gangtok tourism

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Extremely alluring, pleasantly boisterous and wreathed in clouds - Gangtok, the capital city of the Sikkim can also give you a spectacular view of Mt. Kanchenjunga, at a distant skyline. The pristine hill station nestled in mountains and clouds is also a base for a whole lot of trekkers to the Himalayan mountain ranges. The mesmerising prismatic beauty and the beautiful winding hill roads are even more breathtaking if seen from a bird’s eye view in a cable car.

The name meaning hill-top, Gangtok can be safely said to be one of the most beautiful hill stations in the country. With everything in just the right amount from a blend of cultural identities to urbanisation, Gangtok is a breathing and dynamic bit of paradise of the northeast. It has an amazing view of mount Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain peak in the world. Also like everything around it, Gangtok is abundant in natural beauty and has various natural attractions such as the Tsomgo Lake, Ban Jhakri falls, Tashi viewpoint and more. Other places to visit include the Enchey Monastery, Ganesh Tok, Do Drul Chorten Rumtek Monastery, etc. Also, river Teesta is one of the best spots for white water rafting in North East India.

Gangtok experiences pleasant weather during the summer season. The temperature hovers 18°C to 25°C during the season. It is the best time to visit Gangtok if you would like to escape the heat. The blend of warm sunshine and cool breeze promises every visitor with an unforgettable vacation of indulging in amazing things to do with your family and friends. Honeymoon couples planning a trip to Gangtok are certainly in for a treat as it offers absolutely delightful weather.

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"The Gateway to Sikkim"

Gangtok tourism.

Incredibly alluring, pleasantly boisterous and wreathed in clouds - Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is one of the most popular hill stations in India. Lying at the height of 1650 m above sea level, the town during its bright sunny days offers spectacular views of Mt. Kanchenjunga . Gangtok is a base for adventure enthusiasts comprising of trekkers and campers to the Himalayan mountain ranges. Dzongri Trek, Varsey/Barsey Trek, and Tholung Trek are among the most popular treks departing from Gangtok. The possibility of paragliding and hang gliding is also not far from Gangtok. The capital city serves as an excellent starting point for mountain biking excursions. During the months of March to Mid-May, blooming of wild Rhododendrons transform the surrounding regions in vast fields of colourful carpets.

Gangtok has an eclectic nightlife as well. Its popular MG Road is lined with trendy restaurants and pubs that stay open until 11 p.m. The location is also ideal for shopaholics, and with shops open until late at night, tourists have more time to purchase Tibetan handicrafts, woollens, and tea products. Read more about Shopping in Gangtok.  Gangtok and its surrounding regions are abundant in natural beauty and have various natural attractions such as the Tsomgo Lake, Ban Jhakri falls, Tashi viewpoint and more. Other places to visit include many famous religious sites such as the Enchey Monastery , Ganesh Tok , Do Drul Chorten Rumtek Monastery , etc. Also, river Teesta is one of the best spots for white water rafting in North East India. Its name meaning hill-top, Gangtok can be safely said to be one of the most beautiful hill stations in the country. With everything in just the right amount from a blend of cultural identities to urbanisation, Gangtok is a breathing and dynamic bit of paradise of the northeast. Whether one is looking for a family vacation, a romantic getaway, adventure tourism, or simply a peaceful place to relax and unwind in the midst of nature, Gangtok, Sikkim has it all.

Must Visit Places in Gangtok

Nathula Pass

MG Road, Gangtok

Gangtok Ropeway

Tsomgo Lake

Places To Visit In Gangtok

Rumtek Monastery

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

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Nathula pass- indo-china border, shopping in gangtok.

• Canvas paintings and wall hangings give you a taste of the traditional day Gangtok and is sure to make your living room extremely appealing like a chunk from one of the travel magazines.
• Gangtok is famous for handicrafts and Tibetan carpets which reflect the arts and culture of the city. Hand-woven jackets are extremely exquisite and pretty and a must-have souvenir.
• Sikkim is popular worldwide for its most delicious tea. You can try a couple of varieties of ‘Sikkim Tea’ from any of the local stores.
• Black cardamom is exclusively farmed here and is famous for making any dish aromatic and better tasting.
• Hand carved wooden tables are another popular work of the city.
• The locally produced wine and hard liquor is of premium quality. You must take a bottle or two of Wine for your next hang-out with friends.

