Sikkim snuggled in the stretch of northeastern Himalayas is one of the best experiences of the mountains. The beautiful state remains unrivaled when it comes to the thrilling experience of mountaineering. Mountaineering in Sikkim has been introduced very recently. The Government of Sikkim has opened some of its alpine peaks for climbing and other adventures. Mountaineering season in Sikkim starts from April to June and from September to November.
Temperature is milder in spring, but there can be more snow around. Mid-April, June through the last week of September, to the first week of December, is considered the safest and the best time for mountain adventures in Sikkim. The breathtaking views from the magnificent heights. The beautiful trails through alpine meadows, rhododendron fields, scared lakes, bio-diversity, and humming mountain brooks. Adventure lovers have found their haven, and nature lovers will be lost in the magnificence of the scenic beauty of mountains.
There are many peaks in the Sikkim Himalayas in which five peaks below 7000 Mtrs in North and West Sikkim are open for mountaineering expedition as per the state vide notification No.25/HOME/2006 dated 20/03/2006 issued by the Home Department, Government of Sikkim. The Home Department issues the permits for the peaks. The amount of royalties mentioned below has to be paid in Gangtok, Sikkim after the Indian Mountaineering Foundation grants the license in New Delhi.
Expedition Royalties
The following royalties are levied for foreign expedition teams:
- US$350 per team of up to four members
- US$ 500 per team of up to eight members
- US$ 75 for every additional member
Insurance
The following minimum insurance coverage is compulsory:
- Expedition members: Rs. Three lakhs per member
- Camp crew: Rs. 1 lakh per person
- Porters: Rs. 50,000/- per person
- Animals: Rs. 20,000/- per animal
If more peaks below 6000 Mtrs are opened shortly, Sikkim will attract more mountaineers and tourists soon.
Important Peaks & Permits
Frey Peak
The Government of Sikkim significantly recognizes this peak for trekking and climbing. This destination is like a window to sacred lakes, snow-capped mountains, and spectacular beauty. Many climbers have appreciated mt. Tenchenkhang for offering an adrenaline climb. Th
How To Reach
It falls under the Kanchenjunga Park in West Sikkim and can reach via taxi.
Elevation: 5830
Location: West Sikkim
Difficulty: Fairly Difficult
Mt. Jopuno
Mount Jopuno is situated in the western part of Sikkim at a high elevation of 5603 meters. This imposing peak lies under the Kanchenjunga National Park. While trekking towards the Goecha La Pass, this spectacular peak is visible from the Okhlathang valley. It is one of the primary attract
How To Reach
Once you are in Sikkim, the local drivers can drive you to reach here.
Elevation: 5606
Location: West Sikkim
Difficulty: Difficult
Mt. Brumkhangse
Positioned at the imposing and surreal location of North Sikkim, Brumkhangse Peak has been opened for expedition since 2005. It is a moderate grade trek that is isolated from other major peaks of Sikkim. The excursion passes through the exquisite valley of Lachung.
How To Reach
The local drivers are well acquainted with the roads. You can take a cab and reach the spot.
Elevation: 5635
Location: North Sikkim
Difficulty: Difficult
Mt. Thinchenkhan
The Government of Sikkim significantly recognizes this peak for trekking and climbing. This destination is like a window to sacred lakes, snow-capped mountains, and spectacular beauty. Many climbers have appreciated mt. Tenchenkhang for offering an adrenaline climb. Th
How To Reach
It falls under the Kanchenjunga Park in West Sikkim and can reach via taxi.
Elevation: 6010
Location: Goecha La
Difficulty: Difficult
For more information about Sikkim Tourism, visit Sikkim Tourism Government Website.
Permits & Details For Mountaineering In Sikkim
- As per the notification of the Government of Sikkim, Home Department, the above listed (at least 6) peaks have been declared open for Alpine Expedition with effect from 17th September 2005.
- The permit for these Alpine Expeditions is issued by the Home Department. The royalty shall be paid under the Revenue Head of Forest, Environment, and Wildlife Management Department.
- The following royalty shall be levied for the expedition:
(a) For foreign expedition team: the U.S. $350 per team of up to four members, U.S. $500 per team of up to eight members, and the U.S. $75 for every additional member.
(b) For domestic expedition team: Rs. 15,000/- per team of up to eight members and Rs. 1,500/- for every additional member.
(c) For local expedition team: Rs. 3,000/- per team of up to eight members and Rs. 300/- for every additional member.
- The tour operator shall be responsible for the rescue operation if any. However, the Tourism and Civil Aviation Department shall render all legitimate assistance to the tour operators, including coordination with different agencies.
- The tour operator conducting the expedition shall scrupulously adhere to the code of conduct for eco-tourism in Sikkim and abide by all the terms and conditions laid down by the State Government for conducting the expedition. The principle of conduct and terms and conditions will be enclosed with the permit for Alpine Expedition. The violation of any conditions and code of conduct shall debar the tour operator from conducting further expedition/s.
- The Tourism and Civil Aviation Department will ensure that the trekking/expedition routes are kept litter-free and conduct periodical cleaning operations, if necessary.
- The following minimum insurance coverage is compulsory:
(a) Expedition members: Rs. Three lakhs per member.
(b) Camp crews: Rs. 1 lakh per person.
(c) Porters: Rs. 50,000/- per person.
(d) Animals: Rs. 20,000/- per animal.
- A total of 10 expeditions (6 foreign and four domestic) shall be permitted per year. However, the State Government may allow a journey if such a situation arises.
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