gangtok tourist places name

Places To Visit In Gangtok

Top hotel collections.

Best Hotels

Cheap Hotels

Must Visit Places in Gangtok

Nathula Pass

MG Road, Gangtok

Gangtok Ropeway

Tsomgo Lake

• Filter (34)
• Buddhist Temple (6)
• Waterfall (3)
• Landmark (3)

1. Nathula Pass

23 km from city center 1 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Nathula, one of the highest motorable roads in the world, is a mountain pass in the Himalayan peaks that co-joins Sikkim and China . Situated on the Indo-Tibetan border 14450 ft. above sea level, Nathu La is one of the most important Himalayan passes in the country.

2. MG Road, Gangtok

2 km from city center 2 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

MG Road is the heart of Gangtok and its most happening place. It is the central shopping hub of this beautiful state capital with various shops, restaurants, and hotels lined up along both sides.

3. Tsongmo Lake

16 km from city center 3 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Perched between the mountains at a dizzying height of 12400 ft above sea level, the Tsomgo Lake is one of the few high-altitude lakes in India situated on the Gangtok - Nathu La highway. Also popularly known as Changu Lake, it is a part of every tourist's itinerary and for a good reason - the overwhelming scenic beauty.

4. Rumtek Monastery

7 km from city center 4 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

The Rumtek Monastery is one of the largest and most significant monasteries in Sikkim, perched on top of a hill 23 km from Gangtok. Originally called as the Dharma Chakra Centre, it belongs to the Kargyu sect of Buddhists who originated in Tibet in the 12th century. Verdant green mountains surround the monastery and thus serves as a visual treat besides being a focal point for spiritual solace.

Gangtok Travel Packages

Compare quotes from upto 3 travel agents for free

Best North Sikkim Tour Package - 5 Night 6 Days

Best selling gangtok darjeeling 4 night 5 days trip.

Gangtok Itinerary of 7 Nights 8 Days Package

3 Nights 4 Days Gangtok Tour Package

Romantic North Sikkim & Darjeeling Tour Package

Sikkim tour package for 7 days - rafting on the teesta river, 5. ganesh tok.

1 km from city center 5 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Ganesh Tok is a small temple with viewpoint in Gangtok. Situated on top of a hill, the quaint place has mind-stirring views - the Kanchenjunga hill can be seen in its true form of glory from here and is at its best especially in the morning. The temple (dedicated to Lord Ganesh) is, however, so small that it can only fit one person at a time.

6. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

1 km from city center 6 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

One of the very few of its kind, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is an abode of centuries-old Tibetan-Buddhist culture and its history. NIT preserves the glorious past of the country, the religion and its precious culture with utmost dedication and that shows in the excellent collection in the museum and the library which are the main attractions here. 

Top Hotels In Gangtok

₽ 1,498 onwards

₽ 1,108 onwards

₽ 1,698 onwards

₽ 554 onwards

₽ 1,153 onwards

₽ 577 onwards

7. Kanchenjunga

58 km from city center 7 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

The third highest peak in the world, the majestic Kanchenjunga is one of the most stunning mountains in the world. Surrounded by Nepal, Sikkim and Tibet, this mountain was fisrt scaled in 1955 but since then has been declared sacred. Kanchenjunga' is a Tibetan name which means 'The Five Treasures of the High Snow'.

8. Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple

1 km from city center 8 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Situated on the road passing between Nathu La and Jelepla Pass, at a distance of 64 km at an elevation of 4000 meters, Baba Mandir is the shrine which was built at the Samadhi of Harbhajan Singh. It is the local belief that every person visiting the Nathang Valley and crossing through this enchantingly beautiful terrain has to pay their respects to Baba Harbhajan Singh.

14 km from city center 9 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

The town of Mangan, serving as the capital of the northern part of Sikkim, is a major tourist location and travellers mostly use this town as a base station from where they commence treks and tours to other parts of this district. Mangan is one of the most important and least populated towns in Sikkim.

10. Himalayan Zoological Park

3 km from city center 10 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Himalayan Zoological Park is located in Bulbuley, 3 km away from Gangtok and is definitely the place for all the wildlife lovers. With an altitude of 1780 meters, one gets an amazing view of the Mount Khangchendzonga from here.

11. Reshi Hot Springs

0 km from city center 11 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Sikkim has numerous hot springs, but the Reshi Hot Spring is the most famous one due to its strategic location and the religious significance that it holds. Easily accessible, the spring is present right after a downhill drive of an hour towards the Rangit River valley.

12. Kabi Longstok

5 km from city center 12 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Situated at a distance of 17 km from the northern capital of Gangtok is the Kabi Town which is considered to be a historical place due to the initiation of the Sikkimese history here in the early 13th century. With the wonderful stories that this place holds, this place is surely going to captivate you with its wonderful beauty. 

Discover More About Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions in Gangtok

Travel Tips

Gangtok to Nathula Pass | Permit, Cost, Tips, Things to Do

Sightseeing

Things to do in Gangtok: Exploring the 'Gateway to Sikkim'

Nightlife In Gangtok - 8 Nightclubs & Casinos to Rave

Shopping in Gangtok

Places Near

Places to Visit near Gangtok

Gangtok: The City on a Hill

13. Seven Sisters Waterfalls

11 km from city center 13 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Justifying its name, Seven Sisters Waterfalls comprises of seven different waterfalls amicably arranged side by side on a wide rugged cliff which seems distinct when looked at from a distance. This famous waterfall is situated at a distance of 32 kilometres from Gangtok on the Gangtok-Lachung Highway.

14. Tinkitam

29 km from city center 14 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Tinkitam Rayong is a petite village in Sikip Tehsil in South District of Sikkim State. Mount Kanchenjunga can be seen in the backdrop of this town and its natural habitat supports a rare species of orchid, Paphiopedilum Faireanum or lady's slipper. Unlike most wild orchids which grow on trees, this orchid is terrestrial and flowers in the months of October-November which is the ideal time to visit this beautiful place.

15. Flower Exhibition Centre

1 km from city center 15 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Flower Exhibition Centre, which is situated in Gangtok, showcases flowers from the different parts of Sikkim together under a single roof which makes it a heaven for all the nature lovers. Located right across the White Memorial Hall and below the Ridge Park, it lies at a walking distance from the MG Marg. Though the flowers are displayed here all through the year, the annual flower show which is held from April to May

16. Do Drul Chorten

3 km from city center 16 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

One of the most important stupas in Sikkim, Do Drul Chorten was built in the year 1945 under the supervision of late Truslshi and Rimpoche. The Stupa has around 108 Mani Lhakor or prayer wheels. These wheels are engraved with important mantras which can be chanted by rotating them. The quaint serenity and calmness of Do Drul Chorten has attracted tourists and devotees since years.

17. Saramsa Garden

7 km from city center 17 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Saramsa Garden, also known as Ipecac Garden, is indeed a treat for your senses. The exquisite range of different coloured flowers with the surrounding lush greenery is going to hold your attention. There is a large greenhouse in the garden as well which preserves a range of orchids.

18. Hanuman Tok

2 km from city center 18 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Hanuman Tok is a very famous temple of Gangtok which is named after Lord Hanuman and is a maintained by the Indian Army. The temple also gives an amazing view of the Kanchenjunga peak which is the third highest peak in the world.

19. Paragliding

19 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Paragliding is one of the thrilling things to do in Gangtok and one activity that you must definitely experience. The place lets you try your hand at the opportunity with the help of a professional trainer and with complete safety measures. Besides giving you a very amazing adrenaline rush, the activity lets you have a bird's eye view of the beautiful city.

20. Tashi View Point

4 km from city center 20 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Situated 8 km away from the main town of Gangtok, Tashi Viewpoint is a scenic beauty from where travellers can get a view of the magnificent Mount Sinilochu and Mount Kanchenjunga. This spot also serves as an amazing picnic place for local as well as foreign tourists due to the presence of a cafeteria and sheds bordering the site of the viewpoint.

21. Tsuk La Khang Monastery

0 km from city center 21 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Situated in the complex of the Royal Palace, Tsuk La Khang is the prime place of worship for the local Buddhists residing in the region. This beautiful two-storied structure with mural covered interiors also comprises of a large collection of scriptures, is decorated with altars and images of Lord Buddha, and tantric deities.

22. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary

0 km from city center 22 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Nestled in the exquisite Yumthang Valley in North Sikkim, the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is a beautiful place to spend time amidst the picturesque location and natural beauty all around. The adventure lovers can also have their share of fun by trekking through the Yumthang Valley.

23. Banjhakri Falls

1 km from city center 23 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

A new sightseeing destination for the tourists and spread over an area of two acres of land, the Banjhakri Falls is situated at a distance of 10-12 kilometres from Gangtok. Beautifully landscaped gardens are present around the waterfall along with beautiful statues of Lyam Lymay, Mangpas, Lepcha, and Ban Jhakri ancestors.

24. Ranka Monastery

2 km from city center 24 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Also known as Lingdum Monastery, the Ranka Monastery which follows the Zurmang Kagyud lineage of Buddhism is situated at a distance of 20 km from Gangtok. It is spread over a vast area and provides terrific scenic views to the tourists.

25. Enchey Monastery, Gangtok

1 km from city center 25 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Enchey Monastery meaning 'the solitary temple' is a holy pilgrimage spot for the Buddhists situated in a magical wonderland surrounded by natural beauty. The presence of tall pine trees, flower meadows and the beautiful view of the Kanchenjunga Hills, gives the devotees a feeling of being in the middle of a serene and blessed environment.

26. Saga Dawa

26 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

The Saga Dawa festival is one of the most important festivals for the people of Sikkim celebrated with much enthusiasm in the capital city Gangtok. The Mahayana Buddhist tradition recognizes the full moon day of the fourth month of the Buddhist calendar as the anniversary of Buddha's birth, his enlightenment, and his Nirvana. The day is celebrated by various names across India and abroad.

27. International Flower Festival in Gangtok

27 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

The International Flower Show is held in Gangtok every year. Several beautiful species of flowers are showcased here, such as orchids, gladioli, roses, cacti, alpine plants, creepers, climbers, ferns, herbs etc. The festival takes place throughout May and is a primary source of attraction among the tourists as well as the local inhabitants. The Flower Show is also accompanied by a food festival, where one may try several local delicacies.

28. Gangtok Ropeway

57 km from city center 28 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Known to be one of the top thrilling things to do in Gangtok, Gangtok Ropeway breathtaking bird’s eye view of the valley below. Inaugurated in 2003, the double cable zig back ropeway can carry up to 24 passengers and covers a distance of 2 km to and fro. Usually, the cable cars are full, and you have to wait in line for your turn, but the gorgeous views of the Kanchenjunga peaks is totally worth the wait

29. Yak Safari

29 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Experiencing Yak Ride is one of the most essential activities and unique things to do in Gangtok. You can experience the joyride in any one of the three places where the activity is organized. You can try it at Dzongri area and/or Tsomgo lake. Never forget to leave the saddle or you disbalance and are on the ground in no time. Nevertheless, it is one of the most fun experiences that you will try in your life.

30. Mountain Biking in Gangtok

30 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Another one of the thrilling activities and things to do in Gangtok is riding a mountain bike in the hills and valleys. Other than giving you a high adrenaline rush, mountain biking lets you take a peek into the unexplored and un-commercialized part of the city. The thrilling ride takes you through the best of forests and valleys, rivers, waterfalls and lakes.

31. 9’ine Native Cuisine

2 km from city center 31 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

9’ine Native Cuisine is a dainty cafe located in the suburbs of Gangtok catering to Asian, Tibetan and Nepalese cuisines. Especially popular for its sumptuous Tibetan food, the cafe is a very famous hangout spot and visiting here is one of the prime things to do in Gangtok. Besides delicious food, the cafe also offers picturesque views of the hills and valleys outside.

32. Baker's Cafe

1 km from city center 32 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Baker's Cafe is one of the most popular and picturesque cafe in Gangtok. The western styled cafe also serves delicious western food. You can gorge on pizza and pasta while sipping super tasty shakes and beverages. Besides, the cafe is done up in shades of brown with tons of cutesy artsy bakery products on display that will compel you to eat twice as much as you're hungry. Plus, the window seats offer mesmerizing views of the majestic hills outside.

33. Phodong Monastery

9 km from city center 33 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Located in Phodong near Gangtok in Sikkim, Phodong Monastery is one amongst the six most important Buddhist monasteries in the state. Besides being a popular place of tourism, the monastery is a very important place of Buddhist pilgrimage. Boasting of a striking architecture with vibrant coloured exteriors and delicate interiors that are adorned with gorgeous paintings, murals and frescoes, the monastery is also considered one of the most beautiful in all the country.

34. Bakthang Waterfall

1 km from city center 34 out of 34 Places To Visit in Gangtok

Nestled amidst the serene landscapes of Sikkim, Bakthang Waterfall is a picturesque natural wonder located near Gangtok, the capital city of the state. Just a 20-minute drive from Gangtok town to a place called Swastik, adjacent to the army cantonment area, this cascading waterfall offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

Places To Visit In Nearby Places

FAQs on Gangtok

How much does a package cost for gangtok, what are the top restaurants in gangtok, what are the top sightseeing places in gangtok, what are the top activities in gangtok, what are the top hotels in gangtok, how can i commute within gangtok, can you suggest an itinerary for gangtok, browse package collections, gangtok package collections.

Gangtok Honeymoon Packages

Nearby Destinations for Packages

North Sikkim

South Sikkim

West Sikkim

Top Listed Packages

Honeymoon Package for Sikkim Gangtok with Excursion to Tsomgo Lake

Sikkim Darjeeling Gangtok Tour Package

Gangtok Sikkim Tour Package - 6 Night 7 Days

Sikkim Tour Package for Couple - 8 Nights

Darjeeling and Gangtok Tour Package - 5 Nights 6 Days Deluxe Edition

Darjeeling and Gangtok Tour Package - Adventure with Rafting

Sikkim Darjeeling Honeymoon Package - Tea Garden

Gangtok Sikkim Tour Packages - Day Trips to Changgu Lake & Namchi

Sikkim Darjeeling Package - 4 Night 5 Days

Similar Places

Filter ( 0 selected)

Get the best offers on travel packages.

Compare package quotes from top travel agents

• India (+91)

*Final prices will be shared by our partner agents based on your requirements.

Log in to your account

Welcome to holidify.

Forget Password?

Share this page

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• 31 Incredible Places To Visit In Gangtok With Your Family And Friends In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Snow-laden highlands, serene lakes, and appealing valleys – stunning landscapes of Gangtok form a magical collage that allures tourists from all around. The capital city of Sikkim is a mesmerizing hill station sitting in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas. With the kind of natural beauty that Gangtok has, it becomes irresistible to keep one from exploring these beautiful places to visit in Gangtok .

Top 31 Places To Visit In Gangtok In 2023

The list of top places to visit in Gangtok is so expansive that zeroing down on one is a tough task. Nevertheless keeping one ready might help. Here are the best shortlisted places to visit in Gangtok :

1. Rumtek Monastery

Image Source

Rumtek monastery is one of the most popular places to visit in Sikkim, Gangtok . The monastery belongs to the Kagyu sect of Buddhists who started living in Tibet in the 12th century. It is one of the most important and magnificent monasteries in Sikkim. The style and structure resemble the original one located in Tsurphu, Tibet. Rumtek Monastery is located in the Dharma Chakra Centre near Gangtok. Make sure to stop by here on your trip to the magnificent Gangtok and take back some pleasant memories.

Opening hours : 10 AM – 5 PM in winter, 8 AM – 5 PM during summers How to reach : You can avail a taxi or a bus at the airport to Rumtek Monastery. The total distance from the airport to the monastery is around 34 Kilometers and it takes an hour and half to two to reach via taxi. Major attractions : Golden Stupa, hiking downhill, and several other old and historic monasteries Best Time To Visit: October To June

12 Places To Visit In Sikkim In May That Will Blow Your Mind Away With Its Allure

Sikkim-Gangtok-Darjeeling Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle

Gangtok & Darjeeling Tour Package 5D/4N @ Rs 13,000

Plan your trip today!

Scintillating North-East Family Tour 6D/5N @ Rs 16,065

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

Fun-Filled Gangtok & Darjeeling Family Tour 6D/5N @ Rs 18,000

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

Darjeeling Gangtok Family Package 7D/6N @ Rs 20,783

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

Gangtok & Darjeeling Family Tour 7D/6N @ Rs 41,265

Best prices guaranteed. EMI option available.

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

2. Nathula Pass

Located at an altitude of 14,450 ft, Nathu-La is a prime corridor of the passage between India and Tibet. Passing through the serene Tsomgo Lake, it is one of the most alluring sightseeing places in Gangtok . It has one of the highest motorable roads in the world which makes it a popular adventure destination. Nathula Pass' height is 4310 meters. Access to this area is restricted and one needs entry permits from the zonal office to visit Nathu La. You'll be amazed at the beauty of this place.

Opening hours : There are no opening hours as such. The pass is open for public from Wednesday to Sunday. How to reach : During high season (like April to June, and October to November) shared vehicle would cost about INR 900 per person for Nathula including permit fee. Major attractions : Walking along the International borders, biking, and watching the Chinese soldiers in action Best Time To Visit: May to October

3. Tsomgo Lake

Located off the Gangtok Nathu La Highway at an elevation of 12,400 ft, Tsomgo Lake or Changu Lake is a glacial beauty in the hills of Sikkim and is one of the many gorgeous tourist places in Gangtok . The turquoise water of the lake, the magical backdrop and the serenity of the place are absolutely hypnotic. One just can't afford to miss Tsomgo Lake among the many beautiful places to visit in Gangtok. You'll be amazed at the hypnotic beauty of this place and the hospitality of the locals of Gangtok.

How to reach : It’s located on the steep route known as Jawaharlal Nehru Road which leads all the way to Nathula Pass. Major attractions : Yak and Mule rides along the lake, tea, and piping hot instant noodles in small eateries, ice skating, and a walk on the river in the winters Best Time To Visit: January to March

11 Adventure Sports In Gangtok To Bring You Face To Face With Raw Nature

4. Hanuman Tok

Hanuman Tok is another one of the top places to visit in Gangtok . This age-old Hanuman Temple located at an elevation of 7,500 ft offers the best views of Khangchendzonga from Gangtok. It is not the spirituality but the peacefulness of the place that has attracted tourist footfall for ages. You should visit this place during the day and spend some time here basking under the sun and the spiritual vibes that these places give off. Hanuman Tok is like no other place in Gangtok.

Opening hours : 7 AM – 5 PM How to reach : By train, you have to stop at Siliguri or New Jalpaiguri railway stations. Major attractions : Temple walk, the serenity of the place, and Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve Best Time To Visit: January to March

5. Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve

One of the best Gangtok tourist places , this grand natural habitat in Gangtok boasts of rich flora and fauna of the normal, endangered and nearly extinct varieties. Stretched over an area of around 850 sq km, this biosphere reserve is one of the few high-altitude reserves in India with musk deer, snow leopards, and Himalayan tahr. Thats not all! The ticket to the bio reserved is nominally priced, so you'll have a ball of time with your friends and family. Don't forget to carry your camera to take lots of photographs of the beauty of this place.

Opening hours : 10 AM – 6: 30 PM How to reach : Sikkim state transport buses are available between Gangtok and Siliguri. Private buses are also available from Siliguri and Bagdogra. Major attractions : Animal safaris, hikes and treks to the reserve, and snow leopard spotting Best Time To Visit: April and May

20 Most Spellbinding Places To Visit Near Gangtok

Namchi means top of the sky. It is one of those tourist places to see in Gangtok that offers picturesque views of the Khangchendzonga range and the Rangit valley simultaneously. The 135 feet high statue of Guru Padmasambhava, perched upon the valley in Samdruptse at Namchi, is one of the famous places to visit in Namchi . Make sure to include Namchi in your itinerary. We promise that you will not be disappointed and will have a ball of a time here in this beautiful place.

How to reach : The nearest airport to Namchi is Bagdogra Airport, which is around 124 km from Gangtok. Major attractions : Shedrup Choling monastery, Ngadak monastery, Dechen Choling monastery, Rock garden, treks to the surrounding valley and photography of magnificent Khangchendzonga from Namchi Best Time To Visit: March to May

7. Khangchendzonga

Visit Gangtok to get the best views of Khangchendzonga. Khangchendzonga, for those of you who dont know, is the third highest peak in the world. It was once considered the highest mountain in the whole world before the height of Mt Everest was recalculated, making it one of the most important places to visit in Gangtok Darjeeling. Tashi Viewpoint and Singhik View Point are considered as one of the best spots for photography. So, head to this place with your polaroids and make memories that you can store for a lifetime. Also, make sure that you reach this place before sunrise/sunset to catch the sky in its full splendour.

Opening hours : Monday – Saturday How to reach : The nearest railway station is Jalpaiguri railway station, about 221 Km from the Khangchendzonga National Park. Major attractions : Goeche La, Dzongri, Khangchendzonga National Park, and Khecheopalri Lake. Best Time To Visit: April and May

20 Heartwarming Hill Station Cafes In India For The Nomad In You!

8. Do Drul Chorten Stupa

If you love peace, spend some time at one of the most serene tourist places in Gangtok , Do Drul Chorten Stupa. The stupa surrounded by 108 prayer wheels is one of the most popular places to see in Gangtok. Those of you who seek serenity should definitely visit the place as it is not much crowded. One can relax and meditate in a calm atmosphere. The spiritual vibes that you receive from this place will turn your day around. We highly recommend you to visit this place with friends and family.

Opening hours : 8 AM to 6 PM all days of the week How to reach : It’s only 2 km from Gangtok Town in Deorali area. Best Time To Visit: October to March

9. Tsuk La Khang Monastery

For travellers seeking peace of mind and serenity, Tsuk La Khang Monastery is the place to be. The walls, platforms, and slabs of this palatial monastery are extravagantly ornamented with paintings and images of Buddha, Bodhisattva and other idols of Buddhism. All those who follow the path of spirituality and Buddhism should definitely visit the monastery. You'll be taken in by the glamorous walls of this popular attraction and will not want to leave even after spending a solid two hours here. The aura surrounding this place is truly magical, leaving an imprint on the visitors.

Opening hours : 7 AM – 5 PM all days of the week How to reach : Tsuk La Khang Monastery is situated at a distance of 3 km from the Gangtok SNT Bus Station. You can hire a cab from here to reach the monastery. Best Time To Visit: February

10 Beautiful Lakes Near Gangtok To Visit On Your Next Vacation

10. Flower Exhibition Centre: Find Exclusive Varieties

Listed as one of the best places to visit by Gangtok tourism, this exhibition centre is a must-visit for travellers. Especially if you a fan of nature and all things green- then pack your bags and head to the Flower Exhibition Centre in Gangtok. The exhibition center is located near Ridge Park in Gangtok and houses the annual orchid show. From March to June many exclusive varieties of orchids are displayed here. The beauty of vibrant flowers captivates all and this center is a paradise for those who love colors and flowers.

Opening hours : 9 AM – 5:15 PM

How to reach : Since the roadways in Gangtok are very well connected, the Exhibition Centre is accessible too.

Best Time To Visit: March and June

o On An All Boys Trip To Sikkim, Gangtok, And Darjeeling!

11. Kabi Town

The small settlement is historically significant as the friendship agreement between the Lepcha chief Te Kung Tek and the Bhutia chief Khey Bum Sar was signed here. There is also a small monastery in Kabi. The town boasts of some upbeat cafes, beautiful monasteries, and warm hospitality. You'll be drawn in by the warmth of the locals here. Besides this, there are several affordable homestays here where you can find a cosy stay.

How to reach : Regular jeep and taxi services move between Kabi and Gangtok which takes nearly 40 minutes to reach. Major attractions : Buddhist monasteries Best Time To Visit: October to March

Note Down These Best Things To Do On An All Boys Trip To Sikkim, Gangtok, And Darjeeling

12. Saramsa Garden

Saramsa Garden is a perfect family-friendly place. A picnic and leisure destination, Saramsa Garden is managed by Sikkim Forest Department. The garden has many rare and exclusive plant species and offers a picturesque view of River Rani and the surrounding hills. It is perfect for a small picnic with kids and a leisure getaway with the family.

Opening hours : 8 AM – 6 PM from Monday – Saturday How to reach : A taxi can drop you off at the Saramsa Garden which takes nearly 45 minutes from the city center. Best Time To Visit: November to May

13. Himalayan Zoological Park

If you are travelling to Gangtok with children, make sure to include Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in your itinerary. It is famous for pandas, Himalayan black bears, snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, Himalayan palm civets, large Indian civets, and various other animals. While visiting here, make sure to keep a respectable distance from the animals and avoid feeding them to ensure your and the animals' safety.

