Trip Overview
One of the most popular Low Altitude treks in Sikkim, Sikkim Ravangla Khechupelri Trek is ideal for beginners and amateurs. It is perfect for those who love trekking in the low-altitude region of the Sikkim Himalayas.
Sikkim Ravangla Khechupelri’s trek itinerary is exquisitely crafted to explore the hidden beauty of Sikkim and its Village life. It is also best suited for those who love studying Buddhism and Buddhist culture.
The trek passes through different tribal Villages of Sikkim and gives trekkers the rare opportunity to experience and understand the culture and tradition of the Sikkimese people and at the same time enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Villages and their people.
This trek also involves visits to some of the holiest Monasteries of Sikkim and is also known as Monastery loop Trek. Some of the monasteries the trekkers pass through during the Trek are Rumtek Monastery, Ravangla Monastery, Tashiding Monastery, Hongri Monastery, Sinon Monastery, Dubdi Monastery, Khechupelri Monastery, Pemayangtshe Monastery, and Sangacholing Monastery
This Trek is a perfect combination of exploring the magical beauty of trekking in Sikkim, exploring holy monasteries, and at the same time understanding the lifestyle of the Himalayan peoples.
Itinerary
- +
Day 1
Bagdogra Airport/NJP Railway station to Gangtok (1650m/5-6 hrs drive) (Hotel) - D
Our staff will warmly receive you upon your arrival at Bagdogra Airport or NJP Railway station. Afterward, drive towards Gangtok through the beautiful adventurous Himalayan highway. Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim and one of the most famous hill stations in India. Upon arrival at Gangtok check in to the hotel and get refreshed. Evening free to explore the beautiful town of Gangtok. Overnight stay at Hotel.
- +
Day 2
Gangtok Sightseeing and hiking (1650m/4 hrs drive/1-2 hrs trek) (Hotel) – B/L/D
Today the sightseeing tour starts with an early morning visit to Ganesh Tok and Tashi Viewpoint for witnessing the magnificent view of Mt Kanchendzonga “THE GUARDIAN DEITY OF SIKKIM” and the magical beauty of the Gangtok town. After breakfast, you will be covering some of the sacred monasteries and places of tourist interest around Gangtok town such as Rumtek Monastery, Tibetology, Do Drul Chorten, Enchey, Flower show, etc. Overnight stay at Hotel
- +
Day 3
Gangtok to Ravangla via Temi Tea Garden (2438m/5-6 hrs drive/1 hrs trek) (Home Stay) – B/L/D
Today after breakfast, you will be driving towards the picturesque town of Ravangla ideally situated at the top of the hill with magnificent views of the snow-capped mountain peaks and surroundings. On the way just before Ravangla, you will be driving through the famous tea garden ‘Temi Tea Garden’. It is the only tea garden in Sikkim and is world-renowned for being 100 percent organic. A short visit to the Temi Tea factory and a short hike around the garden is rejuvenating and refreshing. Upon arrival at Ravangla check in to Homestay and get refreshed. Later in the evening visit, Buddha Park also known as Tathagata Tsal where a 130 ft high statue of Lord Buddha is built. Overnight at Homestay
- +
Day 4
Ravangla to Tashiding (1400m/5-6 hrs drive/2 hrs trek) (Home Stay) – B/L/D
Today after breakfast you will be driving towards the beautiful village of Tashiding situated at the height of 1400 m. The drive will mostly be downwards until one reaches Tashiding. On the way visit the famous BON MONASTERY at Kewzing. The Bon Monastery at Kewzing, the only one of its kind in Sikkim was established in the latter half of the 1980s. Until Buddhism found its way from India in the 7th century, the Bon religion was the religion of Tibet. The belief in an Almighty God and in gods, spirits, and demons living in nature belongs to the ancient elements of it. The interior of the Bon monastery is well decorated with fascinating paintings of Bon deities and Bon Demonical Buddha. Upon arrival at Tashiding check in to Homestay. Later in the evening visit the world-famous Tashiding Monastery and grab the opportunity to attend the special evening prayers. The chanting of mantras, the drumbeat, and the blowing of conch and trumpet will surely revive the spiritualism within you. Overnight at Homestay
- +
Day 5
Tashiding to Sinon Monastery and Trek to Hongri Monastery (2100m/1 hrs drive/5 hrs Trek) (Home Stay/Camping) – B/L/D
Today after breakfast you will be driving towards Sinon Monastery. Sinon Monastery is situated in a small Sinon village. Sinon literally means 'the suppressor of intense fear' and was built in 1716 A.D. Sinon Monastery belongs to the Jhang -Ter lineage of the Nyingmapa sect. After spending time at the Sinon monastery, you will be trekking towards Hongri Monastery through a gorgeous village footpath and lush green forest. Throughout the route, you will be blessed with beautiful landscapes and scenery. Hongri Monastery is ideally situated at the top of the hill overlooking a mesmerizing valley and hills. It is an ideal location for meditation and offering special pujas as the surrounding here is serene and peaceful. Here at Hongri, we can make arrangements for overnight camping and Bonfire on request. Overnight at Homestay or Camping.
