Complete Travel Plan for Gangtok, Nathula & North Sikkim
Plan your 7 day Sikkim itinerary covering Gangtok, Nathula Pass, Lachung, Lachen and Yumthang. Complete route, travel plan and tips.
7 Day Sikkim Itinerary
Planning a Sikkim trip can feel confusing at first.
There are multiple routes, permits, travel restrictions, and places that look close on the map but take hours to reach.
This 7 day Sikkim itinerary is designed to keep things simple — covering the key places without rushing the experience.
Day 1: Arrival at NJP / Bagdogra → Gangtok
- Pickup from NJP railway station or Bagdogra airport
- Travel to Gangtok (4–5 hours)
- Hotel check-in and rest
The first day is mostly about the journey into the hills.
Day 2: Gangtok Local Sightseeing
- MG Marg
- Tashi View Point
- Ganesh Tok
- Local monasteries
This is a lighter day, giving time to adjust before heading to higher altitudes.
Day 3: Gangtok → Nathula Pass → Return
- Tsomgo Lake
- Nathula Pass (permit required)
- Baba Mandir
This is a full-day trip and depends on permit approval.
Day 4: Gangtok → Lachen
- Early morning departure
- Travel via Chungthang
- Reach Lachen by evening
Long drive (6–7 hours), but the route is part of the experience.
Day 5: Lachen → Gurudongmar Lake → Lachung
- Early morning visit to Gurudongmar Lake
- Return and travel to Lachung
This is one of the highest altitude travel days.
Day 6: Lachung → Yumthang → Zero Point → Gangtok
- Visit Yumthang Valley
- Optional Zero Point
- Return to Gangtok
Another long day, but one of the most memorable.
Day 7: Gangtok → NJP / Bagdogra Drop
- Return journey
- Trip ends
Important Things to Know
- Permits are required for Nathula and North Sikkim
- Travel time is longer than expected
- Weather can affect plans
- Buffer time always helps
Many travellers plan their routes, taxi, and permits together through local platforms like Cabzix to avoid last-minute issues.
Can You Shorten This Itinerary?
Yes, but it changes the experience.
- 3–4 days → only Gangtok + nearby places
- 5–6 days → limited North Sikkim
7 days gives a more complete trip without rushing.
Best Time for This Itinerary
- March to May → comfortable weather
- October to November → clear views
- Winter → snow but slower travel
FAQs
Is 7 days enough for Sikkim?
Yes, it allows you to cover Gangtok, Nathula and North Sikkim comfortably.
Do I need permit for this itinerary?
Yes, permits are required for Nathula and North Sikkim.
Can I do this itinerary in 5 days?
Possible, but it becomes rushed.