Gangtok is a place situated in the northern part of India. It is also the capital city of Sikkim. We all know that Sikkim is one of the most famous places when it comes to tourism and travelers zone. When we talk about Sikkim, inevitable the capital Gangtok plays a crucial role in nurturing the tourism aspect of the place. Today we will be looking into some wonderful facts about Gangtok that will help readers to plan their trip. Also, we will be closely looking into places and landmarks that one shouldn’t miss while traveling to Gangtok.
So, let’s get started!
Places to visit while you are in Gangtok
Gangtok being the capital city of Sikkim has many beautiful places to visit. Right from Monasteries, temples, and ranges to snowcapped mountains. You get all that you are looking for in a Himalayan city!
- Tashi View Point
- Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
- Enchey Monastery
- Hanuman Temple
- Ban Jhakri Falls Park
- Ganesh Tok
- Flower Exhibition
- Gonjang Monastery
- Sikkim Himalayan
- Burpeepal Holiday Cottage
1. Tashi View Point
Tashi Viewpoint is situated almost 8 kilometers from the heart of Gangtok city. With the giant Mount Sinilochu and Mount Kanchenjunga, this viewpoint looks dazzlingly beautiful. And as per a traveler’s point of view, it is nothing but sheer magic. It is known to be built by Tashi Namgyal, the 19th-century king of Sikkim. Later on the tourist department and the government body managed to keep it beautiful and well managed. The location and the other factors make Tashi View Point a spot tourist destination in Gangtok. Locals, as well as tourists from all over the country, prefer a picnic trip with their family and loved ones at this amazing place.
Tourist love to visit the place very offends and enjoys the view from the top!
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2. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
One of the must-visit landmarks of Gangtok is the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology. It was established in the year 1958. If you are a person keen on the tradition, culture, and religion of the place you visit, then this is the place to know all about Sikkim. This Tibetology also explores the history and art particulate of Tibetan culture. With some fabulous collection of books on the aforesaid, the NIT library inside it gives you a sneak peek of everything you are looking for as a traveler. Also, there is a well-curated museum that represents Tibetan Iconography.
People love to visit the place and explore the tourism and culture that the place has to get more ideas about the place.
3. Enchey Monastery
We all know that Gangtok is a place well known for its monasteries. And that makes the place the best place to explore some wonderful Monasteries and seek peace. One such highly recommended monastery in Gangtok is Enchey Monastery.
The name means Solitary Monastery. This place is the most important religious landmark of Gangtok. It is believed to be one of the most sacred seats of the Nyingma Order. Also, it is said that no other buildings are allowed o built in the vicinity of the Monastery to protect its sacredness. Every year at the peak of January a special ritual has been held for two centuries and still followed tradition. And during the ritual people with a mask would perform to the beats for two days in a stretch.
This age-old monastery is said to have homed more than 100 monks from Nyingma Order. The interior of the monastery is as marvel as the exterior. With sculptures and paintings of gods and goddesses, it is a place worth an explore.
4. Hanuman Temple
When we talk about religious aspects of Gangtok, it is not only Monasteries that capture your attention. There are some monuments and temples that are worth your time. One such place is the famous Hanuman Temple situated at the height of 7200 feet from the city. Apart from the religious aspects what makes the place one of the most visited places in Gangtok. The architecture of the temple makes it alluring. And the majestic Kanchenjunga that makes it all look what a million-dollar cannot provide for sure!
The most interesting part is that the maintenance and development of the temple are completely taken care of by the Indian Army!
5. Ban Jhakri Falls Park
This recreational waterfall is a must-visit spot in Gangtok. It is a 100-foot waterfall that attracts people from far across the city. The surroundings where the waterfall is situated also make the place the best one. The lust green thinks forest surrounding the Ban Jhakhri falls is beautiful and the panoramic view gives a sense of belonging to the travelers from another place. It is a popular spot for tourist who comes to Gangtok for a vacation. Amidst the park, there is a small lake where the tourist can enjoy paddle boating.
This park is also theme-based which in itself is a rare thing to catch up with. The theme is an interesting part of Shaman culture about tradition. Tourists must visit the place and explore all the aspects to enjoy true Gangtok.
6. Ganesh Tok
Ganesh Tok is yet another temple that allures people from different parts of the world. It is a small temple 7 kilometers from the heart of Gangtok city. This temple is quite intriguing in itself. The surroundings and the overall ambiance where the temple stands are surreal. The interior of the temple will leave you baffled as one person can enter the Santorum at a time. Entering means crawling into the temple. It is that narrow and steep.
Visit the Ganesh Tok and get to know for yourself the wonderful features of the temple.
7. Flower Exhibition
Who doesn’t like beautiful flowers and giant gardens? And the flower exhibition allows you to explore the true beauty of the Sikkim and its nature. Here at this exhibition, different types of flowers of Sikkim are showcased at one center. And that view is worth a watch. The flower exhibition always attracts people from all parts of the state. If the tourists are in Gangtok from April to May they may be lucky enough to experience their lifetime worth. April and May are the major flower exhibition in Gangtok.