Riding In Cable Car

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• Gangtok Tourism

A Destination Adorned with Nature, Rich in Adventure, and Blessed with Peace.

Hill Stations

Surreal and serene, hill stations in Sikkim are every nature lover’s dream destinations.

Sikkim's lakes winning the hearts of tourists with their spectacular vistas.

Perfect for trekkers of every level, the treks in Sikkim are adorned with Rhododendrons and Orchids.

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About Gangtok Tourism

The capital city of Sikkim, Gangtok leaves every tourist awestruck with its tremendous natural beauty and a spiritual aura. Whether one is looking for a family or a romantic destination or an adventure tourism place or simply looking for a peaceful place for a vacation amidst nature, he is sure to find his kind of holiday in Gangtok, Sikkim.

Counted amongst the best places to visit for a holiday in India, Gangtok in Sikkim is no less than a paradise. The city offers views of the third highest mountain peak in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga, and has many points of tourist interest in and around it including Enchey Monastery, Tsomgo Lake and Nathu La.

For those looking for adrenaline rushing adventure activities in Sikkim, Gangtok proves to be the perfect base. It’s most likely, you’d find almost every trekker chilling in Gangtok before and after his trek. Amongst the top treks that are embarked upon from Gangtok are Dzongri Trek, Varsey/Barsey Trek, and Tholung Trek. The opportunity of paragliding and hang gliding are also not too far away from Gangtok. The capital city is a perfect starting point for mountain biking tours.

Gangtok also has in its store a lot for spirituality seekers. The city houses a number of colourful and vibrant monasteries in its vicinity, which count amongst popular tourist attractions in Sikkim. Some of the best places to visit in and around Gangtok include Enchey Monastery, Pemayangtse Monastery, and Rumtek Monastery.

An eclectic nightlife is also guaranteed in Gangtok. Its popular MG Road is dotted with a number of happening restaurants and pubs that open till 11 in the night. The place is great for shopaholics too and with shops open till late in the evening, tourists get extra time to buy Tibetan handicrafts, woollens and tea products.

With our authentic Gangtok travel guide, find all the important information on planning a trip to this popular destination in Gangtok. Get insights into major travel places, top activities, best hotels, ideal season to visit, most convenient way to reach along with best Gangtok tour packages.

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Best time to visit gangtok.

Summer Season in Gangtok

In the summer season i.e between March and June, Gangtok’s temperature remains about 30°C, which is perfect for enjoying sightseeing tours.

Monsoon Season in Gangtok

The months between July and September is when Gangtok receives rainfall. Rain in Gangtok is moderate to heavy making visiting Gangtok in monsoon slightly difficult and inconvenient.

Winter Season in Gangtok

Gangtok enjoys heavy snowfall in the winter season. Between December and February, the mercury dips to 0°C or even less followed by heavy snowfall. If you enjoy snow, winter is the best time to visit Gangtok.

Popular Points of Tourist Interest in Gangtok Sikkim

Known for its tiny temple and a vantage point, Ganesh Tok is one the top places to visit in Gangtok.

Nathu La Pass

A high mountain pass connecting Sikkim with Tibet, Nathu La, a major tourist attraction was once part of the ancient Silk Route.

India’s first Spit and Litter Free Zone, MG Road is a tourist hotspot in Gangtok with hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Rumtek Monastery

One of the largest monasteries in Sikkim, Rumtek Monastery sits near Gangtok and is a must-visit.

Tsomgo Lake

Also known as Changu Lake, Tsomgo Lake situated near Gangtok is one of the high altitude lakes to see in Sikkim.

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

A place for study and research of Tibetan and Buddhist culture, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is quite a popular place in Gangtok.

