Sikkim

Sikkim is a small, mountainous state in the eastern Himalaya. It borders Nepal, Bhutan and Tibet and is home to Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest peak. Gangtok is the usual base, with monasteries such as Rumtek and Enchey, markets and day trips to Tsomgo Lake and Nathu La. West Sikkim has Pelling, with Pemayangtse monastery and Kanchenjunga viewpoints. It also has Yuksom, the old capital and trailhead for the Dzongri and Goecha La treks. North Sikkim, towards Lachung, Yumthang Valley, Zero Point and Gurudongmar Lake, has high-altitude scenery. It needs permits and an acclimatised group. Spring brings rhododendron blooms, and autumn gives the clearest views. Winter is cold, with snow on the higher routes. The monsoon causes landslides on north and west roads. The state is known for organic farming, momos, Lepcha and Bhutia culture and clean towns. Allow a week for Gangtok and either the north or west. The nearest airport is Pakyong, with Bagdogra as the main gateway.