Opening hours : 9 AM – 4 PM, from Monday – Saturday How to reach : The park is situated at a distance of around 6 km from Gangtok at Bulbulay. The entrance to the Himalayan Zoological Park is along a small pathway, opposite to Ganesh Tok. You can take a cab to reach here. Best Time To Visit: February and March

15 Resorts In Gangtok That You Must Stay At On Your Trip

14. Banjhakri Falls

Banjhakri Falls is a 100 feet waterfall located in a park near Ranka Monastery and is popular among tourists and locals for day picnics. All nature lovers and water babies should definitely give it a try. Make sure to come here with your significant other and take a lot of photographs of the waterfall with them.

Opening hours : 8 AM – 6 PM from Monday – Saturday How to reach : It is at a distance of 7 km from Gangtok SNT Bus Station. Major attractions : Ban Jhakri Falls Energy Park Best Time To Visit: October to February

15. Namgyal Institute Of Tibetology

One of the most popular Gangtok attractions, the Namgyal Institute of Technology is a mansion reflecting the traditional Tibetan architecture, it gives insights into Buddhist culture. It exhibits cloth paintings, manuscripts, ritual objects, and human bone trumpets. Also, there is a souvenir store where you can buy jewellery, mementoes and more.

Opening hours : 10 AM – 4 PM from Monday – Saturday How to reach : Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is 2 km from Gangtok town. One can hire a taxi to reach here in just 10 to 15 mins. Best Time To Visit: All year

9 Best Homestays In Gangtok Which Are A Must Pick For Budget-Friendly Stay!

16. Phurchachu Reshi Hot Spring

The Phurchachu Reshi Hot Spring is located near a cave called Kadosangphu. It is approximately 135 km away from Gangtok. The water gushing out of the hot spring is rich in sulfur and has medicinal value. Make sure to visit this place and enjoy wonderful time with your friends and family.

How to reach : The spring is situated 6 km from Legship near Reshi which is around 20-25 km from Gangtok. You can reach here by taking a cab to a certain point after which you need to walk for 15 minutes. Best Time To Visit: December to February

17. Pemayangtse Monastery

Positioned 140 km away from Gangtok, Pemayangtse Monastery was built by Lama Lhatsun Chempo in the year 1705. It is one of the most ancient and premier monasteries of Sikkim which has been a popular name among the places to visit in Gangtok for many years. A morning or an evening spent at this monastery is an experience of a lifetime. Make sure to visit Pemayangtse Monastery during the summer!

Opening hours : 9:00 AM – 6 PM How to reach : It is 2 kilometers away from Pelling. Major attractions : Sculptures and architecture of the age old monastery, visiting the wrecks of Rabdentse, located near the monastery Best Time To Visit: March to June

22 Cozy Budget Hotels In Gangtok For Your Exhilarating Trip To Sikkim

18. Khecheopalri Lake

Located at an elevation of 6,000 ft, Khecheopalri Lake is believed and worshipped as a holy lake that fulfils the wishes of its devotees. The 15th full moon day of the 1st month of the lunar calendar which comes in Feb-Marchhosts a fiesta of mass prayers offered by a brimming crowd of locals and visitors. You'll be amazed at the hospitality of the locals of Gangtok and the overall ambience of this place.

Major attractions : Treks to the surrounding areas, a visit to the Lepcha village and glimpses of the native culture and tradition. How to reach : The lake is 34 km from Pelling town. Best Time To Visit: February to March

19. Yumthang Valley

Situated in North Sikkim, Yumthang Valley is a paradise on earth, which is full of natural wonders and picturesque beauty. It is home to a zillion flowers, spectacular mountains & a serene river, and is often also called as the Yumthang Valley of Flowers like the one located in Uttarakhand. Needless to say, its breathtaking and magical surroundings make it a must-visit place for every traveller.

How to reach : It is around 113 km from Gangtok. The town of Lachung is well connected by road. Major attractions : Trekking along the banks of the Yumthang River through pine forests up to a Shiva temple Best Time To Visit: February to June

Monsoon In Gangtok: A Little Guide To Enjoy The Beauty Of The City While It Rains!

20. Lachung

This one on our list is one of the best places to visit in Gangtok in January. Lachung is located at the junction of the Lachen and Lachung River — at an altitude of 9,600 ft. Lachung means small pass and this one has a base of the Indian army and has been described by foreign travellers as most picturesque village in Sikkim. Listed as an offbeat and quaint hamlet in Sikkim, Lachung is mainly visited by trekkers, photographers, and adventure freaks.

How to reach : Located at a distance of 125km from Gangtok, Bagdogra airport is the nearest airport to Lachung. Major attractions : Lachung Monastery, skiing in Phuni near Lachung. Best Time To Visit: October to June

21. Lal Bazaar

Lal Bazaar is a congregation of local artisans and farmers of Sikkim where they assemble to bargain, gossip or sell their commodities. The Bazaar makes for an ideal spot for shopping in Gangtok. On Sundays, Gangtoks Lal Bazaar is a melody of colours where ethnic groups from different villages gather. Lal Bazaar is located just below the M.G Marg and is within a walking distance from most of the hotels in Gangtok. You can easily find various utility things in the marketplace. The smell of dried fish, vegetables and cheese permeates the air as you venture along the bylanes of the market. The bustling bazaar makes for an ideal place for taking photographs of the local vendors selling their commodities. If you are looking for the best things to do in Gangtok at night, visit Lal Bazaar and shop your heart out.

How to reach : It is located near MG Marg. You can reach here by bus or a taxi. Opening hours : 9 AM – 8 PM Best Time To Visit: November

5 Most Paradisiacal Cottages In Gangtok To Soak In Eternal Bliss

22. M.G. Marg

If you are planning to do some Gangtok local sightseeing then head to M.G. Marg and you won't regret it! M.G Marg in Gangtok is considered the town centre of Gangtok which houses some spectacular restaurants, food joints, and cafes. The two of the most popular ones are 9INE Native Cuisine and Bakers Cafe on MG Marg, and trying their lip-smacking food is one of the most indulgent things to do in Gangtok.

9INE Native Cuisine is widely popular for its Tibetan cuisine. You can feast on delicacies like Momos, Sikkimese Set Meal with Chicken, Fermented Soybean, Dim sums, and Mushroom Kachi. It primarily serves Asian, Tibetan, and Nepalese cuisines and is a must visit restaurant in Gangtok.

At Bakers Cafe, you can sip on your favorite beverage, while sitting on the window-side table and gazing at the picturesque valley from the glass window. This cozy Western-style cafe is known for its strong espresso, refreshing lemon iced tea, croissants, baguettes, paninis, pizzas, hot dogs, and pastries.

How to reach : Mahatma Gandhi Road is the town center and easily accessible from anywhere in Gangtok. Major attractions: 9INE Native Cuisine and Bakers Cafe Best Time To Visit: October to December

23. Tinkitam

This hamlet nestled south of Sikkim falls in the district of Sikip. Mt Kanchenjunga can be easily seen in the background with rare orchids growing left and right. If you want to visit this village, you should visit in the month of October or November as these rare, terrestrial orchids are in full bloom at that time. While this is not exactly a place in Gangtok, it can make for superb day trips when in the region.

Major Attractions: The rare orchids that grow in the month of October and November How to reach: Some 200 km from Bagdogra Airport and 27 km from Darjeeling Railway station, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to Tinkitam Best Time To Visit: March to June

Gangtok Honeymoon: A Handbook About This Ultimate Paradise In Sikkim!

24. Enchey Monastery

A beautiful temple surrounded by blooming meadows, the Enchey monastery is an important place of pilgrimage for many Buddhists. The backdrop of pine trees with Kangchenjunga visible in the distance, the meaning of Enchey is solitary. Only 3 km from Gangtok, this tranquil monastery is nearly 200 years old and houses around 90 monks. Their presence only adds to the blissful aura of the monastery.

Opening hours : 6 AM – 4 PM How to reach: It is only 15-20 mins away from Gangtok; you can take a bus or hire a taxi Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to October

25. Seven Sisters Waterfalls

Seven Sisters Waterfall is only 32 km from Gangtok, making it one of the most visited places in the region. This is due to the 7 waterfalls here that are arranged on a wide cliff. After a little rain, the area seems to freshen up; you can even spot a cheery rainbow then. Hence, the best time to visit the seven sisters waterfalls is the rainy season. You can either go here for a picnic or just for capturing the beautiful scenery that Seven Sisters Falls offers. If you are looking for places to visit in Gangtok in December, this waterfall is your best bet.

Opening hours : 8 AM – 5 PM How to reach: You can hire a taxi on a per-seat basis or get on a local bus Best Time To Visit: May to July

Gangtok Travel Tips: 8 Essential Things One Must Remember To Have A Safe Trip To This Little Town!

26. Ganesh Tok

If you are in Gangtok then you must visit Ganesh Tok Temple where you can admire mind-stirring views of the Kanchenjunga Hill. One of the most exciting and beautiful Gangtok tourist spots , the temple is situated on a hilltop and offers some stunning views of Gangtok, especially in the winter season when the city is dusted with snow. It is one of the perfect places in the city for photographers and nature lovers.

Opening hours: 6 AM – 7 PM How to reach: It is located 6 km away from the town and can be easily reached via a local taxi. Best Time To Visit: March to June

27. Baba Harbajan Singh Temple

Baba Harbajan Singh Temple is located on the road that passes through Jelepla Pass and Nathu La Pass. The shrine was built to respect Baba Harbajan Singh and it is believed that he guards the lives of soldiers on the border. The shrine contains a photo of Harbajan Singh along with prayer materials.

Opening hours: 6 AM – 8 PM How to reach: To reach the temple, you will have to hire a taxi as the temple is situated three hours away from the town. Best Time To Visit: April to June

Nightlife In Gangtok: Visit These Electrifying Nightclubs And Casinos

28. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary

Your Gangtok sightseeing experience will be so much better if you plan to visit the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary. Located in the Yumthang Valley, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is one of the best places to visit in Sikkim, Gangtok. If you get excited by watching different species of flowers then you must visit this place and admire colorful rhododendrons that are spread over an area of 43 square km. Some of the species that you will come across here are Aconites, Gentias, Saxifrages, Potentillas, and Aconites.

Opening hours: Preferred time 8 AM and 3 PM How to reach: As this sanctuary is situated near Lachung, one has to hire a taxi to reach this sanctuary. Best Time To Visit: March to May

29. Ranka Monastery

If you are looking for Gangtok tourist spots then Ranka Monastery is one of them. It is relatively new if compared with other monasteries which is the reason why it is not famous among travellers. But if you are looking for a quaint place with fewer tourist crowds then you must visit this monastery. Also popular as Lingdum Monastery, Ranka Monastery is one of the top places to visit in Gangtok in 3 days.

Opening hours: 6 AM – 6 PM How to reach: You can take a bus from the Gangtok Bus Stand or hire a taxi to reach this monastery which is situated 15-20 km away. Best Time To Visit: October to November. March to May

Temples In Gangtok: Visit The Most Profound Ones For A Spiritual Experience

30. Gonjang Monastery

Located just 8 kilometers away from the town, you will find Gonjang Monastery near Tashi Viewpoint. Saying it from a personal experience, honestly, Gonjang Monastery is one of the best places in Gangtok . As it is situated at an altitude of 6066 feet, this monastery gives a mesmerizing view of Gangtok during snowfall time. It houses the idols of Khen-lop Cho-Sum, the founders of Tibetan Buddhism in the 8th century.

How to reach: As it is situated near Tashi Viewpoint it can be easily reached and explored by travelers. Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year

31. Tashi Viewpoint

Let the scenic beauty of Tashi Viewpoint fulfil your wanderlust. You will get a magnificent view of Mount Kanchenjunga and Siniolchu. Locals love to picnic here while the eateries around make this a cosy place for dates. Breathe some clean air, take in the picturesque ambience, and explore the monasteries around. An incredible weekend getaway for incredible sightseeing, Tashi Viewpoint is one of the best places for sightseeing in Gangtok.

Opening hours : Always Best Time To Visit: March to June

15 Secrets Of North East India Locals Have Been Keeping To Themselves

How to Reach Gangtok

• By Air : The closest airport to Gangtok is 124 km away, in Bagdogra, West Bengal. From Bagdogra, you will find frequent taxis or local and state buses plying between the region.
• By Train: Almost 150 km away from Gangtok lies New Jalpaiguri, the closest railway station! Trains from Guwahati, Kolkata, New Delhi, and Hyderabad pass through here.
• Ideal Travel Duration : You should spend at least 10 days of your vacation time to completely and composedly explore all Gangtok tourist places. However, if you have a shortage of time, then a week’s trip is also sufficient!

Alright! Winters are already here. Gear up, pack up, get going to one of the most amazing hill stations of north-east India. Plan your trip to Gangtok right away as you just can’t afford to miss these beautiful places to visit in Gangtok. You’ll be amazed at the myriad of episodic memories you’ll take back from this trip. This vacation will rejuvenate you like no other. Replenish your body and mind by booking your tickets to the destination right away.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer please click here .

Frequently Asked Question About Places To Visit In Gangtok

Can I visit Gangtok in the upcoming weeks or months?

The tourism industry is slowly reopening, so you can visit most of the above-mentioned places and more in Gangtok. But don't take our word for it, just make sure you travel in a small group and keep updating yourself about the latest news and guidelines concerning Covid-19.

Which are the best places to visit in Gangtok in 2 days?

The best places to visit in Gangtok in 2 days are Rumtek Monastery, Hanuman Tok, Namchi, and Do Drul Chorten Stupa.

Which are the best places to visit in Gangtok in July?

The best places to visit in Gangtok in July are Nathula Pass, Tsomgo Lake, Ranka Monastery, and MG Marg.

Is Sikkim worth visiting?

With tranquility and peacefulness encircling its atmosphere, Sikkim is one of the calmest places to visit. The lush greens, refreshing waterfalls, quiet temples, clean roads, friendly locals, and drool-worthy cuisine makes this destination totally worth visiting.

What is the best time to visit Gangtok?

Gangtok is one of those destinations that experience extremes of all the four major seasons. The peak season of Gangtok when it attracts flocks of tourists is the autumn season that commences from September and continues till October. However, the season from spring to summer i.e. the months from March to June is also an ideal time to pay a visit to Gangtok.

Where can I shop in Gangtok?

Some of the famous places to visit in Gangtok where one can shop from are MG Road, Lal Bazaar, New Market, and Old Market.

Where can I eat in Gangtok?

There is no dearth of restaurants and cafes where one can indulge in authentic and multi-cuisine dishes. Some of the famous places to eat in Gangtok are Taste Of Tibet, Roll House, Osm Restro and Lounge, The Coffee Shop, Baker’s Cafe, Thakali, and The Dragon Wok.

What is Gangtok famous for?

Gangtok is one of the quiet and peaceful places sitting in the North East state of India, Sikkim. This destination is famous for its wonders of mother nature, cleanliness, beautiful monasteries, and the vibrant, calm locals that welcome travelers with a wide smile.

People Also Read:

Places To Visit In Kasol Places To Visit In Somnath Places To Vist In Patong

Recent Posts

27 Lieux surréalistes pour faire de courts voyages depuis Singapour en 2024.

2024 में 32 दुनिया में सितंबर में घूमने की जगहें जो आपको एक शांत छुट्टी

30 अप्रैल में भारत में घूमने की जगहें: इस गर्मी में एक प्रोफेशनल की तरह गर्मी को मात दें

41 भारत में जून में घूमने की जगहें: 2024 गर्मी की छुट्टियाँ ठीक से हो गईं

2024 में आरामदायक छुट्टियों के लिए 35 भारत में मार्च में घूमने की जगहें

2024 में घूमने लायक 43 भारत के प्रसिद्ध ऐतिहासिक स्थान

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• Places To Visit »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Kerala Tour Packages
• Goa Tour Packages
• Andaman Tour Packages
• Sikkim Tour Packages
• Himachal Tour Packages
• Uttarakhand Tour Packages
• Rajasthan Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Kerala Tourism
• Goa Tourism
• Sikkim Tourism
• Andaman Tourism
• Himachal Tourism
• Uttarakhand Tourism
• Rajasthan Tourism
• Hotels in Kerala
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Sikkim
• Hotels in Andaman
• Hotels in Himachal
• Hotels in Uttarakhand
• Hotels in Rajasthan

• Travel Blog
• Top Attractions
• Hill Stations
• Places to Visit in India
• Things To Do
• Weekend Getaways
• Historical Places
• Tours & Itineraries
• Festival & Events
• Food & Restaurants
• Delhi Travel Blog
• Jaipur Travel Blog
• Goa Travel Blog
• Mumbai Travel Blog
• Bangalore Travel Blog
• Chennai Travel Blog
• Pune Travel Blog
• Hyderabad Travel Blog
• Kolkata Travel Blog
• Indian Holidays Calendar 2024
• Long Weekends 2024
• Travel Tips & Hacks
• Top 10 in India
• India Tourism Guide
• Indian Railways (IRCTC)
• Indian Railways News
• Metro Rail Networks
• Web Check-in
• Hotels in Delhi
• Hotels in Mumbai
• Hotels in Gurgaon
• Hotels in Bangalore
• Hotels in Jaipur
• Hotels in Chennai
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Pune
• Hotels in Hyderabad
• Hotels in Kolkata

20 Tourist Places to Visit in Gangtok: ✔Distance, Travel Tips

Budget Hotels > Travel Blog > Destinations > Gangtok > 20 Tourist Places to Visit in Gangtok: ✔Distance, Travel Tips

Gangtok gained prominence as a Buddhist pilgrimage site in the early 1980s. Today, it is one of the most visited cities in Northeast India owing to its breathtaking natural beauty and religious significance. If you are planning a holiday in Gangtok , you must have at least 10 days to explore the top places in and around the city. The growing popularity of the destination has also given rise to a number of hotels in Gangtok . You can choose from a variety of options, depending on your budget and itinerary. Remember that most of the restaurants in Gangtok are on MG Road. If you stay anywhere else, you’ll be dependent on the hotel’s restaurant. So choose wisely!

Places to visit in Gangtok(List):

1. tsomgo lake, gangtok.

#1 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

If you have enough time to visit just one place in Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake it is! Located at 12,400 ft. above sea level, this high altitude lake sits amidst mountains and derives its water from their melting snow. The unparalleled beauty of the site is absolutely mesmerizing. A striking feature of the lake is that it changes color with every season. It remains frozen during winters, but the snow around is replaced by blooming flowers in summers. Legends reveal that Buddhist monks used to study the lake’s color to forecast the future in olden times.

• Distance from Gangtok : 40 km
• Trivia : The Tsomgo or Changu Lake is considered sacred by the Sikkimese.
• Travel Tip : A valid permit is required by both Indians and foreign tourists to visit the lake.

Read Also  –  Places to Visit in January

2. Nathula Pass, Gangtok

#2 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

A part of the ancient Silk Route between India and Tibet, Nathula Pass is bestowed with natural beauty and stunning scenic views. Driving through its steep, slippery slopes, up to an altitude of 14,140 ft., will make for quite an adventure. Nathula Pass sees a large number of tourists during summer and autumn. Winters might not be the best time to visit as the temperatures are quite low, and the route is often closed due to heavy snowfall. The road remains closed for public on Mondays and Tuesdays, so make sure you plan your itinerary accordingly.

• Distance from Gangtok : 56 km
• Travel Tip : Only Indian tourists with a valid permit are allowed to visit the pass

Explore recommended places to stay in Gangtok at best price

3. Hanuman Tok, Gangtok

#3 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

Located at an altitude of 7,200 ft., this decades-old Hanuman temple is one of the most popular places to visit in Gangtok. Offering uninterrupted views of the Kanchenjunga range, this shrine is visited by tourists throughout the year for its serene ambience and stunning views. You can soak in the beauty of the lush greenery, the scenic hills and valleys and a small part of the town while climbing the paved stairs that lead to this blissfully calm divine site.

• Distance from Gangtok : 11 km
• Trivia : It is believed that Lord Hanuman rested at this site while carrying the mountain with the Sanjeevani herb from the Himalayas to Lanka

4. Himalayan Zoological Park, Gangtok

#4 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

The first zoo in Sikkim, Himalayan Zoological Park offers an opportunity to explore the fauna in the region. Home to Snow Leopards, Himalayan Palm Civets, Red Pandas and Himalayan Black Bears, the place is unlike most of the zoos in the country. Animals are kept in open enclosures in replicated natural habitat and are not caged, which makes the overall experience a bit more pleasant. Situated at an altitude of 1,780 meters, the zoo also offers splendid views of Mount Kanchenjunga. Set aside at least 3 to 4 hours for the zoo, especially if travelling with children.

• Distance from Gangtok : 7 km
• Entry Fee : ₹ 25 for Adults and ₹ 10 for Children
• Timings : 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (Closed on Thursdays)
• Travel Tip: Since the park is spread across a considerable area, it’s best to explore the area in a car though you can walk it as well

5. Ranka Monastery, Gangtok

#5 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

The beautiful Ranka Monastery should be part of your itinerary for the stunning views it offers and of course, the opportunity to interact with Buddhist monks. You can click pictures with the monks during breaks, but you have to respect their faith and their way of life while interacting with them. Enveloped by thick forests on all sides, the monastery is a sight to behold. The quiet and the serenity here offer a glimpse of life completely different from the cities.

• Distance from Gangtok : 20 km
• Timings : 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
• Trivia : The monastery follows the Zurmang Kagyu Lineage of Buddhism
• Travel Tip : Keep aside a couple of hours for Banjhakri Falls when you visit the monastery. Try paragliding here for an unforgettable experience!

6. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Gangtok

#6 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

A peek into the past of a very intriguing culture, the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is a must-visit if you are a history enthusiast or interested to know more about Buddhism. Exhibiting an extensive collection of art work, objects, manuscripts, mementos and one of the world’s largest collections of Tibetan documents and literature, this institute is a keeper of all things significant to the Tibetan culture. The foundation stone of the institute was laid by the 14 th Dalai Lama.

• Distance from Gangtok : 5 km
• Timings : 10:00 am to 4:00 pm (Closed on Sundays)
• Entry Fee : ₹ 10
• Travel Tip : Photography is not allowed inside the premises

7. Flower Exhibition Center, Gangtok

#7 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

The Flower Exhibition Center is located within walking distance from MG Road and displays a huge variety of flowers from across Sikkim. A heaven for nature lovers, the exhibition center remains in full swing throughout the year, especially during the annual flower show which is held from April to May. Home to many different and unusual species of plants, the exhibition center offers a refreshing break from the never-ending road travel schedules. You can simply relax in its pleasant ambience, admire the colorful flowers, and click some amazing pictures.

• Timings : 8:30 am to 5:00 pm

Book Couple friendly Hotels in Gangtok

8. MG Marg, Gangtok

#8 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

MG Marg is the center of all activity in Gangtok, and it’s on your itinerary by default! However, if you have an extra day or a couple of hours to spare, do spend time in this vehicle-free zone to learn and explore the way of life in Gangtok. This buzzing market is home to a number of shops, some of which have been there since decades along with many restaurants, cafes and souvenir stores. Do try the Hungry Heads for yum cold coffee and sandwiches .

9. Ganesh Tok, Gangtok

#9 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

Stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range, serene ambience and the blessings of Lord Ganesha – this pretty much defines Ganesh Tok. One of the most visited places in Gangtok, this shrine is actually quite small but people come here to soak in the beautiful vistas of the town, the rolling hills and the snow-capped mountains from its enclosed viewing lounge. Situated at an altitude of 6,500 ft., this Ganesh temple sees a huge flow of visitors throughout the year.

• Distance from Gangtok : 8 km
• Timings : 6:00 am to 7:00 pm

10. Rumtek Monastery, Gangtok

#10 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

The Rumtek Monastery, perched on a hilltop near Gangtok, is one of the largest monasteries in the state of Sikkim . Once known as the Dharma Chakra Centre, this glorious monastery is built in traditional Tibetan style. The three-storied building encompasses a splendid prayer hall with tangkhas, statues and stunning murals, the golden stupa of the 16 th Karmapa and many other unique objects and religious scriptures. Belonging to the Kargyu sect of Buddhists, this ancient monastery is known for one of world’s finest architectures and it stands beautifully against the backdrop of majestic hills and waterfalls.

• Distance from Gangtok : 35 km
• Travel Tip : Remember to carry your identity cards as the monastery comes under the Indo-Tibetan Border Police.

11. Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, Gangtok

Built in the memory of a martyred soldier named Harbhajan Singh, Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple is one of the most popular places in Gangtok. It stands at an elevation of 4000 m (13123 feet) and anyone who visits the beautiful Nathang Valley tends to pay their respects at this temple. It is believed that Sepoy Harbhajan Singh went missing near Nathu La Pass in 1968 and the army found his body after 3 days of searching. It is said that the Sepoy himself led the soldiers to his body. Even after he passed away, he reportedly continued his duty along the border and protected the soldiers posted there. The Indian Army treats him as a soldier who never died. He was even promoted up the ranks until his retirement age.

• Distance from Gangtok: 53 km
• Timings: 6:00 am to 8:00 pm
• Travel Tip: The shrine is only 9 km from Nathu La Pass, so you can combine both the visits.