An important base for treks in Sikkim and a gateway to North Sikkim, Mangan near Gangtok is a not to miss destination.

Himalayan Zoological Park

The first zoological park of Sikkim, Himalayan Zoological Park is the top tourist place in Gangtok.

Reshi Hot Springs

Famous for its healing properties, Reshi Hot Springs in Gangtok enjoys a strategic location and attention of the tourists.

Seven Sisters Waterfalls

The district headquarters of North Sikkim, Mangan is also called the Cardamom Capital of India. It is a quiet place and is ideal for adventure activities like paragliding, rock climbing, and mountain biking.

Top Things to Do in Gangtok Tour

Cable Car Ride

Take a cable car ride from Deorali to Tashiling, and enjoy the breathtaking bird’s eye view of Gangtok.

• Paragliding

Enjoy the thrilling experience of soaring in the sky of Gangtok. Enjoy tandem rides from Baliman Dara.

Give your mountain biking expedition a great start at Gangtok which has many scenic trails branching out.

From Tibetan Handicraft to woollen clothes to tea, Gangtok offers a great experience of shopping.

Try Sikkimese Cuisine

Dotted with many restaurants and small eateries, Gangtok is a perfect place to try the scrumptious Sikkimese Cuisine.

Top Tourist Attractions in Sikkim

Nathula Pass

One of the highest motorable passes in the world, Nathu La Pass is the top attraction in Sikkim.

Gurudongmar Lake

One of the highest lakes in the world, Gurudongmar Lake is considered sacred by Buddhists, Sikhs and Hindus.

Siddheswara Dham

Perched on Solophok Hills, Siddheswara Dham is the top Hindu pilgrimage in Sikkim.

Also known as Tathagata Tsal, Buddha Park is situated near Ravangla and is the top Buddhist attraction in Sikkim.

A small town in East Sikkim, Zuluk is known for offering incredible views of the Himalayas including Mt. Kanchenjunga.

A beautiful glacial lake in East Sikkim, Tsomgo Lake or Changu Lake is a must-see place near Gangtok.

Khangchendzonga National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Khangchendzonga National Park is a high-altitude national park that is home to several alpine animals.

Temi Tea Garden

The one and only tea estate in Sikkim, Temi Tea Garden in Ravangla is quite a popular place to visit in Sikkim.

Khecheopalri Lake

A sacred lake in Sikkim, Khecheopalri Lake is an important part of Buddhist pilgrimage Circuit in the state.

Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple

Named after Sepoy Harbhajan Singh, the temple near Gangtok attracts tourists for its unique legend.

Adorned with a 45m tall statue of Guru Padmasambhava, Samdruptse is a popular Buddhist place in Sikkim.

How to Reach Gangtok?

Gangtok’s nearest airport is in Pakyong which is around 26 km away. The airport connects it to fewer major cities in India.

The nearest railway station to Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri, which is around 116 km away.

National Highway 10 connects Gangtok to many cities and towns of India like New Jalpaiguri.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. what is the best month for seeing snowfall in gangtok.

Snowfall in Gangtok can be seen between mid-November and February.

Q. Do one need to be medically fit to visit Gangtok?

If you’re visiting Gangtok for adventure activities, it is necessary for you to be medically fit.

Q. How far is Gangtok from the nearest airport?

Gangtok is situated at a distance of about 26 km away from the Pakyong Airport.

Q. Is it safe to go out at night in Gangtok?

Yes, it is safe to go out at night in Gangtok. In fact, the MG Road in Gangtok promises an eclectic nightlife for the tourists.

Q. Are ATMs easily available in Gangtok?

Yes, ATMs of varied private and government banks are widely available in Gangtok.

Q. Is there any rail connectivity for Gangtok?

No, Gangtok has no rail connectivity. The nearest railway station to Gangtok is in New Jalpaiguri which is at a distance of 116 km.

Q. What is the best way to reach Gangtok?

The best way to reach Srinagar is by road. Gangtok is connected via NH 10 to many major cities and towns of India.