- +
Day 6
Hongri Monastery to Yuksam (1780m/5-6 hrs trek) (Home Stay/Hotel) – B/L/D
Today you will trek towards the picturesque village of Yuksam which is the first capital of Sikkim and is famous for its splendid beauty. Yuksam also serves as the popular tourist hub as most of the adventure treks in Sikkim start from Yuksam. The trail today towards Yuksam follows an old tribal path passing through a scattered village. The trail throughout the trek is beautiful and scenic with panoramic views of the mountains and hills. Upon arrival at Yuksam check in to a Homestay or Hotel. Overnight at Homestay or Hotel
- +
Day 7
Yuksam Rest with Full-Day Hiking including famous Goechala Kanchendzonga Trekking Trail (1780m-1900m/5-6 hrs trek) (Camping/Home Stay) - B/L/D
Today after breakfast trek for 30 minutes towards famous Goechala – Kanchendzonga trekking trails which fall inside the Kanchendzonga National Park and World Heritage Sites. On the way back visit DUBDI MONASTERY, CORONATION THRONE, KARTHOK LAKE & TRIBAL COMMUNITY VILLAGE. DUBDI MONASTERY is the oldest Monastery of Sikkim and houses the oldest Buddhist scriptures and idols. It is one of the holiest and most powerful Buddhist monasteries and an ideal place for meditation. After spending some time in the monastery trek back through SUBBA (tribe) community village to visit KATHOK LAKE. After lunch trek to visit CORONATION THRONE and NORBUGANG MONASTERY AND CHORTEN. The Coronation throne is made up of natural stone. On this very throne, the first king of Sikkim was consecrated as the first religious king of Sikkim by the three learned monks. Nearby the coronation throne footprint of one of the lamas, Latsun Chembo, who consecrated the first king of Sikkim can also be seen. Evening free to explore Yuksam village. Overnight at Homestay or Hotel.
- +
Day 8
Yuksam to Khechuperi Lake (1700m-1800m/5-6 hrs trek) (Home Stay) – B/L/D
Today the trek towards Khechupelri and Khechupelri Lake starts after breakfast through a typical Lepcha tribal village of Ramgaythang situated at the cliffside of the small clearing inside the forest. On the way towards Khechupelri, you will visit famous Kanchendzonga waterfalls and mystery stones. The trail towards Khechupelri Lake passes through a scattered tribal village and dense forest with short walking on motorable roads. Khechupelri lake is popularly known as “the wishing fulfilling lake”. It is widely and commonly believed that once you visit the lake and make wishes, all wishes in your mind will be fulfilled. The water in this lake is placid and crystal clear. Not even a single leaf can be seen floating on the surface of the water although there is a beautiful dense forest covering the lake. If a leaf drops on the surface of the water it is picked by a bird that keeps it clean. Khechupelri village has two monasteries, one on the top of the hill and one close to the lake. Upon arrival at Khechupelri visit Khechupelri Lake and later check in to the Homestay. The homestay is situated on the hillside from where one can have a spectacular view of the holy lake and its surrounding. Evening free to explore the small traditional Lepchas and Bhutia’s village situated closer to the old monastery. Overnight at Homestay.