12. Mangan, Gangtok

Teeming with nature’s bounty, Mangan is a popular attraction among nature enthusiasts and peace seekers. The place is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and peppered with flowering shrubs, glittering streams, beautiful trekking trails and many sightseeing spots. Mangan also offers some stunning views of the majestic Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world. As a base station for most trekking expeditions, the town draws many trekkers and backpackers as well. Colourful Buddhist flags add to the beauty of this small and scenic place and make it a must-visit.

• Distance from Gangtok: 67 km
• Travel Tip: Early winter is the best time to visit Mangan. Avoid a trip during the monsoon season.

13. Tashi Viewpoint, Gangtok

#13 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

If you are looking to spend quality time in an unpolluted and serene environment, Tashi Viewpoint is the best option. The fresh air, picturesque ambience and magnificent views of the surrounding mountains make this place quite popular among picnickers and nature lovers. From Tashi Viewpoint, you can enjoy some breath-taking views of Mount Kanchenjunga, Mount Siniolchu as well as some important monasteries in Gangtok, such as Phodong and Labrang. Shutterbugs must visit the spot early in the morning and in the evening to capture unforgettable sunrise and sunset views.

• Distance from Gangtok Centre: 7 km
• Entry Fee: No entry fee; INR 10 for using the binoculars or telescopes present there
• Timings: 5:00 am to 6:00 pm; 7 days a week
• Travel Tip: The best time to visit the point is from March to June when the weather is pleasant, and the days are bright and clear.

14. Kabi Longstok, Gangtok

Kabi Longstok, a small, scenic, and the historically significant town is located at about 17 km from Gangtok. The place is home to a peaceful and beautiful monastery known for the origin of Buddhist culture and Sikkimese history in this region, in the 13 th century. The monastery is still frequented by followers of Buddhism who wish to study the religion closely. The place also has a library, a garden and two life-size statues of Bhutia and Lepcha. Kabi Longstok is the place where the Bhutia chief Khey Bum Sar and the Lepcha chief Tekung Tek signed a friendship treaty of brotherhood. Thakurbari temple is also a popular attraction here.

• Distance from Gangtok: 17 km
• Travel Tip: Plan a trip between October and March when the temperature is mild and pleasant.

15. Seven Sisters Waterfalls, Gangtok

#15 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

True to its name, Seven Sisters Waterfalls is a set of seven waterfalls gushing over a wide cliff. This popular attraction is located on Gangtok-Lachung Highway, about 32 km from the main town. The place is surrounded by green vegetation and the sight of milky-white water cascading amidst lush surroundings and striking the rocks below is surreal! The waterfall looks breathtakingly beautiful during and after the monsoon season when it is in its full force. The tourist sheds and ropeway near the waterfalls are perfect to enjoy the beauty of the cascade from up close. Keep your camera handy for some nature photography.

• Distance from Gangtok: 32 km
• Timings: 24×7

16. Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary, Gangtok

Boasting an impressive variety of flora and fauna, Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit for every nature enthusiast. The sanctuary lies between Singtam and Dikchu villages and is spread over an area of 52 sq. km. From Clouded Leopard and Red Panda to Himalayan Brown Bear and Barking Deer, the sanctuary serves as a natural habitat for a variety of mammals. You can also spot different species of birds here, such as bar-throated minla, red-headed bullfinch, crimson-browed finch and the endangered rufous-headed hornbill. The dense rainforest is home to bamboo, ferns, oaks and a range of medicinal plants. What’s more, different varieties of orchids and rhododendrons plants are also found here aplenty.

• Distance from Gangtok: 14 km
• Entry Fee: INR 5 per person
• Timings: 8:00 am to 3:00 pm; 7 days a week
• Travel Tip: To visit the sanctuary, you must get special permits from the Forest Department.

17. Do Drul Chorten, Gangtok

Built-in 1945-46 by Trulshik Rinpoche, head of the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism, Do Drul Chorten stupa is an important historic and religious place in Gangtok. It is nestled in the serene and scenic valleys of Gangtok and is frequented by devotees and tourists throughout the year. The stupa has 108 prayer wheels of Buddhism, all engraved with mantras that you can chant while rotating the wheels. The spire enshrines the deity of Vajra Kilaya or Dorjee Phurpa and you can find many holy Buddhist texts, mandala sets, and other objects of religious importance inside. Thanks to its picturesque surroundings, the monastery is frequented by peace seekers and shutterbugs.

• Distance from Gangtok: 5 km from city centre
• Entry Fee: No entry fee
• Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm; 7 days a week
• Travel Tip: The route to the monastery is steep and the climb can be a bit exhausting.

18. Saramsa Garden, Gangtok

Nestled in the hilly slopes of Pakyong and Gangtok, Saramsa Garden is a beautiful place spread over an area of 6 acres and dotted with colourful flowers and lush greenery. It has a greenhouse as well with a variety of orchids and other plants. Besides exploring the garden, you can engage in a range of recreational activities here, such as volleyball and football. Or you can just relax on a bench and enjoy the natural surroundings.

• Distance from Gangtok: 13 km
• Entry Fee: INR 10 per person
• Travel Tip: The best time to visit Saramsa Garden is from November to May.

19. Ban Jhakri Falls, Gangtok

Cascading from a height of 100 feet amidst lush green surroundings and beautifully landscaped gardens, Ban Jhakri Falls is counted among the most popular places to visit near Gangtok. The waterfall is located inside Energy Park and is frequented by nature lovers, picnickers and peace seekers. Apart from the falls, the park has a manmade lake where you can enjoy paddle boating. It houses a swimming pool, refreshment stalls and resting places as well. The Sikkimese architecture and statues of Lyam, Lepcha, Mangpas, and Ban Jhakri ancestors all across the park accentuate the beauty of the place.

• Distance from Gangtok: 8 km
• Entry Fee: INR 50 per person
• Travel Tip: The Energy Park also houses some natural energy production sites that are worth visiting.

20. Phodong Monastery, Gangtok

Perched at an altitude of 1372 m (4500 feet), Phodong Monastery is one of the six most important monasteries in Sikkim. It was built in 1740 AD and is a must-visit if you are looking to experience the true spirituality of this state. The monastery boasts vibrant exteriors with intricate architecture, while the interiors are decorated with beautiful paintings and murals. The surrounding hills and valleys add a sense of calm and peace to the environment, making it a perfect place to unwind amidst nature.

• Distance from Gangtok: 38 km
• Timings: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm; 7 days a week
• Travel Tip: Make sure to dress appropriately and maintain peace and decorum inside the monastery.

Place to Visit in Gangtok (Video):

Frequently Asked Questions About Gangtok:

Q: What is the best time to visit Gangtok?

A: Autumn (October-November) is the best season to visit Gangtok. You can also plan a trip to Gangtok during spring that lasts from March to June to see the beautiful Rhododendron flowers in full bloom.

Q: Is there an airport in Gangtok?

A: No, there is no airport in Gangtok. However, if you wish to travel by air, you can take a flight to Bagdogra Airport (128 km) and from there, take a taxi to Gangtok. The road journey will take 4-5 hours.

Q: How to reach Gangtok by train?

A: There is no railway station in Gangtok so you will have to reach New Jalpaiguri Junction (122 km) in Siliguri by train and thereafter, travel to Gangtok by road.

Q: What modes of transport are available to get around Gangtok?

A: The best way to travel from your Gangtok hotels to different tourist attractions across the city is by a taxi. These are available on both private and sharing basis.

Q: Suggest some things to do in Gangtok for adventurers.

A: River rafting, paragliding and trekking are some of the must-do things in Gangtok for adventure seekers. Another one of the most exciting things to do in Gangtok is driving through the Nathu La pass, which is one of the most stunning motorable roads in India.

Q: Where to shop in Gangtok?

A: The most popular shopping centre in Gangtok is Lal Bazaar, from where you can buy churpi, yak cheese, Nepalese khukris, bamboo and cane baskets and Tibetan prayer flags. MG Marg is also a good place to shop in Gangtok.

Wonderful bog with beautiful pictures. Gangtok is very beautiful & tourists attractive place. This blog has an amazing information about the destination of Gangtok.Pictures are really beautiful that you mention in your post.Thank you so much for sharing the details. You can book Gangtok cabs on best deals whether online or offline. Call on +91 9696000999 for inquiry or offline booking.

Useful details I am planning to visit in Oct.

Related Blogs

Latest Travel Blogs

GET FAB BLOGS IN YOUR INBOX!

Book a hotel.

• Social Share

Discover Hotels and Places Nearby

Top places to visit in india, hotels in india, hotels near airport, hotels near railway station, budget hotels, couple friendly hotels.

• Places to Visit in Agra
• Places to Visit in Ahmedabad
• Places to Visit in Amritsar
• Places to Visit in Bangalore
• Places to Visit in Bhopal
• Places to Visit in Chandigarh
• Places to Visit in Chennai
• Places to Visit in Coorg
• Places to Visit in Dehradun
• Places to Visit in Delhi
• Places to Visit in Dharamshala
• Places to Visit in Goa
• Places to Visit in Gurgaon
• Places to Visit in Guwahati
• Places to Visit in Haridwar
• Places to Visit in Indore
• Places to Visit in Jaipur
• Places to Visit in Kolkata
• Places to Visit in Lonavala
• Places to Visit in Lucknow
• Places to Visit in Mahabaleshwar
• Places to Visit in Manali
• Places to Visit in Mumbai
• Places to Visit in Mussoorie
• Places to Visit in Nainital
• Places to Visit in Nashik
• Places to Visit in Noida
• Places to Visit in Ooty
• Places to Visit in Rishikesh
• Places to Visit in Surat
• Places to Visit in Thiruvananthapuram
• Places to Visit in Udaipur
• Places to Visit in Varanasi
• Places to Visit in Pondicherry
• Places to Visit in Coimbatore
• Places to Visit in Kochi
• Places to Visit in Kodaikanal
• Places to Visit in Pune
• FabHotels: Hotel Booking App
• Hotels in Agra
• Hotels in Ahmedabad
• Hotels in Amritsar
• Hotels in Chandigarh
• Hotels in Coimbatore
• Hotels in Coorg
• Hotels in Dehradun
• Hotels in Dharamshala
• Hotels in Gangtok
• Hotels in Haridwar
• Hotels in Indore
• Hotels in Kochi
• Hotels in Kodaikanal
• Hotels in Lonavala
• Hotels in Lucknow
• Hotels in Mahabaleshwar
• Hotels in Manali
• Hotels in Mohali
• Hotels in Mussoorie
• Hotels in Nainital
• Hotels in New Delhi
• Hotels in Noida
• Hotels in Ooty
• Hotels in Pondicherry
• Hotels in Puri
• Hotels in Rishikesh
• Hotels in Thiruvananthapuram
• Hotels in Tirupati
• Hotels in Udaipur
• Hotels in Ujjain
• Hotels in Varanasi
• Hotels Near Ahmedabad Airport
• Hotels Near Amritsar Airport
• Hotels Near Bangalore Airport
• Hotels Near Bhopal Airport
• Hotels Near Bhubaneswar Airport
• Hotels Near Chandigarh Airport
• Hotels Near Chennai Airport
• Hotels Near Coimbatore Airport
• Hotels Near Goa Airport
• Hotels Near Gwalior Airport
• Hotels Near Hyderabad Airport
• Hotels Near Indore Airport
• Hotels Near Jaipur Airport
• Hotels Near Kolkata Airport
• Hotels Near Lucknow Airport
• Hotels Near Mumbai Airport
• Hotels Near Nagpur Airport
• Hotels Near New Delhi Airport
• Hotels Near Pune Airport
• Hotels Near Vadodara Airport
• Hotels Near Agra Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ahmedabad Railway Station
• Hotels Near Amritsar Railway Station
• Hotels Near Bangalore Railway Station
• Hotels Near Bhopal Railway Station
• Hotels Near Bhubaneswar Railway Station
• Hotels Near Chandigarh Railway Station
• Hotels Near Chennai Railway Station
• Hotels Near Coimbatore Railway Station
• Hotels Near Dehradun Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ernakulam Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ghaziabad Railway Station
• Hotels Near Gorakhpur Railway Station
• Hotels Near Guwahati Railway Station
• Hotels Near Gwalior Railway Station
• Hotels Near Haridwar Railway Station
• Hotels Near Indore Railway Station
• Hotels Near Kanpur Railway Station
• Hotels Near Kolkata Railway Station
• Hotels Near Lucknow Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ludhiana Railway Station
• Hotels Near Madurai Railway Station
• Hotels Near New Delhi Railway Station
• Hotels Near Pune Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ranchi Railway Station
• Hotels Near Surat Railway Station
• Hotels Near Tirupati Railway Station
• Hotels Near Udaipur Railway Station
• Hotels Near Ujjain Railway Station
• Hotels Near Vadodara Railway Station
• Hotels Near Varanasi Railway Station
• Hotels Near Vijayawada Railway Station
• Hotels Near Visakhapatnam Railway Station
• Budget hotels in Agra
• Budget hotels in Ahmedabad
• Budget hotels in Amritsar
• Budget hotels in Bangalore
• Budget hotels in Bhubaneswar
• Budget hotels in Chandigarh
• Budget hotels in Chennai
• Budget hotels in Coimbatore
• Budget hotels in Coorg
• Budget hotels in Dehradun
• Budget hotels in Ernakulam
• Budget hotels in Gangtok
• Budget hotels in Goa
• Budget hotels in Gurgaon
• Budget hotels in Haridwar
• Budget hotels in Hyderabad
• Budget hotels in Indore
• Budget hotels in Jaipur
• Budget hotels in Kodaikanal
• Budget hotels in Kolkata
• Budget hotels in Lonavala
• Budget hotels in Madurai
• Budget hotels in Mahabaleshwar
• Budget hotels in Manali
• Budget hotels in Mumbai
• Budget hotels in Mussoorie
• Budget hotels in Nashik
• Budget hotels in Ooty
• Budget hotels in Pondicherry
• Budget hotels in Pune
• Budget hotels in Rishikesh
• Budget hotels in Shirdi
• Budget hotels in Thiruvananthapuram
• Budget hotels in Tirupati
• Budget hotels in Udaipur
• Budget hotels in Varanasi
• Couple friendly hotels in Agra
• Couple friendly hotels in Ahmedabad
• Couple friendly hotels in Bangalore
• Couple friendly hotels in Bhopal
• Couple friendly hotels in Chandigarh
• Couple friendly hotels in Chennai
• Couple friendly hotels in Coimbatore
• Couple friendly hotels in Coorg
• Couple friendly hotels in Dehradun
• Couple friendly hotels in Dharamshala
• Couple friendly hotels in Goa
• Couple friendly hotels in Greater Noida
• Couple friendly hotels in Gurgaon
• Couple friendly hotels in Guwahati
• Couple friendly hotels in Hyderabad
• Couple friendly hotels in Indore
• Couple friendly hotels in Jaipur
• Couple friendly hotels in Kanpur
• Couple friendly hotels in Kochi
• Couple friendly hotels in Kolkata
• Couple friendly hotels in Lonavala
• Couple friendly hotels in Lucknow
• Couple friendly hotels in Mahabaleshwar
• Couple friendly hotels in Manali
• Couple friendly hotels in Mohali
• Couple friendly hotels in Mumbai
• Couple friendly hotels in Mussoorie
• Couple friendly hotels in Nashik
• Couple friendly hotels in New Delhi
• Couple friendly hotels in Noida
• Couple friendly hotels in Ooty
• Couple friendly hotels in Pondicherry
• Couple friendly hotels in Pune
• Couple friendly hotels in Rishikesh
• Couple friendly hotels in Siliguri
• Couple friendly hotels in Surat
• Couple friendly hotels in Udaipur
• Couple friendly hotels in Vadodara
• Couple friendly hotels in Varanasi

• Be our Franchisee
• Travel Agent
• Corporate Enquiries
• Quarantine Hotels
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cancellation Policy

8 Popular Places to Visit in Gangtok

Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim , is constructed on a cloudy ridge 5,500 feet above sea level. It's perhaps the cleanest city in India, making it a pleasing place to spend a few days sightseeing and organizing onwards travel. If you feel like some pampering, one of India's top Himalayan spa resorts is located in Gangtok. It also has a casino.

Many of the places to visit in Gangtok can be seen on ubiquitous "three point", "five point", and "seven point" local tours offered by travel agents, hotels and taxi drivers. The "three point" tours incorporate the city's three main viewpoints (Ganesh Tok, Hanuman Tok, and Tashi Viewpoint). Variants such as Enchey monastery can be added for "five point" tours. "Seven point" tours include monasteries outside Gangtok, such as Rumtek and Lingdum. 

Enchey Monastery

Sikkim's monasteries are among its most popular attractions. You'll find Enchey monastery perched on a ridge above Gangtok. The name of this serene place means solitary monastery . It was initially constructed in 1909 but had to be rebuilt after catching fire in 1947. This monastery is relatively small and noncommercial. However, it's beautifully decorated inside, with colorful murals, statues, and a large collection of masks used in ritual dances. The founder, Lama Druptob Karpo, was a Tantric master known for his ability to levitate and fly!

Enchey monastery is open from 4 a.m. until 4 p.m. Monday to Saturday, and until 1 p.m. on Sunday.

Two renowned monasteries can also be seen on scenic day trips from Gangtok: Rumtek, and the newer and more eye-catching Lingdum (Ranka) with its huge golden Buddha statue. Be at Lingdum at 7.30 a.m. or 3.30 p.m. to hear the monks chanting in mesmerizing unison.

Ganesh Tok and Hanuman Tok

From Enchey monastery, take the road northeast up to colorful Ganesh Tok with its fluttering prayer flags, for dramatic views over Gangkok. There's a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh there, along with cafe and souvenir shops. Higher up beyond Ganesh Tok, and arguably with a better viewpoint, sits Hanuman Tok. Visitors are greeted by a towering orange statue of Lord Hanuman.  The Hanuman temple there is maintained by the Indian Army, so it's clean and peaceful. It's surrounded by lovely sprawling gardens, walking trails, and the splendid sight of Mount Khangchendzonga on a clear day.

Himalayan Zoological Park

Opposite Ganesh Tok, the Himalayan Zoological Park is one of India's better maintained zoos with a natural jungle setting. It's spread across 230 hectares of hillside and houses rare animals, many of which have been rescued from traders and poachers. They include Himalayan bears, snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, and red pandas. 

The zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., except Thursdays. Tickets cost 60 rupees.

Tashi Viewpoint

Tashi Viewpoint, north of town, is said to offer the best views of Mount Khangchendzonga within Gangtok. However, some people complain that it's not worth the climb, and similar views can be found elsewhere. The views are very weather-dependent and you'll most likely be disappointed on a cloudy day. There are telescopes that you can pay to use, and a gift shop by the roadside that's run by the Indian Army. The money from sales helps support it.

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology and Do-Drul Chorten

Those interested in Buddhism and Tibetan culture will find the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology worth exploring. Established in 1958, its traditional Tibetan-style building houses a museum, and a library with one of the largest collections of Tibetan works in the world outside of Tibet.  The museum has a rare collection of statues, relics of monks, ritual objects (including a thöpa bowl made from a human skull and kangling human thighbone trumpet), art works, thangkas (painted, woven and embroidered scrolls), and ancient manuscripts in Sanskrit, Tibetan, Chinese and Lepcha. There's also a souvenir shop and coffee shop on the premises.

The Institute is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday to Saturday. It's closed on Sundays, the second Saturday of every month, and official government holidays. The entrance fee is 10 rupees.

The gleaming white Do-Drul Chorten is located not far from the Institute, on the same road. According to its fascinating history, this stupa was built by a powerful Tibetan lama who came to rid the site of evil spirits that were haunting it. It's surrounded by 108 prayer wheels, and at dusk hundreds of lamps are lit in a glass room beside it to guide the way for departed ancestors. 

Gangtok Ropeway

Close to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology and Do-Drul Chorten, board one of Damodar Ropeway's cable cars for a bird's eye view of Gangtok and the surrounding valley. It will take you high up the ridge to Tashiling Secretariat.

The Ropeway runs daily from 9.30 a.m. until 4.30 p.m. Tickets cost 110 rupees per person, and there's a discount for children.

Flower Exhibition Center

If you're visiting Gangtok during April to June or September until the end of November, after disembarking the cable car at Tashiling Secretariat stroll through Ridge Park and to the Flower Exhibition Center just below it. This greenhouse is bursting with high altitude blooms, especially orchids. Orchid bulbs and seeds are also available for purchase there. It's open from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and tickets cost 20 rupees each.

Deorali Orchid Sanctuary, near the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, is another place to see exotic varieties.

Or, stay on an orchid farm at one of India's best homestays near Gangtok, Hidden Forest Retreat.

MG Marg Market

From the Flower Exhibition Center, it's an easy walk down to MG Marg, Gangkok's atmospheric main street. The street is refreshingly free of litter, spitting, smoking, and vehicles -- as all are banned there.  It's a popular hangout place though, and can get very crowded and carnival-like in the evenings. Go there to shop, and to make travel arrangements with the many tour operators that have outlets there. The Golden Tips tea showroom (Punam Building, First Floor, MG Marg) is sought after for its boutique teas, including temi tea that's grown in Sikkim's only tea garden.

The shops along MG Marg usually open by 9 a.m. and close by 8 p.m.  In addition, many shops are closed on Tuesdays.

12 Top Things to Do in Sikkim, India

One Week in Mumbai: The Perfect Itinerary

Kalimpong, West Bengal: The Complete Guide

10 Mindblowing Buddhist Monasteries in India

One Week in Delhi: The Perfect Itinerary

18 Best Places to Visit in Kolkata to Discover the City

13 Exceptional Homestays in India

Essential Guide to Goa's Fontainhas Latin Quarter

The Top 19 Things to Do in Darjeeling, India

The Top 20 Things to Do in Ladakh, India

Washington National Cathedral (Tours & Visiting Tips)

Tsuglagkhang

The Ultimate Guide to the Taj Mahal in India

12 Top Himachal Pradesh Tourist Places to Visit

12 Top Things to Do in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand

20 Popular Temples and Spiritual Places in Bangalore

Sikkim Tour Packages

• 3 Nights / 4 Days
• 4 Nights / 5 Days
• 5 Nights / 6 Days
• 6 Nights / 7 Days
• 7 Nights / 8 Days
• 8 Nights / 9 Days
• 9 Nights / 10 Days
• 10 Nights / 11 Days
• Sikkim Honeymoon Packages

—Please choose an option— 3 Nights/4 Days 4 Nights/5 Days 5 Nights/6 Days 6 Nights/7 Days 7 Nights/8 Days 8 Nights/9 Days 9 Nights/10 Days 10 Nights/11 Days

39 Places to Visit in Gangtok

The word ‘Gangtok’ literally translates to ‘Top of the Hill’. It is the capital city of the north east Indian state of Sikkim. It is picturesquely located in the Himalayan range and serves as the gateway to the rest of the state. Gangtok is known for its stunning physical beauty, pleasant climate, remarkable architectural beauty of the famous monasteries and rich cultural heritage. Apart from these attractions, Gangtok is also known for adventure activities like trekking, paragliding, river rafting and other thrills. The city has a beautiful blend of traditional and modern elements, with temples, traditional Buddhist monasteries existing alongside modern cafes and shopping centres against a mesmerizing background of towering mountains, misty hills and lush green valleys, cascading waterfalls and streams along with the whiteness of snow.

Would you like to experience the wonders of Sikkim? Check out our exclusive Sikkim Tour Packages !

1. Breath-taking Nathula Pass

Visiting Nathula Pass is one of a kind of adventure at a height of 14000 ft. It can be comfortably marked as a must visit place while visiting East Sikkim. The height of Nathula Pass is astounding and thus might cause breathing problems, headache or nausea due to scarcity of oxygen. The weather is intensely cold and wrapping up oneself in warm woollens can give better comfort to the visitors. Reaching the Pass also involves climbing high and steep steps. One way to beat the fatigue while climbing is to have a relaxed approach and breathe deeply.

Nathula Pass is an immaculately beautiful destination and the approach road towards the pass is immensely picturesque. Some documentary formalities are required such as arranging permits to enter the Nathula Pass as it is very close to the Indo-China border and is heavily protected. Documents have to be submitted along with ID proofs a day in advance. These formalities can easily be arranged and completed by the local travel and tour operators or even the hotel where you plan to say.

The thrill peaks after you reach the top of the mountains. It’s an amazing view of snow-capped mountains with misty mountains and to witness the dedication of the Indian Army in protecting our country’s border in this freezing cold is a privilege. Chinese Flags along with their Chinese structure or gates can be seen at a distance of a few feet. Taking pictures is prohibited at the top. Also, just before the steep climb starts, there is a small hut where the visitors can take some rest. Also a small stall selling some delicious momo along with refreshments such as tea and coffee is also available.

Nathula Pass is unprecedented in its ethereal mountain beauty. It is also a prominent symbol of the historical, cultural and geopolitical ties between India and China. The view of the surrounding hills of some of the highest peaks of the Himalayan range is not to be found anywhere else in the world.

