The ancient kingdom of Sikkim lies sandwiched between Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan, at the heart of the mighty Himalaya. Although today it forms part of India, Sikkim was until 1975 an independent territory. From the evocative hillstation of Darjeeling, this trip takes you into Sikkim for a week’s trekking via high passes and verdant landscape to reach the foot of the world’s third highest mountain – Kangchenjunga (8586m). From Yuksom you trek through remote terrain to reach the sacred Samity Lake, whose waters reflect the glorious snow-capped peaks all around. Next you’ll ascend to Goecha La (4940m), a high and dramatically situated pass, directly opposite Kangchenjunga’s immense south-east face. To view sunrise here is just one of the highlights of this unforgettable trekking experience. With time to explore many of the region’s celebrated monasteries and bustling bazaar towns such as Gangtok and Kalimpong, this trip offers an exceptional mix of culture and high mountain trekking.