tourist places in gangtok

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Gangtok Tourist Places

Here are the best places to visit in gangtok:, quick navigation.

Tsomgo Lake

One of the most important and magnificent places to visit in Gangtok, the Tsomgo Changu Lake is a glacial lake situated 40 kilometres from Gangtok at a height of 12,310 feet. A fairytale lake of breathtaking beauty, Tsomgo Changu should definitely be on your travel itinerary for Gangtok. The icy blue waters of the lake reflecting the grandiose peaks of the Himalayas make for a spectacular sight. The prayer wheels and the small Shiva temple on its shores are a testimony to the sacred nature of the lake in the eyes of the locals.

Spend an entire day at this lake since it is a once in a lifetime experience. Picnicking on its shores will prove to be a memorable delight and it can be augmented with the help of the tea and snack sellers who sell mouth-watering treats near the lake. If you wish to enjoy additional attractions near the lake, a visit to the Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary can be planned alongside.

Location: Tsomgo Lake, near Gangtok, Sikkim, India

How to Reach: Transport can be rented in Gangtok.

Timing: Open 24 hours Also Checkout and Book:   Sikkim Darjeeling Gangtok Tour Package From Mumbai

Nathu La Pass

One of the most significant places to visit in Gangtok, the Nathu La Pass is a pass which connects Sikkim with China's Tibet Autonomous Region. In the ancient days, this pass formed a part of the Silk Route, one of the most important trading routes in the world. Visiting Nathu La Pass is a must-do when in Gangtok because the views and experiences that you can have here are unlike any other. The beautiful pass can simply be enjoyed by driving or hiking around it leisurely. The height of the pass ensures magnificent mountain views, especially on clear days. 

Besides enjoying the pass itself, you can also visit the border trade market at Sherathang and indulge in a unique shopping experience. You can buy raw silk, butter, china clay, goat and sheep skins, horses and a lot more from this market.  A trip to the second highest golf course in the world at Kulup should also form an art of your plans for Nathu La. The Gnathang Monastery and Gnathang War Memorial are two other attractions nearby.

Location: Nathu La, Sikkim – China-Tibet Autonomous Region

How to reach: Cabs and jeeps can be hired from Gangtok

Timing: Open 24 hours Also Checkout and Book:   8 Days Romantic Tour of Gangtok North Sikkim and Darjeeling

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

A place where Tibetan Buddhism is studied and preserved in depth, the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is a popular attraction in Gangtok. Since the region is heavily influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, understanding it is a great way to understand the motivations of the local population Namgyal Institute of Tibetology allows visitors to do just this.

Beautiful Tibetan architecture defines the building and its museum houses several statues, coins, scrolls with hand paintings & embroidery work (thangkas), Tibetan artworks and artefacts, as well as ancient manuscripts in Sanskrit, Tibetan, Chinese and Lepcha.

The library of the Institute houses over 60,000 books among which are the original teachings of Lord Buddha. A large image of Manjushri, who was the bodhisattva of knowledge and wisdom, is also contained within the halls of this institute.

Location: Deorali, Gangtok, Sikkim

How to reach: Public transport is available and private cars can be rented in Gangtok too.

Timing: 10 am to 4 pm Explore the beautiful North East by booking   Gangtok Darjeeling Private Tour Package

Best of Manali

Tashi Viewpoint

The Tashi Viewpoint is one of the popular places to visit in Gangtok. Famed for its sunrises and sunsets as well as its startling views of the entire grand Himalayan mountain range, Tashi Viewpoint is a place that will leave you with some great pictures and countless memories.

Viewing both the sunrise and the sunset here is a great idea since it allows you to the experience the depth of Sikkim’s natural beauty in all its aspects. Try to plan your visit so that it falls on a clear day as clouds can really dampen the pleasure of the viewpoint. Combining the visit to the viewpoint with visits to the Ganesh Tok and the Bakthang falls is a good idea.

Location: Tashi View Point, Gangtok, Sikkim, India

Timing: 4 pm- 6 pm Feel the excitement by booking  Paragliding In Gangtok, Sikkim

Seven Sister Water Falls

One of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring spectacles of Gangtok, the Seven Sisters waterfalls should definitely be visited when you are in Gangtok. The Seven Sisters waterfalls reflect the unique creativity of nature- seven separate waterfalls, originating from different sources and flowing side by side, marge into one powerful waterfall mid-way through. The combined force of these seven streams results in a thunderous waterfall which captures the imagination of all viewers with its might. Don't forget to book a romantic tour package of Gangtok covering Seven Sister Waterfalls.

A ropeway near the waterfall is a good place to enjoy the falls from up close. Since the waterfalls burst into full power only during and after the rains, tourist sheds have been built at convenient locations around the waterfalls. This allows people to enjoy the sight of the falls without getting drenched in the rains. A cafeteria also operates nearby.

Location: National Highway, North Sikkim, Gangtok, India

How to Reach: cabs can be hired in Gangtok

Timings: Open 24 hours Also Book -  Kaziranga Tour Package

Kanchenjunga Mountain

The sight of the third highest mountain in the world is one of the best attractions in Gangtok. Kanchenjunga towers high above the other peaks of Sikkim and can be glimpsed from most places around Gangtok. But if you want to go beyond gazing and actually enjoy the mountain up close, you can engage in treks to the base camp of Mount Kanchenjunga or simply visit the Kanchenjunga National Park.

If you want to enjoy trekking to Kanchenjunga, the Green Lake trek, as well as the Kanchenjunga Base camp trek, are a great option to explore since it takes you right up to Zemu Glacier, the location of the base camp in Sikkim.

Location: Gangtok, Sikkim, India

How to reach: You can trek for 10 to 12 days and reach the base camp or take a safari through the Kanchenjunga National park.

Timings: Vary by activity.

Best of Ladakh

Phodong Monastery

One of the best solitude rich places to visit in Gangtok, this monastery was built in the early 18th century on the remains of an older monastery and plays an important part in the cultural landscape of the place. The monastery is among the most revered monasteries in Sikkim and offers visitors a chance to enjoy the spiritual depth of Sikkim at its best. Spending some hours enjoying the ancient murals on the walls as well as the ancient sculptures and artefacts preserved in the halls is a good way to enjoy the monastery. 

For those looking to gain some peace, the meditation halls of the monastery are perfect. Situated as it is in the midst of grand natural beauty, a visit to this monastery is a meditation in itself. The annual Cham dance festival is celebrated here in February. The views from the monastery are also wonderful.  

Location: Approx. 28 kilometres from Gangtok, Sikkim, India

Timing: 10 am to 6 pm Do Checkout -  Darjeeling Package From Kolkata                           Darjeeling Tour Package For Family

Do Drul Chorten Stupa

A landmark sight in Gangtok, the Do Drul Chorten Stupa is a good place to visit in the city. Built-in 1945-46 by Trulshik Rinpoche, head of the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism, this stupa holds significance in the city because of its said ability to drive away evil spirits. It features the traditional 108 Mani Lhakor or prayer wheels of Buddhism which are supposed to have wish-granting properties.

The golden top of the stupa enshrines the figure of Dorjee Phurpa or Vajra Kilaya. If you are interested in understanding the cultural pulse of Gangtok, a visit to this chorten, which is among the most important chortens in Sikkim, is a must. The climb to the top is slightly exhausting because of its steep nature, but the views from the top are rewarding.

Location: Near Gangtok Centre, Gangtok, Sikkim, India

How to reach: Public transport is easily available in Gangtok.

Timings: 9 am to 6 pm Also Checkout -  Darjeeling Tour Packages From Bangalore                               Darjeeling Tour Packages From Surat

Ganesh Tok is one of the famous tourist places in Gangtok, renowned primarily for the intensity of the views visible from its complex. Located close to the Tashi View Point and the Bakthang falls, a visit to Ganesh Tok is a must on the local sightseeing circuit in Gangtok. The temple in the complex is dedicated to Lord Ganesh.

