Overview
Sikkim is a beautiful destination to travel, but that travel doesn’t have to be constantly. Learn about how to travel to Sikkim on a budget, where to stay, what food to eat, and how to plan travel inside Sikkim.
Table of Contents
Sikkim Tour on a Budget
How to Reach Sikkim on a Budget?
Where to Stay in Sikkim on a Budget
- Hostels
- Homestays
- Budget Hotels
Budget-Friendly Food Options
How to Plan Travel in Sikkim?
Money Saving Tips in Sikkim
Sikkim Tour on a Budget
Are you a traveller wanting to go Sikkim, but find yourself restricted due to budget constraints? Do you often think, why does travelling to the Himalayas have to be a costly endeavour? Well, all you have to do is plan smartly and you can still enjoy a fantastic vacation in Sikkim without cutting too many corners on your comfort level.
Most people that don’t know much about Sikkim think that it is a costly tourist spot due to its location. However, Sikkim is rather a budget friendly destination. In fact, the state is ideal for all visitors with varying budgets. This blog will help you learn about transport, stays, food and some money-saving tips.
How to Reach Sikkim on a Budget?
Sikkim is accessible via flights and trains. The state has its own Pakyong Airport, near Gangtok but it doesn’t remain operational during most part of the year. Even when it’s operational there are only a limited number of flights available from one to two cities. The other option is to take a flight to Bagdogra Airport (but that might be costly for some visitors).
The best budget option to reach Sikkim is to go by train. Catch an overnight train from your city to Siliguri Junction or New Jalpaiguri Junction. From there, use a shared taxi or a bus to reach Gangtok.
If you compare the cost of a shared taxi and private taxi, the former may charge ₹500 – ₹800 per person. And a private taxi might charge ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 for sedans, ₹5,000 or more for premium SUVs.
Travel Tip: Use an overnight train and then a shared cab to reach Sikkim on a budget.
Where to Stay in Sikkim on a Budget
Accommodation in Sikkim can take up a good chunk of your budget, therefore choose stays that are pocket-friendly. Shared accommodations, homestays, or budget hotels are your best bet when choosing a stay in Sikkim on a budget.
1. Hostels
Hostels in Sikkim are amazing for backpackers and budget travellers. They offer breakfast, free WiFi, clean rooms, restaurants, and some of them even provide airport shuttles.
Approx cost: ₹800 per to ₹1400/- per night
Popular Choices: Zostel, Tashila, Zemu, & Tag Along
2. Homestays
For an immersive and authentic stay experience in Sikkim, try homestays where you live with a host family and enjoy home-cooked meals.
Approx Cost: ₹1300 – ₹2500 per night
Popular Choices: Gurung homestay, Jhakri Falls Homestay, & The Little Paradise
3. Budget Hotels
If you prefer the conveniences of hotel amenities, there are plenty of budget hotels in Sikkim to choose from.
Approx Cost: ₹700 – ₹1300 per night
Popular Choices: Great Eastern Valley Residence, Hotel Himsagar, The Narayani Continental Hotel
Travel Tip: Book early in the peak season to get impressive discounts
Budget-Friendly Food Options
Food is another big factor that comes into play when planning a budget trip in Sikkim. Unchecked food bills can increase your budget without you even realising it. Thankfully, Sikkim is a place where you find delicious food that is nourishing, filling, and easy-on-pockets.
- Food sold in Sikkim by local eateries/food stalls can cost anywhere from ₹80 to ₹150.
- Budget restaurants in Sikkim may charge ₹300 – ₹500 for food.
- The cost of eating at mid-range to upscale restaurants can be from ₹500 to ₹1000 per person (especially on MG Marg)
Cheap & Filling Foods to Eat in Sikkim
- Momo (Steamed/Fried)
- Sha Phaley
- Laphing
- A bowl of Thukpa
- Sinki Soup
- Sel Roti
- Aloo Chura
- Churpi Soup
- Butter Tea
Travel Tip: Avoid those fancy cafes that are crowded with tourists on MG Marg. Choose local and unknown places that serve coffee, breads and cakes at a reasonable price.
How to Plan Travel in Sikkim?
- Post arrival in Sikkim and sorting your food and accommodation, it’s time to travel within Sikkim on a budget.
- The best way to do so is to use shared jeeps/cabs which is the most economical way to get around.
- You can also use (SNT) buses which are operational daily and connect Gangtok to Namchi, Ravangla, Pelling and Darjeeling.
- Walk where you can because the roads are pedestrian-friendly.
Money Saving Tips in Sikkim
- Always travel in a large group to reduce cost per person.
- Book cabs from trusted and local platforms.
- Pack all necessary items to avoid overspending in Sikkim.
- Carry enough cash due to limited availability of ATMs in rural areas.
By following the above tips and tricks, you can easily save money and travel on a budget in Sikkim. If you require budget packages from a reliable travel planner, contact https://sikkimtourism.org/ for more information.
