What to pack for a North Sikkim trip

North Sikkim takes you from warm river valleys to Gurudongmar Lake at about 17,800 ft in a day or two. Pack for all of it.

Clothing

• Layers you can add and remove: thermals, a fleece and a windproof outer jacket.
• A warm cap, gloves and woollen socks, even in spring.
• Comfortable shoes with good grip for icy or muddy stops.

Sun and altitude

• Sunglasses, sunscreen and lip balm; the sun is strong at altitude.
• Drinking water, and go slowly at high points. If you have a heart or breathing condition, speak to your doctor before the trip.

Documents and money

• Original photo ID and a few passport-size photographs for protected-area permits.
• Some cash, because card payments and ATMs are limited beyond Gangtok.

Staying connected

Mobile data is patchy and often absent in North Sikkim, and postpaid connections tend to work where prepaid ones do not. Let people at home know you may be offline for a day or two.