Situated in the midst of nature, this temple is a delight to visit and offer prayers in. A circular balcony and lounge near the temple are perfect places to look at the view. The grand range of mountains including Kanchenjunga is visible from this point as is the spectacle of the Gangtok valley rolling down below. Sunsets from this spot are enchanting too.

Location: East District, Gangtok, Sikkim, India

How to reach: Public transport is easily available from the main Gangtok city

Timings: 7 am to 6 pm Also Book & Checkout -  Darjeeling Packages From Delhi                                            Darjeeling Tour Packages From Siliguri

Best of Nainital

Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple

A temple dedicated to the memory of Harbhajan Singh, a soldier martyred during the Sino war. Harbhajan Singh died defending his country and fellow soldiers on the Nathu La pass. His legend is also believed to have supernatural powers and his ghost is believed to guard soldiers along the border. This belief has led to the Indian army treating him as a soldier who never died.  Harbhajan Singh continued to receive his rank duly till he “retired” some years ago. This legend is the reason this temple is so popular with tourists in Gangtok. A visit to this temple is an enjoyable experience and can be combined with a visit to Nathu La pass. You must book a tour of Gangtok which includes Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple. Location: Between Nathu la And Jelep la Pass, Gangtok, India How to reach: Public transport can be availed of Timings: 8 am to 5 pm Recommended Read :  Best Sikkim tour packages

Rumtek Monastery

One of the most important and culturally significant monasteries in Gangtok, the Rumtek monastery is among the must-visit places in Gangtok. The monastery follows the school of Tibetan Buddhism and is especially renowned globally for its Kagyu teachings. The architecture of the place is also a major attraction. It is built in the classical Tibetan gompa style and is three storeys high. All its floors feature interesting sights that are capable of imparting the deep knowledge of Buddhism to their viewers along with the history of the sect. 

The halls of the monastery feature large hand painted and intricate wall murals, thankas, silk paintings and statues, all of them startling in their depth and beauty. The top floor of the monastery features a stupa and a terrace. The location of the monastery is such as to allow for a magnificent view of the Gangtok valley on the opposite side and is also a major attraction of the monastery.   

Location: Tsurphu Labrang Pal Karmae Sangha Dhuche, Dharma Chakra Centre, Sikkim, India

How to Reach: Transport is easily available from Gangtok.

Timing: 8 am to 6 pm Must Book & Checkout -  Darjeeling Tour Packages From Chennai                                             Darjeeling Tour Packages From Ahmedabad

Magnan is a small town situated approximately 65 kilometres away from Gangtok and is famed for its breathtaking natural beauty. Though small, the town offers a dazzling variety of engaging activities to its visitors, which ensures that no day spent here seems wasted. From simply gazing at the stalwart mountain peaks to enjoying a range of adventure activities to immersing yourselves in spiritual serenity, there is a lot to do here. 

Among adventure activities, enthusiasts can enjoy paragliding, rock-climbing, mountain-biking and forest camping while a spiritual retreat can be enjoyed in Labrang Gompa, one of the most revered monasteries in Sikkim, as well as in Phadong Monastery and Tholung Monastery. Namprikdang, located at the confluence of the Kanaka and Teesta rivers, is another magnificent place to visit near Magnan.

Location: Magnan, North Sikkim, India

How to reach: Buses and private rental cars can be taken from Gangtok. Book & Checkout -  Darjeeling Tour Packages For Couple                                   Darjeeling Packages From Mumbai

Best of Darjeeling

Ban Jhakri Falls

If you wish to enjoy some delightful sightseeing and memorable picnicking in Gangtok, the Ban Jhakri falls are a great place to do so. Located inside the landscaped Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park, the 100-foot Ban Jhakri Waterfall is a beautiful spot. Nature reigns supreme here, and a still silence hangs all around, only punctuated by the powerful gushing of the water falling with force on the rocks.

The Ban Jhakri Falls occupy a potent place in local mythology since they are said to have a power which can repel evil spirits. When you are in the park, make sure to visit the man-made lake there which features an imposing dragon statue in the centre. The natural energy production sites of the park are also worth a visit.

Location: Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park, Gangtok, Sikkim, India

How to Reach: Cabs can be hired from Gangtok.

Timing: 10 am to 5 pm Book Now -  Sikkim Darjeeling Gangtok Tour Package From Mumbai                       Darjeeling Packages

Tashiding Monastery

An important tourist attraction In Gangtok, the Tashiding Monastery is a must visit when in Gangtok. It ranks amongst the most important monasteries of Gangtok besides being one of the oldest. The monastery runs under the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism and is rich in legends. This makes it a crucial part of the cultural landscape of Sikkim. Its location is also particularly pretty; it is located at the confluence of the Rathong Chu and the Rangeet Rivers which adds to its meditative beauty.

Spending several hours here simply gazing at the murals and paintings on the walls, the artefacts preserved in its halls, and just meditating in its serenity is a great way to enjoy a day in Gangtok. The Bhumchu festival, an important local festival, is also celebrated in this monastery, so you can plan your visit to the place such that it coincides with the festival.

Location: Yuksom, West Sikkim, India

How to Reach: Public transport and cabs are available from Yuksum and Gangtok

Timing: 9 am to 6 pm You Must Book -  Darjeeling And Gangtok Tour Packages From Kolkata                               Gangtok Tour Packages For Couple

Mahatma Gandhi Marg

The most popular tourist market in Gangtok, MG Marg cannot be missed when in the city. It is a wonderful place which incorporates the best of Gangtok and its tourist culture and presents it to its visitors in colourful displays. Free of litter and smoke, this pedestrian-only zone is a good way to spend your evenings in Gangtok. Many restaurants and bars line its streets and a carnivalesque atmosphere prevails all year long. 

Strolling leisurely along the road, stopping at quaint shops selling local goods and trinkets, enjoying warm beverages as the chilly winds blow all around, and dining in the cosy comfort of a Tibetan restaurant are some of the best things to do in MG Marg. If you are visiting in December, you will also have the opportunity to enjoy the annual Gangtok Food Festival held in this place.

Location: MG Marg, Gangtok, Sikkim, India

How to reach: You will have to walk up to the main MG Marg from the parking lot

Timings: 10 am to 8 pm Book Now -  Gangtok Tour Package From Siliguri                       Gangtok Family Tour Packages

Best of Sikkim

Himalayan Zoological Park

Located close to Gangtok, the Himalayan Zoological Park is one of the great tourist attractions in Gangtok. Though natural beauty can be enjoyed everywhere in Gangtok, the concentrated natural variety that is to be found in this zoological park gives you a different insight into nature’s bounty in Sikkim. There is a lot that can be enjoyed inside this park including a dazzling variety of flora and fauna. Red Pandas, Himalayan Black Bears, Snow Leopards, Clouded Leopards, Barking Deer find a home here as do birds like Lady Amherst Pheasant, Kalij, Satyr Tragopan among others. 

Trekking through the park is the best way to enjoy the minute details of the park but doing so will not allow you to enjoy all the areas of the 260-acre park. If you wish to enjoy the entire length and breadth of the ark, booking a jeep safari is a good idea. The park is well maintained and provides a truly enjoyable experience to its visitors. Gangtok never fails to amaze the tourist with its natural beauties and zoological park is a treasure of beautiful flora and faunas, so book your  Gangtok tour with Himalayan Zoological Park  now.

Location: Bulbulay, East Sikkim, Gangtok, Sikkim, India

Timing: 9 am to 4 pm Book Now -  Tawang Packages

Fambong La Wildlife Sanctuary

A beautiful place where natural beauty bursts into its best possible bloom, the Fambong La Wildlife Sanctuary should be on the top of your travel itinerary in Gangtok. A sanctuary is a delightful place which not only houses a bewildering variety of animals and birds including Red Pandas, Himalayan Beer and Civet Cat Binturongs, but also a gorgeous range of flora including bamboo and rhododendrons forests. Delightful wild orchids flourish beguilingly all around. 

