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Rhododendron forest with trekker - Sikkim Rhododendron Trek, India
Rhododendron forest with trekker  | Garry Weare
White rhododendron in Sikkim - Sikkim Rhododendron Trek, India
White rhododendron in Sikkim  | Garry Weare
Dzongri camp at dawn - Sikkim Rhododendron Trek, India
Dzongri camp at dawn  | Garry Weare
Stupa at Yuksam the first capital of Sikkim - Sikkim Rhododendron Trek, India
Stupa at Yuksam the first capital of Sikkim  | Garry Weare
Darjeeling, with Kanchenjunga in the background - Sikkim Rhododendron Trek, India
Darjeeling, with Kanchenjunga in the background
Hiking through Sikkim's rhododendron forests towards Dzongri - Sikkim Rhododendron Trek, India
Hiking through Sikkim's rhododendron forests towards Dzongri

Sikkim Rhododendron Trek

A lesser-known Himalayan trek through Sikkim’s rhododendron forests, combining high mountain scenery with rich culture and quality hotel stays.

India
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 18 reviews

15 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: GSR
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 15 Days
Activities
  • 7 day trek
Accommodation
  • 7 nights hotels
  • 7 nights camping
Meals
  • 13 Dinners
  • 10 Lunches
  • 14 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
6 / 10

Moderate to Challenging

Carbon Footprint  

70kg of CO2-e PP per day

(983kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Trip highlights

  • Trek through remote valleys and alpine pastures along the Sikkim - Nepal frontier
  • Visit key cultural sites including the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Pemayangtse Monastery, Zang Dhok Monastery and the Lepcha Museum
  • Stay in a combination of fully supported wilderness camps and characterful heritage hotels
  • Enjoy opportunities for views of Kangchenjunga (8,586m/28,169ft), the world’s third highest peak
  • Walk beneath ancient rhododendron forests, with seasonal colour in spring

Overview

During his remarkable journey through Sikkim in 1849, the British botanist Joseph Hooker documented an extraordinary diversity of rhododendrons, confirming the forests beneath Kangchenjunga as among the richest in the Himalaya for flowering species. This trek explores that same landscape, a lesser-known corner of the eastern Himalaya where dense temperate forests give way to high alpine meadows beneath the world’s third highest peak, Kangchenjunga (8,586m/28,169ft).

Compared to the more frequented trails, Sikkim offers a quieter trekking experience, shaped by a unique blend of Tibetan Buddhist and indigenous Lepcha culture. Beginning in the historic hill station of Darjeeling, the journey provides cultural context before entering the forests of Kangchenjunga National Park. Over the following days, the trail winds through oak, magnolia and rhododendron forest, with spring bringing seasonal colour to the mountainsides. At Dzongri, there are opportunities for sweeping views of Kangchenjunga - the world's third highest peak, and a chain of 7,000m peaks marking the border with Nepal.

What sets this journey apart is the balance between remote wilderness and comfort. Seven days are spent trekking with fully supported camps, while the broader itinerary includes stays in characterful hotels, including heritage properties that reflect the region’s colonial and cultural history.

This trek is ideal for those seeking a less-travelled route in the eastern Himalaya, offering a distinctive contrast between remote wilderness camping and comfortable hotel stays, alongside strong cultural insight.

Itinerary

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You will be met by a World Expeditions representative and transferred to the your hotel. On arrival you will have an initial briefing focusing on the transfer arrangement and the flight the following day. Your main briefing will be held on arrival in Darjeeling. Overnight: The Metropolitan Hotel & Spa, Delhi NOTE: Internal fights are not included in the tour cost, we will be happy to assist with booking this for you. A nominated group flight will be advised. The standard checked luggage allowance for internal flights in India is 15kg. Additional kilos can be purchased at the airport, however if you are staying in Delhi upon your return, we can assist in storing your main suitcase and any excess items & hence filling your provided World Expeditions kit bag with only what you will need while in Sikkim.