Q. What are the accommodation options in Gangtok?

The accommodation option in Gangtok ranges from budget hotels to luxury resorts. There are family-friendly hotels as well as accommodation for honeymoon couples.

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Accommodation in Gangtok Sikkim

The capital city, Gangtok is the top holiday destinations in Sikkim, and thus, there’s plenty of hotels & resorts in the city. Gangtok welcomes tourists of all kinds and provides them with a variety of accommodations ranging from budget to luxury.

Gangtok tourism offers kids-friendly hotels that are perfect for family vacationers. There are also a number of romantic hotels that offer a great staying experience for honeymooners and romantic couples. There’s also numerous hotels for backpackers as well those in search of luxury.

At TMI, we have association with the best hotels and resorts in order to ensure you get the finest accommodation options in Gangtok. We also offer the best deals and discounts so that you can make your hotel bookings with us at the best prices.

Top Things to Do in Gangtok

Gangtok tourism offers a number of activities to keep you engaged on your holiday. The capital city of Sikkim is an ideal base for trekking and mountain biking tours but also has numerous activities in vicinity to add to your holiday in Sikkim.

Amongst the top activities to start your Gangtok tour is the cable car ride between Deorali and Tashiling.Another must-have experience in Gangtok is paragliding in Baliman Dara. If you are an adventure lover, Gangtok makes a perfect base for many popular treks like Dzongri and Barsey. It is also an ideal starting point for many mountain biking expeditions.

Shopping in Gangtok for Tibetan Handicrafts, woollen clothes, and tea are amongst the top things to do. Trying the Sikkimese Cuisine is yet another experience you don’t want to miss in Gangtok.

Must See Tourist Attractions in Gangtok

A beautiful hill destination, Gangtok is the capital city of Sikkim, and thus has many wonderful sites and experiences on offer. The major attraction in Gangtok remains the unparalleled view of Kanchenjunga Peak, Enchey Monastery, Hanuman Tok, and Ganesh Tok.

In close proximity to Gangtok are the beautiful sightseeing places like Nathu La, Tsomgo Lake, Ban Jhakri Waterfalls, and Magnan, a small and quiet hamlet. There are a number of religious sites near Gangtok like Pemayantse Monastery, Rumtek Monastery, Phodang Monastery, and Do Drul Chorten that are a must-see.

Gangtok Weather & Climate

The capital city of Sikkim, Gangtok has an experience or so to say a set of experiences to offer in every season. Gangtok primarily experiences three seasons - summer, monsoon, and winter. The summer season (March to June) is considered the best time to visit Gangtok since the weather here remains quite pleasant and offers respite from the heat. The winter season (October to February) in Gangtok is ideal for those who want to witness snowfall and play in it.

Summer Weather (March to June)

Temperature range: 15°C to 25°C

The weather in Gangtok is quite pleasant and comfortable during the summers. It is the time when tourists plan their summer holidays here. The season is perfect to witness the sight of Mt Kanchenjunga from Gangtok as the sky remains quite clear. It is also a good time to head for trekking and paragliding. In the summer season in Gangtok, festivals like International Flower Festival and Saga Dawa can also be enjoyed.

Monsoon Weather (July to September)

Temperature range : 10°C to 20°C

Monsoons arrive in Gangtok by late June and last till August. There is frequent moderate to heavy rainfall in the monsoon season in Gangtok. The temperature also drops down and even though sightseeing becomes a bit difficult in the monsoons, it’s the best time to visit the waterfalls, which come to life. Two of the most famous waterfalls near Gangtok are Banjhakri and Seven Sisters Waterfalls. The festival of Bhadauria Purnima is celebrated in Tsomgo Lake near Gangtok in August. Drupka Teshi Festival is another celebration that one can see in Gangtok during the monsoon season.