8. Gonjang Monastery
Monasteries in Sikkim are works of preciseness. It was built in the year 1981, 8 kilometers from the City. Gonjang Gompa is also essential and famous for artifacts and handicrafts. Situated at a height of 600 and more, this place is close to nature as the rest of the monasteries. This makes the surrounding more surreal and peaceful. While the architecture of itself is such a wonderful thing to watch.
Visit the Gonjang Monastery during your visit to Gangtok and enjoy the serenity of Gangtok tourism.
9. Sikkim Himalayan
Himalayan ranges across Sikkim are what attracts tourist from the entire nation. The snowcapped mountains and the ranges that shift their looks according to the climate and Gangtok weather are just amazing. Sikkim Himalayan consists of beautiful mountains as well as giants like Mount Kanchenjunga. Youth prefer a road trip through these ranges and also professional bikers explore the place repeatedly like never before.
10. Burpeepal Holiday Cottage
Gangtok has some fabulous places to stay. But Burpeepal Holiday Cottage is nothing like all the rest of them. You need to book the place prior due to its high-demand nature. This cottage provides a cynical view of the mountain nearby along with a comfy stay. Also, you get the best food that these mountain valleys can provide. So stay in the cottage and enjoy the best of hospitality while you enjoy Gangtok Tourism.
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Things to do in Gangtok
1. Cable Ride
2. Yak Safari
3. Mountain Biking
4. River Rafting
5. Paragliding
6. Lal Bazaar
7. M.G. Marg
8. Trekking
9. Seven Sisters waterfall
10. Nathu La Pass
1. Cable Ride
The cable ride is one of the best outdoor activities that can be experienced while you are in Gangtok. You can explore the entire city from an aerial view. It is a double cable ride that can be seen in some parts of the country only. And that makes the place the best one for the cable ride. It is a two-way ride covering a distance of 2 kilometers. Also, it accommodates more than 24 people at a time.
The cable ride starts from Deorali and comes with an entry fee of Rs: 100 for adults. And you need to keep the timings in mind which are 9: 30 to 4: 30.
2. Yak Safari
Yak Safari is one main itenary people love is the yak ride. One of the kinds that can be seen only in the Himalayan ranges. Domestication Yak is a part of Sikkim culture for centuries. But it was late when this beautiful animal has been used as part of Gangtok tourism. It is organized in most of the states. However, Gangtok is one of the best places to ride this adventure.
You can however plan a day’s long trip or according to your day’s plan. If you are in Gangtok, a Yak ride can be availed from Dzongri. The charge varies from place to place and by the season.
3. Mountain Biking
Gangtok is known for its curve roads and pin curve bends. And tourists love to bike through the road and explore the adventure soul in them. Many times people organize bike expeditions through the routes and ranges. Tourist boasts about Gangtok is one of the best routes for bike rides be it for adventure or just fun exploration. Most of the routes and trails are artificially craved out for this activity. And most of the popular spots to start the ride are mainly found in Gangtok. So, visiting Gangtok can be fun as well as productive at the same time.
However this may cost a bit according to the vehicle and distance that you may like to cover, it is said that nearly amount of 8000 is what people pay for a single ride.
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4. River Rafting
River rafting is one of the common outdoor activities that happen in any part of Sikkim. With some wonderful rivers, rafting becomes a special activity in the place. Among all other recreational activities, rafting is the most loved one among the Gangtok locals. The timings for this outdoor activity start from 9 in the morning to 4 in the evening. And of the wonderful short routes for river rafting is the Makha-Rongpo route.
However, there are many other shirt and long routes when it comes to river rafting.
5. Paragliding
Who doesn’t like to fly? And probably our dream to fly across the forest and ranges can be fulfilled here at the laps of Sikkim. And when you are at Gangtok you need not worry. Paragliding here is all about exploring Himalayan valleys and the breathtakingly beautiful greenery underneath?
To paraglide in Gangtok you don’t need to be highly professional as there will be people helping tourists for a safe ride. The starting point in Gangtok is Baliman Dara, so you need to be there to get your turn to fly. The avenge fly will take up to 10 minutes for beginners. But I bet that feeling will be everlasting. Hence I recommend this activity to be one on your list for sure. Just keep a check on the Gangtok weather for a safe turn.
6. Lal Marg
If you are looking for some souvenirs to take home. This is the best place to be for good shopping. You can see many local artisans with their fabulous art and craftwork. Try to get a glimpse of this market on Sundays as there are many stalls and shops with a variety of handicrafts. Also, you can find many eateries that are famous to the locals there.
This market is open for travelers and shoppers from 8 in the morning to 7 in the evening. The price of the products varies from vendor to vendor. So try to bargain a bit but don’t go overboard with the hardworking artisans. However, don’t forget to check out the market at any cost!
