Gangtok and Tsomgo Lake Tour

A short introduction to Sikkim's capital and its most famous high-altitude lake. Gangtok sits on a ridge facing Kanchenjunga, and the tour visits the Enchey Monastery, the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology with its collection of Buddhist manuscripts and icons, the Do Drul Chorten, the Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom, and the lively, pedestrian MG Marg. A full day goes to Tsomgo (Changu) Lake at about 3750 m in East Sikkim, a glacial lake held sacred by the Sikkimese, frozen in winter and ringed by rhododendrons in spring. On the way back you visit Rumtek Monastery, seat of the Karmapa lineage in exile. Foreign nationals need a Sikkim Restricted Area Permit (Inner Line Permit), issued online, at the Rangpo or Melli checkposts or on arrival, through the operator. Protected areas such as Tsomgo Lake and North Sikkim need an additional Protected Area Permit; foreigners must travel in a group of at least two with a Sikkim Tourism registered agent. Nathula Pass, Gurudongmar Lake and Zuluk are closed to foreign nationals.

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   Day 1Arrive at Bagdogra and drive to Gangtok

   About 4-5 hours along the Teesta River, entering Sikkim at Rangpo. Evening free on MG Marg.