Meals: Nil

A morning flight brings you to Bagdogra on the edge of the plains, where the Himalaya rise dramatically to the north. From here, a winding drive climbs through forested hills to Darjeeling, once a summer retreat of the British Raj. Set at over 2,000m (6,709ft), Darjeeling offers cool mountain air and expansive views, with Kangchenjunga often visible on clear days. In the afternoon, there is time to explore The Mall and surrounding streets, where a blend of Nepali, Tibetan and colonial influences come together to shape the town’s character. In the evening we will have a pre trek briefing and provide you with your sleeping bag and down/fibrefill jacket. Overnight: Elgin Hotel, Darjeeling

Meals: B,D

This morning we head to the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, home to a fascinating collection of maps, memos and photographs documenting Himalayan climbing history. The Institute is set within the grounds of the Zoological Park, where endangered species, including the red panda, can be seen. We then visit a nearby tea plantation to learn about and taste Darjeeling’s most famous export. The afternoon is free to wander the markets or simply take in the atmosphere, with the chance to catch a distant glimpse of Kangchenjunga rising above the clouds. Overnight: Elgin Hotel, Darjeeling

Meals: B,D

Crossing into Sikkim, the journey continues through forested foothills and small rural villages to Yuksam, the former capital of the Sikkim kingdom and the starting point for treks into Kangchenjunga National Park. This small settlement holds historical significance as the site where Sikkim’s first king was crowned in the 17th century. Today, it remains a peaceful gateway to the mountains and the beginning of our trekking journey. Overnight: Yuksum Residency, Yuksum

Meals: B,L,D

Our trek begins with a gradual ascent through subtropical forest, where the humidity of the lower valleys supports an abundance of vegetation. The trail winds alongside streams and small waterfalls, with oak, bamboo and magnolia forming a dense canopy overhead. In spring, the first signs of rhododendron bloom begin to appear, bringing early colour to the forest floor. This is a gentle introduction to the trek as we make our way to a small forest clearing for our first camp.

Meals: B,L,D

Crossing a suspension bridge above the confluence of the Prek and Rathong rivers, we begin a steady climb. The air cools as we gain elevation, and the vegetation begins to change, with moss-covered trees and thick undergrowth creating an almost primeval feel. A welcome break at the small settlement of Baktim offers tea and a chance to rest before continuing to Tsokha, a former Tibetan refugee settlement. From here, views begin to open across the valley, with the first glimpses of snow-capped peaks appearing between the trees.

Meals: B,L,D

Today is a standout day of the trek, as we enter the heart of the rhododendron forests that Sikkim is renowned for. The trail climbs steadily through silver fir and larch. The sense of remoteness deepens as we gain altitude, reaching our camp at Pethang, set in a clearing surrounded by forest, a quiet and atmospheric setting.

Meals: B,L,D

Continuing through forest, we gradually approach the tree line, where the landscape begins to open and, in clear weather, the first expansive mountain views begin to emerge. At Deorali, we gain our first clear perspective of Kangchenjunga and the surrounding peaks, a defining moment of the journey. From here, the trail steepens in places before easing into the broad alpine meadow of Dzongri, where we establish camp for two nights. The transition from dense forest to open, high-altitude terrain is particularly striking.

Meals: B,L,D

An early morning walk to a nearby viewpoint offers the possibility of panoramic views of Kangchenjunga (8,586m/28,169ft) and a sweep of surrounding peaks, including Pandim, Kabru and Talung. We then trek to Dzongri La (4,356m/14,291ft), the highest point of our trek. Here the landscape opens further to reveal glacial valleys and high ridgelines stretching into the distance. Wildlife sightings are possible in this area, including bharal (blue sheep), while golden eagles are often seen riding the thermals overhead.

Meals: B,L,D

Shortly after leaving Dzongri, we make a final ascent to a ridge, offering the opportunity for last views of Kangchenjunga and the adjoining peaks before beginning our descent. From here, the trail leads back through forest, retracing our steps as the landscape gradually shifts from open alpine terrain to denser vegetation. Continuing downhill, we return to Tsokha, where our camp is set among the trees.

Meals: B,L,D

We pause to take in views across the Prek Valley, with the river winding far below. The trail then continues with a steady descent through forest and small farms. Crossing the bridge over the Rathong River, we complete our return to Yuksam, where the trek began, marking the end of our time on the trail. Overnight: Yuksum Residency, Yuksum

Meals: B,L,D

Today there are opportunities for clear views of Kangchenjunga and the surrounding peaks. After lunch, we visit Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest and most significant Nyingma Buddhist monasteries in Sikkim. Originally built in 1705, it has been carefully restored over time. The monastery is renowned for its rich artistic heritage and three-storey structure, which houses an intricate wooden model of Guru Rinpoche’s celestial palace. Our hotel offers a comfortable setting to relax for the remainder of the day, or you may choose to spend more time exploring Pelling and its surroundings. Overnight: Elgin Mt Pandim, Pelling

Meals: B,L,D

From Pelling, we drive across the foothills to the Sikkim border before continuing to the historic town of Kalimpong. This afternoon is at leisure to explore Kalimpong, a relaxed hill town. Alternatively, enjoy time at the hotel, a heritage property set within peaceful gardens, with inviting lounges and views across the surrounding hills. Overnight: Elgin Silveroaks Kalimpong

Meals: B,L,D

Located close to the Tibetan border, Kalimpong became a place of refuge for many Tibetans who fled to India in 1959, and their culture continues to shape the town today. This influence is reflected in sites such as Zang Dhok Monastery, including its monastic museum. Today we also visit the Lepcha Museum, run by a local community member dedicated to preserving and sharing the traditions of Sikkim’s indigenous Lepcha people. There is time to wander the town and browse local shops before preparing for your journey home. Overnight: Elgin Silveroaks Kalimpong

Meals: B,D

On our final day, we descend to the lower plains and the city of Bagdogra where we take our flight to Delhi. We hope you leave with a deeper understanding of Sikkim’s landscapes, cultures and traditions, along with a real sense of achievement from your time on the trail. The trip concludes in the late afternoon on arrival at Delhi airport. There is no included accommodation on this night, however, we can assist with arranging additional services if required. NOTE: Internal fights are not included in the tour cost, we will be happy to assist with booking these for you. A nominated group flight will be advised however you are not obliged to return to Delhi if your onward travel plans do not require this. If you have chosen to store luggage at our hotel, you will need to make arrangements to collect it yourself.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

1 scheduled departure between 18 Apr 2027 and 18 Apr 2027.

  • Departs 18 Apr 2027 – ends 2 May 2027 (15 days)
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • Led by highly experienced local guide Nawang Tsering
  • Quality accommodation Delhi/Darjeeling/Pelling/Kalimpong
  • 14 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 13 dinners
  • Airport arrival transfer if arriving Day 1 (transfers if arriving early can be booked for an additional cost)
  • Use of a World Expeditions trek pack which includes a quality sleeping bag, down or fibre fill jacket and insulated mat (valued at over US$500)
  • Souvenir World Expeditions kit bag
  • All group camping equipment
  • All park fees and entry permits
  • Mules to carry personal equipment
  • Sightseeing and entrance fees as listed

Not included

  • International flights
  • Internal flights Delhi to Bagdogra (NOTE: We will advise the group flight and can book this for you, please allow approx. USD350)
  • Travel Insurance - copmulsory
  • Bottled water, aerated & alcoholic drinks
  • Excess luggage charges - the included flights have a 15kg per person checked baggage allowance. Additional kilos can be purchased at the airport, however we recommend storing your main suitcase or any excess items in Delhi, to collect upon your return
  • Visa
  • Items of a personal nature such as laundry
  • Tips
  • Additional transfers or accommodation in Delhi - we are happy to assist booking these

About your guide

Nawang Tsering was born in the village of Nimoo Ldorba, in the heart of Leh Ladakh, and brings over 25 years of experience guiding travellers across the Indian Himalayas. His expertise spans Ladakh, Sikkim, Rajasthan, Southern India, North East India, Bhutan and Nepal.

A long-standing and much valued member of the World Expeditions India team, Nawang is known for his calm leadership, strong focus on safety, and genuine care for his groups. His deep regional knowledge, combined with a thoughtful and attentive guiding style, ensures travellers feel both supported and enriched throughout their journey.

Reviews (18)

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The trip was enjoyable in that it was in Sikkim - a place which is very different from other treks we had done in the Himalayas.