- +
Day 9
Khechuperi drive to Pelling (2200m/1-2 hrs drive/2 hrs trek) (Home Stay/Hotel Stay) – B/L/D
After breakfast hike downhill from Homestay for 4 minutes to the taxi parking near the lake. Drive towards Pelling through Rimbi and Darap village. Upon arrival at Pelling check in to Home Stay/Hotel. Later after refreshment visit PEMAYANGTSE MONASTERY, SANGACHOLING MONASTERY, SKYWALK, WORLD TALLEST CHENREZIG STATUE, AND RABDENTSE PALACE RUINS. PEMAYANGTSE MONASTERY is located less than a kilometer from Pelling. It is the most important monastery of the Nyingmapa order and was first built as a small temple in the late seventeenth century by lama Latsun Chembu. Later it was built into a big monastery by the third incarnation of lama Lhatsun chembu. The monastery houses numerous religious idols and other objects of worship, most of which are priceless because of their antiquity. One of the most important, significant, and famous sculptures of the monastery is a WOODEN sculpture portraying the MAHAGURU'S HEAVENLY PALACE SANGTHOKPALRI. It is a hand-made sculpture by a single Rimpoche and is a treat to watch. The main religious dance of the monastery is performed on the 28th and 29th day of the 12th month of the Tibetan calendar, normally corresponding to February three days before Losar (Buddhist new year). SANGACHOLIN MONASTERY also has a higher status and is regarded as the second oldest monastery in Sikkim after DUBDI MONASTERY at Yuksam. SKYWALK is a newly added tourist attraction in Pelling and is built just in front of the world’s tallest Chenrezig statue. RABDENTSE PALACE RUINS is an hour walk from PEMAYANGTSE MONASTERY and was the second capital of Sikkim. Here one can have a closer look at the ruins of the old palace and its structure. Overnight at Homestay
- +
Day 10
Pelling drive back to Airport / Railway Station.
After breakfast, or according to your boarding time you will be driven to Airport or Railway station for onward journey.
Trip Highlights
Highlights of Ravangla Khechupelri Trek
1) All of the Villages covered during this trip are beautiful and have different charms of their own. This trip will provide a unique experience of Himalayan Lifestyle, Culture, and Tradition.
2) Hiking through dense lush green forest and village footpaths
3) Staying with different local tribes at their Home Stay each day
4) Experiencing and Learning Local tradition and culture
5) Trekking through century-old village footpaths and shortcuts
6) Rumtek Monastery - One of the most important Monasteries of Sikkim also known as Dharma Chakra Centre. It was Built by 16th Gyalwa Karmapa when he took refuge in Sikkim after the Chinese attack. It houses some of the world’s most unique art objects, ancient manuscripts, and icons of Buddhism
7) Tashiding Monastery - Another important monastery belonging to the Nyingmapa order. It lies nestled on the top of a hill that looms up between the Rathong river and the Rangit river.
8) Sinon Monastery - Sinom means 'the suppressor of intense fear'. The monastery was built in 1716 and is located about 10 km from Tashiding on a hilltop.
9) Hongri Monastery - A monastery ideally located at the top of the hill at Hongri Village.
10) Dubdi Monastery - Dubdi means 'the retreat' and this monastery was built in 1700. It is located near Yuksum on a hilltop.
11) Pemayangtshe Monastery - The monastery is situated at Pelling and commands an impressive view of Mt. khanchendzonga. This monastery belongs to the Nyingma order and all other Nyingma monasteries in Sikkim are subordinate to it.
12) Sangacholin Monastery - Sangacholin means ' the island of esoteric teaching'. This monastery was built in 1697 and is situated about 7 km from Pemayangste Monastery.
Health and Fitness
You have to be Relatively Fit and Healthy to undertake Sikkim Ravangla Khechupelri Trek. Trekking for 4 to 6 hours a day is one of the most important requirements for this trek. Apart from good health conditions, basic mental preparation is also very important to undertake this Trek.
People suffering from Acute Heart and Lungs diseases, Asthma, and High blood pressure are not recommended to take up this trek. However, since this trek only goes up to 2200 m at the maximum it can be undertaken with proper guidance and preparation.
To complete this trek regular exercises like running, skipping, aerobics, Zumba, and long-distance uphill trekking (4 to 5 times a week) are highly recommended. One should start making basic physical preparation at least a month before a trek. These exercises help you during the Trek.
The packing of right and comfortable clothing also makes a difference in the completion of Trek, so it is necessary to be disciplined while packing your clothing for the trip. You can contact us for help with clothing choice and packing!
We will advise you to bring your basic medicine kit which should include medicine for altitude sickness, headache, diarrhea, vomiting, common cold, and other basic required medicine.