Also Read: Things to do in Gangtok & Best Time to visit Gangtok

2. Bustling MG Marg

MG Marg is a beautiful central point or a busy market place in Gangtok and is always buzzing with life and activities. This is one place you can never miss if you are spending a day in Gangtok and aim for local sightseeing. The colourful crowd, smiling, joyful faces will win your heart and you can take a leisurely stroll through the market for a stretch of 200 metres. The neat and clean as well as attractive shops loaded with an immense variety of goodies sold at reasonable prices will tempt you all along. In the evening, the whole MG Marg comes alive and throng with vibrations of a vacation mode of relaxed life. It is best to visit MG Marg in the evening. This is the most happening place in the city of Gangtok. Visit the restaurants and gorge at the city local delicacies and you shall never be able to compare the taste with any other part of India. It is the street to book your further day tours and trips in and around Sikkim with various local tour and travel operators working locally. The shops are full of attractive merchandise, and you won’t be able to resist shopping. You will see gift shops, fast food counters, woollen clothes being sold and exclusive showrooms too. Buy mementos and carry souvenirs to make the Gangtok trip a memorable one. Bargaining happens a lot at the local shops. In the evening when dusk falls, the hues of the sky along with the towering mountain ranges create a surreally beautiful ambience to be cherished. If you want to avoid the bully effervescent crowd, you can take a seat at one of the nice quiet corners and watch the camaraderie of nature and man, mingling and bustling and jostling with each other.

Suggested Read: How to Reach Gangtok

3. Sparkling Banjhakri Water Falls

A veritable balm to the senses. The quietude apart from the tinkering Banjhakri Waterfalls like a white sheet rushing down from among the rocks is a sight to watch. The lush greenery that surrounds is a solace to tired hearts and minds. The waterfall is more or less a half day tour and in case you want to indulge in sports and activities it will take the whole day. Try out the adventure activities such as ziplining, rope walking above water flow, the food stalls, restaurant, shops selling souvenirs, gardens and viewpoints. You can also try paragliding enroute to the fall.

This waterfall is a pristine location just a few hours away from the hustle and bustle of Gangtok Town. Banjhakri Falls serves as an ideal place for a picnic, or a leisurely stroll amidst nature. The pleasant park surrounding the falls is spread across an area of 2 acres of forestland. It is enchanting with a man-made lake, gazebos, paved pathways and a footbridge. The park is landscaped and beautified in accordance with the myth surrounding the Ban Jhakri, a shamanic deity, who is believed to be the god of the forest and founder of Nepali shamanism. The water source of the Banjhakri Falls are the freshwater springs located higher up in the mountains. The falls is the heart of beauty of the park and adds to the aesthetic appeal of this tourist attraction.

4. Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple

Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple is a famous tourist spot. This temple is located close to Nathula Pass and after visiting Nathula Pass, this spot has become an important stopover while returning from Nathula Pass. There is a beautiful and inspiring story attached to this favourite tourist attraction. The story says that Harbhajan Singh was an Indian Army Jawan, who was patrolling the border diligently carrying out his duty. One day he dies while in his duty of delivering supplies leading a herd of mules by getting drowned in one of the glaciers. Myths says he himself guided the soldiers and helped them to discover his body after three days of his death. It is believed by the local people that his room is still used, and his bed gets regularly soiled as if being used by someone even after his death. The local belief that Baba Harbhajan’s spirit still guards and protects the local people. The locals have built a temple around his living room with his artifacts for all believers and patriots to pay homage to this great soul.

5. Hanuman Tok

Hanuman Tok is a picturesque temple complex dedicated to Lord Hanuman. It is a sacred place for Hindus especially and is located in the upper reaches of Gangtok. The temple was established in 1952 and is managed by the Indian army. Get lost in the mountain flavour of this exquisite location. On a clear day the view of the towering peaks of Himalayan ranges will leave you wonderstruck. The temple premises and the adjoining garden is impeccably maintained by the army personnel. The local myth about this temple tells us that when Hanuman was flying to Dronagiri Mountain to procure the medicine Sanjeevani to save Lord Rama’s brother Lakshmana, he rested on the spot for some time where his temple now exists. The temple location offers enthralling views of Mt Kanchenjunga. It is a beautiful viewpoint and is bound to leave you awed by the beauty of nature that exists all around it. The building exactly opposite to the main Hanuman temple has the whole story of Hanuman Tok beautifully engraved and written and must be visited. The peaceful and quiet ambience is ideal for paying your obeisance to the deity and also for meditation or some soul searching.

6. Himalayan Zoological Park

The zoo is diligently manicured and showcases a wide variety of animals, birds, insects and reptiles. The museum attached to the zoo is a rare feast to the eyes of visitors of every age. The park contains some rare species of trees like Peepli, and the zoo showcases a wide and rare variety of birds and fishes, such as red panda, cheetah, etc. This zoo has very clear guidelines to the visitors. The guards display a genuine affection for the animals and tend the flora and fauna attentively. Enjoy the neatly lined shops selling gift items, native dress and a variety of souvenirs. Enjoy wandering across the well-maintained walkways and view the animals roaming freely in the open in protected areas. The park is absolutely stunning and offers sightings of Himalayan Leopard, Red Panda and Black Bear among others. A minimum of 3 hours is required to soak in the charm of this place.

7. Enchey Monastery

This is an ancient 200-year-old Buddhist monastery. It forms an important part of the local Buddhist tradition and culture and is one of the major religious sites in Gangtok. Enchey monastery is famous for its astounding and unique architecture and tranquillity and peace prevailing all around. It was established in 1909 and belongs to the Nyingma order of Buddhism. It offers stunning views of the Khangchendzonga range and overlooks Gangtok.

8. Tsomgo Lake

Tsomgo Lake is situated at an altitude of about 12,400 feet and is also known as Changu Lake. It is a stunning glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. It is a popular tourist destination and offers breath-taking views. The beautiful lake remains frozen in winters and is a source of water during summers from its melting snow. It is oval in shape and the catchment area is covered by Alpine forests. In the middle of May, the periphery of the lake gets covered by a wild rush of blooming rhododendrons. Joy rides on decorated yaks and mules and a visit to the small temple on the banks will complete your visit to the lake and make it memorable.

9. Rumtek Monastery

Located on a hilltop about 24 km from Gangtok, Rumtek Monastery is also known as Dharma Chakra Centre. It was inaugurated 1966 and is one of the most significant Buddhist monasteries in Sikkim. It is the seat-in-exile of Gyalwang Karmapa, the third highest Lama in Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is currently the largest in Sikkim and is home to a golden stupa possessing the relics of the 16th Karmapa.

10. Tashi Viewpoint

Tashi Viewpoint is an amazing viewpoint that offers enthralling views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range and its surrounding valleys. It is a popular spot for tourists to enjoy the scenic beauty of Gangtok. The viewpoint attained its name from Tashi Namgyal, who was the king of Sikkim between 1914 and 1963, and who built the viewpoint. It is a cheerful and bustling picnic place for the local people, as well as for Indian and foreign tourists. Enjoy the beauty of the surroundings with a hot brew from the cafeteria built in the location and get caught in a Himalayan trance of charming natural beauty.

11. Kanchenjunga Base Camp

Located at the height of almost 14,000ft above sea level in Dzongri, the Kanchenjunga Base camp is one of the best Sikkim tourist places and a haven for travel enthusiasts and adventurers. It is an exquisitely beautiful location on the Himalayas and is a bit difficult to access. The trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp requires a good level of fitness and experience in high-altitude trekking and the trekkers enjoy beautiful forests, remote villages and high mountain passes on their way to the base camp. Adequate acclimatization and gradual ascent are recommended to minimize the risk of altitude-related health issues for the trekkers. Trekkers are advised to follow a proper acclimatization schedule and get trained by experienced trekking guides before attempting it. This place offers the real thrill of watching the third highest mountain in the world up close.

12. Yumthang Valley of Flowers

The undulating meadows nestled in the lap of the Himalayas at an elevation of around 3,500 meters is a grazing ground of yaks by the banks of the wild Teesta river. It is a fairy land of hot springs surrounded by the towering mountain peaks. Yumthang valley is a major tourist attraction in Sikkim. The valley of flowers is sprawled at a height of more than 11,000 feet and is home to the famous and exquisite Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary. During the months from February to mid-June, the valley comes to life with countless flowers blooming together and transforming this valley to a rainbow spread of vivid hues. The Rhododendrons blooming in full glory gives the name to the valley. When the Losar festival is celebrated by the locals in late February to March, the festivities enthuse a rare charm to the valley. It is a coveted location for its stunning natural beauty and abundance of alpine flowers, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

13. Gurudongmar Lake

Set at an altitude of 17,800 ft, Gurudongmar Lake is one of the highest lakes in India. It is scenic and peaceful, surrounded by snow-covered mountains. This lake is considered sacred by the Hindus, Buddhists and Sikhs. This scintillating lake remains frozen during the winter season, and during summers the lake water reflects the sky and clouds like a mirror. The lake is fed by the Gurudongmar glacier.

14. Goechala

Goechala is located at a height of about 4,940 metres. The high mountain pass of Goechala is a peaceful and serene location. The highest mountain ranges of the Himalayas surround it and offer breath-taking views of snow-capped peaks. It is a favourite destination for all the trekkers and hikers visiting Sikkim. The beautiful view of Mt. Kanchenjunga’s southeast slopes keeps visitors enthralled. The view from the pass is so unique and appealing that it was featured on the back of the 100 Rupee note of India. Goechala is the functional base of the summiting Kanchenjunga. The natural beauty of this place is ethereal and unadulterated and hence is a must visit and to be included in Gangtok itinerary.

15. Singalila

The Singalila Ridge trek is a trek of moderate intensity and starts at an elevation of 2,134 meters and goes up to 3,636 meters. After reaching the top of the mountain, one can enjoy some serene sights of the magnificent Mount Everest, enthralling Kanchenjunga peak, along with Makalu and Lhotse Peak. The trek starts from Darjeeling and approaches Tonglu via Maneybhanjang and then passes through Gairibas and crosses the meandering trails of Kalapokhri and also involves a steep climb that passes through the famous Sandakphu peak. This peak is the highest of the Singalila range that rests at a height of 3,636 meters. The last phase is a downhill trek to Rimbik.

16. Green Lake

Green Lake is a jade-green fantastical water body that is surrounded by snow-covered glaciers and mountain peaks. It is a hidden jewel away from the prying eyes of commercialization and its unexplored and pristine beauty is soulful. The lake also serves as a base to those willing to climb Mount Kanchenjunga and Zemu glacier. The trek to Green lake begins from Thangu Village and crosses the magnificent Kanchenjunga National Park. The stunning beauty of the confluence of the Zemu Chu and Lachen Chu, two very significant rivers of the region, is eye-catching. You have to travel to Lachen from Gangtok to attempt this Green Lake trek. This region is also inhabited by the rare Red Panda and if you are lucky, you can have a glimpse of it somewhere during your trek.

17. Lachung (103 Km from Gangtok)

Lachung is a small sleep town with a unique charm and is located at an elevation of 9,610 ft. in North Sikkim. The Lachung Monastery surrounded by apple orchards is a stunningly beautiful tourist attraction. The village is situated close to the Indo-Tibetan border. The Yumthang Valley’s major tourist attraction, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is located just 26 km from the town, which is about a one-hour journey. The Yumthang Valley is also known for its mesmerizing waterfalls, pine forests and relaxing and healing hot springs.

Also Read: Places to visit in Lachung & Things to do in Lachung

Suggested Read: How to Reach Lachung & Best Time to visit Lachung

18. Pelling

Pelling is the second most popular town after the capital city of Gangtok in Sikkim. Tourism is the most important industry here in the locality. Pelling is located at the altitude of 2000 meters, where the temperature ranges from 25 degrees Celsius to 1 degree Celsius in winters. Summer months are pleasant, and the time is perfect for tourists. Pelling is a quiet and charming hill town sited at a height of 6800 ft with thick forest that are home to many indigenous wild animal species This ridge lying between the two old Buddhist monasteries of Pemayangtse and Sangacholing gradually over the years developed into the quaint town of Pelling. Today, Pelling is a very popular tourist destination in Sikkim and is widely known for its natural beauty and the panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of Kanchenjunga.

Also Read: Places to visit in Pelling & Things to do in Pelling

Suggested Read: How to Reach Pelling & Best Time to visit Pelling

Zuluk is located at a height of 10,000 feet and is surrounded by the majestic lower Himalayan mountains. It is an infinitesimally picturesque small hamlet that gives a new meaning to natural beauty. Situated close to the Indo-Tibetan border, Zuluk has a historical significance as it is also a part of the major and historic Silk Route of ancient times. The summers in Zuluk are for enjoying the beauty of blooming rhododendrons, clear skies and panoramic mountain views.

20. Ravangla

Ravangla is a lesser-known quaint hilly village amidst the high mountains of Eastern Himalayas in South Sikkim. Located at an elevation of around 8000 feet it has a breath-taking landscape beauty to offer to its visitors. The hues of the third highest peak of Kanchenjunga along with its sister peaks of Kabru, Pandim and Siniolchu will mesmerise you. Ravangla is known for the incredible tourist destinations of Buddha Park or Tathagata Tsal, Ralong Monastery, Temi Tea Garden, Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary and Rayong Sunrise Viewpoint.

Also Read: Places to visit in Ravangla & Things to do in Ravangla

Suggested Read: Best Time to Visit Ravangla & How to Reach Ravangla

Yuksom is a small and picturesque historical town in the West Sikkim district and is also known as the “getaway to Kanchenjunga.” Yuksom has a long list of trending tourist spots in and around and makes for a must-visit tourist destination while on a Sikkim Gangtok tour. Some of the coveted and popular highlights are Tashiding Monastery , Coronation Throne, Dubdi Monastery, Complex of Tashi Teenka, Kartok monastery and Khecheopalri Lake to be included among the most interesting heritage places to visit in Yuksom. Yuksom is an ideal place to pursue trekking and hiking thrills too.

Also Read: Places to visit in Yuksom & Things to do in Yuksom

Suggested Read: How to Reach Yuksom & Best Time to visit Yuksom

22. Teesta River

Teesta is the biggest river in the state of Sikkim and separates Sikkim from West Bengal. Teesta flows 309 km before it meets the mighty Brahmaputra. Before meeting, it passes through the cities of Rangpo, Jalpaiguri and Kalimpong, where this river is a major source of living. Teesta River attracts a lot of attention for its pristine beauty, scenic landscapes and the adventurous activities that it caters to, such as river rafting, kayaking and fishing. The lush greenery, sprawling valleys and rocky, steep, towering mountain ranges offer picturesque views. Teesta Valley is known for its tea plantations and contributes significantly to the tea industry. This magnificent river offers a peaceful retreat to the tourists who visit Gangtok. Tarkhola, Makha and Sirwani are the common spots from where Teesta can be accessed.

23. Yume Samdong

Yumesamdong is mostly famous for its Zero Point and is located at a distance of 15 km from Yumthang. Located at an altitude of 4,724 metres, Yume Samdong is a remote and one of the last in line of civilizations, very close to the Indo-Tibet border. The snow-capped mountains and widespread green valleys form a sight against the azure skies and create a perfectly orchestrated bonding between the valleys and the mountains. Yumesamdong presents a colourful and unique landscape, dotted with colourful prayer flags fluttering in the wind, that add to the charm of the place. It is blessed with some rare and beautiful flora and fauna that includes rare Himalayan species like the Brahmini ducks and the elusive Red Panda.

24. Tso Lhamo Lake

The picturesque Tso Lhamo Lake, also known as Cholamu Lake, is located at a stupendous height of 5,330 metres or 17,490 feet and is known to be one of the highest lakes in the world. It has quite extreme and harsh weather conditions most part of the year with sub-zero temperatures. Accessibility to Tso Lhamo Lake making is challenging for tourists. It is an important lake from the geographical point of view as it is fed by waters from Zemu glacier, Kangtse glacier or Pauhunri glacier, and is the vital source of the Teesta River, on which the livelihood and tourism of Sikkim depends a lot. Located in Mangan district, it is approximately 4 km southwest of the international border with China. The other names are Chho Lhamo, Cholamu Lake or Cholamoo Lake.

Nestled atop a staggering 3,962 m, the spellbinding Thangu Valley is shrouded under a great carpet of snow almost throughout the year. May and June see the entire places dotted with lush alpine flora. Thangu is also a base for the famous Chopta valley and Muguthang treks.

26. Khangchendzonga National Park

Spread across the western gradients of Mount Kanchenjunga, the Khangchendzonga National Park is also known as Kanchenjunga Biosphere Reserve. It has a series of natural wonders along the trekking trails that pleasantly surprise the trekkers and urge them to complete the journey till the destination with a hope of soaking in the pristine beauty that surrounds the region. The trails pass through the picturesque and peaceful lands of Yuksom, Dzongri, the vast Zemu Glacier, Goechala, Rathang, Bakim, Tshoka and many more.

27. Zemu Glacier

Zemu Glacier is the largest glacier of eastern Himalayas and serves as a strategic base for climbing the world’s third highest mountain, Kanchenjunga. It is a 26 km long glacier that forms a major water source for the beautiful Teesta River. The journey to the glacier starts from Gangtok, till you reach Lachen in North Sikkim by road and then head towards Jakthang on foot and the road is blessed with nature’s bounties such as gushing waterfalls, sparkling rivulets, and charming panoramas creating a picturesque backdrop of an enjoyable trek. The thick forest cover and amazing flora and fauna of the region will keep you in perpetual awe. This glacier forming the foot of the third highest peak of Mount Kanchenjunga should be included in the bucket list of Gangtok itinerary.

28. Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden

Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden is located near the Rumtek monastery offering a charming view of the lush green mountain slopes, orchids and rhododendrons to steal the hearts of all nature lovers. Get a chance to see the spectacular exotic Himalayan flower species in this vast Botanical garden situated on the top of a hill. It occupies a large portion of Yumthang Valley. Spend some You will find a large playground for kids, a small yet pretty lake edged with well-manicured garden and a variety of flowers. Soak in the beauty of the fiddlehead ferns, silver firs and looming oaks.

29. Phodong Monastery

The Phodong Monastery is one of the six premier monasteries of Sikkim housing 260 monks of the Kagyu lineage and is one of the three monasteries of the Kagyu sect in the state. It was established in the early 18th century by Chogyal Gyurmed Namgyal, the then ruler of Sikkim, and is a major tourist attraction of Sikkim. The walls of the monastery are adorned with beautiful murals, paintings, and frescos the beauty of which leaves the visitors in awe.

30. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology was founded by the 14th Dalai Lama in the year 1958, as a centre for promoting religion, history, language, art and culture practiced in Tibet and showcase the uniqueness and beauty of it. It is located at a distance of 2 km from Gangtok City Centre in Deorali, comprising a large museum and a resourceful library containing a commendable collection of reference and study material on the subject of Tibet and Himalayas. The first floor exhibits a precious and historic collection of coins, thangkas, valuable statues and ancient manuscript written in various languages like Chinese, Sanskrit, Tibetan and other artifacts. The first floor contains the largest collection of Tibetan documents. The NIT library has published the Bulletin of Tibetology since 1964 and numerous other books over the past years. It also serves to document the social history of Sikkim’s approximated 60 monasteries and record this on a computer.

31. Do Drul Chorten

Located close to the Research Institute of Tibetology, Do Drul Chorten is a massive stupa that was built by Trulshik Rinpoche, who was the head of the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism and the 14th Dalai Lama. The structure is unique and topped by golden dome and was established in 1946. It has a total of 108 prayer wheels and several small stupas around.

32. Ganesh Tok

Ganesh Tok is located on top of a hill at a height of 6500 ft. close to Tashi Point. It has small temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha and offers some surreal views of the snow-capped peaks of Himalayas, especially the Kanchenjunga Peak. You can enjoy the panoramic view from the lounge provided with a balcony and fitted with glass panels for unhindered viewing. The inner shrine can be approached by climbing a flight of stairs and then crawling through a narrow passage to worship the idol of Lord Ganesha.

33. Bakthang Waterfall

A cascading and misty waterfall is a symbol of Himalayan beauty, preserved nature and serenity. It is approximately half an hour’s drive away from Gangtok and is a photographers’ heaven. Nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts frequent this tourist destination of Gangtok. The waterfall takes birth from the main water source of Ratey Chu, and gushes down in a melodious symphony. It should be included in your Gangtok itinerary for a relaxed, peaceful and pleasant visit.

34. Ridge Park

A scenic and very well-maintained park that is situated on the ridge above the Gangtok town offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the city. It is bordered by the White Hall and a beautiful Pagoda top and exhibits a wild array of plants, including exotic looking shrubs and also hosts an annual Orchid show. The vibrant colours of the Ridge park and the charming beauty around will make you feel refreshed and relaxed. It is a heaven for nature lovers and forms a must-see Sikkim tourist place.

35. Casino Mahjong

A place to thrill and chill, Casino Mahjong is full of excitement and entertainment. It is a posh casino and is a part of the Mayfair Hotels and Resorts in Sikkim. You can enjoy the chic ambience and the innumerable casino games such as Roulette, Baccarat, Texas Hold’em Poker, Blackjack, Flush and classic slot machines. The crowd is boisterous and cheerful and is very popular among crowd of all ages.

36. Pemayangtse Monastery

Pemayangtse Monastery is at a distance of about 110 km west of Gangtok, and just about 2 km from Pelling. The three-storied structure, which is yellow in colour, lies quietly amid the rich greenery of the surrounding Himalayan ranges. Pemayangtse Monastery was founded by Lama Lhatsun Chempo in 1705 and the name can be translated as ‘sublime lotus’. The building houses ancient paintings, sculptures, carvings and an interesting collection of Tibetan artifacts and is one of the most significant Nyingmapa monasteries. The best time to visit this monastery is during the ongoing Cham festival, that is held on the 28th and 29th day of the 12th month of Tibetan Calendar.

37. Khecheopalri Lake

The Khecheopalri lake, alternatively known as Kha-Chot-Palri, and enjoys a popular status in the mythology and among the folklores of the region. It is also known as the ‘wish fulfilling lake’ and in nicknamed Sho Dzo Sho, which literally translates to “Oh Lady, Sit Here”. The quiet village of Khecheopalri, is located as an astounding height of 1,700 metres and is considered a sacred site by Buddhists and Hindus. This wish-fulfilling lake is a coveted destination for many pilgrims and is also very famous among tourists. The greenery that surrounds the lake is amazing and the lake waters are absolutely sparking and crystal clear. Not a leaf can be seen afloat as it is believed locally that birds pick them up the moment they fall on the waters.

38. Singshore Bridge

Enjoy nature at its best from a height of more than 100 metres, while you walk the 240 metres long Singshore Bridge. Marked as the highest bridge in Sikkim, and second highest in Asia, the bridge is located just 5 km away from Pelling. It is also located close to the quaint Uttarey Village and is one of the oldest bridges in Sikkim. Connecting two mesmerizing hills, you will feel the thrill of being suspended high up in the air and feel the cool breeze along with a stunning natural beauty all around. This bridge is more appealing for the adventurous souls and one can absorb the magic of verdant greenery with absolute awe on this bridge.

39. Rabdentse Ruins

The ruins of Rabdentse in Pelling breathes the aroma of lost romance, the prosperity and royalty of ancient heritage and unfold the history of Sikkim. This is an ancient Sikkim tourist place and is especially favourite among those who are interested in ancient history and archaeology. This formerly glorious building site was razed to the ground by the Nepalese invasion in the 18th century. The trail from the Pemayangtse Monastery to the ruins passes through beautiful alpine forests along a 2-km walkway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top attractions for a trip in gangtok.

The top attractions to visit in and around Gangtok would be Nathula Pass, MG Marg, Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple, Banjhakri Falls and Hanuman Tok.

What is Gangtok most known or famous for?

Gangtok is peaceful and offers an amazing view of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain peak in the world. Gangtok enjoys an abundance of natural beauty and has various natural attractions such as the Tsomgo Lake, Ban Jhakri falls, Tashi viewpoint and some precious hidden jewels to offer you a brilliant respite from your busy life and get lost in the folds of nature.

How many days are sufficient for Gangtok?

Gangtok has a rich mix of natural beauty and man-made structures such as Mount Kanchenjunga and waterfalls, hot springs and cascading streams, monasteries to suspended bridges. It has ample opportunities for exciting adventures and would require at least 3-4 days of tour and travel to explore the highlights or prime attractions. An extended tour is recommended for covering the various flavours of Gangtok beauty.

Is Pelling better or Gangtok?

Gangtok has better cheerful vibes and is comparatively more frequented as a destination. It is the centre for all hustle and bustle being the state capital. It offers more activities and excitement than Pelling, but Pelling has its own unparalleled and spectacular beauty that will make any nature lover’s heart sing and dance.

Is Gangtok a hill station?

Gangtok is a unique and richly beautiful hill station offering a spectacular view of grand Mount Kanchenjunga, which can be seen from almost every corner. Its Buddhist monasteries, pristine lakes, sparkling waterfalls, cascading streams and bustling market will make for a memorable mountain retreat.

