clothes – remember to carry adequate clothing as per the season in which you are travelling. also if you are travelling to interior places like north in any time of the year, than area warm clothes accordingly

personal belongings – sikkim is a very safe place. your belongings are safe in hotel/car but on a bad day, anything could go wrong so we always suggest you to carry your camera, wallet, passport and your valuable goods with you all the time

taking photos – most people in sikkim do not mind being photographed. however it is always courteous to ask permission before taking the photographs

permits – when guests are travelling to protected areas remember to carry adequate documents for permits. refer permits required to visit sikkim

cash – when guests are travelling to remote areas remember to carry adequate cash as atm may not be easily available in remote areas.

water bottles – remember to carry your own steel or glass bottles and refill them. sikkim is one of few states in india which has highly restrictive policy for usage and disposal of plastic bottles

sikkim do’s and don’t’s

do’s

• do not litter. always use dustbins in public places.
• dress appropriately and modestly. be aware of the customs and manners and culture of the local people. observe the sacredness of holy temples and monasteries.
• while visiting monastery always leave a donation and circle shrines clockwise.
• avoid loud music and noise as locals may not appreciate it.
• always keep your identity card / passport copies safe custody in hotels.
• as few parts of sikkim are located at high altitudes where breathing issues are a common. keep the necessary medicines handy.

don’ts

• don’t smoke, drink alcohol or talk loudly near sacred places.
• don’t pluck plants or flowers.
• don’t use plastic bags or plastic bottles in the forest area
• do not write on trees, rocks and buildings.
• do not use pollutants such as detergent, in streams or springs while washing and bathing.
• do not swim in the rivers, lakes or glaciers in the protected areas.
• do not buying or dealing in products made from the skins of endangered species or of any another animal. it is strictly prohibited. buying and selling of antiques are also illegal as per the government norms in sikkim.
• sikkimese locals are conservative and do not appreciate the public display of affection. keep a check on your body language and choice of words as well.
• do not disregard the food offered by the locals.