North Sikkim Private Trip: Lachen, Lachung & Gangtok (6D/5N)

Duration: 6 Days, 5 Nights
Minimum Group Size: 2
Best for group of Friends, Family & Couples
Starting/End Location : Bagdogra/NJP

Gallery

Overview

Hello travelers!

Sikkim is gifted with stunning natural wonders like high mountain passes, numerous glaciers, alpine lakes, chilling cold rivers, hot water springs and rich culture.

As part of this private trip, we will cover places in East & North Sikkim where popular attractions are located, along with Gangtok, the capital city.

We will start the trip with attractions if East like Tsomgo Lake which is known for seasonal change in the colour of its water, Baba Mandir which has an interesting “Ghost” story behind it, and the NathuLa Pass which is a Indo-China border post.

We will then move up north towards Lachen valley, with a visit to the majestic Gurudongmar Lake, one of the highest lakes in the world allowed for visitors. This lake remains frozen throughout the winter but summers present an opportunity for visitors to enjoy this “slice of heaven”.

Then comes Lachung, a scenic mountain village with gushing waterfalls, apple & apricot orchards, and handicraft centers.

Part of Lachung valley is Yumthang, known as Valley of Flowers, is home to numerous species of Rhododendron flowers on the banks of river Lachung which is a tributary of Teesta, the main river originating from Sikkim. It’s also home to hot water springs believed to be having medicinal properties.

The monasteries, temples, bridges hoisted with colorful Buddhist prayer flags, and the unmatched beauty of Sikkim will give an opportunity to spend blissful time amidst mother nature, detox and unwind.

A trip to Sikkim is a blend of innumerable view points, glittering sights of Himalayan peaks, ice cold climate, a bit of culture and a sense of rejuvenation and peace.

Why wait!

Highlights of the trip:

Nathu La Pass
Baba Mandir
Changu Lake (Tsongmo Lake)
Lachen – mini Switzerland
Gurudongmar Lake
Lachung Valley
Yumthang – Valley of Flowers
Free flowing Teesta River
7 Sisters Falls, Amitab Bachan Falls
Zero Point (Optional)
Gangtok MG Road stroll
Ganesh Tok & Hanuman Tok
Gangtok Ropeway & Monastery

Why choose Muddie Trails? 😃

Because we believe the best adventures start where the road ends. Whether it’s gliding through mountain mist or exploring a hidden beach, we aren’t afraid to get our boots (and inturn your boots) a little muddy to find the magic.

Our Promise	What It Means for You
📍 Local Expertise	You see the spots tourists see & also see the spots tourists miss!
🤝 Community First	You arrive as a solo but leave with a tribe of new friends!
🧘 Zero Stress	From pickup to drop-off, we’ve got your back. Just enjoy the ride & create unforgettable memories!

Inclusions

Travel (Ex. Bagdogra/NJP)
Stay for 5 nights (2 or 3 sharing basis)
5 Breakfasts
3 Dinners (Lachen, Lachung, Gangtok)
Inner Line Permits (ILP)
Nathu La Special Permit (5500 INR)
Expert Driver, Operations Manager support 24x7
Once in a lifetime experience visiting all places mentioned in Highlights section

Exclusions

Lunches, 2 Dinners
Any kind of activities, rides, entry tickets, shopping or misc. expenses other than mentioned in Inclusions
Any extra cost arising due to any change in the itinerary/stay/route on account of bad weather, traffic-congestion, landslides/roadblocks, natural calamities, political disturbances and/or any other factors beyond our control.

Price Chart:

Guests	Vehicle	Standard Package Cost (Per Person)	Deluxe Package Cost (Per Person)
2	Hatchback	₹32450	₹37450
3	Hatchback	₹27450	₹32450
4	SUV	₹24450	₹29450
5	SUV	₹22450	₹27450
6	SUV	₹20450	₹25450
7	SUV + Hatchback	₹25450	₹30450
8	SUV + Hatchback	₹24450	₹29450
9	SUV + Hatchback	₹22450	₹27450
10	2 SUV	₹20450	₹25450
11	2 SUV	₹19450	₹24450
12	2 SUV	₹18450	₹23450

*Important Notes:

A 5% GST is applicable for all the costing given above.
(Optional) If you want to hire a local Tour Guide, it will cost ₹2000 extra per day. However, it’s not mandatory to have a Tour Guide for Private tours.
The above Price Chart is not applicable for peak/holiday season (like end year, summer holidays, festival holidays). The cost may increase by 1000 to 2000 per person based on the season.
Contact Bookings Team on 9827117555 for more details on all the above points.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrival at Bagdogra, Journey to Gangtok

Pick up at Bagdogra Airport or NJP Raiway Station as per your choice.
We will start our journey towards the capital city of Sikkim – Gangtok along the curvy road that runs parallel to the free flowing Teesta river originating from the glaciers of Sikkim.
It’s a drive of 200 Km that usually takes 5 hours along with a Lunch stop.
Check into Gangtok stay by late evening and take a stroll on the famous MG marg – the mall road of Gangtok. You can try tasty momos or chow for Dinner and shop for items needed for the trip.
Good night.

