Sikkim and Meghalaya are two of the most popular North East states, but they offer very different experiences. If you can only pick one for your first trip, here's how to decide.
Sikkim in brief
Snow-capped Himalayas, Kanchenjunga views, Buddhist monasteries, high-altitude lakes (Tsomgo, Gurudongmar) and dramatic North Sikkim valleys. It pairs perfectly with Darjeeling for tea gardens and the toy train.
Meghalaya in brief
Living-root bridges, thundering waterfalls, the crystal Umngot river at Dawki and Asia's cleanest village. Lower altitude, greener, and easier walking — ideal for families and first-timers.
Which should you choose?
Pick Sikkim for snow, mountains and monasteries; pick Meghalaya for waterfalls, rivers and gentle adventure. Sikkim needs permits for some areas and reaches high altitude; Meghalaya is permit-free for Indians and lower-altitude.
- Sikkim: snow, Kanchenjunga, monasteries, high lakes
- Meghalaya: waterfalls, root bridges, Dawki river
- Sikkim = higher altitude + some permits
- Meghalaya = easier, greener, permit-free
Can't decide? Many travellers do a longer North East loop covering both — TripTrix arranges it end-to-end at net rates.
Ready to plan this trip?
