About Sikkim

Bordered by Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan and influenced by all three, the former kingdom of Sikkim has long been a bastion of the Buddhist religion. The least populated state in India, this part of the Eastern Himalayas is a fabulous destination for keen culture aficionados as well as nature lovers and adventure seekers. Our pick of the best places to stay in Sikkim includes striking historic hotels, stylish contemporary spots and intimate hideaways, perfect for couples, solo travellers, friends and families.

Gangtok, the state's capital, is a cultural hub combining modern concrete structures with stunning mountain views. A friendly and manageable city, it makes for a pleasant stay of a few days — and is the perfect place to sample a cup or two of Sikkim’s famous tea. Don’t miss the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, housed in a traditional Tibetan-style mansion with a comprehensive collection of Buddhist and Tibetan artefacts.

One quarter of the state is covered by the Khangchendzonga National Park, home to the Zemu glacier and four-legged creatures such as the elusive snow leopard, red pandas, musk deer and the Himalayan tahr. Base yourself in Pelling for unforgettable views of Khangchendzonga and the sacred Khechoedpaldri Hills, as well as tours of marvellous monasteries and heritage sites. For those who can stay a little longer, the rhododendron valleys of Yumthang are well worth the journey north, as are day trips to impressive Tsomgo Lake and hikes up the Nathula Pass, which connects India to Tibet. This is a very special part of the country, and the best places to stay in Sikkim fill up fast — so book your room well in advance!

The Best Places to Stay in Sikkim 

For Heritage Charm

  • Elgin Nor-Khill Hotel was once the Gangtok abode of the Sikkimese royal family. Colourful painted details and period furnishings create inviting bedrooms and communal spaces. The manicured gardens and traditional spa complete the picture. A heritage favourite. 
  • Norbu Ghang Retreat in Pelling offers stunning views of the Himalayas. Pine-clad guest rooms feature big bathrooms with jacuzzi tubs, cosy beds and crackling fireplaces. Unwind on balconies facing the mountains, savour delicious cuisine and enjoy the charming, laid-back feel of this classic hotel. 

For Families or Groups

  • Mayfair Spa Resort and Casino is brilliant for families or groups of friends. Highlights including a spa, swimming pool, kids club and great restaurant. Private villas with pools are ideal for those keen to have their own space. The casino promises a lively atmosphere - very good fun! Also within easy reach of the centre of Gangtok.

For an apartment or holiday villa

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • Fly to Bagdogra Airport, near Siliguri in North Bengal, approximately four hours' drive from Gangtok. The closest railway stations are Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri, both of which are well connected to Kolkata
  • If you're confident driving in Asia, Sikkim is a beautiful destination for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel during the spring (March - April) for cool nights and bright days, or in the summer (May - June) when temperatures reach 22°C. The monsoon rains begin in July and run through to September, so these months are best avoided.

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The best hotels in Sikkim

Summit Norling Resort & Spa

Gangtok (Sikkim)

A landmark Gangtok hotel with mesmerising mountain views, Summit Norling has 50 guest rooms, some with space for families, and many with balconies. A lively restaurant, bar & spa reward guests after long days of adventure. The expansive gardens feature a children's playground & pine trees aplenty.

  • Families - Family suites, a children's playground and leafy gardens make this a terrific choice for families with little ones or older kids
  • Learning - Admire stunning murals at Enchey Monastery, spin the prayer wheels and meditate at Do-Drul Chorten
  • Active Holiday - Culture aficionados and keen hikers will adore the plethora of activities which await in Sikkim
  • Sights nearby - Soar over the valley with the whole family on the Gangtok Ropeway
from $42 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Elgin Nor-Khill Hotel

Gangtok (Arithang)

Dignified former royal guesthouse lovingly decorated with period furniture, regional symbolic motifs and vibrant hues. Luxuriate in cosy bedrooms with views onto picturesque gardens and mountains. Savour unique local dishes at the in-house Sikkimese restaurant, and be pampererd at the Elgin spa.

  • Romantic Break - A traditional hotel with romantic guest rooms, delicious cuisine, a soothing spa and a laid-back atmosphere
  • Total relaxation - Unwind at the spa, soak up the sunshine in the gardens or enjoy long afternoon teas after days of trekking
  • Local markets - Sikkim's markets are wonderful, with handicrafts and jewellery from across the region
  • Trekking - Guided treks through the mountains and forests of the Eastern Himalayas are terrific
from $87 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Vivanta Sikkim Pakyong

Gangtok (Sikkim)

A lovely contemporary hotel with 50 swish rooms & suites promising dazzling mountain & valley views. Crisp linens top inviting beds, balconies face the pool & lush surrounding hillsides, and cosy seating areas encourage unwinding. The lively bar, restaurant, gym & spa add to the luxe appeal. Superb.

  • Families - Families will love the flexible accommodation options, the excellent cuisine & the plethora of activities organised by the hotel
  • Learning - Guided tours of the Rumtek and Kartok Monasteries (the oldest in Sikkim) offer a rich insight into Himalayan Buddhism
  • Total relaxation - Unwind in the soothing spa, sauna or swimming pool after days of hiking and wildlife-spotting in the mountains
  • Birdwatching - Avid birders will be delighted with the plethora of species which can be spotted on walks through the forested mountains
from $98 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Amritara Luxury Villa Tosca

Gangtok (Sikkim)

A collection of three attractive suites, two with two bedrooms, in the centre of town. Warm interiors feature soft lighting, cosy linens, pastel shades & polished wooden floors. Kitchens, sitting & dining rooms invite independence; though the team also whip up Himalayan breakfasts. Wonderful.

  • Families - The Family Suite, complete with bunk beds as well as a fully equipped kitchen, is perfect for families travelling together
  • Great walks - Speak to the team about guided hikes through the lush forests of the surrounding mountains, great for birdwatching
  • Sights nearby - The Himalayan Zoological Park, myriad marvellous monasteries and breath-taking waterfalls are within easy reach
  • Romantic Break - The Honeymoon Terrace Suite is ideal for romantic couples seeking privacy in a tranquil setting
from $110 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino

Gangtok (Sikkim)

An idyllic retreat in the stunning mountains, architecturally reminiscent of Sikkimese tradition yet with a modern twist. Well-appointed rooms feature polished wood & soothing colours, whilst luxury villas offer private pools. Delicious cuisine, a spa, pool, casino, kids club and more.

  • Groups - Great fun for groups of friends, the hotel has lively restaurants, bar and pool areas, as well as a buzzy casino
  • Spa breaks - Keen spa-goers will appreciate the rejuvenating wellness treatments, yoga classes & serene setting
  • Yoga - Rise early for revitalising yoga sessions on the deck, surrounded by tropical greenery
  • Hotel Entertainment - Try your luck with a game of poker or roulette at the in-house casino
from $131 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia

Norbu Ghang Retreat

Pelling

Memorable views and a serene stay await. Take in the captivating Himalayan scenery while sipping tea on your private balcony. Wood-panelled rooms are an inviting blend of modernity and comfort. Unwind in the sauna or hot tub, enjoy a massage, or dine on tantalising local and international cuisine.

  • Sights nearby - Just a 15-minute drive from the historic Buddhist Pemayangtse Monastery, which will fascinated heritage aficionados..
  • Total relaxation - Unwind with traditional therapies - including marvellous massages after days of hiking and exploring
  • Great walks - Fantastic hiking opportunities in the spectacular mountains of the Eastern Himalayas
  • Views - Expect spectacular mountain views from the hotel's guest rooms
from $134 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees