Vacationing to the beautiful state of Sikkim, planning from Surat would be thrilling. Nonetheless, one should have a look at some significant factors before opting for Sikkim travel packages from Surat finally.
The five tips that anyone traveling should remember.
1. Weather and Season
The spring and autumn seasons provide cool weather in Sikkim (March- May and September- November).
The conditions are hot and humid during midsummer months (June-August) and very cold with snowfall especially in the upper heights during winters (December-February).
To avoid inconvenience, one can check the forecast and choose to go there during the spring or autumn seasons.
Sometimes there are closures of roads, and delays occur in flights during heavy snow in winter. Landslides are likely in monsoon season from July to August on certain roads.
2. Travel Time and Connectivity
Surat is quite away from Sikkim, which is found in Northeast of India. In all, the journey in which one travels for about 32 days on a road takes forty hours to get to Gangtok–the capital of Sikkim.
It entails passing different States. It may be exhausting to drive such long distances. Alternatively, one could fly to Bagdogra airport in West Bengal and then drive to Gangtok for the next ninety minutes.
At the same time, Surat to Bagdogra flights do not occur every day. Gangtok is linked with Bagdogra airport through regular buses and shared taxis.
Double-check the tour date and connection during the final stage of making arrangements for your journey.
3. Accommodation and Meal Options
This allows visitors into Sikkim year in and out with available lodging ranging from high class hotels, to resort, to homestays across various budget.
Nevertheless, at peak times such as in the spring, rooms could be booked out quite rapidly. One should make prior reservation of accommodations especially for some famous places like Sikkim, Gangtok, Pelling, YuksomandTsomgolake.
4. Permits and Documents Required
In particular, Indians should obtain a Protected Area Permit (PAP) before visiting certain parts of Sikkim which are 16 kilometres away from the China-India border.
Valid photo ID must be produced by the tourists as well. Ensure that you check the items on tour packages and arrange for permits.
Always have extra photocopied of the ID/address proofs because they might be requested at the police check points.
An original visa is required for international tourists. Depending on an itinerary, other additional permits can be needed.
5. Budget and Hidden Costs
Scenery comes at a bargain price in Sikkim but hidden expenses increase eventually. The budget must include entry ticket, camera permission, guide fees if you hire local guides, tips and donation in monastery, and church.
Food and lodging in Sikkim normally come a bit expensive compared to other states of India. Fuel prices are also high.
Go for fully boarded tour packages to avoid unrealized expenses. Bring ample cash as even with an increase in the use of credit and debit, their usage is highly dependent on major towns. These services are provided in big towns only.
Conclusion
Above are some considerations that travellers can take note in order to ensure success while undertaking their Sikkim travel from Surat.
People can be sure of a great time when they are ready for their vacation among nature in Sikkim. Careful planning for weather, travel itinerary, permits and costs will reduce the stress and improve the overall holiday.