Winter Weather (October to February)

Temperature range : 0°C to 7°C

Winters in Gangtok are chilly. The temperature drops to sub-zero degree celsius. Gangtok experiences snowfall between December and February and before that around October and November, a change in landscape starts to become visible. You can visit the Nathu La Pass in November which looks absolutely stunning during this time of the year. In the winter season, a number of attractions around Gangtok become inaccessible. But if you are staying in the city itself, you can enjoy snowfall and piping hot Sikkimese food, tea, and even chhang (locally brewed alcohol).

Winter season in Gangtok is also perfect to witness various cultural festivals like Gangtok Winter Festival, Mangan Music Festival, Losoong, Losar, and Kagyed Dance Festival. If you are an adventure buff, winter is also a great time to do popular treks in Sikkim like Dzongri Trek.

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Sikkim travel information at a glance, about sikkim.

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Top Things to Do in Sikkim

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Sikkim Attractions

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Hotels in Sikkim

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Gangtok, Sikkim. Photo Credit @chettriraja

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Gangtok at an elevation of 1,650m (5,410ft) is a city, the capital, and the largest town in the state of Sikkim. Nestled at higher peaks towering by the Himalayan Mountain Ranges, is a heritage for rich culture and traditions with a touch of modernity. It is one of the most famous tourist Hill stations in India.

Gangtok, being blessed with spectacular natural landscapes and a pleasant temperate climate that exists all around the year also serves as a gateway for campers and trekkers to the Himalayan mountain ranges. While giving a picturesque view of Mount Kanchenjunga- the world’s third-highest peak on the west side of the city, Gangtok offers heart-rending opportunities for exploration. Gangtok thus has always been the heart of Sikkim’s tourism industry.

Buddhist monasteries, Stupas, and Pagoda-roofed houses add radiance to the already awe-vista beauty of the place. Expansion of the place in accordance with tourism aspects as such being tagged as the “ Switzerland of the East ” is justified because of its cleanliness and the abounding greenery.

The best time to visit the place is during March to Late May when the wild Rhododendrons blossoms give out vibrant touch to its surroundings and October to Mid-December.

One can never get enough of the beauty and culture it has to offer coupled with the hospitability of the people where every tourist is being treated as one of their own.

Culture and Traditions

Major native tribes dwelling in harmony are the Lepchas, Bhutias, and Tibetans. Besides the nationwide celebration of various festivals, some unique festivals like Buddha Jayanti, the Birthday of Dalai Lama, Saga Dawa, Lhabab Dhuechein, etc. are regarded with great esteem. Folk dances and folk songs of the Sikkimese go hand-in-hand with the rich culture the state is known for. Famous folk dances include Lu Khangthamo, Gha To Kito, Chi Rimu, Gnungmala Gnunghey, etc including mask dances such as Enchey Chaam, Kagyed Dance, Rumteck Chaam and Gouthor usually performed on ceremonial and festive occasions.

Though known throughout the country, nothing beats the popular and traditional touch in every veg and non-veg momo (vegetables and meat wrapped in thin flour wrapper) the Sikkimese are known for. Famous noodles-based dishes include Wai-Wai, Thukpa, Gyathuk, and Wonton, while other cuisines famous cuisines include Shah-Phaley (Sikkimese patties), and Gack-Ko soup. Churpee (hardened cheese of cow’s or yak’s milk) and Chhang ((local frothy millet beer) are also well known among locals and an attraction to tourists.

The abundance of culture and local food varieties in addition to nature’s beauty it has to offer have always played a major role in the Gangtok Tourism industry.

Football and cricket are the most popular sports in Gangtok while archery is a traditional sport.

The best places to visit in Gangtok

The natural beauty and the soothing ambiance of rich culture together turn the hill city of Gangtok into heaven. The picturesque beauty of the Kanchenjunga and the Teesta River flowing on the rocks are the added-on gifts to mountain lovers. Gangtok Tourism offers a bunch of attractions for visitors.