Spending several hours roaming around leisurely in this sanctuary will allow you to enjoy nature’s gifts comprehensively. Gorgeous views can be had from this sanctuary, especially if you head over to Tinjure, the highest point in the place, located at a height of nearly 7000 feet. Permits are required to visit the sanctuary and can be obtained from Gangtok. This is one of the best tourist places in Gangtok and should not be missed.

Location: Approx. 30 kilometres from Gangtok, Sikkim, India

How to reach: You can take a private car or cab to the Sanctuary.

Timings: 7 am to 6 pm Must Book -  Arunachal Pradesh Tour Package From Guwahati                        Arunachal Pradesh Tour Package From Kolkata

Khecheopalri Lake

Khecheopalri Lake, also known as Kha-Chot-Palri, is a natural lake near Gangtok and is one of the places you definitely should visit in Gangtok. A destination reverberating with legends, the lake is revered by both Hindus and Buddhists for its mythical associations. The shores of the lake are associated with powerful figures like Guru Padmasambhava, Lord Shiva and Goddess Tara apart from other important mythical figures.

The Khechoedpaldri hill near the lake is also considered to be a sacred spot by the locals. Trekkers on the Yuksom-Dzongri-Goechha La trekking corridor will get a chance to visit this lake on the route. Going to the lake with a local guide will allow you to understand the history of the place better. If you visit it in October, you will also be able to enjoy the ritual Chho-Tsho festival that is celebrated on the lake. Book your  tour to Gangtok inclusive of Khecheopalri Lake, and witness the mesmerizing beauty of the lake.

Location: Khecheopalri Lake, Pelling, West Sikkim, India

Timing: 8 am to 6 pm Book & Checkout -  Meghalaya Family Tour Packages                                   Arunachal Pradesh Trip

Best of Shillong

Sa-Ngor-Chotshog Centre

Located in the Upper Tathangchen area of Gangtok, this monastery is one of the most culturally important places to visit in Gangtok. Being the only monastery in Sikkim which belongs to the Sakya Order of Tibetan Buddhism and is, therefore, a unique monastery to visit.

There is a lot to be enjoyed inside the monastery including ancient paintings and thangkas. In addition, a large and imposing statue of Buddha beautifies its grounds s does a stupa decorated with fluttering flags. A wonderful stillness hangs over the monastery, making it a great place for meditative thoughts.

Location: Upper Tathangchen, Gangtok, Sikkim, India

How to reach: Public transport can be availed of

Timings: 8 am to 6 pm Must Checkout -  Meghalaya Tour Packages From Chennai                               Meghalaya Trip From Delhi

Flower Exhibition Centre

There is nothing quite so delightful as the sight of flowers bursting into bloom in the mountains. The chilly air and the silent ambience adds to the beauty of the sight and makes for a very memorable experience. The Flower Exhibition Centre on the Ridge above Gangtok is one such place. The exhibition centre features a dazzling variety of flowers, arranged in an open area and a closed enclosure.

A nominal fee is required in order to enter the enclosure but the money paid is absolutely worth the while. The exhibition centre comes into prominence especially during the months from March to June, when orchids bloom wildly and are put on display inside the centre. Other flowers on display include Blue Venda Orchids, Celosia, Chrysanthemum, and Paps.

Location: White Hall Complex, Gangtok, India

Timings: 9 am to 5 pm Must Checkout & Book -  Meghalaya Tour Packages From Kolkata                                             Meghalaya Packages From Bangalore

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Gangtok Top Attractions

Nestled atop a hill in the enchanting state of Sikkim, Tashiding Monastery stands as a revered bastion of Buddhism. This sacred site, believed to be blessed by Guru Padmasambhava, exudes tranquility and spirituality. The monastery, adorned with intricate murals and ancient scriptures, is a repository of religious and cultural significance. Pilgrims embark on a journey to Tashiding to seek blessings and participate in the vibrant festivals that celebrate the rich Buddhist heritage.The panoramic views from Tashiding Monastery are awe-inspiring, offering a breathtaking spectacle of the surrounding Himalayan landscape. Pilgrims often ascend to witness the ethereal sunrise, a moment of profound spiritual significance. The monastery serves not only as a religious retreat but also as a cultural beacon, preserving the traditions and teachings of Tibetan Buddhism. Tashiding Monastery is a testament to the harmonious blend of spirituality, history, and natural beauty in the heart of the Himalayas.

Wrapped in the beautiful drapes of North Sikkim, Kabi Langunch is a village that seems forgotten by time. It brims with timeless beauty and is an offbeat destination that not many might have heard about. If you truly wish to unplug and unwind, Kabi is ideal for you.The place has a rich, significant history attached to it, as it is believed to be the place where the “Blood Brotherhood Treaty” was signed by the Bhutia King and Lepcha Chief in the 1200s. The place where this phenomenal event had happened spans 3 km towards the Bakcha river, chaperoned by the majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga. The forests of Kabi are of exquisite beauty, celebrated for the spices of wildlife and flowers that inhabit them. Take short nature walks into these forests if you seek thrill and adventure.Location: North Sikkim Highway, near Phodong, Gangtok, SikkimDistance from Lachung Bus Stand: Approx. 100 km

Bakthang Waterfall, located near Gangtok in Sikkim, India, is a stunning natural marvel that captivates visitors with its cascading beauty. Surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque landscapes, the waterfall offers a serene and refreshing ambiance, making it a popular tourist attraction.The Bakthang Waterfall is formed by the streams originating from the majestic Himalayan ranges. As the crystal-clear water descends gracefully over the rocks, it creates a mesmerizing sight and a soothing sound that soothes the senses. The area around the waterfall is well-maintained with viewing platforms, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the gushing waters.This attraction is not only popular among nature lovers and photographers but also draws pilgrims seeking a tranquil place for meditation and introspection. The enchanting beauty of Bakthang Waterfall offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life, and visitors can take leisurely walks along the nature trails, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and bask in the natural beauty of this pristine waterfall.

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Places To Visit In Gangtok: Unfolding The 32 Gems Of Sikkim

Dive into our guide on the best places to visit in Gangtok, explore the top Gangtok tourist attractions, and discover why this city is a must-visit spot on your Sikkim journey. As you journey through Gangtok, remember it’s the gateway to discovering the myriad of places to visit in Sikkim , each spot telling its own unique story and offering an experience unlike any other.

Get ready to be captivated by the beauty of Gangtok and the wonders it has to offer!

32 Places to Visit in Gangtok: A Guide to the City’s Top Attractions

1. rumtek monastery.

• Golden Stupa: Contains sacred relics of the 16th Karmapa, making it a deeply spiritual site for pilgrims.
• Vibrant Murals and Artwork: The monastery walls are adorned with exquisite murals, thangkas (Tibetan religious paintings), and statues, showcasing Buddhist art.
• Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre: A significant center for religious study and meditation, attracting scholars and practitioners from around the world.
• Annual Festivals: Rumtek comes alive during special Buddhist festivals with traditional dances, ceremonies, and a display of ancient rituals.

2. Nathula Pass

• Historic Silk Route: Explore part of the ancient trade route connecting India and Tibet.
• Breathtaking Views: Witness the majestic Himalayan range and pristine snow-covered landscapes.
• Border Gates: See the international border gates of India and China up close.
• Memorial and Exhibition Center: Learn about the region’s history and the Indian Army’s role at the Sherathang Mart.

3. Tsomgo lake

• Seasonal Beauty: The lake’s appearance changes with the seasons, from reflective waters in summer to a frozen spectacle in winter.
• Yak Rides: Experience traditional yak rides along the lake’s perimeter, offering a unique way to explore the area’s natural beauty.
• Sacred Significance: Revered by locals, Tsomgo Lake holds spiritual importance, adding to its serene ambiance.
• Rope-way: For a bird’s eye view of the lake and surrounding mountains, the rope-way ride is a must-try.

4. Do Drul Chorten Stupa

• Golden Dome: The stupa’s shining golden dome is a symbol of peace and stands out against the lush backdrop of Sikkim.
• 108 Prayer Wheels: Surrounding the stupa, these wheels are inscribed with mantras and spun by visitors for merit and blessings.
• Holy Relics: Inside, it houses important Buddhist relics and texts, enriching the spiritual experience for visitors.
• Stunning Architecture: The stupa’s traditional Tibetan design is a testament to Buddhist architectural brilliance.