Day 2 - Day trip to Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir, Nathula Pass

Start the day early with Breakfast.
Go on a day trip towards picturesque oval-shaped Tsomgo Lake (also called Changu Lake) which is famous for sturdy Yaks, Red Panda and various migratory Birds.
Continue journey to Baba Mandir at an elevation of 13,000 feet. There is an interesting “Ghost” story of Baba Harbhajan Singh who served Indian Army during the 1960s.
We will then head to Nathula Pass on the Indo-China border at an elevation of 14,100 feet, which needs a special permit (we would have pre-applied beforehand).
Nathu La is strategically important for the Indian Army, and is one of the very few Himalayan border posts open for visitors like us.
Note: The order of the above places may vary as per local conditions.
Head back to the stay by late evening.
Dinner & rest.

Day 3 - Gangtok to Lachung Valley Trip via Chungthang

Check out of the stay after a heavy Breakfast.
Today we will start our journey towards high altitude North Sikkim famous for snow capped mountains, pristine lakes, gushing water falls and natural hot springs.
Take a pit stop at seasonal waterfalls on the way.
Stop for Lunch at beautiful Chungthang village at the confluence of Lachen and Lachung rivers.
Reach one of the most picturesque villages of Sikkim, Lachun that is located close to worlds third highest peak – the mighty Kanchenjunga!
We will take a stroll in the evening enjoying splendid views of surrounding Himalayas.
Dinner and rest at Lachen guest house.

Day 4 - Gurudongmar Lake & Journey to Lachung

Start the day very early at 4 AM to take a beautiful journey to Gurundongmar, one of the highest lakes in India as well in the world at an elevation of 17,800 feet. We will have Breakfast en route. One can spot a barrage of Army vehicles and camps throughout the journey as it is a highly protected area.
The journey itself is not a cake walk. Because of high altitude, one can experience shortage of oxygen levels but our body would gradually get acclimatized during the journey. Traveling on rugged roads and taking umpteen number of curves would also take its toll on the body.
But when we eventually reach the destination after all the hardships, the stunning beauty of Gurudongmar will make you feel its worth every bit of the tiring journey.
After spending good amount of time at the pristine lake and taking numerous pictures, we will have a light Lunch and start our return journey towards Chungthang village.
We will continue our journey to the next destination Lachung Valley.
Rest for the night at Lachung guest house.

Day 5 - Yumthang Valley, Zero Point, Jorney to Gangtok

Start the day very early with Breakfast.
We will head towards Yumthang valley, situated at an elevation of 11800 feet, a 1.5 hour drive from Lachung.
Yumthang which is known as ‘Valley of Flowers” is located in the valley by the Lachung river. It is a picture perfect setting surrounded by snow-clad mountains on all sides.
Give a visit to natural Yumthang hot springs which are known for their medicinal properties because of rich Sulphur and other mineral content. There is a beautiful walking bridge filled with colorful prayer flags across the river Lachung. Hot springs are located at the other side of the bridge. The temperature of hot water springs varies between 50 to 60 degrees celsius even in freezing winter times. Truly a little wonder of mother nature.
Lunch break.
(Optional) Further up from Yumthang, at an altitude of 14500 feet is Zero Point. This is where the civilian road ends and one go can’t drive any further. A special permit is needed to visit Zero point.
Start return journey towards Gangtok by late afternoon.
Check into Gangtok stay, Dinner and rest.

Day 6 - Gangtok Ropeway, Palace, Ganesh Tok, Hanuman Tok, Drop at Bagdogra

Check out after Breakfast.
Start the last day of the trip with a visit to Gangtok Ropeway that offers speldid views of the entire city.
Visit beautiful Chogyal Palace (Monastery). It’s traditional architecture and peaceful ambiance represent a deep connection to Sikkimese culture and Buddhism.
Finish the sightseeing with 2 famous temples of Gangtok – Ganesh Tok, Hanuman Tok that offer stunning sights of Mount Kanchenjunga on clear days along with spiritual experience.
We will then bid adieu to the Himalayas and head back towards planes of West Bengal where we started our journey 6 days back.
It’s a 5 hour journey with a Lunch stop.
Our driver will drop us near Bagdogra Airport close to your night stay.
Note: Currently there are no flights scheduled at night from Bagdogra Airport. So it is advised to book a night stay close to Airport. Our team can suggest some hotels nearby.

What to Expect

Travel:

Trip starting/ending point: Siliguri (West Bengal).
Pick up and drop at Bagdogra Airport or NJP Railway station.
Innova, Xylo or similar tourist vehicle, Non AC (6 days journey).
Vehicles keep changing for different routes in Sikkim trip.
Start time: First day, 12 PM (afternoon).
End time: Sixth day, 7 PM.
You can book flights to/from Bagdogra based on the above timings.
Note: Our Bookings Team can assist you in selecting your flights.

Stay:

Standard Package: Comfortable Homestays & Guest Houses.
Deluxe Package: Hotels & Resorts.
2 or 3 sharing rooms.
Gangtok 3 nights.
Lachen 1 night.
Lachung 1 night.
Room heaters may be available at extra cost at some stays in winter season.
Contact Booking Team on 9880539183 if you wish to see stay pictures.