Tsongmo Lake

Tsongmo Lake, also known as Changu Lake, always remains at the top of the bucket list of tourists. It is a glacial lake, 40 kilometers (25 miles) away from Gangtok city. It is situated at an elevation of 12,313 ft from the sea level. If you visit there in winter you can find the oval-shaped lake to be fully frozen. At seven seasons of the year, the surface of the lake reflects seven different shades of colors.

A small temple of Lord Shiva, situated on the bank of the lake is quite popular among the visitors. During Guru Purnima, people gather at the lake with the faith that the lake water possesses a healing quality. If you are a nature lover then the middle of May will be the perfect time for you, when the flowers of rhododendron, primroses, blue and yellow poppies blossom. Gangtok Tourism offers some joy rides also there during summer.

As this region is a restricted area, the Indian nationals require an Inner Line Permit and the foreign nationals require a special permit to reach there.

Rumtek Monastery

Rumtek Monastery, also known as the Dharmachakra Centre, is considered one of the most important sacred places among the Buddhist people around the world as the most significant hub for Kagyu teachings. Although originally, it was built in the mid-18th century by the 9th Karmapa Lama Wangchuk Dorje, the attractive Gompa architecture that we can see there now, was built by the 16th Karmapa Lama Rangjung Rigpe Dorje.

It was initially restricted to Buddhist monks only. In the year 1966, it was opened to all. It is situated on a hill 23 kilometers away from Gangtok city. From the top of the monastery, the view of the whole of Gangtok city injects an aesthetic feeling into the visitors. The Gompa architecture, the golden stupa, murals, and sculptures make this place a point of artistic interest also.

The scheduled visiting hour of the sacred place is 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM and the required entry fee is 10 INR per person.

Nathu La Pass

A trip to Gangtok always remains incomplete without a visit to Nathu La pass. It is the mountain pass that connects Sikkim to the Autonomous region of Tibet. Nathu La, situated at an altitude of 14,140 ft from the sea level, is 54 kilometers (34 miles) long on the Indian side. As a consequence of the Sino-Indian war in 1962, the pass remained sealed for a long period. In 2006, following several Sino-Indian trade agreements, the pass has been reopened. If you add this pass to your bucket list, then you have to visit it in summer as it remains closed during winter due to heavy snowfall.

Gangtok allows Indian citizens only to visit the pass with an Inner Line Permit.

Tashi Viewpoint

Tashi viewpoint, located 8 kilometers away from Gangtok city, is the most popular viewpoint of the Kanchenjunga and Siniolchu. If the sky is clear then the picturesque view of the snow peaks of the mountain will mesmerize you. This viewpoint is quite popular among tourists for the aesthetic view of the sunrise from here. Phodong and Labrang monasteries, situated in the lap of the opposite hills will give you a photographic view under the soothing sunlight. It was named after Tashi Namgyal, the former king of Sikkim founded this viewpoint.

The viewpoint remains open from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM. No entry fee is required there. But if you want you may get binoculars on rent, for only 10 INR. Several cafeterias and food joints are present there at the surroundings for refreshment.

Seven Sister Waterfall

Seven Sister Waterfall is a must-visit spot in Gangtok. It is the most beautiful waterfall in Sikkim. At a distance of around 32 kilometers from Gangtok city, the beautiful waterfall is located on the Gangtok-Lachung highway. The seven falls residing together side by side make the nomenclature justified. Also, the waterfalls are in seven stages, although only four are visible among them. During the rainy season, the waterfall comes to life and water makes a terrific roaring sound while falling on the limestone. A waiting spot and viewpoint have been made by the Department of Tourism and Civil Aviation. Gangtok has made a small footbridge also over the stream so that the tourists can get a close view of the mesmerizing beauty.

Phodong Monastery

Located at a distance of 38 kilometers from Gangtok City, Phodong Monastery is one of the six important Monasteries in Sikkim. It is situated at an elevation of 4500 ft from the sea level. It was founded in the first half of the eighteenth century by Chogyal Gyurmed Namgyal. It is also considered one of the three significant monasteries of the Kagyu sect. It is murals and sculptures attract art enthusiasts from all over the world. Each year, according to the Tibetan calendar, on the 28th and 29th days of the 10th month, the Phodong festival takes place there, where the monks together perform the Chaam Dance.