How far is Baba Mandir from Gangtok?

Baba Mandir is around 56 km away from Gangtok that is dedicated to Baba Harbhajan Singh. He was a soldier and is now honoured as a hero. This temple is surrounded by stunning natural beauty. You can also club Nathula Pass and Tsomgo Lake with Baba Mandir on the same day trip. Baba mandir is about 16.3 km from the temple, which takes around 30 minutes by car.

How far is Gangtok from Darjeeling?

The distance Between Gangtok and Darjeeling by road is approximately 100 km.

Is there a breathing problem in Gangtok?

The visitors won’t be having breathing problems within the city but might face issues at 0 point in Gangtok. Very small children or aged people might suffer from breathing issues.

Is there a mall road in Gangtok?

Gangtok’s Mall Road is the heart of the city which comes alive in the evening. The tourists throng the mall road, for sipping a cup of tea or coffee at a trendy bakery, browse through the books at a pop-up store, watch the sunset across the Himalayas, spend a quiet time on one of the benches put in a corner. Gangtok’s Mall Road has a modern look and is incredibly well planned and very well maintained.

Which is the nearest place from Gangtok to see snow?

Nathula Pass, at a staggering height of 4,310 m above the sea level and a distance of 60 km from Gangtok, is the best option for experiencing snowfall in Sikkim.

On which day Gangtok is closed?

The market places in Gangtok are closed on Tuesdays.

What is the easiest way to reach Gangtok?

The easiest way to reach Gangtok is by air. For flying to Gangtok, the best option is to land at the Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri, West Bengal. From there, Gangtok is about 125 km away by road, which takes about four hours to cover.

Do we need to pack sweaters for the Gangtok trip?

During daytime in summers, usual cotton clothing like jeans and shorts would feel comfortable in Gangtok. Nights are however colder, and you are advised to carry shawls, jackets or light woollens. For visiting higher altitudes like Nathula Pass and Zero Point, heavy woollens are necessary. Also in autumn and winter season, heavy woollens are needed.

Which months snow in Gangtok?

The best time to enjoy snowfall in Gangtok is between the months December and February. Snowfall is however not very common in Gangtok.

What is the name of the biggest market in Gangtok?

Lal Bazaar, established in 1956, is one of the oldest and best markets in Gangtok. The countless shops here sell several items, including souvenirs, Tibetan Alpine Cheese, incense sticks, Sikkimese cups, teapots and more.

Which is the Zero Point in Gangtok?

Zero Point is located at a height of 15,300 feet. Also known as Yumesamdong, it is famous for the gorgeousness of its landscape. It is called Zero Point, since it is here that the road comes to an end amidst remoteness and mountains.

Can we travel at night in Gangtok? Is Gangtok safe at night?

The stunning city of Gangtok is visited by a lot of travellers every year from all across India and even across the world. Gangtok is completely safe for all during night and day, and you can enjoy nightlife here without worrying about your safety.

Does snowfall happen in Gangtok?

Winter begins from October and continues till March but the snowfall time in Gangtok, if at all it snows, is the month of February.

Which mountain pass is near Gangtok?

Nathu La is situated close to Gangtok. It is one of the three frequently used passes between Sikkim and the Chumbi Valley. The other two passes are Cho La and Jelep La.

Can we drive our own car in Gangtok?

You can drive your own car in Sikkim without any hassles. Skills for hill driving is a basic necessity. Mountainous winding roads can be enjoyed with exquisite natural beauty all around. You should however get your passes arranged for areas where permit is required. You can get permits from various locations such as Gangtok, Rongli, Mangan, etc.

In which month does it snow in Gangtok?

The best time to enjoy snowfall is between December and February. The probability of snow is most in the month of February. But Gangtok sees snow quite rarely, so you have to be lucky. Enjoy snowfall in Nathula Pass and Zero Point located not very far away from Gangtok.

Which famous mountain peak is visible from Gangtok?

The third highest mountain peak in the world, Kanchenjunga, can be seen beautifully from Gangtok. It forms one of the most popular viewpoints, especially for watching the sunrise and sunset. Kanchenjunga can be seen from many other high-altitude locations of Sikkim apart from Gangtok.

Is alcohol allowed in Gangtok?

Drinking laws in Gangtok are as usual and prevalent in the rest of the country. Drinking and smoking in Gangtok is prohibited for people under the age of 21. While in Gangtok you should taste a bottle of chhang, the local brew.

How far is Gangtok from the Tibet border?

The distance between Gangtok, the capital city of the Indian state of Sikkim, and the India-China border at the closest point is approximately 54 km through the Nathu La Pass.

Categories?

Get Instant Support

Trip Duration 3 Nights/4 Days 4 Nights/5 Days 5 Nights/6 Days 6 Nights/7 Days 7Nights/8 Days 8 Nights/9 Days 9 Nights/10 Days 10 Nights11 Days 11 Nights/12 Days

Number of People 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10

Why Choose Sikkim Tourism?

Experienced, happy customers, local offices, get a question.

Do not hesitage to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.

+91-9810066496 [email protected]

Popular Sikkim Tour Packages

Kalimpong Gangtok Pelling Darjeeling Tour Package

Send Enquiry

Gangtok Zuluk with North Sikkim Tour Package

Gangtok with Bhutan Tour Package

Gangtok Lachung Lachen Darjeeling Tour Package

Gangtok Family Tour Package

Gangtok Darjeeling Family Tour Package

Gangtok Darjeeling Dooars Tour

Discover Sikkim Tour Package

Darjeeling Pelling Gangtok Lachung Tour Package

Kalimpong Gangtok Lachung Pelling Darjeeling Tour Package

Kalimpong Darjeeling Gangtok Lachen Lachung Tour Package

Gangtok Lachung Pelling Tour Package

Gangtok Lachen Lachung Pelling Tour Package

Gems of Northeast India Gangtok Kalimpong Darjeeling Tour Package

Gangtok Tour Package

Gangtok Pelling Tour Package

Gangtok Pelling Darjeeling Tour Package

Gangtok North Sikkim Tour Package

Gangtok Lachung Tour Package

Gangtok Lachung Pelling Darjeeling Tour Package

Gangtok Lachen Lachung Tour Package

Gangtok Darjeeling Tour Package

Extended Gangtok Pelling Darjeeling Tour Package

Extended Gangtok and Pelling Tour Package

Book Delightful Gangtok and Darjeeling – Sikkim Tour Package

Darjeeling Pelling Gangtok – Sikkim Tour Package

Darjeeling Kalimpong Gangtok- Sikkim Tour Package

Gangtok, Lachung, Pelling, Darjeeling Tour Package

Darjeeling Gangtok Sikkim Tour Package

The 13 Most Popular Places to Visit in Gangtok

• Updated on December 26, 2022
• North East , Sikkim

Gangtok provides a wide range of adventures for every type of tourist, from a thrilling yak ride around the stunning Tsomgo Lake to biking on Nathu La, the second-highest mountain pass in the world. Let the adventure be revealed when Gangtok lets you create your own fairytale, and transports you to areas that are bursting with natural beauty and stunning perspectives.

In This Article:

List of 13 Incredible Places to Visit in Gangtok:

The list of leading places to visit in Gangtok is so large that finalizing one is a hard task. It could still be helpful to keep your list ready. The best places to visit in Gangtok are:

1. The Monastery Rumtek

One of the most famous places to visit in Gangtok is truly the Magnificent Rumtek Monastery, Gangtok. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Gangtok . The monastery is owned by the Kagyu sect of Buddhists who in the 12th century started living in Tibet.

It is one of Sikkim’s most important and splendid monasteries. The style and structure of Tsurphu, Tibet are similar to the original. In the Dharma Chakra Centre near Gangtok is the Rumtek Monastery. Make your trip to the magnificent Gangtok stopping here and bringing some pleasant memories back.

Read More: 10 Best Places to visit in Sikkim

2. Nathula Pass

Located at 14,450 ft, Nathula is a prime crossing corridor between India and Tibet. The Nathula Pass is the highest-reaching road. It is one of the most important tourist sites in Gangtok and passes by the serene Tsomgo Lake.

It has one of the world’s highest vehicle roads which is a popular destination for adventure. The height of the Nathula Pass is 4310 m. There is limited access to the area and permission to visit Nathula is necessary from the Zonal Office. You will be surprised at this place’s beauty. Read More: The Ultimate Guide To Trip To Nathula Pass, Sikkim

3. MG Marg Gangtok

MG Marg is the center of activity in Gangtok It’s included in your travel itinerary by default! If you’ve got more than a few hours take a trip to this car-free zone to discover and experience the culture living in Gangtok.

This bustling market has many shops that are in operation for years, as well as a variety of eateries, cafes, and souvenir shops. You should try the Hungry Heads for yummy cold coffee and sandwiches.

• 4 Days Gangtok Travel Itinerary
• 7 Days Darjeeling Gangtok Package
• Gangtok Kalimpong Darjeeling 6 Days Tour
• Gangtok Itinerary from Kolkata
• 7 Days Darjeeling & Gangtok Trip
• 4 Days Darjeeling Trip Package

4. Seven Sisters Waterfalls, Gangtok

As per nature, Seven Sisters Waterfalls is an impressive set of seven waterfalls that flow across a rock. The attraction is located along the Gangtok- Lachung highway, which is 32 km away from the town’s main entrance. The area is surrounded by lush vegetation and the sight of the milky-white waterfalls gushing over lush landscapes and crashing against the rock below is awe-inspiring!

The waterfall appears stunning both during and after the monsoon season when it’s in the full swing. The tourist sheds and ropeway that are near the waterfalls make it easy to take in admiring the stunning waterfall from a distance. Make sure to have your camera ready to take some photos of nature.

5. Tsomgo Lake

A Glacial Beauty, Tsomgo Lake is one of the most beautiful places in the Sikkim Mountains and is located off Gangtok Nathu la Highway at an elevation of 12,400 feet. The lake’s turquoise waters, the magical setting, and the quietness of the site are hypnotic.

One of the only places to visit in Gangtok can miss Tsomgo Lake. You will be surprised by the hypnotic beauty of the place and the hospitality of the Gangtok residents.

Read More: 10 Best Places To Visit In North East India

6. Hanuman Tok

Hanuman Tonk is one of Gangtok’s calmest places to see. Situated at an elevation of 7500 ft this ancient Hanuman Temple gives you the best view of Gangtok of Khangchendzonga. The place has always attracted tourists for football, not spirituality, but for peace.

You should spend some time visiting this place during the day and sipping under the sun and the spiritual vibes of this place can be experienced. Hanuman Tok isn’t like any other place in Gangtok. You will have the impression that you have gone into a Zen-like state.

7. Bio-Reserve Khangchendzonga

The great Gangtok natural habitat boasts a rich flora and fauna of the most natural, endangered, and nearly extinct species, one of the finest Gangtok tourist destinations. Spread across an area of around 850 sq kilometers, this Biosphere Reserve, with musk deer, snow leopards, and Himalayan Thar, is one of the few high-altitude reserves in India.

The ticket is priced nominally so that with your friends and family you can have a ball of time. Don’t forget to take a lot of pictures of the beauty of this location with your camera.

Read More: Best Places To Visit In North East India in June

Namchi means the top of the sky for a picturesque view. It has a picturesque view of the range Khangchendzonga and the Rangit valley, one of those tourist places to see in Gangtok. One of Namchi’s famous sites is the 135-feet high Guru Padmasambhava statue in the Samdruptse valley in Namchi.

The city of Gangtok is known as the best place to see. Ensure, Namchi is part of your route. We promise that in this magnificent place you will not be disappointed and have a great time.

Also Read:  20 Best Places to Visit in Assam

9. Khangchendzonga

The third highest peak in the world is Khangchendzonga. It is the third-highest peak in the world for those of you who don’t know. This mountain was once considered the highest mountain in the world before Mt. Everest was recalculated and became one of Gangtok Darjeeling’s most important sites to visit.

Tashi Viewpoint is one of the best places to view. So, go with your cameras to this place and make memories you can keep for a lifetime. Before sunrise/sunset, make sure you reach this place to capture the full splendor of the sky. Read More: Top 100 Places to Visit in India

• 08 Days North East India Trip
• 7 Days North East India Itinerary
• 6 Days North East Tour from Assam
• 3 Nights 4 Days North East Tour
• 5 Nights Tripura Tour Itinerary
• 3 Nights 4 Days Meghalaya Tour
• 8 Days Assam + Arunachal Tour
• 5 Days Kaziranga Guwahati Tour
• 4 Days Shillong Cherrapunji Dawki Mawlynnong Tour

10. Drul Chorten Stupa

If you love peace, spend a while in one of the most serene tourist places of Gangtok, Drul Chorten Stupa. Drul Chorten Stupa is one of Gangtok’s most popular places and is a stupa surrounded by 108 prayer rollers.

Those of you who are looking for serenity should visit the place because the place isn’t crowded. In a calm atmosphere, you can relax and meditate. You will turn your day around with the spiritual vibration that you receive from this place. This place with friends and family is highly recommended to visit.

11. The Buddhist Monastery

The monastery is a famous tourist attraction in Sikkim and its walls, platforms, and plates are extravagantly ornately decorated with pictures and pictures of the Buddha, Bodhisattva, and other Tantric Buddhism idols. All who take the path to spirituality and Buddhism should visit the monastery without any doubt.

It is one of Gangtok’s top spots to visit. The glamorous walls of this popular attraction are must-see and you will not want to leave here after having spent two solid hours. The aura that surrounds this site is magical and gives visitors a long-lasting impression.

12. Tashi Viewpoint, Gangtok

If you’re seeking to enjoy a relaxing time in peaceful and peaceful surroundings The Tashi Viewpoint is a perfect choice. The fresh air, the picturesque atmosphere, and stunning views of the mountains surrounding make this spot a favorite for nature lovers and picnickers.

At Tashi Viewpoint, you can get stunning panoramic views over Mount Kanchenjunga, Mount Siniolchu, and also some of the most significant monasteries located in Gangtok including Phodong or Labrang. Shutterbugs should visit the viewpoint before dawn and later in the evening to capture stunning sunrise and sunset shots.

13. Phodong Monastery, Gangtok

It is located at an elevation of 1372 meters (4500 feet), Phodong Monastery is one of the most important six monasteries located in Sikkim. It was constructed around 1740 AD and is a must-visit when you want to feel the spirituality of Sikkim.

The exterior of the monastery is vibrant that are adorned with intricate architectural details, while the interiors are embellished with gorgeous paintings and murals. The hills and valleys surrounding the monastery provide a sense of tranquility and tranquility to the surroundings and make it an ideal spot to relax and unwind in the beauty of nature.

Best Time to Go to Gangtok:

The ideal season to go to Gangtok is from September through June. Tourists of all sorts visit Gangtok in these months. Since it is the capital city of Sikkim, Gangtok has always been a major draw for tourists. It is also among the most visited destinations to visit across the state. There are numerous beautiful and relaxing spots in Gangtok.

Gangtok Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit gangtok.

The ideal time to go to Gangtok lies between April and June or Mid July in the summer months.

How to reach Gangtok by train?

There's no rail road station at Gangtok therefore you'll be required to get to New Jalpaiguri Junction (122 km) in Siliguri via train. Then take a road trip to Gangtok via road.

How to reach Gangtok via Air?

If you are in Gangtok to travel via air. You can fly from Bagdogra Airport (128 km) and then take a taxi ride to Gangtok. The journey by road can take between 4 to 5 hours.

Also, read more information in Sikkim:

• Top 8 Destinations to Enjoy Nightlife in Gangtok
• Gangtok 10 Famous Luxury Hotels & Resorts
• 11 Popular Destinations to Sikkim See in May 2023
• Top 7 Honeymoon Places in Sikkim
• Sikkim’s 6 Most Famous Offbeat Destinations
• Top 5 Famous Trekking Destinations in Sikkim
• Sikkim 5 Popular Historical Places to See
• 10 Most Beautiful Hill Stations in Sikkim

Tusk Travel Team

Tusk Travel is dedicated to delivering precise, genuine, and reliable travel guides through a dynamic team of writers, editors, and destination experts. We aim to provide comprehensive information in its simplest form, sharing insights to influence perspectives nationwide.

Related Posts

10 Best Places to Visit in Lachen

Sikkim Pakyong Airport Set to Resume Flight Operations on March 31

10 Best Places to Visit in Lachung | Things to Do

10 Famous Historical Places in Tripura: A Journey Through Time

Top 10 Historical Sites to Explore in Northeast India

Sikkim has been Named as India Top Pick for Coolest Places to Visit In 2024

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Name  *

Email  *

Add Comment  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Post Comment

PLACES TO VISIT IN GANGTOK – A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Northeast India , Sikkim

Last Updated on: Aug 6, 2022  

About this blog: Gangtok is perhaps one of the most beautiful hill stations of India. This small Himalayan town has a myriad of attractions in and around. Once you are here, you will feel that you are in a different place altogether. Neat and clean, the city is as peaceful as you want it to be and as beautiful as your heart wants to see. The capital of Sikkim with all its beauty and charm will make you fall in love with it. We have visited Gangtok a number of times and in this blog, we will share with you our experience and expertise on Gangtok. Read this comprehensive Gangtok Travel Guide to know about the places to visit in Gangtok, how to reach, where to stay and other relevant details.

Gangtok, the heartland of the mystical Sikkim is definitely one of our favourite destinations in northeast India. Perched at an altitude of 5410 feet in the ridges of Eastern Himalayas, Gangtok is quite a beautiful travel destination in Sikkim . . The name Gangtok literally means the ‘ Top of the Ridge ‘. The city spreads over a forested mountain that faces the snow-clad Kanchenjunga peaks. There are many vantage points in and around Gangtok from where you can get magnificent views of Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan ranges. The city definitely offers a great sight to all its visitors.

So once you are at the city, there are a lot of places to visit in Gangtok and loads of things that will simply make you fall in love with this hilly capital of Sikkim. We have collated the best of them for your next trip to Gangtok.

About Gangtok, the Capital of Sikkim

Gangtok was not always the capital city of Sikkim. When the Namgyal dynasty established their rule in Sikkim in 1642, Yuksom was declared the capital of the kingdom of Sikkim. Quite obviously, Sikkim was then a free kingdom ruled by monarchy. Later, Rabdentse was declared the capital from 1670 to 1814 and then Tumlong was the capital between 1814 and 1894. Finally, King Thutob Namgyal transferred the capital of Sikkim to Gangtok in 1894 and it became the centre of royal administration in the kingdom of Sikkim.

Much later in 1975, Sikkim joined India as its 22nd state and Gangtok became the capital of Sikkim. While Lepchas are the original inhabitants of the city, Bhutias and Nepalis also form a large part of the population. Gangtok has always remained a peaceful place having an eclectic mix of cultures and ethnicity. 

How to reach Gangtok?

Like Darjeeling, you can reach Gangtok from Bagdogra, Siliguri or NJP. New Jalpaiguri or NJP is the nearest railhead. Gangtok is located about 125 km from NJP and Bagdogra Airport and it takes about 4 to 5 hours to reach there.

Recently, Sikkim has opened its own airport at Pakyong. The town is located about 22 km south of Gangtok. Pakyong Airport, located at an altitude of 4646 feet is one of the highest airports in India. However, Pakyong airport is not fully operational and you will get flights only from Kolkata and New Delhi to Pakyong. Private taxis are available from Pakyong Airport to Gangtok city and it takes about 1 hour to reach.

Those looking for budget options, numerous shared jeeps are also available for Gangtok from Siliguri SNT Bus Stand. Buses are also available from Siliguri Bus stand to Gangtok, but jeeps are more comfortable.

Gangtok is located about 98 km from Darjeeling and it takes about 3.5 to 4 hours to cover the distance from Darjeeling to Gangtok . Kalimpong is about 75 km (3 hours journey by car). Private cars are available from all these places to Gangtok and vice versa.

Tip: Travelers coming from America will need to get a visa online prior to arrival. The India evisa for US citizens is very easy and is usually issued in 2-4 days.

Getting Around Gangtok

Taxis, both private and shared, are the main mode of transport in and around Gangtok. You can get a total tour package from local travel operators or can go to the local taxi stands and negotiate on your own.

For travelling from Gangtok to other parts of Sikkim, you can either book a car or travel by shared sumos and jeeps. Buses also ply in Gangtok, but the numbers are very less.

There are a number of taxi stands in Gangtok, each earmarked for specific destinations.

Gangtok Taxi Stands

Deorali Taxi Stand

Deorali Taxi Stand, also known as the Mainline Taxi Stand is the most popular taxi stand located at Deorali Bazar on the NH10, about 2 km from Gangtok town centre. Commercial taxis from West Bengal and other states are not allowed to enter Gangtok town beyond Deorali Taxi Stand.

From Deorali Taxi Stand you will get small taxis and larger SUVs for sightseeing in Gangtok.

You will also get shared sumos to Siliguri, NJP, Darjeeling and Kalimpong from Deorali Stand. Taxis for Siliguri are usually available everyday from morning till 5:30 PM in the evening.

Vajra Taxi Stand or North Sikkim Taxi Stand

This Taxi Stand is located near the Vajra Cinema Hall in Gangtok. As the name suggests, you will get shared jeeps to various places in North Sikkim like Mangan, Phodong, Kabi Lungchok and sometimes even Lachen and Lachung.

Please Note: You need a separate permit to visit protected areas of North Sikkim like Lachen, Lachung, Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang Valley.

You can actually book private taxis from Vajra Taxi Stand with the local drivers and negotiate the rates. The drivers can also help you with the required permits.

M G Marg Taxi Stand

This is another taxi stand just below the M G Marg. From here you will get taxis, both private and shared to places in West and South Sikkim. You will get shared jeeps to places like Pelling, Geyzing, Rinchenpong , Jorethang, Ravangla and Namchi. You will also get private cars from here for local sightseeing in Gangtok.

There is another Taxi Stand near the Children’s Park near M G Marg from where you can get shared cabs and taxis to places nearby in and around Gangtok.

There are no city buses within Gangtok. So you have to depend on taxis for sightseeing tours.

However, SNT (Sikkim nationalized Transport) buses are available from Gangtok to Siliguri and Kalimpong. The main SNT Bus Stop is located near the Paljor Stadium Road, about 7 minutes walking distance from M G Marg. There is another bus stand at Deorali Bazar area.

What is the Best Time to Visit Gangtok?

The weather of Gangtok is quite similar to that of Darjeeling . This is usually one of the reasons why these two places are often visited together. Like most of the hill stations, Gangtok too experiences extreme cold and rains.

Places to Visit in Gangtok

There are a lot of tourist attractions in and around Gangtok including beautiful monasteries, waterfalls and viewpoints. Here, we have given a few of the main attractions and places to visit in Gangtok.

1. M G Marg

The M G Marg is the heart of Gangtok and is literally so. It is a pleasant walking street with no vehicles, rowdy traffic or garbage. This is definitely one of the best places to visit in Gangtok. There are numerous shops and food joints on either side of the M G Marg and seats in the between. Once you visit M G Marg, you will simply realise that you are in a different place and not in any crowded Indian city.

2. Rumtek Monastery

Located about 23 km from the main city, Rumtek Monastery is the most famous monastery in Gangtok and must be on your list of places to visit in Gangtok.

Rumtek monastery is one of the largest in Sikkim and belongs to the Kagyu sect that originated in the 12th century in Tibet. The architecture of the monastery is one of the finest in the world and resembles the original one in Tsurphu, Tibet.

Situated on a hill-top, you can see an amazing view of Gangtok town from the monastery. It houses some of the rarest Buddhist religious artwork in the form of wall murals, silk paintings and thangkas (scrolls with intricate hand paintings) and 1001 miniature golden models of Buddha.

3. Enchey Monastery

Situated on the northern outskirts of the city on the Nathula-Gangtok road, Enchey monastery is almost 200 years old. Enchey Monastery literally means ‘the solitary temple’ . The small Buddhist monastery is surrounded by pines and conifers is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Gangtok.

The monastery was rebuilt in 1908 by the 10th King of Sikkim and renovated in the style of a Chinese pagoda. Entrance to the main shrine depicts the Kings of four cardinal directions that protect the monastery and the universe. It remains open for visitors everyday between 6 AM to 4 PM. You can hire a taxi from Gangtok and reach Enchey in 15 to 20 minutes.

4. Lingdum or Ranka Monastery

Lingdum Monastery or Ranka Monastery is situated 20 km from Gangtok and is considered to be the most beautiful in East Sikkim. Like the other two, Ranka monastery is surrounded by forested mountains as well.

The monastery has a huge courtyard and comprises a two-storeyed building. There is a stairway that leads to the upper level where the inner sanctum is located with a huge golden Buddha statue. The walls are adorned with intricate paintings and beautiful thangkas.

5. Tashi View Point

Tashi viewpoint is located around 8 km from Gangtok town. It is the perfect place to witness the surrounding mountains and valleys of Gangtok and the town itself. It offers the gorgeous view of the sunrise with the snow clad peaks illuminated with changing colours. On the opposite side, you can view the Phodong and Labrang monasteries.