Food:

All Breakfasts are included.
3 times Dinners are included – 1 night each at Lachung, Lachen, Gangtok.
Remaining meals are self-sponsored.
How much you have to spend for good food?
200 – 250 per meal

Special Notes:

Expect seasonal variations in Sikkim depending on the month we are travelling
Travelers are expected to come with open heart by appreciating complexities of mother nature based on seasonal variations, monthly or even daily weather conditions.

Seasonal Variations:

Mid Mar to June: Summers are pleasant in Sikkim which pull tourists in good numbers.
Jul to mid Sept (monsoons): The rains hit the eastern Himalayas starting from mid June. Journey would be tough during this time. We usually avoid traveling to Sikkim in rains.
Mid Sept to Nov (Post monsoon): Another good season to travel before extreme winter sets in. One can expect high tourist footfall in these months.
Dec to mid Mar: Temperatures will drop below 0 degrees towards the end of the year with the onset of snow fall covering the entire valley. It will be very difficult to travel and important roads will be closed by Indian Army.

FAQ

Things to carry

Toiletries, moisturizer, light towel, lip balm, wet wipes, toothbrush, toothpaste etc.
A lightweight large Backpack for the entire trip (50-60 liters). Strictly no trolleys. Remember this is a Backpacking trip.
A small backpack for basic items (to carry valuables, water bottle, snacks, etc. for outdoor activities).
Photo identity proof with address (Aadhar/Passport/Voter ID).
2 Passport size color photographs (important for permit).
Thermal inners and warm clothes (cold climate).
A rainproof jacket with a hood (to protect from cold winds, sudden rain).
Thick socks, track pants, full sleeve t-shirts (to keep your body warm).
Cap/Hat/Sunglasses (to protect from harmful sun rays).
Sunscreen (SPF 50 or more).
Power bank, charger, camera, binoculars (if you wish to).
Hand sanitizer and liquid hand wash for outdoors.
Proper water bottle for your trip. You may fill at our stays.
Disposable garbage covers (to separate used/unused clothes).
Water-resistant good grip shoes for travel, extra slippers to use at stays.
Personal medications, any drugs that you may feel necessary (remember ghat roads, cold climate), basic first aid kit.
No need to carry snacks/chocolates. You may buy at local shops to support local people in Sikkim.

How to Book this trip?

50% amount has to be paid to confirm the trip.
Remaining 50% shall be paid at the beginning of the trip after boarding vehicle.
Payment mode will be shared by our Bookings Team.

What's next after booking your trip?

Operations Manager will get in touch with you close to the trip dates.
A Whatsapp group will be created few days before to coordinate everything.
Instructions about itinerary, places, stays, timings, any special scenarios etc., will be given in the same group during the trip.

Terms & Conditions

The itinerary of the event is fixed. No special requests to change itinerary/schedule shall be entertained.
Guests are expected to respect and follow the instructions of both the Driver and the Operations Manager to ensure a safe, timely, and smooth execution of the planned itinerary.
Each guest is responsible for their own safety and well-being throughout the trip. We strongly advise against engaging in any illegal, irresponsible, or careless behavior that could potentially cause harm to themselves, fellow travelers, or local communities.
Consumption of alcohol and smoking is strictly prohibited during the journey and all outdoor activities. Guests may indulge in alcohol/smoking moderately and responsibly at the stay during night hours, ensuring it does not disturb others or affect the trip experience.
The use of foul or abusive language, issuing threats, or engaging in any form of physical assault is strictly prohibited. Such behavior may lead to immediate action, including the possibility of filing a formal complaint with local Police Station.
Unexpected situations like bad weather, landslides, wildlife activity, traffic delays, or sudden site closures by authorities may impact the planned itinerary. In most cases, if time permits, our Operations Manager will suggest alternate options. However, in some cases, no alternatives may be available. No refunds will be provided in such scenarios, as these are beyond our control.
All travel and accommodation arrangements are non-AC by default across our Private trips. The specific differences between Standard and Deluxe packages are clearly outlined in the Stay section of each event.
All guests are required to digitally sign a liability waiver provided by the Operations Manager prior to the trip, along with uploading any necessary ID proofs required for permits. This waiver releases Muddie Trails from any legal responsibility in the event of unforeseen circumstances such as injury, loss, theft, or death during the course of the trip.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation by Guests

80% refund if a cancellation request is sent 30 days before the trip start date.
50% refund if a cancellation request is sent between 30 to 15 days before the trip start date.
An email has to be sent to muddietrails@gmail.com to raise a cancellation request.
No refund within 15 days of the event start time whatever is the reason (Health, COVID, Accident, Family crisis, Office issue, or anything else).
No refund during/after the event.
No refund on the partial payment (advance) done to block your seat for the trip.

Cancellation due to external factors

If the event has to be cancelled due to external factors that are beyond our control like – Natural Disasters, Extreme Weather Conditions, Red Alerts, Political Disturbances, War, Bandh/Curfews, Local Issues, Covid-19 or any other disease outbreaks etc..

In such scenarios:

No Refund is applicable.
100% trip amount can be used for future dates.