Sikkim is a state in northeastern India. It borders China in the north and northeast, Bhutan in the east, Nepal in the west, and North Bengal in the south. A part of the Eastern Himalayas, Sikkim is notable for its biodiversity and is known for the Khangchendzonga National Park– a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also among India’s most environmentally conscious states.
North Sikkim is restricted to travelers and permits are needed to visit these areas. The area, which shares a sensitive border with the People’s Republic of China is heavily patrolled by the Indian Army. However, in view of exquisite scenic beauty, a large number of tourists have started visiting the region overcoming all sorts of hardship.
North Sikkim is home to many rare and vulnerable species. One of them is the Red Panda. This animal is the pride of Sikkim and is also the State Animal. These are often seen in forests inbetween Mangan to Lachen. Besides the Red Panda, this journey targets some extremely rare high altitude birds and mammals. Some of them being Sand Fox, Tibetan Wolf, Argali, Tibetan Wild Ass, Tibetan Gazelle, etc.
Closest Airport: Bagdogra
Closest Railway Station: Jalpaiguri and Siliguri
Day 1: 7/3/23:
Bagdogra-Gangtok:
Arrive at Bagdogra. Transfer to Gangtok.
Rest of the day at leisure or free to acclimatize to the high altitude. Orientation and briefing on safety, travel plan and wildlife of Sikkim.
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 2: 8/3/23:
Gangtok-Lachen:
Morning depart for Lachen. Enroute lookout for birds and other wildlife. We come across a good diversity in species as we gain altitude.
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 3 and 4: 9/3/23 and 10/3/23:
Lachen-Gurudonmar Lake:
Morning drive to Gurudonmar Lake. Spend morning looking out for Sand Fox, Tibetan Wolf, Argali, Tibetan Wild Ass, Tibetan Gazelle and many other species.
Afternoon scan the slopes of the mountains as we drive back to camp. Chances of spotting Blood Pheasant, Grandala, etc.
Overnight in Premium Camp- Centrally Heated Tent.
Day 5: 11/3/23:
Lachen-Gangtok:
Morning drive towards Gangtok while we do bird watching the entire day.
Overnight at Hotel.
Day 6: 12/3/23:
Gangtok-Baghdogra:
In time transfer from Gangtok to Baghdogra airport to board the flight.
Tour ends.
Notes:
– Please note that we will make every effort to adhere to this itinerary but dates, times, activities and park rules are subject to change depending on scheduling & availability.
– In case of any revision in the park entry fee between now and the date of travel, the same would be Applicable.
– Driving time are indicative.
– Due to weather conditions the flights to Bagdogra are often cancelled, hence it is advisable to keep an extra day at Bagdogra before your Flight, cost for this would have to be borne by the client directly.
– While this is the suggested itinerary, we reserve the right to make changes to maximize your chances of wildlife sightings.
– Flight indicated in the itinerary are as per the current schedule and are subject to change. In case there is any change in flight or train schedule between now and date of travel and calls for revising the itinerary we reserve the right to do so.
– In case of any revision in government tax structure or fuel price between now and time of travel the same will be debited to you. However, we will absorb the difference up to 3%.
– In case of any revision in airfare and hotel rates between now and time of travel the same will be revised.