6. Ban Jhakri Waterfall and Energy Park

Ban Jhakri waterfall is located in a beautiful landscaped park within a forested area about 7 km from Gangtok town and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Gangtok. The park spread across an area of 2 acres is well manicured with paved pathways and footbridges. There is also a manmade lake here where you can go boating.

There are gazebos at several points where you can relax while soaking in the view of the flowing stream that forms at the bottom of the waterfall and the greenery all around. The park uses non-conventional energy sources like solar energy. Also there are slides and swings in the park that generate power when used by the children. The 100 foot waterfall, known as the Ban Jhakri Waterfall is located at the end of the park and is a great site to enjoy.

7. Bakthang Waterfalls

This wonderful waterfall is located on the North Sikkim Highways towards the Tashi View Point around 3 km from Gangtok. It is not that high but the width makes it look powerful. There is a rope sliding available here for the adventure enthusiasts. It is a small slide, but can be quite thrilling as the droplets of water are sprinkled on you as you slide down the rope. It takes around 20 min to reach the place from Gangtok and the place offers great views of the mountains and a part of the Gangtok city.

8. Ganesh Tok

Ganesh Tok is located close to Tashi viewpoint and is a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. It is located at an altitude of 6,500 ft and at a hill adjacent to that of the huge TV Tower. Tourists come here not only to offer prayers to Ganesh, but also to admire the magnificent views from the viewing lounge and the circular balcony around it. Beside the small temple is the viewing lounge with glass panels. You can see Gangtok town, rolling hills and the snow capped mountains including Kanchenjunga.

9. Hanuman Tok

Hanuman Tok, dedicated to the Hindu God, Lord Hanuman is located at an altitude of 7200 ft and 11 km from Gangtok town on the road towards Nathula. The place has a serene atmosphere and offers one of the best views of the Kanchenjunga ranges from Gangtok.

Legend has it that Hanuman stopped here for some time before he flew down to Lanka with Sanjeevani (herb) Mountain from the Himalayas to save Laxman, Lord Rama’s brother. There is also a temple of Sirdi Sai Baba here just right of Lord Hanuman Temple. The cremation ground of erstwhile Namgyal Royal family is located nearby.

10. National Institute of Tibetology, Deorali

The National Institute of Tibetology or the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology (as it was earlier called) is one of the most important institutes doing research in Tibetan language and culture. The building is a fine example of the Tibetan architecture and designs. It has a museum in its premises and a Tibetan library that has a rich collection of books about Tibet and the Himalayas. The Institute is located at Deorali within a serene ambience. The most remarkable thing to see here is the majestic image of Manjushri (Bodhisattva of knowledge and wisdom), which was brought here all the way from Tibet.

11. Do Drul Chorten

The Do Drul Chorten is located at Deorali at a short walking distance from the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology. The Chorten was built by Trulshi Rimpoche in 1945. The Stupa is marked by a golden dome that can be seen from various places in Gangtok. The Stupa is surrounded by 108 prayer wheels all of which have Tibetan prayers inscribed on them.

12. Ridge Park, White Hall and Flower Exhibition Centre

Ridge Park is a beautiful garden that boasts of Himalayan orchids and shrubs that Sikkim is so famous for. The Ridge is actually a flat road located uphill from the Gangtok town leading to the Palace Gates. It is just a fifteen minutes’ walk from M.G. Marg in Gangtok.

The White Hall is a historical two storey building of British architecture built in 1932 in memory of the first British Political Officer Sir James Claude White. The Flower Exhibition Centre just adjacent to the White Hall is the place that draws a large number of visitors during the annual flower exhibition. You will find a number of orchids and flowers all around the year, but the best time to visit the place is during the spring season between April and May. The International Flower Festival at Gangtok , held in May every year, takes place here. This place must be on your list of places to visit in Gangtok in May.

Ridge Park is open from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

13. Ropeway Ride

If you are at Gangtok, do not miss the ropeway ride. It starts from Deorali and covers a kilometer of zig-zag way to Tashiling. You will get a magnificent view of the city from the ropeway.

14. Paragliding in Gangtok

The thrill of getting an aerial view of Gangtok city as well as some Himalayan peaks is simply inviting. You can go for a paragliding in Gangtok . There are two types of paragliding trips offered in Gangtok – Medium fly and High Fly. You do not require any special training for these trips as you will be accompanied by a trained pilot.

Baliman Dara near Gangtok is the takeoff location for the medium Fly. The flying time is 5-10 minutes. Landing takes place at a stadium field at Reshithang Sports Village. For the High Fly, the takeoff location is Bubbuley Dara and the altitude from where you take off is almost 2200 meters.

Gangtok Sightseeing Tours

Just like any other hill stations, Gangtok offers sightseeing tours as well. You have to take a local taxi or reserve a car for the sightseeing tour in Gangtok.

The most popular sightseeing tours in Gangtok are the 3-point tour, 7-point tour and the 10-point tour. These are just the standard tours. You can definitely talk with your driver and adjust the places as per your choice. Here, I will just mention the places visited in these tours.

Places visited in Gangtok 3-point Tour (takes about half-day)

• Tashi Viewpoint
• Hanuman Tok

Tentative cost for small taxi: Rs 1200 (In high season) and Rs 1000 (in low season)

Places visited in Gangtok 7-point Tour (half-day tour)

• Bakthang Waterfall
• Enchey Monastery
• Flower Exhibition Centre
• Handicrafts Centre

Tentative cost for small taxi: Rs 1800 (In high season) and Rs 1500 (in low season)

Places visited in Gangtok 10-point Tour (half-day)

• Drodul Chorten
• Institute of Tibetology
• Ropeway or Cable car

Tentative cost for small taxi: Rs 2000 (In high season) and Rs 1800 (in low season)

There is another 10-point tour offered where you will be taken to Ranka Monastery, Rumtek Monastery and Ban Jhakri Waterfall.

The tentative cost for this full-day trip is Rs 3000 (In high season) and Rs 2800 (in low season)

Day Trips from Gangtok

The most famous day trip from Gangtok is the full day trip to Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir and Nathula Pass.

Tsomgo Lake

Tsomgo Lake or Chhangu Lake (as it is locally called) is an oval-shaped beautiful glacial lake situated at an altitude of 12310 ft. The lake is located about 35 km from Gangtok and takes about 2 hours to reach by road. The name Tsomgo means ‘ Source of water ’. Tsomgo Lake is definitely one of the most beautiful places to visit in Gangtok.

During summer and autumn, you will find primula flowers and other alpine vegetation around the lake. The lake becomes frozen and a snowfield during the winter months. There are a number of stalls and shops selling food, drinks and snacks. You can also take a ride on the yaks at Tsomgo Lake.

Nathu La and Baba Mandir

Nathu La is a mountain pass that was a part of the old trade route between India and China. Nathula Pass is located at the Indo-Chinese border at an altitude of 14,140 ft. Permits are required to visit the Nathu La which can be obtained from the Gangtok DC office. The Baba Mandir located atop the pass is named after the Sentry Harbhajan Singh, who died here in 1968.The border security personnel here believe that his spirit is still alive and is looking after the army officials posted at the terrain.

You have to take a large vehicle for a trip to Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir and Nathula Pass. These places are restricted areas and you will need permits to visit them. You have to carry valid ID proofs (PAN Card is not accepted) and photographs to get the permits.

We would suggest you get your permits done by some reputed travel agents or your hotel in Gangtok. Also get your permits done at least a day in advance.

Tentative Fare for Car

Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir: Rs 4000 – 4500

Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir and Nathula Pass: Rs 5500 – 7000

Day Trip to Pelling

You can go for a day-trip to Pelling, Geyzing and Pemayangtse while staying at Gangtok. However, I would recommend staying at Pelling, which is a wonderful destination in West Sikkim.

Where to Stay in Gangtok?

Gangtok offers a wide range of accommodations starting from hostels, homestays, budget hotels, mid-range to luxury stays. There are a number of hotels around M G Marg, the most popular option for staying in Gangtok. M G Marg is literally the heart of the town and you will get all the good restaurants, shops and attractions nearby.

However, if you wish to avoid the crowds, then you can stay at homestays a little away from the town.

You can book your stay from here. This is one of the sites from where we do most of our online bookings.

Where to Eat in Gangtok?

Gangtok is a place for the foodies. You will get various Tibetan and Sikkimese cuisines. Also, simple street food like momos, thukpa are yummy. Most of the restaurants and eateries are around the M G Marg Area. Didn’t we mention M G Marg to be the heart of Gangtok?

A few famous restaurants of the city are Taste of Tibet, Café Culture, Green Tara restaurant, Gangtalk among so many others.

Gangtok Travel Guide (FAQs Answered)

Gangtok can be a bit expensive, especially for solo travellers, mainly because of transport options. But if you plan well, you can explore Gangtok on a budget very well. Budget accommodations are found in Gangtok and food is also cheap. Transportation to non-restricted places (where you do not need permits) can be cheaper if you opt for travelling in shared vehicles. For solo travellers or couples, you can look for other travellers like you and travel together to places like Tsomgo Lake and North Sikkim.

March to June is the best time to visit Gangtok and it is also the peak season. The weather is cool and is perfect for those who want to beat the heat of the plains. The months of October and November are also a good time to visit Gangtok. We would recommend you to avoid the monsoon.

Gangtok, as well as entire Sikkim is one of the safest places to visit in India. The people are helpful and the crime rate is also quite low there. Gangtok is also one of the safest places for women travellers. I have travelled across Sikkim solo without facing any problems or feeling unsafe!

2 days are enough to visit the major attractions of Gangtok. You can use one day for local sightseeing and another day for visiting Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir. From Gangtok, you can also visit North Sikkim, Pelling in West Sikkim and South Sikkim as well.

M G Marg area is the best area to stay in Gangtok. There are a number of hotels of all budget, mid-range and high-range categories in the M G Marg area. M G marg is the heart of the city and markets, restaurants are all quite accessible from there.

If you are visiting Gangtok in the summer months, carry light woolen clothes and jackets with you for the evening. While mornings can be bright and sunny, the evenings can get colder. For winter months, you must carry heavy woolen like sweaters and jackets. Also carry your scarfs, woolen caps and gloves for the winter months. Do carry proper shoes and socks as you might have to walk a bit to explore Gangtok.

Gangtok usually does not get snowfall in the winters. However, routes to high altitude places like Tsomgo Lake, North Sikkim might get snowfall and remain blocked during the winter. Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass get a lot of snowfall during late December and January. And so do places in North Sikkim (Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang Valley) and some places in the Silk Route (Zuluk and Nathang Valley).

Hope our Gangtok Travel Guide helped you in planning your trip and decide on the places to visit in Gangtok. If you have any questions regarding Sikkim, ask your questions in the comment below or drop us a mail. If you found this blog useful, please share this with your family, friends and neighbours.

Pin it for a later read!

Agni Amrita

Related posts.

Aoling Festival at Nagaland – The Grand Festival of Konyak Nagas

Konyak Tribe – In Search of The Tattooed Headhunters of Nagaland

Garo Hills, Meghalaya – Travel Guide for Your First Time Visit

Phe Phe Falls – Most Jaw-dropping Waterfall in Meghalaya

Siju Cave & Rock Formation – Nature’s Play at Garo Hills Meghalaya

Wari Chora – Hidden Paradise in Garo Hills of Meghalaya

What a well written article and beautiful photos. Your blog really captures the picturesque beauty of Gangtok. Last year before the pandemic hit, I along with my best friends planned a trip to Gangtok. Needless to say we were searching for a hotel which was both aesthetic and budget friendly. So with crossed fingers, we booked our 3 nights stay in Gangtok at Rosedell Inn. I must say, all 3 of us were so thrilled when we reached the hotel. The view from the balcony was astounding. The rooms were clean and spacious. The staffs were friendly and helpful. They even arranged camp fire for us with music and good food. It was definitely a night to remember!

Thank you so much!

Wonderful post.This blog has an amazing information about the destination. Pi. Thank you so much for sharing the details.

GANGTOK is capital town and a popular holiday destination of Sikkim. A bi-cable Jig-back Passenger Aerial ropeway of 935 meters long from Deorali Bazar to Tashiling Secretariat via Sikkim Legislative Assembly was built in the year 2003. The visitors can have a panoramic view of the full Gangtok city while taking a ride in this ropeway. DRILL (Damodar ropeways & infra limited) provides the cable car or ropeway ride service at Gangtok.

I found North Sikkim very beautiful. Have you guys been there. This is a very well written article. Great tips.

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Submit Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Pin It on Pinterest

How to Travel Gangtok The Right Way? (+8 Best Places To Visit in Gangtok)

• October 30, 2022
• June 29, 2023
• Sikkim , India

Hazy clouds kissing up the enormous green mountains and the frequent rains pouring from above — that’s how I remember my recent visit to Gangtok.

To ease your travel experience and make Gangtok a memorable trip for you, we have created this guide based on our actual experience. This guide will cover the top places to visit in Gangtok, food experiences, public transport, reaching Gangtok, and some practical travel tips.

Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is one of the most-visited destinations in East India. And now that you’ve prepared to visit this beautiful city, you’re in for a treat. However, Gangtok is quite expensive, so if you’re on a shoestring budget, you better be mindful of it.

Let’s visit Gangtok.

Notice: This post may contain a few links that might earn us financial support when you buy or make any reservations. They in no way affect our opinion or the information presented here.

In Case You Want it in a Video

Top 8 Places to Visit in Gangtok and Nearby

Here is the list of the top 8 places to visit in Gangtok:

• Nathula Pass
• Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple
• Bakthang Falls
• Gonjang Monastery
• Tashi View Point
• Lhasa Falls
• Flower Exhibition Center

1. Nathula Pass

Nathula Pass is a mountain pass in Sikkim encompassing the Indo-China border. And one of the best places to visit in Gangtok and nearby.

It is at an elevation of over 14,000 feet and is approximately 55 km from Gangtok city’s bustle.

Team Misfit visited this pass in June 2022, when it was the peak season to visit Sikkim. One important thing to note is that you’ll need special passes to see Nathula. And it often takes work to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.

Here’s the pro tip: Come with a few xerox copies of any government photo ID such as a Driving License or Passport. An important thing to note: Aadhaar Card doesn’t get accepted. At least it didn’t get us in. You better have a backup and bring another ID card.

Immediately ask your hotel or cab driver to get a pass for Nathula for the next available morning.

Another tip: Nathula is at the height of over 14,100+ feet. That’s enough to pose risks for people with medical conditions. Therefore, consult your doctor if you have any severe illness.

However, we’ve seen people in their 50s go to Nathula Pass. Further, we saw people buying camphor to curb breathing problems during our visit to Nathula. It’s probably because of a rumor that says camphor helps in improving oxygen levels. However, there’s no scientific evidence have been found yet.

2. Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple

The soldier who never died. This unique temple is dedicated to Harbhajan Singh, a soldier of the 23 Punjab Regiment of the Indian army. 

There’s a fascinating legend attached to this site. Harbhajan Singh died by slipping into the valley near Nathula pass in 1968. The flowing water drove him far, and he was only found after 3 days of a search by the army.

Legend has it he came into the dreams of a fellow soldier after he went missing. And he expressed the desire to have a “samadhi” (cenotaph). Later a temple was constructed with great reverence. Further, the Indian army never declared him dead and retired like other soldiers.

He came to be known as a “Baba” or saint. Moreover, Bhuvan Bam’s Plus-Minus is an award-winning short story loosely based on Harbhajan Singh’s legacy.

You can visit this temple after returning from Nathula pass as it’s on the way.

3. Bakthang Falls

Bakthang falls should be on your local sightseeing list and can easily be covered if you stay in Gangtok. Further, it’s a roadside fall and if you want to see the water in full force, avoid visiting in winter.

You can also go ziplining near the waterfall for about INR 100 (2022). Also, you can try the local dress and get photographed in front of the waterfall.

4. Gonjang Monastery

If you want to see some fascinating artifacts, roll prayer wheels, and enjoy Gangtok’s alluring view simultaneously, remember to visit the Gonjang monastery. It is one of the best places to visit in Gangtok, especially if you are interested in Sikkim’s history.

Remember that photography is prohibited inside the monastery building where sculptures are kept. Further, this monastery closes early in the evening, so we suggest you make it in daylight.

Gonjang Monastery should be on your list for a nice and peaceful place.

5. Tashi View Point

Nothing fancy, eh! Just a viewpoint to see the peak of mighty Kanchenjunga . If the weather is clear, you’d be blessed with a mesmerizing view of the valley and, of course, the mountain peak of Kanchenjunga.

You don’t need to purchase any ticket for Tashi view point. However, climbing up a few stairs to reach the viewpoint will feel like entering an observatory. Also, you can get a closer view of the mountain with the telescope — it costs around INR 100. Moreover, you can also rent traditional dresses and get a photo for approximately the same amount.

6. Lhasa Falls

Approximately a kilometer away from the Tashi viewpoint is another roadside fall, Lhasa Falls! Though this place doesn’t receive many tourists, it is the choice of people seeking a few moments of solitude. 

Please stop here for approximately 10 to 15 minutes.

Lhasa Falls is one of the best places to visit in Gangtok. Especially if you think you’d enjoy sitting in peace with a horde of Tibetan flags above your head and a waterfall sprinkling droplets on your cheeks.

7. Flower Exhibition Center

If you fancy a rare collection of flowers like orchids and rhododendrons, you can visit this small flower exhibition center in Gangtok. There are varieties of flowers you can find here. Moreover, you can even purchase flower bulbs from this place.

The place is smaller than you might anticipate it to be. You can visit the Plant Conservatory (link in Google Maps) to see these beautiful flowers in a natural setting. 

Bonus: you’ll find a beautiful waterfall inside the plant conservatory. Lastly, the admission ticket costs around INR 20 per person.

8. Ganesh Tok

Ganesh Tok is a small Ganesh temple located approximately 6-7 km from the city center. Street vendors surround the temple entry, and it gets a significant crowd. Therefore, please come as early as possible.

Further, this temple is also famous as a viewpoint. Why? It’s because you can see the Kanchenjunga range clearly from here, provided the weather is clear. Besides, the panoramic view of the city and the valleys are enough good reasons that make it one of the best places to visit in Gangtok.

How To Reach Gangtok?

You can reach Gangtok via railways, airways, and roadways. Your preference will matter depending on where you are in the world and your preferences. 

The nearest railway station for reaching Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri Station, which is in the West Bengal state of India. The station code for New Jalpaiguri Station is NJP.

You get frequent trains for NJP from all major stations of India, though it may sometimes be indirect. We recommend considering airways if you’re uncomfortable on long-train journeys.

Furthermore, after reaching NJP, you can take a tuk-tuk or shared taxi to the nearest bus stand, where you’ll get a direct bus to Gangtok.

You’ve two options for reaching Gangtok via airways: Bagdogra (IXB) and Pakyong (PYG) airports. The Bagdogra (IXB) airport is located in West Bengal and is about 125 km from Gangtok. On the contrary, Pakyong (PYG) airport is about 35 km away from Gangtok.

Here’s the twist: you get multiple direct flight options (and cheaper) for Bagdogra. On the contrary, Pakyong has a lesser number of direct flights.

You’ll easily get a private taxi to Gangtok from both airports.

Siliguri (113 km), Darjeeling (98 km), and Kalimpong (75 km) cities of West Bengal are well connected to Gangtok via road.

However, the easiest way to visit Gangtok via road is to reach Siliguri by any means. Then take West Bengal or Sikkim state transport buses from bus stations there. 

Further, if you’re in your own vehicle, you can take NH 10 (formerly NH 31A) to reach Gangtok from Siliguri.

9 Local Foods and Eateries in Gangtok

The local foods and eateries in Gangtok are one of the best things you’ll come across — or the worst. It all depends on your taste buds, I guess.

As for us — we’re North Indians (from Lucknow), more exposed to spicy food. And we didn’t find the foods we tried in Gangtok much enticing. However, the experience of tasting new cuisines far outweighs the priority of making our taste buds happy.

In conclusion, the unique cuisines of Sikkim are worth a try. Here are 9 local foods you must try in Gangtok.

1. Momos — you’ll get it in almost every corner of Gangtok. The momos here are something else, so delicious. Even better than Delhi’s, if I may say.

2. Thukpa — this popular food in Gangtok hails from Tibet. And since Thukpa is a noodle soup consisting of seasonal veggies and flour dough noodles, it makes an excellent option for health-conscious travelers.

3. Thenthuk — this food item is a type of Thukpa with veggies, mutton or yak meat, and flattened four dough served with noodle soup.

4. Sel Roti — Originally hailing from Nepal, Sel Roti is a sweetened rice bread having a ring shape. However, you may not find this food item easily. People prepare it during festivals such as Tihar, a Hindu festival similar to Diwali, which gets celebrated in Sikkim and West Bengal. 

5. Churpi — cheese lovers visiting Sikkim, this is for you. Churpi is a traditional food item hailing from Tibet and is now mainly available in India’s Sikkim and West Bengal. You may spot this food item (cuboidal shaped) at local vendors’ shops. Further, remember that Churpis can be sweet or tangy and soft or hard. 

6. Gundruk — originally hailing from Nepal, Gundruk is a dish made of fermented leafy green vegetables that are sun-dried and later cooked for consumption.

7. Sha Phaley — are look-wise similar to the North Indian sweet, “Gujhiya.” The only difference? It has veggies and seasoned meat stuffing.

8. Kinema — another fermented dish hailing from Nepal. Kinema is made of soybeans and soup, which people consume with rice and bread. Look for a local restaurant if you want to savor its delicious flavor in Gangtok.

9. Phagshapa — traditionally, this food item is prepared with pork meat, radish, and some chilies. This might be your best choice if you want a less spicy food item.

Activities To Do in Gangtok

Shop & eat at mg road.

There are many places to visit in Gangtok. But what about shopping? There can be no better place than MG Road for shopping in Gangtok.

It’s an L-shaped street, with various shops that are so well-organized. Further, the lighting, vibe, and arrangement would light up your mood at first glance.

There’s one shop on the corner – Khan Uncle Biryani. If you’re a non-veg lover, you must try their biryani and roll.

Get Mesmerizing City Views from Gangtok Ropeway

Experiencing the ropeway over the city is another activity you can do in Gangtok. The best part? The ropeway is about a 10-15 minute walk from MG Road.

The ropeway is no special. However, the views of the city are worth your time — colorful houses looking like a box and the grand, green scattered mountains.

Souvenir You Can Find in Local Gangtok Market

There are several shops dispersed throughout the city. And if you book a local tour package, your guide will take you to the places for the same.

But we recommend you avoid the hustle of buying souvenirs separately. Instead, you can find small shops near most of the places to visit in Gangtok.

Here are some of the items you’ll find and can take as souvenirs:

• Colorful Tibetan flags,
• Woolen clothes,
• Buddha statues in all sizes,
• Fridge magnets, and more.

Smart Suggestion: How To Travel To Shravasti? (The Place Where Buddha Died)

How is the Public Transport in Gangtok?

Gangtok is a hilly area, and you won’t find anything except taxis or cabs. And the charges depend upon your negotiation skills — so get on to practice.

Even for a kilometer or so, you may pay around INR 150. So, if you’re happy with walking, great. Else consider this while you decide on a budget for visiting Gangtok.

In addition, you can also ask your hostel to provide the number of any local taxi or cab driver.

Moreover, if you want to book safe and reliable accommodation for yourself in Gangtok, you can do so via Booking.com .

Best Time to Visit Gangtok

Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit Gangtok. The place gets a horde of tourists from September to June. Additionally, it’s best if you avoid some peak months when the rush is at an all-time high.

The best time to visit Gangtok is from March to May or September to November. Unless you’re going to see snow, you should avoid staying in extreme cold months as it attracts a lot of tourists. Similarly, last May to June should be avoided too.

Public Toilets and Hygiene

One of the best things you’ll find in Gangtok is its cleanliness. The public toilets are well-maintained and provide good hygiene. Moreover, the entire city is cleaner than most of the cities I have visited (at least yet) in India.

People here seem to have a sense of keeping cleanliness and order. And that’s one of the things I liked the most.

Practical Travel Tips (Based on Experience)

• Don’t visit Gangtok in the monsoon and the peak months.
• Immediately apply for the Nathula pass as you arrive in Gangtok if you wish to see this Indo-China border. 
• Aadhar Card is not a valid ID for visiting Nathula pass.
• Please consult your doctor before visiting Nathula if you’ve any respiratory issues.
• Negotiate with taxi and cab drivers for the best price.
• You can buy a local tour package directly from your cab driver. 

So, this was all about Gangtok. This guide is made possible after thorough research combined with personal experience exploring Gangtok. 

Now with this Gangtok travel guide at your disposal, you’re unlikely to go wrong. In addition, the information here will help you explore places to visit in Gangtok and experience other activities like a local person.

