Rivers In Sikkim: 6 Rivers To Explore On Your 2025 Trip
The mesmerizing beauty of the Indian State Sikkim, with its lush green landscapes, offers an ideal vacation as there are plenty of things to do and scenic sites to visit. The place also has two main rivers – Teesta River and Rangeet River. As waterways play an important role in our Indian culture, these rivers in Sikkim also have a lot to offer. Not only do these rivers irrigate the plain, but they also offer adventure activities such as rafting, adding value to the scenic view of Sikkim rivers. Explore the wonder place with your friends and family, keeping the best time to visit in mind.
List Of 6 Beautiful Rivers In Sikkim
The beauty of Sikkim is incomparable, and rivers add to the value of the scenic view. Here’s is the Sikkim river name list:
1. Teesta River
Image Credit: Bernard Gagnon for Wikimedia Commons
Teesta river is one of the main rivers in Sikkim. Rangeet is one of its main tributaries which originates from the Rathong glacier. During monsoons (June to September), the flow of the Teesta is greatest due to monsoon rains and supply of bountiful meltwater through glaciers. It is also during this time that rivers of Sikkim become muddy, dangerous and full of rocks and hence are not navigable.
There is also a dam named Teesta Barrage, which helps to provide irrigation for the plains between the upper Padma and the Jamuna. The popular Teesta also offers a crazy rafting experience along with a scenic view. The banks of the river are home to various birds and species, and you can sit and watch them.
- Famous For: Rafting, bird watching
- Time Duration For Rafting: 3 to 4 hours
- Difficulty Level For Rafting: Grade 3 and 4
- Best Time: March to May
Also Read: Monsoon In Sikkim
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2. Rangeet River
Image Credit: Subhrajyoti07 for Wikimedia Commons
Another stunning river that you cannot miss out in Sikkim is the Rangeet river which is also the largest river in the Indian state of Sikkim. One of the major tourist spots in Sikkim, visitors usually come to experience the breathtaking view of mountains. It is indeed an amazing experience to view the Rangeet river meeting Teesta at Triveni on a valley and surrounded by mountains on all sides. While you are here, do walk through the bridge and look around.
Rangeet also offers a unique experience of rafting. You can enjoy other facilities as well such as camping on the sandy white beaches along the banks of the river.
- Famous For: Rafting and camping on the beaches
- Difficulty Level For Rafting: Grades 2 and 4
- Best Time To Visit: March to May
3. Rangpo river
Image Credit: देवराज पौडेल for Wikimedia Commons
A tributary of the Teesta river, River Rangpo forms the border between Sikkim and West Bengal states at Rangpo town. Flowing mostly through East Sikkim and few parts of Darjeeling district of North Bengal, the greenery that surrounds this gorgeous beauty is a must thing to see on your trip to Sikkim.
- Famous For: Natural beauty
- Best Time To Visit: March to June
Related Post: Trekking In Sikkim
4. Lachen River
Image Credit: Tarunsamanta for Wikimedia Commons
The Lachen river is one among the two main tributaries of the Teesta river. What makes this river unique are the beautiful aspects that come alive in Lachen. Apart from the natural beauty of the place, dont forget to visit the Lachen Gompa which is a major attraction at this place. Other famous nearby attractions include Yumthang Valley.
- Famous For: Lachen Gompa, Yumthang valley (2-days trek)
- Best Time To Visit: October to June
5. Relli River
Image Credit: Vkvivek94 for Wikimedia Commons
Flowing near Kalimpong is yet another river in the states of Sikkim and West Bengal, the Relli River. Its main tributaries are the Khani and Pala Rivers, and it confluences with the Teesta. What attracts people to this popular river is that the village of Relli is a popular weekend destination offering varied activities such as picnicking spots, recreational fishing, boating, and local cuisine. Many historical sites, such as monasteries and gompa, are also situated near the river, making it a well-received tourist destination.
- Famous For: Fishing, boating, picnic and local cuisine
- Best Time To Visit: October to April
Related Post: Sikkim In June
6. Jaldhaka River
Image Credit: Samyabrato dey for Wikimedia Commons
Also known as the Dichu River in earlier times, the Jaldhaka River originates from the Kupup or Bitang Lake in southeastern Sikkim and passes through Bhutan and partly through Bhutan-Bengal. A river valley located at 1500ft above sea level along the Jaldhaka River is a popular tourist destination of Dooars. Not only does the mesmerizing view of the riverside appeal to travellers but there are also tons of things nearby Jaldhaka to allure travellers.
- Famous For: Nature lovers, trekking and hiking
- Best Time To Visit: October to November
Best Time To Visit Sikkim
The best time to visit Sikkim is between March and June or September and December. If you want to see the Himalayan kingdom’s natural beauty blooming, springtime (March to June) is the best time to visit. Winter is ideal for romantic dates as the whole area gets covered in snow. You can also attend festivals like Cherry Tea and Red Panda Winter Festival and enjoy yourself like a local.
Related Post: Homestays In Sikkim
How To Reach Sikkim
The Indian State of Sikkim is well-connected by rail, road and train. It is easily reachable from all major cities.
Air: Sikkim does not have an airport. The nearest airport is Bagdogra airport in West Bengal. Regular flights are available to and from Bagdogra to all major Indian cities.
Train: The New Jalpaiguri railway station is approximately 200 km from Sikkim. You can easily get cabs or taxis from these stations till Sikkim.
Road: If you are visiting Sikkim from nearby states such as West Bengal, you can easily travel by cab or taxis. Frequent buses are also available at your service. or city then you can easily travel by road. Apart from the frequent buses, hired cars can take you there too.
You May Also Like To Read: Places To Visit In Sikkim
Conclusion
Sikkim rivers add to the vibrant and scenic Sikkim. This Himalayan mountain kingdom is famous for its beauty and charm. The rivers in Sikkim offer a one-of-a-kind rafting experience and are a must-visit for adventure freaks. Wait no longer and plan a trip to Sikkim right away, as the place has a lot in store for you.
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here. Cover Image Credit: Prabhat114 for Wikimedia Commons
FAQs
Which is the famous river of Sikkim?
The Teesta River flows through Sikkim. It is a beautiful river that is a wonder for the state and is the famous river in Sikkim.
What is the source of river Teesta?
Tso Shamo Lake is the source of the river Teesta.
Why is Teesta River green?
The Teesta River is green because the bedrock is ground due to the construction of dams, and as a result, rocks enter the water, resulting in its green color.
Where does the Brahmaputra River originate from?
The Brahmaputra river originates from the Himalayas.
Where is Teesta River situated?
The river originates from the Pahunri glacier and enters the Sikkim Himalayas.
Which river is known as the lifeline of Sikkim?
Teesta River is known as the lifeline of Sikkim. It flows throughout the state of Sikkim.
What is the other name of the Brahmaputra River?
The Brahmaputra River flows into Tibet from India, and there, it is known by a different name: Yarlung Tsangpo. In Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, it is called Lohit Luit.
Which tributary of the river Brahmaputra flows through Sikkim?
Teesta River is a Brahmaputra river tributary that flows through Sikkim.
What is the best time to visit rivers in Sikkim?
To enjoy the serenity of rivers in Sikkim to its fullest, you must plan your trip around Spring (March to May) and early summer months (April to June).
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Nishi, a travel enthusiast who loves exploring places and sharing the true experiences with the future travelers.
