Sikkim is a paradise for adventure sports lovers. Its fabulous topography offers a dazzling variety of adventure options. Go climbing, trekking, enjoy river rafting, try mountain biking, take a yak safari or thrill to the joy of hang gliding. There are more staid options such as special interest tours like exploring the world of orchids, wildlife and butterflies … or just meandering leisurely down sylvan trails, not far from snowy peaks.

Trekking

Equipment can be hired at reasonable prices from Sikkim Tourism or recognised travel agents/tour operators. Since the more rewarding treks are in altitudes from 6000 ft. to 14000 ft., or higher, you must ensure that you are physically capable. Sikkim is also extremely ecology-conscious. Either bury your waste deep, or repack it and carry it away for suitable disposal. Trekkers huts are located at Pemayangtse, Khecopalri, Yuksom, Tsokha, Dzongri, Thangshing, Zemathang, Chaurigang, Tashiding, Varsey, Yangang, Rabongla, Sang and Sikip. Small hotels are coming up at many base-stations and places enroute.

Recommended Treks

The Monastic Trek (March-May, October-December)
Pemayangtse-Sangacholing-Khacheopalri-Dubdi-Sinon-Tashiding-Ralang.

The Rhododendron Trek (March-May)
Naya Bazar-Hilley/Soreng-Varsey-Dentam-Pemayangtse.

The Khangchendzonga Trek (Mid-March-Mid-June, October-December)
Yuksom-Bakhim-Tshokha-Dzongri-Thangshing/Bikbari-Zemathang/Chaurigang-Goecha-la/Rathong Glacier and back.

The Coronation Trek (October-December)
Rumtek-Sang-Yangang-Rabong-la-Tashiding-Yuksam.

Other options include treks starting from Varshay, Yuksom and Uttaray. The treks can be 'soft' or 'hard'.

The above treks are offered by Sikkim Tourism, Adventure Division.
Your treks can be arranged by prior arrangements with
Sikkim Tourism Tel. 01592-22064/23425, 54646-47; Fax 22155.
You can also contact recognized tour operators in Gangtok and Darjeeling,

Water Sports

White water rafting and kayaking trips are arranged on the Teesta and Rangeet Rivers.

Heli-Tours

A special thrill is the discovery of Sikkim's glorious charms through the Sikkim Mountain Flights. The Sikkim Helicopter Services (SHS) uses five-seater helicopters for these mountain flights. Great views and photo opportunities!

Flights Operational Areas

West Sikkim Flight
Duration Around 60 minutes Fare Rs. 3250 per person Route Gangtok-Singtam-Geyzing-Yuksom-Dikchu-Gangtok Landmarks Rumtek Monastery, Temi Tea Estate, Rabang/Meenam Hill, Tashiding, Pemayangtse Monasteries, Waterfall near Yuksom, Khangchendzonga

Yumathang Flight
Duration Around 70 minutes Fare Rs. 3750 per person Route Gangtok-Mangan along Teesta River to Chungthang-Lachung-Yumathang-Gangtok Landmarks Kanchenjunga Range, Lachung Monastery, Waterfall and Lake near Lachung, Yumathang Valley. Also enjoy viewing grazing Yak herds.

Khangchen-Dzonga Flight
Duration Around 90 minutes Fare Rs. 5000 per person. Route Gangtok- Mangan - Chungthang- Lachen- Zemi Glacier -Green Lake-Lachen-Gangtok Landmarks Teesta Valley between Mangen and Lachen, Lachen Monastery, Zemi Glacier, Green Lake, views of Khangchendzonga range including close-ups.

Gangtok Flight
Duration Around 20 minutes Fare Rs. 1200 per person Route Around Gangtok. Landmarks Kanchenjunga Range, Rumtek monastery, Gangtok ridge.

Flights are subject to weather conditions; confirm operations and other details from Sikkim Tourism i(Gangtok), Tel. 01592-22064/23425,
Helipad 03592- 25277 Fax : 03592-25647.