We are pleased to present a new Solo Travel Destination Post from Beth, a member of the Solo Travel Society. Beth is from the United States, and submitted the following report about Sikkim, India. Do you have a solo travel destination that you would like to recommend? Submit your description here, along with a few photos, and share it with fellow travelers!
Solo travel rating: 2 (1 is easiest, 3 is most difficult. Please see chart below)
Languages spoken: Nepali, Hindi, English
Magic Mountains in Kanchenjunga
Reasons to go: Sikkim is easily the friendliest and most beautiful state in India. Nestled in India's Northeast, Sikkim is home to Kangchenjunga, the world's third-highest peak. It is a wonderful place to go trekking without the crowds you find in Nepal. This former Kingdom is mainly Buddhist and has some beautiful monasteries.
I stayed in two guest houses, one near the capital of Gangtok and another in Western Sikkim that were both very well run, clean and comfortable.
You need a special permit to enter the state, but you can easily get this at the state border. If you're thinking of going to Bhutan but worry about the cost, go to Sikkim instead. The only drawback is that it is a 5-6 hour drive from the closest airport – Bagdogra – which is not a particularly interesting city. But it is worth the drive.
Sikkim is a very safe state and women are treated with respect. You will not see Indian Eve teasing in Sikkim.
Buddhist Monks teaching.
The friendliest and most beautiful people…
Solo Travel Destination Rating System
Safety – 1 (1 very safe, 2 safe in most areas, 3 be cautious at all times.)
Language – 2 (1 English is first language, 2 English speakers easy to find, 3 English speakers rare)
Navigation – 2 (1 easy to navigate by transit or car, 2 poor transit, car necessary, 3 not easy to get around)
Culture – 2 (1 Similar to North America or Western Europe, 2 Different from above but relaxed and easy, 3 Challenging)
Average Rating – 2 (1 is easiest, 3 is most difficult)