5. Ganesh Tok

• Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the Gangtok cityscape and the snow-capped Himalayas.
• Colorful Temple: The temple is vibrant and beautifully decorated, creating a serene ambiance for prayer and reflection.
• Garden Area: Surrounding the temple, a well-maintained garden provides a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy nature.
• Viewing Gallery: A specially designed viewing area allows visitors to take in the majestic landscape.

6. Hanuman Tok

• Rich History: The temple has a storied past, contributing to its sacredness and allure.
• Cultural Significance: It plays a significant role in local religious traditions and festivals.
• Well-Maintained Premises: The clean and lush surroundings enhance the spiritual journey for visitors.
• Accessibility: Despite its high altitude, it’s easily accessible, offering a refreshing escape from the city.

7. Seven Sisters Waterfall 

• Magnificent Cascades: The waterfall features seven distinct cascades, creating a spectacular natural display.
• Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by lush greenery, it offers breathtaking views, especially during the monsoon when the falls are at their fullest.
• Accessible Viewing Platform: A well-maintained platform allows visitors to enjoy the views and take photographs safely.
• Picnic Spot: The area around the waterfall is a popular spot for picnics, making it a great place for relaxation and family outings.

8. Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve

• Diverse Ecosystems: Home to a wide range of habitats, from tropical to alpine, each supporting unique flora and fauna.
• Mount Khangchendzonga: Offers breathtaking views of the world’s third-highest peak, sacred to the local people.
• Endangered Wildlife: Sanctuary for rare species like the snow leopard, red panda, and Himalayan tahr.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site: Recognized for its outstanding natural and cultural values, enhancing its global significance.
• Giant Statues: Namchi is home to impressive statues of Guru Padmasambhava and Lord Shiva, standing tall and visible from afar.
• Char Dham: A spiritual and cultural complex that houses replicas of four sacred Hindu temples, making it a significant pilgrimage site.
• Panoramic Views: Offers stunning views of the Himalayan range, including Mount Khangchendzonga.
• Rich Culture: The town reflects Sikkim’s diverse cultural heritage, with festivals and traditional foods.

10. Tsuk La Khang Monastery 

• Architectural Beauty: The monastery showcases exquisite traditional Sikkimese architecture, with intricate wood carvings and artistic murals.
• Spiritual Center: Acts as a crucial place for worship and religious ceremonies, reflecting the deep spiritual heritage of the region.
• Historical Significance: This royal monastery has hosted numerous important events, including weddings and coronations of the Sikkimese monarchy.
• Peaceful Ambiance: Offers a peaceful retreat for meditation and contemplation amidst the bustling city of Gangtok.

11. White Hall Memorial 

• Historic Architecture: Showcases colonial-era design, making it a standout building in Gangtok.
• Memorial Significance: Dedicated to Claude White, Sikkim’s first political officer, adding historical depth to your visit.
• Lush Gardens: The surrounding gardens offer a serene environment, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
• Cultural Events: Hosts flower shows and cultural events, providing insight into local traditions.

12. The Flower Exhibition Centre

• Wide Variety of Flowers: Showcases an extensive collection of flowers, including exotic orchids, roses, and lilies.
• Year-Round Display: The Centre is open throughout the year, offering seasonal floral displays that change with the seasons.
• Orchid Shows: Famous for its orchid exhibitions, highlighting the diversity of Sikkim’s orchids.
• Central Location: Situated near MG Marg, making it easily accessible for visitors.

13. Kabi Town

• Historic Significance: Celebrated as the site of the Blood Brotherhood Treaty between the Lepcha and Bhutia tribes, marking a significant event in Sikkim’s history.
• Natural Beauty: Surrounded by lush green forests, offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
• Cultural Monuments: Features monuments commemorating the historic treaty, providing a tangible connection to the past.
• Peaceful Environment: The calmness of Kabi Town makes it a perfect spot for reflection and relaxation.

14. Saramsa Garden

• Diverse Flora: Boasts a wide variety of plants, including exotic flowers and fruit trees, making it a botanist’s paradise.
• Scenic Beauty: Offers picturesque landscapes, perfect for relaxation and photography.
• Picnic Spots: Equipped with designated areas for picnics, allowing visitors to enjoy leisurely meals amidst nature.
• Orchidarium: Features a special section dedicated to orchids, showcasing the region’s rich biodiversity.

15. Lal Bazaar

• Traditional Crafts: Shoppers can find handmade crafts, traditional Sikkimese attire, and unique souvenirs.
• Cultural Experience: The market provides a glimpse into the local lifestyle and culture, bustling with energy and color.
• Food Stalls: Features stalls selling local delicacies, allowing visitors to taste the flavors of Sikkim.
• Vibrant Atmosphere: Known for its lively environment, especially during the early morning hours.

16. Himalayan Zoological Park

17. banjhakri falls .

• Cultural Theme Park: Surrounding the falls is a park themed around Shamanic culture, with statues and installations depicting Sikkim’s folklore.
• Picnic Spots: Offers ideal spots for picnicking in the lush greenery, making it perfect for a family outing.
• Adventure Activities: The park includes activities like rope climbing and bridge crossing for those seeking a bit of adventure.
• Educational Value: Provides insight into the traditional shamanic practices of the region.

18. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

• Extensive Library: Home to one of the largest collections of Tibetan works outside Tibet, including ancient manuscripts and texts.
• Rich Collection of Artifacts: Exhibits a wide range of Tibetan artifacts, such as religious idols, thangkas (paintings), and traditional objects.
• Architectural Marvel: The institute’s traditional Tibetan architecture is a sight to behold, blending beautifully with its natural surroundings.
• Cultural Insight: Offers deep insights into Tibetan Buddhism and culture, making it a key educational spot.

19. Phurchachu Reshi Hot Spring

• Medicinal Properties: The mineral-rich waters are believed to have healing effects, especially for skin conditions and joint pains.
• Natural Setting: Located amidst lush greenery, offering a serene and beautiful backdrop for relaxation.
• Therapeutic Experience: Provides a soothing experience, perfect for those seeking natural healing and stress relief.
• Cultural Significance: The hot spring holds cultural importance among locals, adding to its allure.

20. Pemayangtse Monastery

• Rich History: One of Sikkim’s oldest monasteries, reflecting centuries of Buddhist tradition.
• Architectural Beauty: Features stunning Tibetan architecture, intricate carvings, and colorful murals.
• Spiritual Sanctuary: Offers a peaceful atmosphere for meditation and reflection.
• Panoramic Himalayan Views: Positioned with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Kanchenjunga.

21. Yumthang Valley

• Valley of Flowers: Known for its vibrant bloom of wildflowers, including rhododendrons, during spring, transforming the valley into a colorful carpet.
• Snow-Capped Mountains: Surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks, offering stunning landscapes year-round.
• Hot Springs: Features natural hot springs, believed to have healing properties, providing a unique experience amidst the cold weather.
• River Scenery: The Yumthang River flows through the valley, adding to its picturesque beauty.

22. Kupup Lake

Highlights 

• Unique Shape: Resembles an elephant, giving it the nickname “Elephant Lake,” which adds to its charm.
• Changing Colors: The lake’s water changes colors with the seasons, creating a mesmerizing effect.
• High Altitude: Located at a high elevation, it offers crisp, fresh air and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
• Serene Environment: Its peaceful surroundings make it an ideal spot for relaxation and reflection.

23. Tashi Viewpoint

• Spectacular Views: Offers panoramic views of the Himalayan range, including Mount Kanchenjunga, one of the world’s highest peaks.
• Sunrise and Sunset: A popular spot for watching breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, with the sky and mountains changing colors.
• Viewing Facilities: Equipped with viewing platforms and telescopes for a closer look at the distant peaks.
• Nearby Attractions: Close to other tourist spots, allowing visitors to combine several sightseeing activities in one trip.

