Sikkim Trip Budget - Best Low Budget Trip To Sikkim 2024

Traveling to Sikkim on a budget can be a rewarding experience, offering stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and affordable options. If you want to experience Sikkim in the best possible way without having to worry about overspending or having a high budget, this blog would cover all your worries.

This blog covers the lowest Sikkim trip budget that you would need to travel to the state of Sikkim and in order to get the best experience of Sikkim. Here’s a guide to planning the best budget trip to Sikkim:

How To Reduce Budget While Traveling To Sikkim

Here listed below, are some tips on how you can reduce your total expense on your Sikkim trip:

1. Travel During Off-Season

Traveling during the off-season can help you save a lot of money. The off-season in Sikkim is late February to early March and late October to early November.

During these times, prices for accommodation, flights, and transport are generally lower. Additionally, there are fewer tourists, so you can enjoy the sights without the crowds.

2. Use Public Transport and Shared Cabs

Using public transport and shared cabs is a great way to save money while traveling in Sikkim. Shared cabs are widely available and significantly cheaper than private taxis. Public transport, like local buses and shared jeeps, can be used for longer distances.

North Sikkim Roads Sikkim — SUV Vehicles On Sikkim Road

This not only helps in reducing your travel costs but also gives you a chance to interact with locals and experience their way of life.

3. Book Accommodation in Advance

Booking your accommodation in advance can help you find better deals and discounts. Online booking platforms often offer special deals on budget hotels and hostels.

Opting for homestays can be cheaper than hotels and provide a more authentic local experience. Homestays usually include breakfast, which can save you money on food as well.

4. Eat at Local Eateries

Eating at local eateries and dhabas can save you a significant amount of money. These places offer delicious local cuisine at much lower prices compared to restaurants. Trying street food is another great way to enjoy the local flavors without spending too much.

Phakthuk - Delicious Local Dish in Sikkim — Phakthuk – Delicious Local Dish in Sikkim

Sikkim has a variety of affordable local dishes like momos, thukpa, and gundruk, which are not only tasty but also easy on the wallet.

5. Travel in a Group

Traveling in a group can help you reduce costs as you can share expenses for transportation, accommodation, and even meals. Many tour operators offer group discounts, so you can save even more. Group travel also adds to the fun and makes the trip more enjoyable.

6. Negotiate Prices

Negotiating prices is a common practice in Sikkim. Always try to negotiate for better rates on accommodation and transport, especially during the off-season. In local markets, bargaining can help you get souvenirs and other items at a lower price. Don’t hesitate to ask for discounts or better deals.

7. Plan Your Itinerary Efficiently

Planning your itinerary efficiently can help you save both time and money. Avoid backtracking by planning a route that minimizes travel distances.

Combine attractions in the same area on the same day to save on transport costs. This way, you can see more without spending extra money on transportation.

8. Carry Essentials

Carrying your own essentials can help you avoid unnecessary expenses. Bring snacks and water with you to save money on the go.

Packing a small first-aid kit with basic medicines can help you avoid buying expensive medications locally. Being prepared can save you from unexpected costs.

9. Free and Low-Cost Attractions

Sikkim has many free and low-cost attractions that you can enjoy. Visiting monasteries and temples is often free or involves a small entry fee.

Nature walks and hikes allow you to enjoy the stunning landscapes without spending money. Take advantage of these opportunities to experience Sikkim’s beauty on a budget.

10. Use Budget Tour Packages

Using budget tour packages offered by local tour operators can be a cost-effective way to explore Sikkim. These packages often include transport, accommodation, and meals, which can help you save money.

Customize the package according to your needs to avoid paying for unnecessary extras. Look for packages that offer the best value for your budget.

Sample Budget Itinerary for 7 Days

For a 7-day trip to Sikkim, you can follow this budget-friendly itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Gangtok

Explore MG Marg and local markets. Stay in a budget hotel or hostel.

Gangtok, mountains, Sikkim, India — Gangtok, Sikkim

Day 2: Gangtok Local Sightseeing

Visit Rumtek Monastery, Enchey Monastery, and Banjhakri Falls. Use shared cabs for transportation.

Day 3: Gangtok to Lachen

Travel to Lachen, visiting Seven Sisters Waterfall en route. Stay in a homestay or budget hotel.

Day 4: Gurudongmar Lake and Transfer to Lachung

Visit Gurudongmar Lake early in the morning, then transfer to Lachung. Stay in a homestay or budget hotel.

Day 5: Yumthang Valley and Zero Point

Explore Yumthang Valley and Zero Point. Return to Lachung for the night.

Day 6: Lachung to Gangtok

Travel back to Gangtok and stay in a budget hotel or hostel.

Day 7: Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir

Take a day trip to Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir. Return to Gangtok for the night.

Budget Summary for 7 Days (Per Person)

For a 7-day trip, here is a budget summary per person:

1. Accommodation: INR 4,900 – 7,000
2. Transportation: INR 4,500 – 6,000
3. Food: INR 3,000 – 4,200
4. Permits and Entry Fees: INR 500
5. Miscellaneous: INR 1,000

Total: INR 13,900 – 18,700

Tips for Reducing Sikkim Trip Budget

Traveling in groups allows you to share costs, which can significantly reduce expenses.
Booking in advance helps you secure discounts on flights, trains, and accommodations.
Opting for homestays instead of hotels provides a cheaper and more authentic experience.
Using shared cabs and public transport is economical and allows you to interact with locals.
Eating at local dhabas and street vendors offers affordable and delicious food.
Negotiating prices for accommodation, transport, and in local markets can lead to significant savings.
Planning your itinerary to avoid backtracking and combining nearby attractions saves time and money.
Carrying your own snacks, water, and a small first-aid kit can help you avoid unexpected expenses.
Taking advantage of free and low-cost attractions, such as monasteries, temples, nature walks, and hikes, allows you to enjoy Sikkim’s beauty without spending much.
Using budget tour packages can provide a cost-effective way to explore Sikkim, including transport, accommodation, and meals.

Alternative Budget Plans for Sikkim Tour

Planning a trip to Sikkim on a tight budget is entirely feasible with a bit of strategic planning. Here are three alternative budget plans to help you experience the beauty of Sikkim without breaking the bank.