The experience as a whole was great from the perspective of hotels, logistics like travel by flight and taxi, food variety and quality on the trek and support crew.

The information provided on itinerary, travel gear, visas etc was very detailed and helped greatly in our preparation.

The forest and flowering rhododendrons were spectacular to see at the higher altitudes.

The weather was a bit disappointing as it rained much more than we had anticipated with limited sunshine. This made the camping experience more uncomfortable due to the wet campsites, even though the crew kept our spirits up with hot masala tea. It also made the trekking more challenging rather than moderate as we were expecting.

We were pleased to reach 4000m at Dzongri and we did a couple of nice hikes to the viewpoint and Lakshmi Lake that were enjoyable. The downside was that we missed the much anticipated view of Kanchenjunga due to the cloud cover.

Narayana|Australian Capital Territory, Australia
2 Jun 2026
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A wonderful experience with a dedicated and warmly welcoming team of professionals.

The trip of a lifetime !

Geoffrey|QLD Australia
21 May 2025
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The snow covered rhododendrons, were certainly a highlight. We had exceptional food when camping and the luxury of a hot shower when staying at the heritage listed hotels. We were very well looked after by Garry, Nawang and the amazing crew.

Bettina|NSW Australia
13 May 2025
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The Sikkim Rhododendron Trek - an exotic and classic delight combining multiple fascinating town stays with well supported trekking through spectacular scenery. Meticulously planned, seamlessly executed, great crew and great fellow travellers including the legendary and irrepressible Garry Weare. I'd give it more than 5 stars if I could.

Malcolm Riley|Alberton, SA Australia
22 May 2024
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Awesome trek with amazing mountain views and colourful Rhododendrons everywhere. The trail was tough going but the trek itself was incredible

Brent Webster|Manly, NSW Australia
22 May 2024
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This was a beautiful trek, such variety with ancient forest and glorious rhododendrons, and then up above the tree line with wonderful views of Kanchenjunga. As always, the World Expeditions team was superb. Many thanks to Garry, Nawang, Margie, all of the World Expeditions support team and the lovely group of fellow trekkers for a great adventure!

Janet Durno|Ottawa, Ontario Canada
21 May 2024
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A wonderful and challenging experience with great company and terrific support from the whole World Expeditions team.

Kendal Tichon|Bundanoon, NSW Australia
14 May 2024
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Leanne|New South Wales, Australia
27 May 2026
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Meryl|New South Wales, Australia
24 May 2026

Extra trip info

AccommodationWill My Trip Run?
The Metropolitan Hotel & Spa offers modern comfort and local hospitality near Connaught Place.

New Delhi: Metropolitan Hotel

Situated in New Delhi’s city centre with stylish air-conditioned rooms, outdoor pool and 3 dining options.

Hotel Yuksum Residency | Hotel Yuksum Residency

Yuksum: Hotel Yuksum Residency

A welcoming three star property, located at the centre of the Yuksum bazaar, featuring Wi-Fi, laundry service and private garden to relax and unwind.

View from Elgin Darjeeling Hotel | Garry Weare

Darjeeling: Elgin Hotel

An elegant heritage property, with garden, terrace, tea lounge, bar and mountain views.

Elgin Mount Pandim, Pelling rooms | Elgin Mount Pandim, Pelling

Pelling: Elgin Mount Pandim Pelling

A 10-minute walk from the Pemyangtse Monastery, this heritage hotel has spa, restaurant, bar and mountain views.

Kalimpong Elgin Silver Oaks | Kalimpong Elgin Silver Oaks

Kalimpong: The Elgin Silveroaks

Spacious property with tea lounge, bar and well regarded dining.

Dzongri camp | Garry Weare

Fully supported wilderness camping

Including use of a World Expeditions trek pack with a quality sleeping bag, down or fibre fill jacket and insulated mat and World Expeditions kit bag to keep.

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

Webinars

Sikkim Rhododendron Trek with Garry Wear | World Expeditions Webinar
Sikkim Rhododendron Trek with Garry Wear | World Expeditions Webinar
How To Prepare for a Himalaya Trek | World Expeditions Webinar

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