Do Drul Chorten Stupa

Do Drul Chorten Stupa is a significant point of spiritual interest among the visitors. It was built in 1946 by Trulshik Rinpoche, an important person of the Nyingma order of Buddhism. The myth behind the stupa says that the place became haunted by evil spirits. To drive away from the spirit the renowned hermit established the stupa. Holy religious antiques including a set of Dorjee Phurba and Kangyur are preserved there. 108 Mani Lhakors are present around the stupa. Murals of Padmasambhava and Guru Snang will never fail to grab the attention of art lovers.

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is an institute for studies and research on Tibetan Buddhism. It was established in 1958 to promote research on Tibetan culture, history, religion, art, language, and philosophy. For tourists who want to explore Sikkim as the only hub of Tibetan culture in India, this is a place that must not be missed. There is a museum of Tibetan iconography and artworks which is considered the largest collection of Tibetan documents outside Tibet.

Visitors can visit there every day of the week except Sundays, and the second Saturday of each month, along with the holidays declared by the Government. The scheduled visiting hour is 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM. An entry fee of 10 INR is required to enter there.

Ganesh Tok is a place where Hindu culture is made fusion with Tibetan culture. It is a small temple, decorated in Tibetan style, with colorful flags. The temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha is situated 11 kilometers away from Gangtok city, at an elevation of 7200 ft. Although it is too small to accommodate two people inside at a time, it is quite popular among tourists as a viewpoint. This place, surrounded by nature, always gifts a piece of tranquility to the visitors.

No entry fee is required there. The temple remains open from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple

Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple is not any temple dedicated to any mythological deity. It was established to express reverence towards an Indian Army personnel named Baba Harbhajan Singh who was drowned in a glacier. Several folklores about his moving spirit are quite popular among the local people. The temple is situated at a distance of 50 kilometers from Gangtok city towards the Nathula border. Each year, during summer, Gangtok tourism permits tourists to visit there issuing an inner line permit.

Ban Jhakri Falls

Located 10-12 kilometers away from Gangtok city, Ban Jhakri Falls has become a new attraction of Gangtok. A beautiful waterfall along with an Energy park and statues of Lyam Lymay, Mangpas, Lepcha, and Ban Jhakri ancestors, is considered one of the most favored picnic spots. It includes several food joints and a swimming pool also.

An entry fee of 50 INR is required there. From 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM it remains open.

A trip remains incomplete without shopping and M G Marg is the shopping hub of Gangtok. This place is considered as the heart of the city. As this area is made for pedestrians, vehicles should be parked outside the marketplace. The buildings on both sides are painted in green as per the Government’s instruction to convey the ‘Green City’ message. Gangtok tourism offers a smoke-free, litter-free shopping experience to visitors. The marketplace remains closed on Tuesdays.

Himalayan Zoological Park

If you want to explore the wildlife living in the climate of Sikkim, Himalayan Zoological Park is there for you. At an elevation of 1780 meters, the zoological park has been made in a place named Bulbuley, at a distance of 3 kilometers from the heart of the city. It was established in 1991, in such a way that all the creatures can live there safely in their natural habitat. You can meet snow leopard cats, Himalayan red pandas, Himalayan monal pheasant, crimson horned pheasants, and Himalayan palm civets with an amazing view of Kanchenjunga.

You can explore on foot as well as by car. But since it will take a long time to reach one habitat to another by walking, most of the visitors decide to hire a car available there for half a day. For refreshments, café, food corners, and a watchtower are present there.

The zoological park opens at 9:00 AM and closes at 4:00 PM every day of the week except Thursday. For adults, the entry fee is 25 INR while for kids it is 10 INR and for foreigners, it will cost 50 INR. Additionally, for the small vehicle, you have to pay 40 INR and for the big vehicle, you have to pay 100 INR there.

