Sikkim is a state in the north-eastern part of India and is well known for its tremendous beauty reinforced by majestic mountains, alluring glaciers, warm meadows, and sparkling flowers. India’s highest mountain, Kanchenjunga, is located in the magical state of Sikkim on the border of Sikkim and Nepal. But, Sikkim is just not restricted to being a scenic destination as it has several pilgrims which enhance its incredibility and piousness. The place can be experienced in the light of traditional Tibetan culture as one can see Tibetan flags hanging across homes in the hope of a better life as you try the delectable Tibetan cuisines in the lap of a breathtaking view.
Since Sikkim is situated amongst the Himalayas, the state is mostly freezing cold, which is why it is ideal to visit the place during the month of May. Sikkim during this time is blissful and pleasant as the winds flow just enough to make it breezy but not too cold and the average temperature recorded in Sikkim during May is between 16 degrees to 24 degrees Celsius. The season during this time is such that it allows you to explore the most amazing places to visit in Sikkim in May be it mountains or the pilgrims, you are sure to experience tranquility and peace of mind.
12 Best Places To Visit In Sikkim In May
Planning a vacation to Sikkim? Amongst the many ecoregions of India, Sikkim is one that beholds diverse flora and fauna along with encompassing the culture and ethnicity of the people of North-East India. Experience one of the most captivating places in India as you explore the best places to visit in Sikkim during May :
- Tsomgo Lake: Peaceful Escape
- Goecha La: For Adventure Freaks
- Enchey Monastery: Spiritual Interactions
- Nathula Pass: Incredible Views
- Gurudongmar Lake: Mystic Ambiance
- Khecheopalri Lake: Reviving Visits
- Yuksom: Gateway Of Kanchenjunga
- Gangtok: Home To Heritage Monasteries
- Tashi View Point: Panoramic Sites
- Lachung: Mesmerizing Ambiance
- Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden: Witness The Colorful Ambience
- Yumthang Valley: Sikkim Valley Of Flowers Sanctuary
1. Tsomgo Lake: Peaceful Escape
Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, is situated in the East Sikkim district and is around 40km from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. It is widely believed that one can heal themselves internally through the water of this lake at the time of Guru Purnima. There is a beautiful bloom of flowers named irises, rhododendrons, primulas, and poppies during May, so keep your minds open and your cameras ready! This is one of the most beautiful lakes near Gangtok.
Location: Jawaharlal Nehru Road,Tathangchen Area, Gangtok 737101, India
Timings: N/A
Entry Fee: Rs. 900-1000 per person along with the permit (Inner line permit for Indians and a special one for foreigners)
Must Read: 19 Places To Visit In North Sikkim To Witness The Magic!
Looking To Book A Holiday Package?
2. Goecha La: For Adventure Freaks
Who doesn’t love adventure and that too trekking? The scenery while trekking over Goecha La trek is beautiful as it sights the view of the magnificent Kanchenjunga’s peak. Green tail Sunbird, European Sparrow, and several other rare species of birds are found which ultimately creates a beautiful location and one of the best places to visit in Sikkim during summer. Talung, Rathong, Kojtang, Kabru N are some peaks other than Kanchenjunga.
Location: Goecha La, Sikkim 737113
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee: None (Rs. 2000 for foreigners)
Suggested Read: Zuluk Sightseeing: A Traveler’s Guide For Unseen Places In Sikkim!
3. Enchey Monastery: Spiritual Interactions
Enchey Monastery means ‘solitary monastery’ and a religious belief of Buddhism is adhered to along with this place. It is built upon a beautiful mountain peak, which gives a view of the entire Gangtok and that of the Kanchenjunga peak. The architecture and its unique pagoda-style make it look incredible despite being smaller in the area. Therefore, this needs to be included in the vibrant list of places to visit in Gangtok in May. This is one of the most visited monasteries in Sikkim.
