Things to Do in East Sikkim: A Complete Travel Guide
East Sikkim is one of the most breathtaking regions in India, offering a mix of adventure, spirituality, nature, and history. From high mountain passes and winding roads to crystal-clear lakes and serene villages, East Sikkim promises an unforgettable journey for every traveler.
If you are planning your next Himalayan trip, here’s a list of the best things to do in East Sikkim, covering iconic places like Aritar Lake, Que Khola, Phadamchen, Zuluk, Zig Zag Silk Route, Thambi View Point, Elephant Lake, Old Baba Mandir, Nathula Pass, and Changu Lake (Tsomgo Lake).
Let’s dive into the beauty of East Sikkim and explore what makes it a must-visit destination.
1. Visit Aritar Lake – The Gem of East Sikkim
Start your East Sikkim adventure with Aritar Lake, also known as Lampokhari Lake, one of the oldest natural lakes in Sikkim. Located near Rhenock, this lake is surrounded by pine forests and peaceful landscapes.
Things to do at Aritar Lake:
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Take a peaceful boat ride while enjoying the serene mountain backdrop.
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Visit Aritar Monastery (Ari Gumpa) for spiritual vibes.
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Capture scenic views and spend quiet moments by the lakeside.
Why visit Aritar? It’s one of the most offbeat destinations in East Sikkim, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
2. Stop by Que Khola – The Hidden Waterfall
A short drive from Aritar takes you to Que Khola Waterfall, a hidden gem known for its refreshing beauty. The waterfall cascades down a rocky cliff surrounded by dense greenery, making it an ideal stop for a peaceful break.
Things to enjoy at Que Khola:
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Take photos of the stunning waterfall.
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Relax and listen to the sound of flowing water.
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Enjoy local snacks from roadside stalls.
It’s one of those peaceful spots that makes your East Sikkim road trip memorable.
3. Explore Phadamchen – The Tranquil Himalayan Village
Phadamchen is a small village nestled on the way to the famous Old Silk Route. Known for its warm hospitality and homestays, it’s a great place to acclimatize before heading to higher altitudes.
Things to do in Phadamchen:
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Stay in cozy homestays and experience local culture.
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Enjoy sunrise views over snow-capped peaks.
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Try authentic Sikkimese food prepared by locals.
If you’re looking for an offbeat stay in East Sikkim, Phadamchen is the perfect spot.
4. Zuluk – A Village Above the Clouds
Zuluk, located at an altitude of around 10,000 feet, is a must-visit destination for every traveler exploring East Sikkim. Once part of the historic Silk Route, this village offers some of the most dramatic Himalayan views.
Top things to do in Zuluk:
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Visit Nag Temple, a small temple built inside a cave.
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Watch sunrise from Zuluk View Point – the sight of golden peaks is unforgettable.
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Enjoy peaceful mountain walks and stunning photography.
Zuluk is a paradise for adventure lovers and those seeking raw Himalayan beauty.
5. Drive Through the Zig Zag Silk Route
The highlight of East Sikkim is undoubtedly the Zig Zag Silk Route. This serpentine road with over 30 hairpin bends offers one of the most thrilling drives in India.
Why it’s special:
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Historical significance – once used for trade between India and Tibet.
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Panoramic views of the Himalayas.
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Great photo opportunities from every turn.
Driving through the Silk Route is a must-do experience that gives you a glimpse of both adventure and history.
6. Stop at Thambi View Point – Capture Himalayan Majesty
Located at an altitude of 11,200 feet, Thambi View Point offers one of the best panoramic views in East Sikkim. From here, you can see the entire Zig Zag road winding through the mountains.
Things to do at Thambi View Point:
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Witness a magical sunrise over the Kanchenjunga Range.
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Take wide-angle shots of the Silk Route.
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Soak in the peaceful mountain air.
This viewpoint is a must-visit for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
7. Visit Elephant Lake (Kupup Lake) – A Scenic Surprise
Located near Kupup Village, Elephant Lake, also called Kupup Lake, gets its name from its shape which resembles an elephant. It’s surrounded by snow in winter and looks like a scene straight out of a postcard.
Things to enjoy at Elephant Lake:
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Capture reflections of the snowy peaks.
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Visit nearby Yak Golf Course, one of the highest golf courses in the world.
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Relax by the lakeside and enjoy the calmness of nature.
8. Old Baba Mandir – A Shrine of Faith and Valor
The Old Baba Mandir is dedicated to Baba Harbhajan Singh, an Indian Army soldier who is believed to still protect the borders. The temple is not just a place of worship but also a symbol of devotion and bravery.
Why visit Old Baba Mandir:
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Experience the spiritual aura and local beliefs.
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Learn about the fascinating legend of Baba Harbhajan Singh.
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Pay your respects and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
9. Nathula Pass – Gateway to China
One of the most thrilling places in East Sikkim is Nathula Pass, located at 14,140 feet on the Indo-China border. It was once part of the ancient Silk Route and remains one of India’s highest motorable roads.
What to do at Nathula Pass:
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Stand at the India-China border and see Chinese posts.
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Experience the pride of being at such a historic site.
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Capture views of snow-covered landscapes.
Note: Nathula requires a special permit, which your tour operator can arrange.
10. Changu Lake (Tsomgo Lake) – The Heart of East Sikkim
No East Sikkim trip is complete without visiting Changu Lake, also known as Tsomgo Lake. Situated at 12,300 feet, this glacial lake changes colors with the seasons and remains frozen during winter.
Why Changu Lake is special:
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Ride a yalk around the lake for a unique experience.
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Enjoy snow during winter months.
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Visit the nearby Tsomgo Monastery for peaceful vibes.
It’s one of the most famous tourist spots in East Sikkim and a true symbol of Sikkim’s natural beauty.
Plan Your East Sikkim Trip Today
East Sikkim is a land where every turn brings a new surprise — from scenic lakes to snowy peaks, from ancient temples to historic trade routes. Whether you want adventure, culture, or nature, this region has it all.
👉 Book your journey now at www.northsikkimsharing.com
📧 Email: info@northsikkimsharing.com
📞 Call: 95933-06660
We provide reliable shared trips, private tours, permits, and complete travel assistance to make your Sikkim vacation smooth and memorable.
Final Thoughts
Exploring East Sikkim is like stepping into a world of natural beauty and spiritual calm. From Aritar Lake and Que Khola to Zuluk, Nathula Pass, and Changu Lake, each destination tells its own story.
So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the best things to do in East Sikkim — where adventure meets serenity in the lap of the Himalayas!