Fambong La Wildlife Sanctuary

Gangtok tourism offers another spectacular habitat of Himalayan flora and fauna, 20 kilometers away from the Gangtok SNT bus stand. The sanctuary, situated at an altitude of 1524 – 2749 meters, is an extension of the Kanchenjunga National Park. Various types of rhododendrons, ferns, bamboo, and oak can be seen here. For bird lovers, this place is heaven. Black eagle, maroon oriole, yellow-billed blue magpie, Nepal tree creeper and so many other species of birds are found there. Among animals, Himalayan brown bears, red pandas, and barking deer are very popular among visitors.

Visitors are allowed to go there between 8 AM to 3 PM. An entry fee of 5 INR is charged by the forest department.

Sa-Ngor-Chotshong Centre

Sa-Ngor-Chotshong Centre, also known as the Crown of Sikkim, is one of the most important monastic institutes for Tibetan studies. It has become an important destination for Gangtok tourism due to its architecture and artworks. This monastery of the Ngorpa sect was established in 1961. This is the only monastery in India where the Sakya order of Buddhism is followed. The murals and thangkas cover the walls of the monastery. This place is located around 5 kilometers away from the city. As from March to June the climate remains tourist-friendly, it will be the best time to visit. Also, if you want to see this beautiful monastery covered in snow, you have to visit it in winter.

So, if you visit Gangtok, do not forget to leave your footprints in the above-mentioned tourist places.

Best time to visit Gangtok

Tourists, trekkers, and honeymoon couples rush to Gangtok during the peak season ranging from September to June. Autumn is the best time to enjoy the breathtaking scenic views of the enchanting peaks and lakes. The months from October to mid-December and from March to June are the ideal time to visit Gangtok.

The months of July-August are not preferable due to the incessant rains, devastating landslides, and roadblocks. Dense fog covers the atmosphere, and it becomes difficult to drive through it. The temperature is quite pleasant during the monsoon months ranging from 17-22 degrees.

The temperature from October to February is usually when the climate is mystic and pleasing. It ranges between 4-7°C and is the best time for trekking, river-rafting, paragliding, mountain biking, and other adventurous activities. The cold, dry, and bright weather draws the maximum tourist during these months.

The spring months are also the best time for sightseeing as the roads are blooming with flowers. The bright, sunny weather accompanied by vibrant flowers provides a visual treat to your eyes. Most travelers find the months of October-February the best time to visit Gangtok.

How to reach Gangtok

One of the many reasons behind the popularity of Gangtok is its easy accessibility and scenic beauty. You can reach Gangtok by road, railway, and airway from any part of India.

Railway The closest railway station to Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri which is 117km away from the hill station. The railway station is connected to all parts of the country, including minor parts. You can easily avail of railway transportation from major cities like Mumbai, Bangalore, New Delhi, and Kolkata to reach Gangtok. Most tourists prefer to avail of railway transportation to reach Gangtok.

You can hire a taxi or private jeep from New Jalpaiguri to Gangtok. Alternatively, you can take a state-run bus from Siliguri bus terminus to Gangtok. It will take you around 4-5 hours to reach the majestic hill station.

Airway The nearest airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal. It is located at a distance of 125km away from Gangtok. Many popular carriers like Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and others run regular flights to Gangtok. All the major cities in the country are linked to this airport. From Bagdogra Airport, you can catch a shared cab or private car that will take you to Gangtok within two hours. The scenic beauty of the majestic mountains and shimmering river makes the car ride enchanting.

You can also avail of TSA helicopter services from Bagdogra to Gangtok. It operates daily and takes around 20 minutes to arrive at Gangtok. However, they often get canceled owing to adverse weather conditions.

Road Gangtok is well connected to the nearby tourist destinations by roadways. You can reach Gangtok from Darjeeling , Sikkim, Siliguri, and Kalimpong via the National Highway 31A. You can find an innumerable number of state-run buses between Siliguri and Gangtok. You can also opt for private buses, taxis, shared cabs and taxis from Bagdogra, New Jalpaiguri, and Siliguri.

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