Location: Gangtok-Nathula Road, Sikkim 737101
Timings: 6 AM to 4 PM
Entry Fee: None
Suggested Read: Paragliding In Sikkim: 6 Spots Where You Should Definitely Try Out This Thrilling Activity
4. Nathula Pass: Incredible Views
In case you are inclined towards the Indian Army, this place is best since there you can find the exhibition center of the Indian Army and a beautifully built war memorial. Well known for Yak Safari and the incredible view of snow, we would suggest you be here and capture these incredibly beautiful views for eternity. A trip to Nathula Pass will surely enthrall you. It is one of the best Sikkim places to visit in May.
Location: Nathula Pass, East of Gangtok, Sikkim 737101
Timings: 8 AM to 1:30 PM, ONLY Wednesday to Sunday
Entry Fee: Rs. 200
Suggested Read: Our 8 Days Family Trip To Sikkim Had Sightseeing, Adventure & Lots Of Fun!
5. Gurudongmar Lake: Mystic Ambiance
One of the most wonderful places to visit in North Sikkim in may, its surroundings and the area make it one of the highest lakes in the world and the country as well. The entire lake freezes at the time of winter which is why it is ideal to visit the lake during the summer season and feel the sacredness in the air around this lake as vested strongly by the Hindus, Buddhists, and Sikhs. It is among the top places to visit in Sikkim in summer.
Location: Gurudongmar Lake, North Sikkim 737120
Timings: 7 AM to 10:30 AM
Entry Fee: None
Suggested Read: Check Out These 14 Places To Visit In Namchi, The Culture Capital Of Sikkim!
6. Khecheopalri Lake: Reviving Visits
Earlier known as the Kha-Chot-Palri, Khecheopalri is a charming lake located near the Khecheopalri Village, which is located at a distance of 147 km away from Gangtok. Hindus and Buddhists have a belief that this lake is a wish-fulfilling water body and offering your prayers to the lake will make your dreams come true. Experience both faith and beauty in parallel mediums as you explore the Khecheopalri Lake.
Location: Khecheopalri, Pelling, West Sikkim
Timings: Dawn-Dusk
Entry Fee: Rs. 10
Suggested Read: Sikkim Wildlife: 8 Awe-Striking Top Sanctuaries and National Parks
Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!
7. Yuksom: Gateway Of Kanchenjunga
Known as the ‘gateway of Kanchenjunga’, Yuksom is a historic village situated in the West area of Sikkim. Similarly as others, this is also associated with cultural and religious beliefs, but specifically for the people of Bhutia community. Earlier it was the capital of the state and now also is known for its terrific scenic sights and culture. This place is also considered a modern village for eco-tourism.
Location: Yuksom, West Sikkim 737113
Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: None
Suggested Read: Planning A Sikkim Trip On Budget? Know How To Make It Affordable Yet Awesome Like We Did!
8. Gangtok: Home To Heritage Monasteries
A capital to this beautiful Northeastern state of Sikkim, Gangtok is known for its popular Buddhist pilgrimage sites. Truly one of the most incredible places to go in Sikkim in May, Gangtok includes several stunning sites and rich heritage monasteries which are located in the eastern region of Himalayas. Diversity is seen in this Capital which has different people of several ethnicities like Bhutia, Lepchas and Indian Gorkhas. Pleasant views of greenery and clouds over the head, making the area more like a paradise on Earth.
Location: Gangtok, Sikkim 737101
Timings: 9 AM to 4 PM
Entry Fee: None
Suggested Read: This Sikkim Itinerary For 6 Days Gave Us A Wonderful Trip That Got Us Awestruck
9. Tashi View Point: Panoramic Sites
We include the Tashi View Point in the league of the best places to visit in Sikkim in May, because of the very reasons that this place is the master of all scenic and historic beauties on the face of the country. Be it the flowers, the monuments, the architecture or the sunrise, you can experience the beauty of each one of these from this place. Tashi’s viewpoint is situated about 8km away from the central Gangtok, and is a great place to spend some time with family and friends as you create memories!