7. M.G. Marg
M.G Marg is one of the best places for the entire all the foodie tourists. the very famous food and cultural festivals are held in M.G. Marg annually. This place is all stretched to approximately one kilometer. People love the food and the vibe that the street has stored in. It is quite popular among the people to come here in the evening to catch up with friends and relish their favorite cuisine.
The street food in M.G Marg is a wonderful experience for all the travelers visiting the place till now. And hopefully, you would also love to experience the same I bet!
8. Trekking
Trekking in Sikkim is not at all an ordinary experience a place with Himalayan valleys and mountains has much to offer to a trekker. The snowcapped mountains and lush green ranges provide a wonderful experience. There are many unbelievably wonderful trekking spots across Gangtok. But the major one is Yukson Dzongri Trek, the Kanchenjunga base camp trek, the Green Lake trek, and the Varsey trek.
You can join from any one of these bases and experience one of your best trekking experiences ever.
9. Seven Sisters waterfall
Gangtok is a place with nature’s gift. With several lush green forests and waterfalls, the place becomes home to many beautiful plants and flowers. One such best sightseeing place in Gangtok is the Seven Sisters Waterfalls. It is also the 4th highest waterfall in India with 315 meters in height.
Why is it called Seven Sisters Waterfall? Well, that is due to its majestic separation and segmentation by which the water flows down from the hills. It looks like seven tiny segments of water falling from the hills. Seven Sisters Waterfall is one of the major landmarks of Gangtok. It is also the main tourist attraction and pulls in a crowd frequently.
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10. Nathu La Pass
Himalayan ranges are the most intriguing ones with lots of passes and routes that will give you some best exploration. Nathu La Pass is all about sitting, relaxing, and enjoying the view. However, tourists are allowed to visit the place only from Wednesday to Sunday. And closed to travelers and locals on Mondays and Tuesdays. And also the best time probably will be from May to October.
Why is it so famous from the rest of the passes or routes? It is because Nathu La Pass is one among the three opening in trading borders of India and China.
Reaching Gangtok
It is quite easy to reach Gangtok by all means. If you are opting for a flight, you will have to opt for near Gangtok airport which comes from Bagdogra. However, if you are planning a trip from Gangtok to Darjeeling then by road will be a better option.
Gangtok Darjeeling trip is one of the most sought ones as it is only 3 hours road trip. Darjeeling is a better option for shopping, food, and sightseeing. Before planning the trip, however, get to know the Gangtok temperature and also be cautious about the Gangtok snowfall time.
Gangtok is an immensely beautiful place. A perfect weekend getaway for the locals and an extraordinary vacation spot for tourists from different parts of the state. With beautiful mystic landscapes and nature, mountains and ranges, rivers, and snowcapped peaks, Gangtok makes it all.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Gangtok the best place to visit?
Gangtok is the capital city of Sikkim and also the most important tourist place in India. With nature at its best and many outdoor activities, Gangtok is flooded by tourists all over the year. And that makes the place one of the best places to visit.
Is Nath La Pass open now?
Apart from Mondays and Tuesdays, Nath La Pass is open to tourism rest all days.
Why is Sikkim famous?
Sikkim is a famous tourist destination that is popular among travelers and honeymooners alike. With snowcapped mountains and outdoor activities, Sikkim is famous among nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts too.
What is the Best Time to visit Gangtok?
The best time to visit is all around the year. People love to visit the place during the summer vacation for adventure and fun like trekking. And of course to explore the beautiful nature. However, this place is good during winters and summers alike. Avoid monsoon times.
How to reach Gangtok?
Gangtok is mostly connected through air and road routes for tourists from other states of the country. Gangtok has the main international airport that can be connected to Bagdogra.
Is Gangtok best for outdoor activities?
Yes, Gangtok has the best outdoor activities with Paragliding, Parachute flying, trekking, skiing, and boat riding.
Things to keep in mind while visiting Gangtok.
Plan the budget before your visit for a hustle-free trip. Also, book the hotels and activities too in prior. Take proper clothing according to the weather. Apart from that, there is not much planning needed.
What languages are spoken in Gangtok?
Hindi and English are the common languages used for communication with travelers and tourists.
How safe to visit Gangtok?
Gangtok is the safest place to visit for tourism.
Are there any historical places in Gangtok?
Yes, many historically significant places in Gangtok have influence. Mostly related to the religious aspect.
What is the authentic food of Gangtok?
Gangtok is heaven for food lovers. The authentic mountain taste particularly the mutton curry will leave your taste buds tingle.
Can I get cheaper accommodation in Gangtok?
Accommodations are not that cheaper in Gangtok, particularly during peak tourism times.
Is Gangtok a good honeymoon destination?
Yes! Gangtok is without any doubt popular among honeymooners and couples. The snowcapped mountains, ambiance, surroundings, nature, and luxurious stay pave the way to it.
Important Phone Numbers to have while visiting Gangtok.
- Police: 100
- Ambulance: 102, 202001
- Hospital: 03592-202059/202944
- Sikkim Tourist Information Centre: 95353-2512656