Lastly, if you have any suggestions or comments regarding this post, please drop them in the comment box. We reply to every comment!

An appeal:   Please do not throw litter around. Use a dustbin. If you can’t find one, take the trash with you and throw it when you find one. Your small steps like this one can make the world clean and green.

Vipin is a techie, traveler, and entrepreneur. He has done engineering in computer science and is an Apple Fan Boy. He is behind all the tech and content management of this website. Often, he shares his entrepreneurial learnings and thoughts on his Twitter .

Newsletter Updates

Enter your email address below and subscribe to our newsletter

I accept the Privacy Policy

Gangtok is a lovely and clean place. Your guide is fantastic.

Thank you, sir, for your appreciation 🙂

Comments Cancel reply

• Tour Enquiry
• Sign up | Login
• My Bookings
• New User? Sign-up
• Domestic Tours
• South India
• Maharashtra
• Golden Triangle
• North India
• North East India
• International
• Maldives (Discontinued)
• All Domestic Tours
• All International Tours
• Offbeat Tours
• Domestic Cruise Tours
• Jungle Lodges by JLR
• Kabini River Lodge
• Bandipur Safari Lodge
• JLR Kings Sanctuary
• River Tern Lodge
• Kali Adventure Camp
• Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort
• K Gudi Wilderness Camp
• Car Rentals
• Destinations
• Tourist Places on Drive
• Driving Directions
• * Workation
• * Tour Plans
• List Property

GANGTOK TOURISM | TOURIST PLACES TO VISIT & TRAVEL GUIDE TO GANGTOK

• Gangtok Overview
• Top 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok
• 13 Best Gangtok Tour Packages
• Top Resorts in Gangtok
• Best Time to Visit Gangtok

How to Reach Gangtok

• Gangtok Tour Plans
• Driving Directions to Gangtok

About Gangtok

Country: india | state: sikkim, #1 of 6 places to visit in sikkim | #49 of 100 places to visit in india, ideal trip duration: 2 full days, base station: gangtok, nearest city to gangtok: gangtok, guwahati (543 kms), best time to visit gangtok: february to may & september to november, peak season: march to may, gangtok weather: summer: maximum - 20°c and minimum - 2°c winter: maximum - 13°c and minimum - -17°c.

At a distance of 78 km from Kalimpong, 96 km from Darjeeling, 115 km from Pelling, 117 km from Siliguri, 403 km from Darbhanga, 496 km from Muzzafarpur, 543 km from Guwahati, and 670 km from Kolkata, Gangtok is a fascinating hill town and the capital of north-eastern state of Sikkim, India. Known for its cleanliness and breathtaking beauty, it is one of the popular places to visit in Sikkim and is one of the popular attraction not to miss in your honeymoon trip . Situated at an altitude of 5410 feet, Gangtok is the largest city and the main business and tourist hub of Sikkim. The name meaning hill-top, Gangtok is known for its scenic beauty and striking views of Mount Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world. It is also known as the land of monasteries, as it has maximum number of monasteries in the world. Located right in the middle of the Himalayan range and having mild temperate climate year-round, Gangtok is the most important center for Sikkim Tourism. According to history, Gangtok rose to prominence as a popular Buddhist pilgrimage site after the construction of the Enchey Monastery in 1840 CE. In 1894, the ruling Sikkimese Chogyal, Thutob Namgyal, transferred the capital from Tumlong to Gangtok, increasing the city's importance. In the early 20th century, Gangtok became a major stopover on the trade route between Tibet and India. After India's independence in 1947, Sikkim chose to remain an independent monarchy, with Gangtok as its capital. After the integration with the union of India in 1975, Gangtok was made India's 22nd state capital. A Himalayan wonderland, Gangtok is bestowed with unparalleled natural beauty, variety of vegetation, undisturbed valleys, peaceful environment and rich cultural heritage. Enchey Monastery, Ganesh Tok, Do Drul Chorten Stupa, Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo Lake, Ban Jhakri falls, Nathula Pass, Pemayangtse Monastery, Deorali Orchid Sanctuary, Yumthang Valley, Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Gardens, Gonjang Monastery, and Ranka Monastery are the top places to visit in Gangtok. MG Road, the main street of Gangtok is a great place to chill out throughout the day and is the main shopping area of Gangtok. This place is also the venue for the annual Gangtok Food and Culture festival held in December every year. Festivals are an integral part of Gangtok being the capital of Sikkim has kept the culture and tradition intact. The vibrancy of these festivals is so beautiful that it will leave a lifetime impression on your mind. Saga Dawa, Phang Lhabsol, Dashain, Flower Festival, Gangtok Food and Culture Festival, Diwali, Losar and Makar Sankranti are the popular festivals celebrated in Gangtok with great pomp and fervor. The nearest airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra International Airport, which is about 125 km from Gangtok. It has direct flights from Kolkata, Mumbai and New Delhi. Also, there are daily helicopter services from Bagdogra operated by Sikkim Tourism development Corporation and it will take only 35 minutes to reach Gangtok. New Jalpaiguri is the nearest rail head and has trains from Patna, New Delhi, Mumbai, Guwahati, Howrah, Bangalore, Dibrugarh, Puri, Gaya, Indore, Jaipur, Kolkata, Amritsar, Chennai, Chandigarh, Ranchi, Bhubaneshwar, Cochin and Agartala. Gangtok SNT Bus Station is well connected by bus with Kalimpong, Darjeeling and Siliguri. From these places, one can take shared jeeps and taxis to reach Gangtok. The best time to visit Gangtok is from March to May and September to November with cool weather and can enjoy the sightseeing. Better to avoid visiting Gangtok in monsoon season when there could be heavy landslides.

...read more

Nearest Airport: Siliguri - Bagdogra Airport (125 Kms)

Direct flights to siliguri, nearest train station: siliguri (120 kms), direct trains to siliguri, nearest bus station: gangtok snt bus station (0 kms), direct buses to gangtok, distance chart, distance chart & driving directions to gangtok, top 11 places to visit in gangtok, banjhakri waterfalls & energy park.

#1 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 7 km from Gangtok SNT Bus Station, Banjhakri Waterfalls is a scenic waterfalls located inside a landscaped park in Gangtok. Situated near Ranka Monastery, it is one of the most visited tourist places in Gangtok and among the best waterfalls to visit in Sikkim Tourism . Banjhakri Waterfall is a natural waterfall cascades down from a height of about 70 feet. The lush green surroundings of the waterfalls make it more beautiful and alluring. The word 'Banjhakri' means woodland shaman. According to legend, the ethnic tribes of Sikkim have a lot of faith in their local occults called Jhakris who have healing and magical powers and can influence the spirits to bring about good and evil. Spread over an area of 2 acres, Banjhakri Energy Park has been built near the falls. Also known as Energy Park, the gardens have been beautifully landscaped around the waterfalls and the place is further adorned with several statues of Banjhakri, .....

Enchey Monastery

#2 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 3 km from Gangtok SNT Bus Station, Enchey Monastery is an ancient Buddhist Monastery situated in Gangtok, Sikkim. Located on Gangtok - Nathula road, it is one of the most popular places of pilgrimage in Sikkim and among the best places to visit in Gangtok. The literal meaning of Enchey Monastery is the 'Solitary Monastery'. The monastery is also an important seat of the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. More than 200 years ago, this was the site of Lama Dhrupthob Karpo, a tantric master who was known for his flying powers. Initially, a small Gompa was established by him after he flew from Maenam Hill in South Sikkim to this site in 1840 CE. Later, it was rebuilt in 1908 CE by the 10th King of Sikkim, Sikyong Tulku. The monastery is considered sacred as it is believed that the protecting deities, Khangchendzonga and Yabdean reside in this monastery. According to a legend, the spirits of the Khangchendzonga, Yabdean and Mahakala are subdued by Guru Padmasambhava .....

Ranka Monastery

#3 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 8 km from Banjhakri Falls and 16 km from Gangtok, Ranka Monastery is a Buddhist monastery situated at Ranka near Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. Also known as Lingdum Monastery, it is one of the most popular monasteries in Sikkim and among the must visit places in Gangtok. Built in 1998 CE, the Ranka Monastery is the seat of Zurmang Charwang Rinpoche. The present Rinpoche is the 12th successive incarnation of this lineage. It is interesting to note that the monastery is mainly run by young monks. Since it is relatively quite a new monastery and does not provide a lot of historical or strategic significance such as Rumtek Monastery. However, the beauty of the monastery has attracted a lot of film makers. Built in the typical form of Tibetan architecture, the monastery is spread out in a vast area with great scenic views. A huge gold plated Buddha statue sits in the lotus position inside the sanctum. There are low tables lying in rows inside the sanctum .....

Tashi View Point

#4 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 8 km from Gangtok SNT Bus Station, Tashi View Point is located at Tashi in Gangtok. Situated near Ganesh Tok, it is one of the stunning viewpoints in Gangtok and among the top places to visit in Gangtok. Tashi View Point was built by the King of Sikkim, Tashi Namgyal, who ruled Sikkim between 1914 and 1963. The circular shaped platform with railings has been built so that the visitor could view 360-degree perspective of the entire region. It is now developed and maintained by the tourism department. This point is mostly known for offering some of the best sunrise and sunset views. This is an ideal place for nature lovers as it offers great views of the imposing Himalayan Mountains, specifically Mt. Kanchenjunga and Mt. Siniolchu. The Phodong Monastery and the Labrang Monastery are also easily visible from here. Most of tourist visits the place during early morning to witness the beautiful sunrise and the dramatic play of lights over the mountains and hills. .....

Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden

#5 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 500 m from Rumtek Monastery and 21 km from Gangtok SNT Bus Station, Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden is a public garden located in Gangtok. Situated close to Rumtek Monastery, it is one of the most famous tourist places to visit in Gangtok. Established in the year 1987, Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden is a well maintained lush green expanse of land with astounding beauty. The garden is maintained and managed by the Parks and Garden Units of the Forest Department of the Government of Sikkim. The garden houses rare flowers, plants and trees including Orchids of Himalayan region. It also has dense temperate forests of Oak and a beautiful lake. There are more than 50 different varieties of tree species located inside this garden. Owing to the variance in altitude ranging between 1,800 m and 2,200 m, the park has a wide assortment of plants and animals. The garden also has a greenhouse, where different types of orchids are grown. With the intention of merriment .....

International Sikkim Flower Festival

#6 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 1 km from Gangtok SNT Bus Station, the Flower Festival is an international event held at the Flower Exhibition Centre near White Hall Complex in Gangtok. It is considered as among the popular flower shows in India and also the biggest flower show in Gangtok. The International Flower Show is a month long festival held every year during summer. This festival is held during the peak flowering season in Sikkim and attracts tourists from all over India. The land of mystic grandeur, Sikkim has thousands of indigenous varieties of flora which include around 600 species of orchids, 240 species of trees and ferns, 150 varieties of gladioli, 46 types of rhododendrons along with a variety of magnolias and many other foliage plants. The Sikkim government organizes this flower show cum exhibition every year. The state government invites participants from more than 12 countries to the show and related events which seek to promote Sikkim's natural wealth of horticulture produce, .....

Tsongmo Lake / Changu Lake

#7 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 17 km from Nathula Pass and 38 km from Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake or Tsongmo Lake is a glacial lake located in the East Sikkim district of Sikkim. Also known as Changu Lake, it is one of the top places to visit in Gangtok and among the beautiful lakes in Himalayas. Located at an altitude of 3,753 m, Tsongmo Lake is one of the few and awesome high altitude lakes in India. In Bhutia language Tsomgo means 'Source of the Lake'. The lake gets its water from the melting snow on the surrounding mountains. The lake is formed in an oval shape and has a surface area of 60 acres. The maximum length of the lake is 1 km and an average depth of the lake is 15 m. The River Lungtze Chu originates from this lake and further falls into Rangpo-chu. Highly revered by the Buddhists and Hindus, the lake surface reflects different colors with change of seasons. According to the history, the colour of water of this lake was studied by Lamas so as to forecast about the future. They believed, .....

Rumtek Monastery

#8 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 22 km from Gangtok SNT Bus Station, Rumtek Monastery is a beautiful Buddhist gompa situated near Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. Also called as Dharma Chakra Centre, it is one of the largest monasteries in Sikkim and among the best places to visit in Gangtok. The Monastery was originally built in mid-17th century under the supervision of Changchub Dorje, the 12th Karmapa Lama. Perched on a hill overlooking Gangtok, Rumtek Monastery is the seat of the Karmapa Lama, the third highest monk in Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery belongs to the Kargyu sect of Buddhism originated during the 12th century CE in Tibet. With the generosity and help of the Sikkim royal family and the local folks of Sikkim, the monastery was rebuilt by the 16th Karmapa Rangjung Rigpe Dorje and named as Rumtek Dharma Chakra Center in 1966. The shrine was established with a reason to spread the teachings of the Buddha throughout the world. The architecture of the monastery is one of the .....

Hanuman Tok

#9 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 9 km from Gangtok SNT Bus Station, Hanuman Tok is a Hindu temple located atop a hill in Gangtok, the capital of the Indian state of Sikkim. Situated off from the Gangtok-Nathula Highway, it is one of the religious places to visit in Gangtok and among the top places of Pilgrimage in Sikkim. Situated at an altitude of 7200 feet, the temple is dedicated to lord Hanuman, god of good health and strength. According to the legend, Lord Hanuman rested at this place while carrying Sanjeevani Parvat from the Himalayas to save Rama's brother Lakshmana. The idol of Lord Hanuman was erected here in 1950 when an officer named Appaji Pant had a divine dream at this location. Now, the temple was maintained and preserved by the Units of 17 Mountain Division of the Army. The temple is divided into three sections- the main temple, old temple and the circular temple. A hint of Tibetan style of architecture is witnessed here. The main temple has a long hall which is painted in .....

Namgyal Institute Of Tibetology

#10 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 3 km from Gangtok SNT Bus Station, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is a Tibetan institute & museum located in Deorali area of Gangtok. Situated near Do Drul Chorten Stupa, it is one of the must visit places in Gangtok. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is an important Tibetan institute that promotes and carries on researches in the field of Tibetan language, art, religion and its culture. The foundation stone was laid by 14th Dalai Lama in 1957 and inaugurated by Late Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru in 1958. The land of the institute was donated by the late King of Sikkim Tashi Namgyal and hence the name Namgyal Institute of Tibetology. The institute building boasts of traditional Tibetan architecture and remains as one of the finest traditional Tibetan designs in the world. It rises majestically with its tall golden towers, attractive murals and colourful frescos amidst the breathtaking natural scenery. It also has a museum, a library with rich collections .....

Do Drul Chorten Monastery

#11 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 3 km from Gangtok SNT Bus Station, Do Drul Chorten is a Buddhist stupa situated in Gangtok, Sikkim. Situated adjacent to Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, it is one of the most magnificent and the biggest stupas in Gangtok and among the top places to experience Gangtok Tourism. Do Drul Chorten Stupa was built by Trulshik Rinpoche, head of the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism in 1945 CE. According to legend, it is believed that this entire place was once haunted by evil spirits and many people who wandered around this place became victims and died. Later, Trulshik Rinpoche came to this place for hermitage and built this popular stupa to drive away the spirits. Popularly known as Phurba, the white Chorten Stupa is marked by a golden top dome and can be seen from various places in Gangtok. The deity enshrined on top of the stupa is known as Dorjee Phurpa or Vajra Kilaya. The Chorten is surrounded by Chorten Lakhang, where there are two huge statues of Guru Rinpoche .....

Top 5 Gangtok Packages

Gangtok related pages.

Near By Places

Similar Places

100% SECURE PAYMENTS

Domestic & international cards accepted.

Our WhatsApp Numbers

International tours, +91-8217845740, south india tours, +91-7995649483, goa, maharashtra, gujarat tours, +91-7032828835, north india tours, +91-9535139583, rest of india, +91-7799591230, request quote, travellers #.

Explore Tour Packages

Planning a Trip?

Discover affordable tour packages, need customized tour request quote, login / sign-up, your sign in was successful itinerary will be downloaded shortly., sign up with trawell.in.

Already Created Account? Login Here

Sign in with Trawell.in Account

Forgot Password?

New User? Sign Up Here

Activate Your Trawell.in Account

Your account is activated successfully. Login Here

Reset Your Trawell.in Password

Your password has been reset successfully. Login Here

Booking Policy

Honeymoon Bug

Choose Your Dream Honeymoon Destinations Here

10 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok for Those Who Believes in Collecting Moments

Once a year, go to a place where you have never been before – If you live up to this thought, then Gangtok in Sikkim is one of the best places to visit in northeast India. Gangtok is the capital town of the mountainous state of Sikkim at an elevation of 1,650 m above sea level. Now Gangtok is one of the famous centres for Buddhism in northeast India. The Gangtok setting in the eastern Himalayan range makes it one of India’s best places to visit for hiking lovers. There are many places to visit in Gangtok. For instance, Gangtok has viewpoints, pristine waterfalls, and local markets to explore for couples and honeymooners.

We totally agree that compiling the list of best sightseeing places in Gangtok is an inherently subjective task. And hence, our travel writer scratched the surface of top attractions to visit in Gangtok. Our further writeup will be focusing largely on the places to visit in and around Gangtok, including high altitude lakes, zoological parks, monasteries, mountain passes and more. Are you ready to join us for an imaginary journey to Gangtok? If yes, then continue reading!

When to go to Gangtok?

The high season in Gangtok is winters from November to February, but snowfall is very rare. The other pleasant months to visit Gangtok are January, February, March, April, May, June. In a nutshell, spring, autumn, summer, and winter constitute Gangtok’s best time. Only the monsoon season during July to September is when you should avoid visiting Gangtok because of the heavy rain.

10 Top Attractions to Visit in Gangtok for Every Age Group

Check out our hand-picked list of the 10 best tourist places to visit in Gangtok. Don’t forget to bookmark your favourites.

1. Nathu La Pass

There is no better way to enjoy mountain biking in and around Gangtok than in Nathu La Pass. This is a famous mountain pass for biking, and hence, Nathu La Pass is one of the best places to visit near Gangtok within 60 km. one needs to obtain a permit to visit NathuLa Pass. Foreigners are not permitted here. Due to its connection with China’s Tibet Autonomous Region, the Nathu La Pass and its snow-capped mountains are heavily guarded by the Indian army. If you visit NathuLa Pass, pay a visit to Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple dedicated to the brave soldier whose tales say that he still now guards the Sikkim border against the dragons.

Visiting hours: 9 AM – 2 PM

Permit charge for Nathu La, Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, Tsomgo Lake: INR 200 (approx.) per person

Note: Nathu La is a broader region than China, so photography is not allowed. Also, Nathu La Pass is at an elevation of 14000 ft. above sea level and hence, acute mountain sickness is common.

2. Tashi View Point

Tashi View Point is one of the best romantic places in Gangtok for couples. This brilliant viewpoint provides sweeping views of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga Mountain, lush green valleys, and the Gangtok town itself. It is a little far from MG Road but could be reached via taxi. The telescope is also installed at Tashi View Point to behold the views of the Seven Sister Waterfalls. There is a cafeteria at the top, and hence, you can exchange talks with your loved ones. If you are travelling with your spouse, click some pictures in local Sikkimese attire to take back your Sikkim honeymoon memories with you!

Entry Ticket: INR 10 per person

Visiting hours: 6 AM – 6 PM

3. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

Visit the museum and library of Tibetan culture at Namgyal Institute of Tibetology to see ancient Buddhist artefacts and paintings. This is a famous institute that has carried out research on Sikkim’s culture, art, history since it was established in its heyday during 1958. You can reach Namgyal Institute of Tibetology from the main town because of the 2 km distance. You can’t take photos inside as photography is prohibited. But Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is an excellent tourist place to visit in Gangtok in the summer because of its enclosed setting. The ground floor features museums and the first floor features a library.

Entry ticket: INR 20 per person

Visiting days: Monday to Saturday

Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM

4. Enchey Monastery

Meditate at the tranquil hilltop monastery, known for its strong spiritual aura. At Enchey Monastery in Gangtok, tourists visit in full throttle because this monastery in Gangtok is supposed to fulfil the devotees’ wishes. This Buddhist temple is unquestionably one of the best tourist attractions in Gangtok. Feel the calm and inner peace at the newly built hall inside the monastery from sunrise to sunset. Although parking space availability is a concern, take a taxi to ease your stress.

Entry ticket: Free for all

Visiting hours: 6 AM – 7 PM

5. Ban Jhakri Falls Park

Only famous tourist attractions don’t need to demand a visit. Ban Jhakri Falls in Gangtok pesonfies it. Ban Jhakri Falls Park is a forested landscaped park just 7 km from the main town and features a shamanistic theme of Sikkim. The two 2 acres of forested land features man-made lakes for boating, paved pathways for a romantic stroll, rides for children.

Entry ticket: INR 50 per person

Visiting hours: 8 AM – 6 PM

Note: Except to shell out additional charges for photography

6. Ganesh Tok

Spiritual buffs can seek blessings from Lord Ganesha at 6500 m elevation while beholding the stunning views of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga range. Ganesh Tok is a famous temple in Gangtok thronged by tourists from morning to sunrise. If you plan to explore the best places to visit in Gangtok in one day, bookmark Ganesh Tok as it is within 10 km from the main town. Plus, there is a cafe that offers drinks and light bites. Also, a small souvenir shop is also present to buy local stuff.

Visiting hours: 9 AM – 5 PM

Entry price: Free for all

7. Rumtek Monastery

Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre, also called Rumtek Monastery, is a Buddhist temple in Sikkim. This place is located within 30 kilometres of the MG Road and is one of the well-maintained Indian monasteries. There is a prayer hall inside the monastery, but there is no photography zone. Inside the Rumtek Monastery, a community of Buddhist monks believes in healthy interaction. The architecture of the Rumtek Monastery is beautiful, and there is a parking facility too. You need to walk around 300 metres to reach the prayer hall from the parking space. Lastly, if you visit during the sunrise, you will get good sweeping views of the Gangtok town.

Entry ticket: INR 10 per person

Visiting hours: 9 AM – 7 PM

Note: You need to show your identification card as the monastery is guarded by border forces.

Must Read – 7 Best Hotels in Gangtok Near Mall Road

8. Fambong La Wildlife Sanctuary

Gangtok itself is one of the best places to visit in east Sikkim, and the attractions within the capital town are also great sightseeing places. And Fambong La Wildlife Sanctuary is no exception. This tourist attraction in Gangtok is a heaven for bird watchers and distinct flora and fauna. Fambong La Wildlife Sanctuary sprawls over 51 km², and hence, it is a lush green jungle. Take your binoculars with you to spot Red Pandas, Himalayas Beer, colourful bird species all year round. Lastly, this wildlife haven is located within 20 kilometres of the main town, and hence, Fambong La Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the best places to visit Gangtok in one day.

Entry ticket: INR 55 per person for Indians and foreigners

Visiting hours: 8 AM – 2 PM

9. MG Road or MG Marg

Translated to Mahatma Gandhi Marg, MG Road or MG Marg is the 1 kilometre’s pedestrian road and is the heart of the Gangtok town. This is a Mall Road which is similar to every other hill station. And hence, you will find the luxury hotels in Gangtok at MG Road. You will find dozens of food joints and souvenir shops at the Mall Road. MG Road is a smoke-free zone in Gangtok, and in December, this is the same place where the annual Gangtok Food and Cultural Festival is held. Without a doubt, you can’t miss spending an evening at the MG Road with your beloved partner in the quest for romantic experiences on your honeymoon.

10. Tsomgo Lake

Also called Changu Lake, Tsomgo Lake is a high-altitude mountain lake at an elevation of 3,753 m above sea level. You can club Tsomgo Lake on your visit with Nathu La Pass as both are located within 20 kilometres. What sets this lake apart is tourists flock to Tsomgo Lake in winter in full throttle because of the stunning yak rides. Also, Changu Lake, aka Tsomgo Lake, remains frozen in winters, and hence, photography amidst the snow-capped mountains is icing on the cake. No foreigners are allowed here, and a permit is required like Nathu La Pass. Tsomgo Lake is within 50 kilometres from Gangtok and hence, one of the best tourist attractions to visit in Gangtok.

So, we are saying…

Folks, we have done the hard work for you and presented you with some of the best tourist places to visit in Gangtok. Where are you heading first? If you are on the hunt for affordable Gangtok Sikkim tour packages , Honeymoon Bug is delighted to invite you to check out our best-selling Darjeeling Gangtok tour packages for couples.

Faqs about Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

What are some lesser-explored gangtok tourist places.

Ranka Monastery, Banjhakri Water Falls, Enchey Monastery are a handful of lesser-explored tourist places to visit in Gangtok . You can explore all of them in 2 days.

What are some museums and libraries to visit in Gangtok with kids?

Namgyal Institute of Technology is one of the best places to visit in Gangtok with kids that features a museum and library displaying ancient Buddhist artefacts.

Gangtok belongs to which part of Sikkim?

Gangtok is a part of east Sikkim, but it is connected with west, north, south Sikkim with good road connectivity.

