Are you planning a Darjeeling Sikkim tour for the 5th or 6th time? Then you might have seen it all. You’re now accustomed to the street food, culture, terrain roads and filled winters. However, most travellers select popular destinations like Tiger Hill, Tsomgo Lake, and monasteries when they visit Darjeeling or Sikkim.
For repeat travellers, there’s a list of unexplored places in Darjeeling and Sikkim that they should definitely try on their next trip. For travellers seeking the unexplored, here are a few hidden gems.
List of offbeat destinations of Darjeeling Sikkim tour
Yuksom
Yuksom, situated in West Sikkim, has historical significance as it was previously the capital of the city. However, you will only find a few tourists visiting this destination. If you plan to drop into Yuksom, remember to check out the coronation site of Sikkim’s kings. Witnessing history will fascinate you. Yuksom is situated 40 km north of Gyalshing city. If you want to start a trek to the mighty Kanchenjunga, then the base camp is here.
Cholamu lake
Have you heard about the Gurudongmar Lake in north Sikkim? It is just 6 Km away from Gurudongmar and is positioned at an elevation of 5330 metres from sea level. You need special permission from the army and the Sikkim police to visit this lake, which is considered among the 14th highest lakes in the world. This lake is connected with the Tibetan plateau.
Chatakpur
This is a hidden eco-village in Darjeeling, with many homestays emerging nowadays for tourist accommodation. If you want to experience wildlife, this is the place to visit. Since it is less populated and very few tourists have invaded the area, this village presents wildlife and also gives an unspoiled view of the majestic Kanchenjunga.
Happy Valley Tea Estate
There are several tea estates in Darjeeling. You will find them at every roadside corner. However, the Happy Valley Tea Estate is worth visiting. It is Darjeeling’s second oldest tea estate and certainly the least visited place. It is around 2000 metres and has around 100 hectares of land where some of the finest tea leaves are grown.
Menmecho Lake
This majestic beauty is located in Gangtok on the way to Jelpa Pass. Most tourists visit Tsomgo Lake. However, if you go 20 kilometres ahead on the same road, you will land in front of this majestic beauty. It is generally surrounded by wildflowers and valleys.
If you want to plan an offbeat Darjeeling Sikkim tour, contact Northeast Tour. Our team of tour operators can help you with customised tour packages.