Yuksom TrekSTARTING POINT: YuksomENDING POINT: Surrounding Himalayan trailsDIFFICULTY LEVEL: Easy to ModerateTREK DISTANCE: Varies depending on itineraryBEST SEASON: March to May and October to NovemberYuksom Trek takes you through the pristine region bordering the traditional road to West Sikkim. Yuksom is surrounded by lush green forests, mountain streams, mountain villages on slopes, and the eternal charm of the Himalayan mountain country. The other extended routes start from Yuksom when you move towards Dzongri and Goechala. If you are more interested in seeing the scenic beauty and local cultures of Sikkim than trekking, there are several shorter treks around Yuksom which can provide a more meaningful experience.14. Dzongri Goechala TrekSTARTING POINT: YuksomENDING POINT: Goechala regionDIFFICULTY LEVEL: DifficultTREK DISTANCE: Approximately 70–90 km, depending on itineraryBEST SEASON: April to May and October to NovemberThe Dzongri Goechala Trek takes you to two significant peaks of the Sikkim Himalayas. Starting from Yuksom, it gains elevation and traverses through the lush forests, mountains, and alpine fields. However, the Dzongri area is an important trek, and it is a round-trip trek with alternating viewpoints. From there, the trek will head towards the denser hill districts till Goechala. The trek provides an amazing view of Kanchenjunga and other mountains from higher areas. The climb, mountain scenery, forests, and alpine environment make it the perfect Himalayan trek.15. Kanchenjunga South Base Camp TrekSTARTING POINT: Yuksom / western Sikkim regionENDING POINT: Kanchenjunga South Base Camp regionDIFFICULTY LEVEL: DifficultTREK DISTANCE: Varies depending on itineraryBEST SEASON: April to May and October to NovemberKANCHANJUNGA SOUTH BASE CAMP TREK - MOUNTAIN TREK THE MOUNTAINS TO THE SOUTH SIDE OF KANCHANJUNGA Trekking towards the mountain from here, through the mountains, we will go to the south side of Kanchenjunga. First, it twists through forests, valleys, and alpine meadows and a bit more rugged high country. As it slowly climbs, the view of the surrounding mountains grows more and more spectacular. Due to the route's remote location, this trek is suitable for experienced trekkers looking for a demanding trek in the Himalayas. Good acclimatisation, fitness, appropriate equipment, and local guides are also important on this trek.Tips for Trekking in SikkimCheck the weather and trail conditions before starting.Choose a trek according to your fitness and experience.Acclimatize properly before reaching higher elevations.Carry good-quality trekking shoes.Pack warm layers for changing Himalayan temperatures.Carry rain protection and a windproof jacket.Keep sufficient water and energy snacks.Carry a basic first-aid kit and essential medicines.Follow local trekking regulations and permit requirements.Use experienced local guides for remote routes.Avoid trekking alone on isolated trails.Carry a headlamp, power bank, and emergency essentials.Respect local villages, monasteries, and cultural traditions.Conclusion The Top Treks in Sikkim showcase an enchanting series of Himalayan Mountain summits, grassy meadows, dense forests, rhododendron-filled valleys, remote villages, and mountain terrain as high as 6000m. Treks in Sikkim comprise the widely trekked Goechala Trek, Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, as well as the comparatively shorter Barsey Trek and Barsey Rhododendron Trek. Panoramic range views of the Kanchenjunga are spectacular on the Dzongri Trek and Dzongri Goechala Trek. The Green Lake Trek and Kanchenjunga South Base Camp Trek put you on the less traveled path in the Himalaya. The Singalila Ridge Trek and Singalila Pass Trek are both well known for ridge trekking, and Tholung, Phoktey Dara, and Kasturi Orar for trekking in less traveled Himalayan areas. Ranging from high-altitude trekking, woods, mountains & hills, mesmerizing rhododendrons, photography, and the peace & tranquility of the Himalayas, Sikkim has a lot to offer. So, if you are equipped with all your gear, have a passion for working your legs, are already consuming high-altitude aids, and are aiming to reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness in Sikkim, then you are ready for trekking in the Sikkim Himalayas.