Trekking/Tour Tips
1. A common tendency among young blood and beginners is to show enthusiasm by walking fast with excitement. Even the experienced sometimes try to show off by walking fast, this is soon exhausting and not recommended. Walk slow - warm up gradually and continue at a slow comfortable pace before pushing yourself a little more.
2. Develop a personal rhythm. Maintain your steps to synchronize with breathing. This will help minimize getting out of breath.
3. Walking in Himalayan trails with loose soil and rocks is tricky. So, avoid stepping on loose soil and rocks and place the foot flat and firm with a better grip. Always follow the rule ‘heel first’ while walking on the Himalaya trail.
4. Walking in a zigzags manner while ascending on a very steep slope is advisable. While descending walking zigzag is a good technique to avoid excessive pressure on knees and avoid knee pain and blisters.
5. Avoid stepping on loose stones and soil to avoid an accident.
6. Avoid overtaking fellow travelers on a narrow trail. Only Overtake at comfortable wide space if necessary.
7. While ascending and descending a slope or over loose stones, leave sufficient space between the next person so that any stone rolling down does not hit trekkers below.
8. Do not run down a slope. Bend knees a little while descending. Dig heels into soft snow or soft ground.
9. Our Himalayan condition is mostly wet so avoid wet grass, wet roots, and the muddy zone which can be very slippery. Be careful while walking on them.
10. Shortcuts on a foot trail should be avoided.
11. Always put on warm clothing while taking a rest. This will help avoid getting cold, cough, and high-altitude sickness
12. Respect the sentiments and traditions of the local hill people.
13. Always carry enough water in your water bottle as water is essential in avoiding altitude sickness.
14. Wear a comfortable and right set of trekking boots, pants, and jackets. Avoid wearing new trekking boots directly for the Trek. Get used to it by wearing it before the trek. Carry all necessary clothing.
Halts and Rests:
1. While taking a rest, lie against a tree trunk, a big stone, or on flat ground. Place your legs on your bags or any other higher ground. This helps regulate blood circulation.
2. Stop at any comfortable point after the first start to readjust your rucksack, jackets, or tie a shoelace for better comfort and adjustment.
3. Do not make frequent or prolonged halts. Too many small stops destroy the walking rhythm. Frequent rests are not helpful. You should follow your own rhythmic walking pace and technique to avoid unnecessary tiredness. A stop should be made only at natural stopping points, like on the top of a ridge, or before an ascent, or at a scenic viewpoint.
4. Stop and place yourself on the safer (Mountain) side to give way for the pack animals to pass through. Avoid bags carried by the animals that can push you. Be aware of the yak's horn too.
SERVICES INCLUDED:
1)ALL NECESSARY PERMITS AND PERMISSION
2)PICK UP AND DROP AT AIRPORT
3)LOCAL ENGLISH AND HINDI SPEAKING GUIDE
4)PORTERS AS & ON REQUIRED DAYS
5)VEHICLE FOR LUGGAGE TRANSPORT ON TREKKING DAYS
6)HOME STAY & RETREAT STAY
7)ALL MEALS AND FOOD
8)ALL TAXES
SERVICES EXCLUDED:
1)INTERNATIONAL AND DOMESTIC FLIGHT TICKETS
2)INSURANCE OF ANY NATURE
3)ALCOHOL AND BEVERAGES
4)TIPS AND GIFTS
5)PERSONAL SHOPPING
6)ANYTHING NOT INCLUDED IN THE INCLUDED LIST
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
HOW TO REACH GANGTOK?
The closest airport to Gangtok, Sikkim is PAKYONG AIRPORT & BAGDOGRA AIRPORT. You have to fly either to Bagdogra Airport or Pakyong Airport. From there we will pick you up to Gangtok with a private reserve vehicle.
Pakyong Airport is around 1 hours’ drive and Bagdogra Airport is around 6 hours’ drive from Gangtok.
WHAT GEARS AND CLOTHING TO CARRY FOR SIKKIM RAVANGLA KHECHUPELRI TREK?
No matter what season you are planning for the mountains are always going to be cold, rough, and tough so it is necessary to pack yourself with adequate and proper clothing. Here is the standard kit checklist for the Trek.
Proper packing of the trekking gears is necessary with eyes on the weight limit. It is important to have a good brand of clothing.