Which is the nearest airport to Gangtok?

Bagdogra International Airport is the nearest airport to Gangtok, located 125 kilometres. The travel time to reach Gangtok via taxi from Bagdogra International Airport is around 5 hours. The same international airport is well connected with major towns in India.

Which is the closest railway station to Gangtok?

New Jalpaiguri is the nearest railway station, 117 kilometres, 5 hours. It is also well connected with major rail routes of India.

What are some travel tips for Gangtok travel?

A few places in and around Gangtok demand permits. For instance, Nathu La Pass, Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, Tsomgo Lake. Also, the same places restrict foreigners due to border policies. You must obtain the permit from your tour operator to reduce the last-minute permit hassle.

What are the famous sights in Gangtok which have mythological connections?

Hanuman Tok in Gangtok is supposed to be the same temple where Lord Hanuman rested while wandering on his way to take Sanjeevini Booti for Lord Laxman.

How many days are ideal for exploring Gangtok tourist places?

3-4 days is an excellent time frame for roaming the famous tourist places of Gangtok.

Akshay Negi

Akshay Negi is a head word nerd at Honeymoon Bug and is amongst the rarest breed of copywriters. Since 2017, he has helped launch several successful brands to write high-converting sales copy. Akshay takes the Nobel task of channeling your brand voice into WORDS that pay by relaying the story in the most persuasive, engaging and gripping way. Today, he’s on the mission to humanize the brands with nothing but powerful and precise wording.

See author's posts

• Fireflies Special
• Leh Ladakh Tour Packages
• Customized Tours
• INTERNATIONAL TRIPS
• Why the name HikerWolf ?
• HikerWolf Core Values
• Other Activities
• Get In Touch
• Search for:

Top 10 Beautiful Places to Visit in Gangtok , Sikkim

Gangtok gained importance as a Buddhist pilgrimage site in the early 1980s. Today it is one of the most visited cities in northeastern India thanks to its extraordinary natural beauty and religious significance.  If you are planning a holiday in Gangtok, you need to explore these top 10 places in and around the city. So, here goes the list of places to visit in Gangtok.

Table of Contents

1. Tsomgo lake

2. col de nathula, 3. hanuman tok, 4. himalaya zoo, 5. ranka monastery, 6. namibian institute of tibetology, 7. exhibition center for flowers, 9. ganesh tok, 10. rumtek monastery.

Experts Talk

Community of experts guiding you to take informed decision

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Username or email address  *

Password  *

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

Username  *

Email address  *

Let's Chat

Places to visit in Gangtok

Gangtok, a heavenly abode for all type of travellers!

The city of Gangtok brims with awe-inspiring natural wonders. From mighty snow-capped mountains to enchanting lush green forests, the best of nature sprawls in Gangtok. If you are on a vacation to Gangtok, trust me, a day or two is just not enough! There’s so much to be explored and so much to be felt in this lost kingdom of Gangtok. The city is nestled amid the Himalayas in the North East India. The vivid rich culture infused in every corner here is sure to help you find that ‘inner peace’. So, go ahead and trail through the paths of this untapped kingdom. Unwind along the banks of pristine lakes and rivers or travel down its history in the solitary monasteries, every place here will leave you a treasure trove of memories.

Suggested Read: Things to do in Gangtok , Best Time to Visit Gangtok & How to Reach Gangtok .

You might also like: Places To Visit in Bhutan & Things To Do in Bhutan

(Tourists enjoy a ropeway cable car/Gondola ride over Gangtok city during sunset.)

Here are places you should visit while in Gangtok.

Kanchenjunga mountain.

Kanchenjunga Mountain is the third highest peak in the world. And from the city of Gangtok, you can enjoy a breath-taking view of this snow-clad mountain. Kanchenjunga peak resonates through the pinnacles of Sikkim and can be seen from most places around Gangtok. If you wish to enjoy a closer view of this mighty mountain, you can participate in treks to the base camp of Mount Kanchenjunga or visit the Kanchenjunga National Park . You can also set a base camp in the foothills of Kanchenjunga and spend a night or two here.

The best time to visit to get the clear views of Kanchenjunga Mountain is during the spring season (March to April) when the sky remains clear and during the winter season (October to December) when the weather remains pleasant and the sky clears post monsoon rains.

The best place in Gangtok to get mesmerising views of Kanchenjunga Mountain is Tashi View Point. You need to climb a few steps to reach the point.

Kanchenjunga Mountain is the third highest mountain in the world with an elevation of 8,586 meters (28,169 feet).

The mountain lies partly in India (i.e. Sikkim) and partly in Nepal.

It is the highest mountain in India and the second highest mountain in Nepal.

Kanchenjunga Mountain finds its name from its five towering peaks. The name Kanchenjunga translates to ‘Five Treasures of Snow’.

Main Highlights

It is an experience to watch the intriguing and ravishing views of the sun rising over the Kanchenjunga.

Trekking in the Kanchenjunga region gives you an opportunity to witness the abundant wildlife species like snow leopard, musk deer and blue sheep while passing through the pristine rhododendron forest and high alpine passes.

Sikkim Best Sellers

03 Nights / 04Days

Gangtok tour, rs. 7500 rs. 6200.

07 Nights / 08Days

Gangtok pelling darjeeling tour, rs. 14500 rs. 17500.

04 Nights / 05Days

Gangtok darjeeling tour package, rs. 9200 rs. 1100.

08 Nights / 09Days

Gangtok lachung pelling tour, rs. 15000 rs. 18000.

Gangtok Lachung Tour

Rs. 8800 rs. 10500.

Gangtok Lachung Pelling Darjeeling Tour

Rs. 17000 rs. 20500, rs. 9200 rs. 11000.

05 Nights / 06Days

Delightful gangtok and darjeeling, rs. 10500 rs. 12500.

You can also check our tailor made Bhutan Tour Packages .

Phodong monastery

Outstanding amongst many other places to visit in Gangtok is Phodong Monastery. This particular monastery was built in eighteenth century. The paintings, sculptures and overall architecture of this monastery has been completed with perfection. You can spend hours humming to the sound of monks performing the rituals. The location of this monastery adds on to the beauty. You can enjoy a scenic view of the surroundings here and spend time unwinding. The popular Cham dance is held annually in this monastery.

The best time to visit the Phodong Monastery is between the months of March to May and October to December.

The monastery remains open for visitors from 8 am to 5 pm.

You must dress appropriately while visiting the monastery

Maintain peace and decorum while you are inside the monastery and do not disturb the monks as that might offend them.

Phodong Monastery is rated as the most beautiful monasteries in Sikkim .

It secures a position in the list of six most important Buddhist monasteries in Sikkim.

The monastery houses over 250 monks.

The monastery was originally built in 1740 AD by the fourth king of Sikkim – Chogyal Gyurmed Namgyal.

The monastery is famous for its architectural style. The walls are adorned with beautiful murals, paintings and frescos which never fails to astonish visitors.

Phodong Monastery offers a picturesque view of the mountains and the surrounding valleys.

The Chaam Dance along with religious rituals is performed by the monks on the occasion of the annual festival, which is held on the 28th and 29th day of the 10th month of the Tibetan calendar corresponding to the month of December to January.

Magnan is a residential community 65 kilometres away from the city of Gangtok. This town offers a stunning range of adventure activities for its guests, thus guaranteeing that no day spent here is squandered. From simply enjoying the view of the panoramic mountains to indulging in a lists of fun sports to submerging yourselves in profound tranquility, there are umpteen things to do here. Here you get the opportunity to enjoy paragliding, mountain-biking and other outdoor activities. This little town is also home to a couple of monasteries.

The place lies at a lower altitude as compared to other places in Sikkim and hence the best time to visit Magnan is between March to May and October to December.

From Gangtok, you can hire a private taxi, car, bus or jeep to reach Mangan.

Do not forget to savour the local cuisine of Magnan which includes Phagshapa, Momo, Gya Thuk or Thukpam, Ningro, Gundruk, Churpi and Sael Roti among others. Chaang is the popular drink in Mahnan which is a must try.

Magnan hosts a three-day music festival every year in the month of December where the bands from within the region and other Northeast states perform.

Magnan is a small and less populated town that offers serene beauty with a sense of calmness and tranquillity. The town offers breath-taking views of the Kanchenjunga range.

Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy paragliding, mountain biking, rock-climbing and forest camping in Magnan.

Suggested Read: Best Time to Visit Mangan & How to Reach Mangan .

• Tsomgo Lake

A standout amongst the most imperative and heavenly places to visit in Gangtok, the Tsomgo Changu Lake is a frosty lake arranged 40 kilometres from Gangtok at a stature of 12,310 feet. It is a fable pool of amazing magnificence. The frigid blue waters of the lake mirroring the mighty pinnacles of the Himalayas make for a breath-taking sight. Spend a whole day at this lake since it is an ideal ordeal. You can also picnic on the shores of this pristine Lake. There are couple of street-side stalls here that offer mouth-watering delicacies. Do get your hands on them.

Since the lake is situated 40 km. away from Gangtok city, it is advisable to leave early for your trip so as to reach on time.

Tsomgo Lake is a part of the restricted area, hence you will need a prior permission/permit for which you require photo identity proof and two passport size photos. You can get the permit from the tourism department at MG Marg Gangtok or you can ask your travel agent to arrange for the same.

Due to heavy snow during the winter season, sometimes the roads are blocked.

There is no accommodation facility in the area to stay overnight.

Set at an elevation of 3,753 meters, Tsomgo Lake is one of the highest lakes in India .

The surface of the lake reflects different colours in different seasons. Therefore, it is considered sacred among the local people.

During the winter season (January to mid-May), trekking along the lake coast and yak ride on the snow are major attractions.

During the summer and autumn season, one can observe fine blossom of Primula flowers and other alpine vegetation near the lake.

During October, you can find native birds waddling in the lake’s water.

During December, the lake is partially covered with the thick sheet of ice giving you an opportunity to indulge in ice skating and savouring hot noodles and tea at the nearby eating joints.

Nathula Pass

A standout amongst the most popular spots to visit in Gangtok, the Nathu La Pass is a pass which associates Sikkim with China’s Tibet Autonomous Region. In the olden days, this pass shaped a piece of the Silk Route, a standout amongst the most vital exchanging courses on the planet. Visiting Nathu La Pass is an absolute necessity when in Gangtok. The wonderful pass can essentially be appreciated by driving or by trekking. The scenic view of the mountains from this pass is a sight to behold.

Nathula Pass remains open only for Indian nationals on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.

The roads are winding so if you have a problem of motion sickness, do carry some medicines.

Do not forget to take the permit from the zonal office before visiting the pass.

Nathula Pass is one of the highest motorable roads in the world set at an elevation of 4302 meters.

Nathula Pass offers breath-taking views of the snow-covered mountains along with picturesque Chumbi valley of Tibet.

A pleasant drive to the pass lets you experience the picturesque beauty and fresh mountain breeze while you make your way on the roads surrounded by snow on both sides.

Suggested Read: Other Attractions in Sikkim

Ganesh Tok is one of the celebrated vacationer destination in Gangtok, prestigious essentially because of its beautiful architecture. Found near the Tashi View Point and the Bakthang falls, a visit to Ganesh Tok is an absolute necessity while in Gangtok. This temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesh and is situated amidst nature. The view from this temple is mesmerizing. Spend time at the gallery close to the temple to enjoy a gander view of the scenic nature.

Ganesh Tok is open to visit from 6 am until 7 pm.

You will have to hike 7 km. to reach the point hence it is advisable to wear comfortable shoes

You will be required to climb the staircase to reach the upper level where the viewing area and temple are located.

You will be required to take off your footwear midway along the staircase.

You can also enjoy a refreshing stroll at the Pinetum garden, situated right next to the Ganesh Tok.

Set at an elevation of 6500 feet, Ganesh Tok is the topmost tip of Gangtok.

It is one of the best places in Gangtok to soak in the mesmerizing views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, other Eastern Himalayan peaks and Gangtok city.

The observatory tower offers the magnificent sight of lush forest valleys and mountains.

Ban Jhakri falls

On the off chance that you wish to appreciate some wonderful touring and picnicking in Gangtok, then head to Ban Jhakri falls . Situated inside the popular Energy Park, the 100-foot Ban Jhakri Waterfall is an excellent spot. Nature rules here, a still quietness hangs all around, just punctuated by the intense spouting of the water gushing on the stones. The Ban Jhakri Falls is of sacred importance to the locals here as they are said to have a power which can repulse insidious spirits. When you are in the recreation centre, make a point to visit the man-made lake. Popular among the locals, this place has visitors throughout the year.

You will be required to pay an entry fee of Rs. 20 per person to enter the park where the waterfall is located.

There is a gift shop and a café on one side of the ticket counter.

Best time to visit the waterfalls is between February and April.

Ban Jhakri Falls are naturally created waterfall which originates from the springs located at a higher altitude.

It is a 100-feet gushing waterfall located within aforested area.

It serves as a beautiful picnic spot where you can spend a nice relaxing time.

Do Drul Chorten stupa

This is a historic destination in Gangtok. The Do Drul Chorten Stupa is a decent place to visit in the city. It was built in 1945-46 by Trulshik Rinpoche, leader of the Nyingma community. This stupa holds centrality in the city due to its said capacity to head out wicked spirits. It includes the conventional 108 Mani Lhakor or petition wheels of Buddhism which have wish-conceding properties. The brilliant best of the stupa reveres the figure of Dorjee Phurpa or Vajra Kilaya.

The best time to visit the place is between October and June.

The stupa is located at close proximity to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology and Gangtok Centre.

It is open all days of the week from 8 am to 6 pm.

The stupa is considered as one of the finest monasteries in Gangtok. It was constructed in the year 1945 by Trullshi Rimpoche, head of the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism.

It is surrounded by 108 prayer wheels all of which have mantras inscribed on them in Tibetan.

The place can accommodate over 700 monks.

Once this place was believed to be haunted by evil spirits. Later a very respected and great Guru Rinpoche blessed the place, cleansing it of all evil.

It is an ideal place for nirvana seekers, history lovers and photography buffs.

Suggested Read: Buddhist Circuit in Sikkim

Rumtek monastery

A standout amongst the most imperative and noteworthy monasteries in Gangtok, the Rumtek monastery is among the must visit in Gangtok. The religious community takes after the school of Tibetan Buddhism and is particularly eminent comprehensively for its Kagyu lessons. The design of the place is additionally a noteworthy fascination. It is worked in the traditional Tibetan gompa style and is three stories high. Every one of its floors include intriguing sights that are equipped for bestowing the profound information of Buddhism to its devotees alongside the historical backdrop of the faction. The lobbies of this monastery include a vast hand painted and multifaceted divider wall paintings, thankas, silk compositions and statues, every one of them startling in their profundity and magnificence. The best floor of the religious community includes a stupa and a porch.

(Prayer Wheels at Rumtek Monastery, also called the Dharmachakra Centre)

Try to reach the monastery early so as to catch a glimpse of monks doing morning prayers.

The monastery remains open from 9 am to 6 pm.

The walk is long and steep from the taxi drop off location.

You are not allowed to carry cameras inside the monastery.

The architecture of the monastery is considered to be one of the finest in the world and resembles the original one in Tsurphu, Tibet.

It is a world-renowned center for Kagyu teachings.

During its second construction in 1963, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje, 16th Karmapa brought some of the sacred items and rarest Buddhist religious artwork in the form of 1001 miniature golden models of Buddha, Thangkas and wall murals.

Golden Stupa at the Monastery, mystical ancient relics and down the hill river.

Suggested Read: Famous Monasteries in Sikkim

You can also visit our Bhutan Tourism website and check out the most charming monasteries in Bhutan .

Namgyal institute of Tibetology

A place where Tibetan Buddhism is taught, the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is a famous fascination in Gangtok. Since the district is vigorously influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, understanding it is an extraordinary method. Delightful Tibetan design characterizes the building and its exhibition hall houses a few statues, coins, hand depictions and weaving work (thangkas), Tibetan fine arts and antiquities, and also antiquated compositions in Sanskrit, Tibetan, Chinese and Lepcha. The library of the Institute houses more than 60,000 books among which are the first lessons of Lord Buddha.

The Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is open from 10 am to 4 pm, from Monday to Saturday.

The institute is one of the largest repositories of Tibetan works, located outside the Tibet region. It houses the rarest and oldest collection of ritual objects, mementos, religious art, jewellery, Tibetan iconography, documentaries and books on Sikkimese tradition and culture .

It also houses a library which boasts unique Buddhist tomes, some of which are a hundred years old.

The Sikkimese architecture at the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is to look out for.

It is beautifully set amidst verdant forests of oak and birch.

Tashi Viewpoint

The Tashi Viewpoint is one of the prevalent spots to visit in Gangtok. Really popular for its dawns and dusks, this place offers startling view of the Himalayan Mountain. Tashi Viewpoint is a picturesque place. Come here to enjoy sunrise and sunset and experience the breath-taking view of the city here.

The best time to visit Tashi View Point is from March to June when the weather remains pleasant.

By paying Rs. 10, you can get a closer view of the enthralling peaks, Phodong and Labrang Monasteries from the binocular or telescope that is present here.

There is a nice cafeteria here, where you can eat snacks and drink warm tea while soaking in the beautiful views.

Tashi View Point offers the best sunrise and sunset views. In fact, you can witness the changing of colours on Mount Kanchenjunga as the sun rises and sets.

Tashi View Point is a must visit place for nature lovers as it offers splendid views of the imposing view of the snow-capped Himalayan mountains, specifically Mount Kanchenjunga and Mount Siniolchu.

Fambong La wildlife sanctuary

The Fambong La Wildlife sanctuary is a haven which not just houses a befuddling assortment of creatures and winged animals including Red Pandas and Himalayan Beer, yet additionally a ravishing scope of verdure including bamboo and rhododendrons woodlands. Brilliant wild orchids prosper beguilingly all around. Spending a few hours meandering around this asylum will enable you to make the most of nature’s endowments exhaustively.

The entry ticket to Fambong La Wildlife Sanctuary is Rs. 5 per person.

Best time to plan your visit is between the months of March to late May and from September to Mid December.

The sanctuary is home to animals such as Himalayan Black Bear, Red Panda, Binturong Or Bearcat, Civet Cat, etc.

The plants in the sanctuary include Champa, Ferns, Oak, Orchids, Bamboo, Katus, Kimbu and Rhododendrons.

It is a haven for nature and animal lovers

The wooden site-seeing tower present here offers beautiful views of the surrounding areas.

Suggested Read: Wildlife in Sikkim

• Khecheopalri Lake

Khecheopalri Lake , otherwise called Kha-Chot-Palri, is a characteristic lake close to Gangtok and is one of the places you unquestionably should visit in Gangtok. The lake is dedicated to two Hindus and Buddhists for their legendary deeds. The shores of the lake are surrounded with statues of Guru Padmasambhava, Lord Shiva and Goddess Tara separated from other essential legendary figures.

Also pay a visit to the Khechoedpaldri hill close to the lake thought to be a sacrosanct spot by local people. Trekkers on the Yuksom-Dzongri-Goechha La trail will get an opportunity to visit this lake on the course. Setting off to the lake with a guide will enable you to comprehend the historical backdrop of the place better. If you visit Gangtok in October, then you will likewise have the capacity to appreciate the custom Chho-Tsho celebration that is praised on this lake.

The best time to visit Khecheopalri Lake is from February to March when the weather remains pleasant.

Khecheopalri Lake is believed to be a wish-fulfilling lake.

It is also believed that Lord Shiva meditated in a cave above the lake.

From an elevation, the lake appears to be in shape of a foot, which is believed to be the footprint of Lord Shiva.

Another interesting fact is that birds don’t let any leaves or dirt to float in the lake. As soon as a leaf falls, birds come and pick it up.

The serene environment of the lake attracts many tourists to this spot.

Maghe Purne, one of the biggest festivals celebrated in March/April every year and Chho-Tsho, celebrated in October draws thousands of pilgrims and tourists to this place.

Trekking is another popular activity here.

Suggested Read: Lakes in Sikkim

MG Marg can’t be missed when in Gangtok. It is a magnificent place which fuses the best of Gangtok and its vacationer culture and shows it to its guests in bright shows. Free of litter and smoke, this is a wonderful place to spend your nights in Gangtok. Numerous eateries and bars line its lanes and a ‘carnivalesque’ air wins throughout the entire year. Walking relaxed along the street, ceasing at interesting shops offering neighbourhood merchandise and knickknacks, getting a charge out of warm drinks as the cold breeze blows all around, and feasting in the comfortable solace of a Tibetan eatery are one of the best things to do here.

(A street in gangtok passing through a forest covered in mist or fog.)

MG Marg market remains closed on Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.

The 1 km. stretch of road is a pedestrian only zone and vehicles are not allowed here.

It is also a smoke-free zone.

It is advisable to carry cash with you as many shops do not accept cards.

MG Marg is lined up with numerous cafes, restaurants, shops and bars on both sides of the road.

It is a popular market for buying apparels, accessories, footwear, handicraft items, etc.

MG Marg hosts the annual Gangtok Food and Culture Festival every year in the month of December.

Suggested Read: Attraction in Sikkim

Baba Mandir

This is a temple devoted to the memory of Harbhajan Singh , a fighter martyred amid the Sino war. Harbhajan Singh shield his nation and individual officers on the Nathu La pass. It is believed that this legend has supernatural powers and that he monitors the soldiers who are at the border. He is the reason why this temple is of importance to tourists too.

It is a protected area, hence you will need a protected area permit before visiting.

Baba Mandir is situated at a high altitude (i.e. 4000 meters) hence there is a lack of oxygen in the air.

Therefore, it is advisable to take adequate precautions before visiting. You may consult a doctor and carry along inhaler, especially if you have breathing problems or other medicines for vomiting, headache and motion sickness.

You can even carry some pieces of Camphor which can help you in breathing.

If planning to visit the place between December and March, it is advisable to carry along warm clothes, winter jackets and sweaters.

Baba Mandir is built in the memories of Harbhajan Singh, a Sentry of Punjab Regiment. In October 1968, he disappeared and it is believed that his spirit is still alive which guards and protects the people there.

Scenic view from the temple, pilgrimage spot.

So, wait no more! Visit Gangtok and experience paradise on earth!

Subscribe to us

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated

Request a call back

Our experts would love to create a package just for you!

Recent Post

Travel guide.

How to Plan Sikkim Tour in December

How to Plan Sikkim Tour in November

How to Plan Sikkim Tour in October

Sikkim Travel Information at a Glance

Find the authentic information on how to plan a hassle free tour to Sikkim. Travalghar puts together for you relevant details on how to reach Sikkim along with information on different means of transportation and the best time to visit. Also explore the different attractions and destinations in Sikkim with the help of our map, made easy for you to navigate.

• About sikkim
• Sikkim Darjeeling Tour Packages
• Visiting Sikkim in Winters
• South Sikkim
• Sikkim Tourism Destinations
• How to Reach Sikkim
• Visiting Sikkim in Summers
• West Sikkim
• Sikkim Tourist Attractions
• Sikkim Travel by Road
• Visiting Sikkim in Monsoon
• East Sikkim
• Best Things to Do in Sikkim
• Sikkim Travel by Train
• Darjeeling Gangtok Tour Packages
• North Sikkim
• Best Time to Visit Sikkim
• Sikkim Travel by Air
• Entry Formalities to Sikkim
• Trekking in Sikkim
• Honeymoon in Sikkim
• Sikkim Tourism Map
• Restricted Area Permit
• Hill stations in Sikkim
• Gangtok Tour Packages
• Sikkim Tour Packages
• Places to visit in Sikkim
• Do's and Dont's
• Nathang Valley
• Thangu Valley
• Rinchenpong
• RABDENTSE RUINS
• Nathu La Pass
• Khangchendzonga National Park
• GURUDONGMAR LAKE
• BUDDHA PARK RAVANGLA
• BARSEY RHODODENDRON SANCTUARY
• Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple
• Sikkim in January
• Sikkim in February
• Sikkim in March
• Sikkim in April
• Sikkim in May
• Sikkim in June
• Sikkim in July
• Sikkim In August
• Sikkim in September
• Sikkim In October
• Sikkim in November
• Sikkim in December
• Sikkim Honeymoon Packages

or call us at: +91 7838-052-199

Send Enquiry

Our experts will get in touch with you shortly.

View Sikkim Packages

How it works?

• 1 Tell us details of your holiday plan.
• 2 Our Tour Experts will customize the plan based upon your requirements & will email the tour quote with 2-3 different hotel options
• 3 Select & book best deal.

+91 7838-052-199

Get free quote, how it works, get the best sikkim tour packages, why travel with us.

Best Price Guranteed

Package Customization

24*7 Trip Assistance

Refine your package, budget per person (in rs.).

• Less Than 10,000
• 10,000 - 20,000
• 20,000 - 30,000
• 0 To 5 Nights
• 6 To 8 Nights
• 8 or More Nights

Type Of Packages

• Best Seller
• Family/Leisure
• --> --> --> --> -->