24. Mt. Kanchenjunga

• Third Highest Peak: As the world’s third highest mountain, it presents awe-inspiring natural grandeur.
• Breathtaking Views: Offers stunning views from various points in Gangtok, especially enchanting at sunrise and sunset.
• Spiritual Significance: Revered by the locals, it holds cultural and spiritual importance, adding depth to its natural beauty.
• Trekking Destination: The region around Mt. Kanchenjunga is popular for trekking, offering routes with varying difficulty levels.

25. Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple

• Spiritual Significance: Dedicated to the memory of Soldier Harbhajan Singh, symbolizing loyalty and duty beyond life.
• Patriotic Site: Acts as a lighthouse of patriotism, visited by soldiers and civilians alike to pay homage.
• Serene Location: Nestled in the beautiful landscapes near Gangtok, offering calm surroundings for visitors.
• Belief in Miracles: Many believe that Baba Harbhajan Singh continues to guard the border, adding a mystical aspect to the temple.

26. Enchey Monastery

• Stunning Architecture: Features unique religious architecture with intricate designs and vibrant murals.
• Location: Perched on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of Gangtok and the surrounding Himalayas.
• Cultural Festivals: Hosts vibrant festivals like Losar (Tibetan New Year) and Chaam (masked dance), drawing visitors into its spiritual celebrations.
• Sacred Site: Believed to be built on a site blessed by a powerful tantric master known for his flying abilities.

27. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary

• Diverse Rhododendrons: Over 40 species of rhododendrons bloom here, creating a vibrant tapestry of colors.
• Blooming Season: The best time to visit is from April to July, when the flowers are in full bloom.
• Scenic Beauty: Offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, enhancing the sanctuary’s natural allure.
• Unique Biodiversity: Apart from rhododendrons, the area is home to a variety of flora and fauna, contributing to its ecological significance.

28. Ranka Monastery

• Serene Environment: Located amidst lush greenery, providing a peaceful retreat for meditation and reflection.
• Cultural Insight: Offers a glimpse into the lives of monks and their daily practices, enhancing visitors’ understanding of Buddhist culture.
• Artistic Murals: The monastery walls are adorned with beautiful paintings depicting Buddhist lore, attracting art lovers.
• Accessible Location: Despite its calm setting, Ranka Monastery is easily accessible from Gangtok, making it convenient for tourists.

29. Gonjang Monastery

After enjoying the calmness of Gonjang Monastery, consider exploring the culinary delights Sikkim has to offer. The region is renowned for its diverse and flavorful cuisine, providing a perfect blend of taste and tradition. Whether you’re craving the warmth of a hot thukpa, the spice of local chutneys, or the sweetness of Sikkimese tea, the places to eat in Sikkim cater to every palate. 

• Peaceful Setting: Located amidst the serene landscapes near Gangtok, offering a peaceful environment for visitors.
• Tibetan Buddhism: Provides insights into Tibetan Buddhist practices and teachings, enriching visitors’ spiritual knowledge.
• Stunning Artwork: Features beautiful murals and statues, showcasing the artistic heritage of Buddhism.
• Recent Foundation: Established in 1981, it brings a modern touch to the ancient traditions of Buddhist monastic life.

30. Black Cat Museum 

• Military Heritage: Showcases the heroic stories and significant achievements of India’s elite Black Cat Commandos.
• Interactive Displays: Features engaging exhibits that include gear, weapons, and uniforms used by the commandos.
• Educational Experience: Offers insights into the strategic operations and training of one of the world’s most respected military units.
• Inspirational Stories: Learn about individual acts of bravery and the important missions carried out by these elite forces.

31. Gangtok Ropeway

• Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking aerial views of Gangtok and the surrounding Himalayan range, perfect for photography.
• Exciting Ride: The cable car journey provides a thrilling experience as you glide over the city.
• Accessible Location: Centrally located, making it easy for visitors to access from various parts of the city.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for visitors of all ages, including children and elderly guests.

32. Mayfair Gangtok Casino Mahjong

• Variety of Games: Offers a wide range of games, including roulette, poker, blackjack, and slot machines, catering to different interests.
• Luxurious Setting: Located within the Mayfair Hotel, providing a lavish and secure environment for guests.
• Entertainment Options: Besides gaming, the casino hosts live music and performances, adding to the vibrant nightlife.
• Professional Staff: The staff are well-trained to assist and ensure a pleasant gaming experience for all visitors.

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Travel Tips To Keep In Mind :

• Do Obtain Necessary Permits: Some areas, especially near borders like Nathula Pass, require special permits. Ensure you have these arranged beforehand.
• Do Respect Local Customs: Sikkim has a rich culture. When visiting monasteries or attending festivals, dress modestly and follow local etiquette.
• Do Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss out on the delicious Sikkimese dishes like momos, thukpa, and local beverages. It’s a key part of the experience.
• Do Shop Locally: Support local artisans by purchasing authentic Sikkimese handicrafts and souvenirs at places to shop in Sikkim .
• Do Stay Environmentally Conscious: Sikkim is known for its pristine environment. Keep it clean by disposing of waste properly and using eco-friendly products.
• Don’t Litter: The natural beauty of Sikkim is unparalleled. Keep it that way by not littering, especially in sensitive areas like the Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve.
• Don’t Disturb Wildlife: If you’re visiting parks or sanctuaries, observe animals from a distance. Feeding or trying to interact with them can be harmful.
• Don’t Overlook Local Norms: Public displays of affection may not be as widely accepted here as they are in other places. Be mindful of local social norms.
• Don’t Hesitate to Ask for Directions: While exploring places to visit in Gangtok, asking locals for directions or recommendations can enhance your experience.
• Don’t Ignore Weather Advisories: Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. Always check and respect local advisories before heading out, especially to higher altitudes.

So, pack your bags with excitement, step into the heart of the Himalayas, and let Sikkim unfold its wonders to you. Remember, every corner of Sikkim has a story to tell, and every moment spent here is an adventure waiting to be cherished.

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34 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Gangtok

• Gangtok Overview
• Top 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok
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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, .....

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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 .....

Tsuk La Khang Monastery

#12 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 3 km from Gangtok SNT Bus Station, Tsuk La Khang or Tsuglakhang Monastery is a Buddhist palacial monastery located in Gangtok. Also known as Palace Monastery, it is one of the major places of worship in Gangtok and also one of the best places to visit in Gangtok. Located in the complex of Royal Palace, Tsuk La Khang is the imperial gompa of the erstwhile Royal family of Sikkim. This monastery was probably built in the year 1898 AD during the reign of 9th King Thutob Namgyal. Earlier the monastery was used to be the venue for several occasions such as weddings and coronations of the Sikkim Royalty. Located near the ridge, now this is a principal place of worship and a prime assembly of Buddhists in Gangtok. The two storey Royal Chapel of the Chogyals was built in traditional Sikkim architectural style with an assembly hall in the center. It has an impressive collection of Buddhist scriptures and literature. The walls and altars of the monastery are lavishly .....

Saramsa Garden

#13 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 14 km from Gangtok SNT Bus Station, Saramsa Garden is a recreational public garden located between the slopes of Gangtok and Pakyong in the north-eastern state of Sikkim. Known as Ipeca Garden, it is one of the ideal picnic places to visit in Gangtok. Saramsa Garden was established in 1922 by the then Forest Manager Bhim Bahadur Pradhan. Covering an area of 6 acres, this garden is maintained by the Sikkim Forest Department and Tourism. Initially, the garden was introduced for growing fruits for the local colonial officers. Until1940, various fruit trees such as banana, orange, pineapple and guava were grown here. Later, the garden became known for cultivating the medicinal plant ipecacuanha and thus the garden is named as Ipeca Garden. The plant was imported from Malaysia and used for producing Emetine, a powerful alkaloid which is of great significance in medical research. When growing of ipecacuanha was discontinued in 1970, the garden was transformed into .....

