Sikkim Road Trip Planner: Mountain Routes and Monastery Towns

Road trips · Overlanding and road trips · 2 min read · Researched guide · Last updated 2026-10-23

In short: Sikkim's main road, National Highway 10, links Siliguri to Gangtok, the capital. The state has 101 monasteries, Kangchenjunga (8,586 m) on its border, and heavy monsoon rain that brings landslide risk. Many areas are restricted and need permits, so check requirements before you go.

Quick facts

The setting

Sikkim ranges from subtropical in the south to tundra in the north. Summer temperatures seldom exceed 28 C in inhabited areas. About 40 rhododendron species bloom from late April to mid-May.

Routes and towns

• Siliguri to Gangtok on NH10.
• Gangtok as the base for Rumtek and Enchey monasteries.
• Nathu La, which opened to cross-border trade in 2006, and Tsomgo Lake, both in sensitive border terrain where permits apply.

Permits and army areas

The Indian Army controls a large part of the state, and many areas are restricted to foreigners and need official permits. Confirm permit rules locally.

Drive safely

Heavy monsoon rain brings landslides and fog affects winter travel. Review Himalayan driving, forecasts and vehicle checks. Link it into a Northeast expedition. Rules, permits, closures and fees change. Confirm locally before you travel.

Frequently asked questions

Read next

Rules, closures, fees and conditions change. Confirm with the relevant authority before you travel, and treat this guide as planning help, not a substitute for local advice.