Basic Gears:
BackPack & rain cover or Duffel bag (50 to 70 ltr)
Day Pack & rain cover (20 to 30 ltr)
Walking stick (1 pair or at least one)
Water Bottle (2 bottles of 2 ltr each)
Thermos flask (1 n)
Head Light (1 Nos with 4 pairs of batteries)
Upper and Lower Clothings:
T-Shirt (2 to 3 full sleeves). Mostly noncotton
Fleece T-shirt (1 noso)
Thermal Inner-wears or base layers (1 nos or 1 pair) such as long jones
Fleece Jacket (1 no)
Light Down, Feather, or Holofil Jackets (1 no)
Wind and Waterproof jackets & pants (1 pair)
Trekking Pants (1 pair). Comfortable and durable
Short Trekking Pants (1 nos or 1 pair)
Poncho (1 nos)
Headgears:
Woolen cap (1 nos)
Sun cap (1 nos)
Balaclava or scarf (1 nos)
Sunglasses (1 nos) U/V protected and dark
Hand gears:
Waterproof gloves (1 nos)
Woolen gloves (1 nos)
Feet gears:
Waterproof Trekking boots (1 nos) preferably ankle high Goretex, North face, Colombia or Quechua
Snickers or running shoes (1 nos) preferably from any reputed brand
Sandals or flippers (1 nos)
Cotton socks (4 pairs)
Woolen socks (2 pairs)
Personal utilities:
Sunscreen cream
Moisturizers
Hand sanitizers
Toilet papers and wipes
Anti-bacterial powders
Lip balm
Toothbrush and toothpaste
CAN I EXIT ON THE LAST DAY OF THE TREK DIRECTLY?
Yes, you can if you are looking to reach any other location OR if it is too urgent and necessary. Driving to Airport and Railway station directly after the trek is not recommended.
We will advise not to plan to leave Pelling directly after the last day of Trek as it will be too tiring and hectic. However, there is flexibility as the day trip from Khechupelri to Pelling is by vehicle support and you will be reaching Pelling early. Driving at night on the Himalayan road is not comfortable and enjoyable so it is entirely up to you to decide.
The earliest you will reach Pelling on the last day of the trek is around 12 noon so long hours drive thereafter is not recommended.
CAN I LEAVE SOME EXTRA BAGS AT STARTING POINT AND COLLECT THEM ON THE LAST DAY OF THE TREK?
Yes, you can keep a bag of clothes with us and collect them at the end of the trek.
You can even keep valuables and cash at our office safely and collect them at the end of the trek.
WHAT DOCUMENTS NEED TO BE CARRIED?
It is mandatory for Indian trekkers to carry identification documents such as VOTER ID CARRD, DRIVING LICENSE, AADHAR CARD, INDIAN PASSPORT. Original documents need to be carried along with 4 pcs PASSPORT SIZE photograph.
Foreigners need to carry INDIAN VISA, PASSPORT & SIKKIM INNER LINE PERMIT along with 4 pcs PASSPORT SIZE photographs.
IS THERE CONNECTIVITY DURING THE TREK?
There is phone connectivity and internet connection throughout the Trek. Internet connection is available only on certain mobile networks such as Vodafone, Airtel, and Jio.
There is electricity throughout the trek.
HOW IS THE WEATHER & TEMPERATURE DURING THE SIKKIM RAVANGLA KHECHUPELRI TREK?
There are two distinct seasons for doing Sikkim Ravangla Khechupelri Trek. Mid-March, April to May (Spring) and Mid-September, October to November (Autumn). Since the highest altitude in Sikkim Ravangla Khechupelri Trek is 2200 m it can be undertaken on any given month of the year except the rainy season.
Normally weather remains good and clear in those above given periods however there is no guarantee as Himalayan weather is extremely unpredictable and does change within hours and days.
The temperature at each location depends largely on each day's specific weather condition.
Spring (Mid-March, April till May)
Morning and Evening – 12 to 18 degrees centigrade
Day time – 18 to 24 degrees centigrade
Late Evening and Mid Night – 8 to 14 degrees centigrade
Autumn (Mid-September, October till November)
Morning and Evening – 8 to 12 degrees centigrade
Day time – 12 to 20 degrees centigrade
Late Evening and Mid Night – 2 to 14 degrees centigrade
Call now - 