Bakthang Waterfall

#14 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 5 km from Gangtok SNT Bus Station, Bakthang is a small waterfall located on the North Sikkim Highway in Gangtok. Situated near Tashi View Point, it is one of the beautiful places to visit in Gangtok and among the popular waterfalls in Gangtok. The falls originates from Ratey Chu, the main water source of Gangtok area. It cascades down from the rock and forming a small pool down below. Though the height of the fall is not much, it is a wonderful sight to take photographs. For activity lovers, there is a Rope Sliding, where one can get the bird's eye view of the region. Though, it is only a short slide of only few seconds but still quite thrilling. Timings: 10 AM to 4 PM Rope Sliding: Rs.100 per person

Thakurbari Temple

#15 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 500 km from Gangtok SNT Bus Station, Thakurbari is a Hindu temple located at MG Marg in Gangtok, Sikkim. Situated in the heart of the town, it is one of the most popular places to visit in Gangtok and one of the oldest Hindu Temples in Sikkim. The Thakurbari Temple was built as a small temple on a land donated by the erstwhile Chogyal of Sikkim in 1935. Subsequently, the temple was upgraded to a major temple-complex in the time period between 1945 and 1947. The temple houses almost all major deities and has emerged as an important center of convergence for the Hindu community of Gangtok. In 2011, the temple complex was further upgraded to include a multipurpose hall and library. The temple organizes many festivals and social events on a grand scale. These festivals are visited by a large number of visitors and tourists from far off places. Visitors come here to offer their worship to the Lord and receive their blessings. Timings: 6 AM - 8 PM

Gonjang Monastery

#16 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 8 km from Gangtok SNT Bus Station, Gonjang Monastery is situated at Fatak Bojhogari near Tashi Viewpoint in Gangtok, Sikkim. Located at an altitude of 6066 feet, it is one of the famous monasteries in Gangtok and among the best Gangtok attractions. Gonjang Monastery was built in 1981 by H.E. Tingkye Gonjang Rimpoche. He was recognized as an incarnation of Yolmo Terton Ngakchang Shakya Zangpo, a 15th century Nyingmapa Terton. The monastery follows Jangter tradition of Nyingmapa school of Tibetan Buddhism. Monastic education along with Tibetan language and English are taught to the monk students here. The monastery imparts knowledge on close and comparative studies of Indian and Tibetan Buddhist philosophy based on moral values. The monastery looks impressive from outside with a massive Buddha figure inside. Inside this monastery one can see the Idols of Khen-lop Cho-Sum, three Religious Personalities or founding Fathers of Tibetan Buddhism in 8th century, and .....

Seven Sisters Waterfall

#17 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 32 km from Gangtok, Seven Sister Waterfall is a scenic waterfall located on Gangtok- Lachung Highway of Sikkim. It is one of the famous waterfalls in Sikkim and also one of the top Gangtok Tourist Places. The Seven Sisters Waterfall is an extremely captivating waterfall, which got its name because it is said to fall in seven stages. However, visitors can see only 4 stages from the bottom. The rest are way higher and hidden between the rocks. The magnificent view of refreshing water with a background of lush mountains casts a spell on the visitors with its charm and make it one of the most visited and photographed waterfalls in this region. The picture perfect beauty of Seven Sister Waterfalls is much loved by picnickers, photographers, nature lovers as well as the local people. A small footbridge crosses over the stream to give the clients a better view and photographic break. To facilitate the tourists to savor the pristine beauty and to be with nature, Tourism .....

Ganesh Tok View Point & Temple

#18 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 4 km from Tashi Viewpoint and 6 km from the Gangtok SNT Bus Station, Ganesh Tok is Hindu temple located in Gangtok. Situated close to Tashi View Point, it is one of the famous places of pilgrimage in Gangtok and among the charming places to visit in Gangtok. Located at an altitude of 6500 feet, Ganesh Tok temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesh. The temple is so small that it can accommodate only one person at a time. One needs to climb a steep staircase to reach the temple. Adorned with colorful flags hoisted and tied across the roads, the path to Ganesh Tok almost resembles a rainbow. People visit the temple to offer prayers and also to enjoy the beautiful view. There is a circular balcony around the temple and a viewing lounge to soak in the view. Ganesh Tok Viewpoint offers a bird-eye's view of the entire Gangtok town, rolling hills and the snowcapped mountains including Kanchenjunga. There is small place located close to this temple, which is known as Smriti .....

Menmecho Lake

#19 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 14 km from Nathula Pass, 22 km from Tsongmo Lake and 60 km from Gangtok, Menmecho Lake is a mountain lake situated at Kupup in East Sikkim district. Lies on the way to Jelep La Pass and ahead of the Tsomgo Lake, Menmecho Lake is considered as one of the most famous lakes of Sikkim and among the most beautiful high altitude lakes in India. Surrounded by lush forests and mountains, Menmecho Lake is situated at an altitude of 12,500 feet. The lake is fed by the waters of the surrounding mountains of Jelep La Pass and it is the source of the River Rangpo Chu, a tributary of Teesta River. Known for its scenic beauty, the lake is said to be change colors every minute and stays frozen during the winter months. There is a viewpoint on the banks of the lake for the trekkers to rest and watch the beauty of the lake unfold before them. Apart from its mystic beauty, Menmecho Lake is also famous for its trout fishing. The lake is one of the best trout cultivation centers .....

Phensang Monastery

#20 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 4 km from Seven Sisters Waterfalls and 27 km from Gangtok, Phensang Monastery is a Buddhist monastery situated on the gentle slope stretching from Kabi to Phodong near Gangtok, Sikkim. Blessed with best landscapes in the region, Phensang Monastery is one of the best monasteries in Sikkim and among the famous places to visit in Gangtok. Phensang Monastery was built in 1721 CE during the reign of Jigme Pawo. Unfortunately, in 1947 the monastery was completely gutted by a devastating fire and was rebuilt in 1948. Again in 1983, the structure was damaged due to heavy rain, but with the help of government aid and involvement, the monastery was rebuilt again. Currently, around 300 lamas of the Nyingmapa Buddhist order reside in Phensang Monastery. The monastery hosts an annual event on the 28th & 29th days of the 10th month of the Tibetan Calendar, which normally corresponds to the month of December. At this juncture of the year, 'Chaam' (Mask dance) is performed .....

Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary

#21 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 20 km from Gangtok SNT Bus Station, Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife reserve located in the East Sikkim district of the state of Sikkim in India. It is one of the famous wildlife sanctuaries in Sikkim and among the best Gangtok Tourist Places. At an altitude ranging between 1524 to 2749 m, Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary was established in the year 1984. It spreads over an area of about 52 sq. km above the road between Singtam and Dikchu. Recognized as an extension of Khangchendzonga National Park, the sanctuary comprises few small hamlets including Dikchu, Pangthang, and Mangan. It is maintained by the State Forest Department of Sikkim. The Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary houses a variety of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is very rich in natural vegetation and comprises of various dense forests of katus, oak, champ, kimbu, ferns and bamboo. One can also find here various numbers of rhododendrons, mosses, orchids and lycopodium. Due to varied type .....

Kyongnosla Waterfall & Alpine Sanctuary

#22 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 31 km of Gangtok, Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary is a wildlife sanctuary situated around the area adjoining the Tsomgo Lake in Gangtok. Along the Nathula Road, it is one of the best places to experience Gangtok Tourism. Established in 1977, the sanctuary covers an area of 31 sq. km. The sanctuary extends from the 15 mile police check post up to the ridges bordering the famous Rong Chu and Tsomgo Lakes. Situated at an altitude ranging from 3,292 m to 4,116 m, the sanctuary boasts a wide variety of flora and fauna. The sanctuary is also the perfect place for trekking tours. The views of Khangchendzonga peak are awesome from the sanctuary. Since it is situated close to India-China border at Nathu La, the place is well conserved by the Indian Army. The sanctuary is very rich in natural vegetation which comprises of various rare species of plants and trees that are hard to find somewhere else. Some of the common species of vegetation seen here are tall juniper, rhododendron, .....

Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple

#23 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 16 km from Tsongmo Lake and 54 km from Gangtok, Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple is a holy shrine located in Gangtok, Sikkim. Situated on the way to Nathula Pass, it is one of the old shrines in Sikkim and among the best places to visit in Gangtok. At an altitude of 13,123 feet, the temple is dedicated to Harbhajan Singh, a hard-working soldier in the Indian Army. Popularly called as Baba Mandir, the temple is situated between Nathula Pass and Jelepla Pass. Visitors usually cover this temple along with a visit to Tsongmo Lake or Nathula Pass. There is a touching story associated with this temple. Harbhajan Singh was a soldier with the Indian army who slipped and fell into a nullah and was washed away while transporting mules. His body could not be found for so many days and later, he appeared in the dream of his colleague and informed about the spot where his body could be found and further asked for his Samadhi to be built there. His body was found exactly where .....

Phodong Monastery

#24 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 39 km from Gangtok, Phodong or Phodang Monastery is a Buddhist monastery situated at Phodong near Gangtok in Sikkim, India. It is one amongst the six most important Buddhist monasteries in Sikkim and among the best places of pilgrimage in Gangtok. Built in 1740 AD, Phodong Monastery was founded by the fourth king of Sikkim Gyurmed Namgyal. Phodong Monastery belongs to the Karma Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Stands at an altitude of 4,500 feet, the monastery is one among the three important monasteries of the Kagyu sect in Sikkim, the other two are Rumtek and Ralang. In the course of time, an earthquake damaged the old structure. The Lamas rebuilt a new Monastery in 1977 with financial assistance from the Government of Sikkim. At present the monastery is rated as one of the most beautiful monastery of the state. The monastery houses approximately 260 monks. The walls of the monastery are adorned with beautiful murals, paintings, and frescos which can astonish .....

Lhabrung Or Labrang Monastery

#25 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 2 km from Phodong Monastery and 39 km from Gangtok, Labrang or Lhabrung Monastery is a Buddhist monastery in Sikkim, northeastern India. It is one of the important Monasteries of Nyingmapa lineage in Northern Sikkim and among the best places to visit near Gangtok. The word Labrang literally means 'the dwelling place of lamas'. It follows the Nyingmapa order. It was commissioned by Gyalshe Rigzing Chempo in 1826 AD and was completed in 1843 AD. Gyalshe Rigzing Chempo was the son of the seventh ruler Tsugphud Namgyal and was regarded as an incarnate of Khenchen Thinlay Rolpai Dorje, the first Head Lama of Pemayangtse Monastery. The monastery was majorly renovated in 1978 with government aid. Labrang Monastery was built in typical Sikkimese architecture of 'Rinchhen Surgye'or eight pointed diamond symbolizing the indestructible and only monastery of its kind in Sikkim. With its unique architecture, this old structure is one of the premier and only monastery of .....

#26 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 2 km from Phodong Monastery and 39 km from Gangtok, Tumlong is a historical village situated near Phodong in Sikkim. It is one of the historical places in Sikkim and among the top Gangtok Tourist Places. Tumlong was historically the third capital of Kingdom of Sikkim after Yuksom and Rabdentse. As Rabdentse Palace was repeatedly attacked by the Nepal royal army, Tshudpud Namgyal, the then Chogyal of Sikkim shifted his capital from Rabdenste to Tumlong in 1793. Tumlong was the capital of Sikkim till 1894 when Chogyal Thutob Namgyal shifted his capital to present day Gangtok. Tumlong Monastery is home to a small monastery and palace. This monastery was established in 1840 as a center for the monks who had arrived in the capital at the behest of the king. It lies at the top of the village at an elevation of 1473 m, quite close to the ruins of the Tumlong Palace. A Tibetan architectural splendor, Tumlong Palace exhibits a well-constructed edifice with slanting .....

#27 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 7 km from Gyalshing, 45 km from Ravangla, 58 km from Namchi, 69 km from Darjeeling, 88 km from Kalimpong, 113 km from Gangtok, 127 km from Siliguri, 447 km from Darbhanga, 551 km from Guwahati and 682 km from Kolkata, Pelling is a wonderful hill station located in the West Sikkim district of north Indian state of Sikkim. Situated at an altitude of 6,800 feet, Pelling is the second biggest tourist destination in Sikkim after Gangtok. The name Pelling means 'the seat of the religious body' formed by Pema Linga who was a discoverer of ancient Tibetan texts and also a treasure revealer. Pelling was initially a land filled with jungle which was home to a lot of wildlife. The area developed into a full-fledged village after the construction of two Buddhist monasteries Pemayangtse and Sangacholing. Pelling offers good view of entire Kanchenjunga mountain range including Koktang, Kumbhakaran (Jannu), Rathong, Kabru, Kabru Dome, ..... Distance (From Gangtok): 113 Kms Trip Duration (From Gangtok - Including Travel): Full Day .....

#28 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 45 km from Darjeeling, 49 km from Kalimpong, 65 km from Pelling, 81 km from Gangtok, 88 km from Siliguri, 512 km from Guwahati and 641 km from Kolkata, Namchi is a small town and also the district headquarters of South Sikkim district in the Indian state of Sikkim. Also known as Namtse, it is one of the fast developing tourist destinations in Sikkim and among the popular places to experience Sikkim Tourism . Literally means ' Top of the Sky', Namchi is situated at an altitude of 5,500 feet and is known for its Buddhist Monasteries and scenic locales. As per the historical facts, once Sikkim was under the reign of the Chogyals. Legends say that one of the Sikkimese princesses, Pende Ongmoo deceived a Sikkimese Chogyal. When people of Sikkim got to know about this, they killed the Sikkimese princess, Pende Ongmoo. The place where the Pend Ongmoo was killed is believed to be the present day Namchi. Often known as the ..... Distance (From Gangtok): 81 Kms Trip Duration (From Gangtok - Including Travel): Full Day .....

#29 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 26 km from Namchi, 69 km from Gangtok, 71 km from Darjeeling, 74 km from Kalimpong, 89 km from Pelling, 115 km from Siliguri, 122 km from Lachung, 536 km from Guwahati and 667 km from Kolkata, Ravangla or Ravongla is a small hill town situated in South Sikkim district of the Indian state of Sikkim. At an altitude of 7000 feet, Ravangla is one of the picturesque places to visit in Sikkim and among the best places to experience Sikkim Tourism . Located on a ridge between Maenam and Tendong Hill, Ravangla is a hot tourist destination blessed with spellbinding tea gardens, adventure activities and ancient monasteries. The town and its surrounding areas offer an undisturbed view of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Pandim, Mt. Sinialchu, and Mt. Kabru. Ravangla gets a romantic look with the colours and fragrance of the flowers which are in full bloom during April-May. Buddha Park, Rayong Sunrise Viewpoint, Ralang & Borong Hot Springs, Ralang ..... Distance (From Gangtok): 69 Kms Trip Duration (From Gangtok - Including Travel): Full Day .....

#30 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 47 km from Lachen, 112 km from Ravangla, 116 km from Gangtok, 146 km from Kalimpong, 200 km from Pelling, 609 km from Guwahati and 634 km from Kolkata, Lachung is a small hill station located in North Sikkim district of Indian state of Sikkim. Situated near the border with Tibet, it is one of the beautiful places to visit in Sikkim and among the picturesque hill stations in India. At an altitude of 9,600 feet, Lachung is located at the confluence of River Lachen and River Lachung, the tributaries of Teesta River. The word Lachung means 'small pass'. The Indian Army has a forward base in the town. According to history, Lachung was a trading post between Sikkim and Tibet before the Chinese occupation of Tibet in 1950, after which it was closed down. The town's economy has been boosted by tourism in recent years as the region has been opened up by the Indian government. The town is majorly inhabited by Lepchas and Bhutias who are prime followers of Buddhism. With ..... Distance (From Gangtok): 116 Kms Trip Duration (From Gangtok - Including Travel): Full Day .....