Location: Tashi View Point, Gangtok, Sikkim 737107
Timings: 8:30 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee: Rs. 10
Suggested Read: 20 Drool-Worthy Restaurants In Sikkim For A Scrumptious Retreat
10. Lachung: Mesmerizing Ambiance
Widely known for its beauty and the views along with Yumthang Valley, the Lachung Monastery, and beautiful rivers, Lachung is an alluring mountain village in Sikkim situated close to the Tibetan border. There are many apple orchards, animal species, waterfalls, pine forests and hot springs in Lachung which you can explore as you enrich yourself with Tibetan culture and history. Lachung is most definitely one of the most picturesque places to visit in North Sikkim in May.
Location: Lachung, Sikkim 737120
Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM
Entry Fee: Rs. 200
Suggested Read: 19 Places To Visit In North Sikkim To Witness The Magic
11. Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden: Witness The Colorful Ambience
Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden is a must-visit place for all the nature lovers out there. Home to some exotic species of plants and trees, what makes a visit special to this garden during the month of May is that you get a chance to see the the vibrant color of the blooming flowers at its best. It is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim during May.
Location: Ranipool-Rumtek-Sang Rd, Gangtok, Sikkim 737135
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee: INR 10
Suggested Read: 20 Most Spellbinding Places To Visit Near Gangtok
12. Yumthang Valley: Sikkim Valley Of Flowers Sanctuary
Yumthang Valley can be a good pick if you are planning for a trip to Sikkim in May. Visit this scenic valley to experience the flowering season for one of the best experiences. The entire valley blooms with natural colors of the nature. The natural sanctuary has some exotic rare and wild flowers. Needless to say, its breathtaking ambience allures travelers to visit this place.
Location: Lachung, Sikkim 737120
Timings: 8 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee: None
Further Read: Gangtok Honeymoon: A Handbook About This Ultimate Paradise In Sikkim!
Sikkim is undoubtedly a place full of beauty and religious monasteries. Experience some of the best places to visit in Sikkim in may since it is the best of all months to capture the true essence of this paradise. Visit lakes, monasteries, mountains as you set on a journey of self-introspection, adventure, and rejuvenation. So, plan your trip to Sikkim with TravelTriangle this summer!
Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Sikkim In May
Can one see snow in Sikkim in May?
In May, it is possible to see snow near the places in the Northern region of Sikkim which includes the Zero point, and Gurudongmar Lake.
What are the best things to do in Sikkim?
Some of the best things to do in Sikkim in May are: 1. Trekking 2. Paragliding 3. Cycling on Silk Route 4. River Rafting 5. Goecha La Trek 6. Kanchenjunga Base camp trek
What is Sikkim famous for?
Sikkim is famous for its beautiful landscapes, the Khecheopalri Lake, the Tso Lhamo Lake and the pilgrim spots for followers of Hinduism and Buddhism.
How can one reach Sikkim?
Via air: The nearest airport is at Pakyong. Via train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal.
What is the famous food in Sikkim?
Some of the most famous dishes of Sikkimese cuisine are: 1. Gya Thuk or Thukpa 2. Dumplings 3. Pagshapa 4. Dhindo 5. Sha Phaley 6. Momos
What can one buy in Sikkim?
One can shop for the following things in Sikkim: 1. Canvas Wall Hangings 2. Prayer Flags 3. Woolen Carpets 4. Tea 5. Fruit Juice 6. Thangkas
Are permits required to visit Sikkim?
Indians do not need a permit to visit Sikkim but foreigners need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to visit any part of Sikkim.
Looking To Book An International Holiday?
People Also Read:
Places To Visit In India In May Places To Visit In Karnataka In May Places To Visit In Mussoorie In May
An Aerospace Engineer by profession and a freelance content writer by passion, Ankur has always had a zeal to write. He has been born and brought up in Allahabad, and strongly believes that the pen is mightier than the sword.