#31 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 65 km from Siliguri, 98 km from Gangtok, 109 km from Jalpaiguri, 371 km from Manipur, 502 km from Guwahati, 503 km from Patna and 507 km from Kolkata, Darjeeling is a charming hill station located in the Shivalik hills of the lower Himalayas in West Bengal, India. Situated at an altitude of 6,700 feet, Darjeeling is one of the most popular tourist places in West Bengal and among the must include places in your honeymoon tour packages . The name Darjeeling comes from two Tibetan words 'Dorje', meaning thunderbolt and 'ling', means a place or land. Before being invaded by the Gorkhas of Nepal in the 1790s, Darjeeling was largely under the Kingdom of Sikkim and native tribes named Lepchas were the original inhabitants of the place. Under the Sugauli Treaty of 1815 CE, Nepal yielded one-third of their lands to the British, who established Darjeeling as the summer capital ..... Distance (From Gangtok): 96 Kms Trip Duration (From Gangtok - Including Travel): 1-2 Days .....

#32 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 47 km from Lachung, 121 km from Gangtok, 151 km from Kalimpong, 613 km from Guwahati and 744 km from Kolkata, Lachen is a small quiet hill town located in the North Sikkim district of Indian state of Sikkim. Situated near the Indo-Tibetan Border, it is one of the enchanting places to visit in Sikkim . The literal meaning of Lachen is 'Big Pass' and the town is being promoted as a tourist destination by the Sikkim Government. Situated at an altitude of 8838 feet, Lachen stands on a grassy and bushy flat land separated by deep gorges of river Lachen-Chu. The village comprises of nearly 250 houses, earlier inhabited only in winters by the owners who spent the summers on the alpine pastures along the Tibet border tending to their herd of yaks. Lachen has its own system of rules and regulations known as Dzumsa and the heads of Dzumsa are known as Pipon and Gyenbos. Offering panoramic vistas of the stunning landscape and ..... Distance (From Gangtok): 121 Kms Trip Duration (From Gangtok - Including Travel): Full Day .....

Nathula Pass

#33 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 17 km from Tsomgo Lake and 54 km from Gangtok, Nathula is a snow-shrouded mountain pass located in the northeastern state of Sikkim along the Indo-China border. Situated at an altitude of 14450 feet in the Himalayas, it is one of the most exotic places to visit in Gangtok and among the top places to experience Sikkim Tourism. Located on the Old Silk Route, Nathula is one of the three open trading border posts between India and China. The other two are Shipkila in Himachal Pradesh and Lipulekh at the trisection point of Uttarakhand, Nepal and China. Also, it is one of the five officially agreed Border Personnel Meeting points between the Indian Army and the People's Liberation Army of China. Deriving its name from two Tibetan words - Nathu meaning listening ears and La meaning pass, Nathula Pass was the place through which the famous Silk Route between India and Tibet used to operate until 1962. Lines of mules used to carry silk, gold and many other items .....

Kangchendzonga / Kanchenjunga National Park

#34 of 34 Places to Visit in Gangtok

At a distance of 122 km from Gangtok, Kangchendzonga or Kanchenjunga National Park is a National Park and a Biosphere reserve located in Sikkim, India. Also called as Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve, it is one of the largest wildlife reserves in Sikkim and among the best national parks in India. At an altitude ranging from 1800 m to 8600 m, Kangchendzonga National Park is one of the few high altitude biosphere reserves in the country. The park was established in 1977 and was inscribed to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list in 2016, becoming the first 'Mixed Heritage' site of India. The Khangchendzonga National Park includes a unique diversity of plains, valleys, lakes, glaciers and spectacular, snow-capped mountains covered with ancient forests. The third highest peak in the world, the Khangchendzonga, straddles the western boundary of the park, from which the reserve gets its name. The reserve also includes the vast Zemu Glacier. The term Kanchenjunga literally means .....

Most Asked Questions on Gangtok

Gangtok has pleasant weather throughout the year. However, Post monsoon and Summer from October to February is the best seasons to visit Gangtok to experience its scenic beauty, striking views with cool weather and can enjoy the sightseeing. Better to avoid visiting Gangtok in monsoon season when there could be heavy landslides. Summer is the peak season in Gangtok and hotel prices are also high during summer.

Gangtok usually takes 2 full days to visit the most popular tourist places. Several tourists usually prefer visiting Gangtok along with Darjeeling which requires additional 2 days. Gangtok can be mixed with near by wonderful places like Namchi, Pelling, Lachen and Lachung by adding few additional days to your trip.

Budget of Gangtok trip depends on the trip duration and category of hotel you choose for your stay along with the kind of vehicle you prefer. Gangtok tour packages offered by Trawell.in start from as low as INR 10700 per person for a 4D/3N trip and from INR 17800 per person for 5D/4N vacation.

Ensure to cover most important places to visit in Gangtok like Rumtek Monastery, Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden, Tashi View Point, Ganesh Tok View Point & Temple, Hanuman Tok, Enchey Monastery, Ranka Monastery, Kyongnosla Waterfall & Alpine Sanctuary, Tsongmo Lake, Nathula Pass and Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple.

People always want to take back memories in the form of things that they have bought during their trips. There are several shopping options available in Gangtok and one can buy Tibetan carpets, Sikkim tea powder, Thangka paintings, Prayer Flags, etc.

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// Destinations // Gangtok

15 Spectacular Places to Visit in Gangtok For a Memorable Holiday

by middha on February 24, 2020

A famous travel quote on the Internet says “Great Things Are Done When Men and Mountains Meet”. True to this quote, Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is one of the best hill stations in India that is a must-visit for anyone who loves to head to the mountains to break free from the routine. Incredibly beautiful, blessed with nature’s abundance and shrouded by clouds, Gangtok is one mystique destination worth visiting that will make you fall in love with the place every single time.

There are a number of places to visit in Gangtok. It boasts of a picturesque landscape, cascading waterfalls, numerous magnificent Buddhist monasteries, serene villages and a breath taking view of the Mt Kanchenjunga. No wonder, Gangtok is flocked by innumerable couples, tourists and travel enthusiasts who love to explore this city before visiting other places in Sikkim. Let’s a take a look at the top 15 Gangtok tourist places that you cannot miss while you visit this incredibly beautiful locale.

 How to Reach Gangtok?

• By Air: Book a flight till Bagdogra airport. Gangtok is at a distance of 124kms from Bagdogra airport and can be reached in 2 hours via a shared cab of a private one.
• By Train:  The nearest railway station to Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri that is located at a distance of 148kms. From here, you can take a local bus or hire a taxi to Gangtok.
• By Road:  If you wish to self-drive, you can hire a cab and head to Gangtok on your own.

15 Splendid Places to Visit in Gangtok

1 rumtek monastery.

Rumtek Monastery, Gangtok |  Places to Visit in Gangtok

Located at a distance of 23kms from Gangtok, Rumtek Monastery is one of the biggest and significant monasteries in Gangtok. It is also known as Dharmachakra Centre and is believed to belong to the Karma Kagyu sect from Tibet. An important Gangtok tourist spot, Rumtek Monastery houses a golden stupa and also has a huge prayer hall where monks carry out elaborate prayers. From the top of this monastery, you get a breathtaking bird’s view of the entire city of Gangtok. The brilliant architecture coupled with an incredible landscape makes it one of the important places to visit in Gangtok.

• Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM
• Entry Fee:  Rs10

You can also read about 18 Most Important Buddhist Pilgrimage Places

2 Nathula Pass

Nathula Pass, Gangtok | Places to Visit in Gangtok

Situated at an altitude of 4310m, Nathu La is a high-altitude motorable pass in India present in the Indian state of Sikkim. Nathu La lies approx 54kms from Gangtok and is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Gangtok. This pass connects Sikkim to China-Tibet Autonomous Region and is built amidst the mighty Himalayas. Nathu (which translates to “listening ears”) La (which means “pass” in Tibet) is one among the 3 open trading border posts connecting India and China. Only Indian nationals are allowed to visit this pass that too with a permit. The best time to visit Nathu La is from May to mid-November.

3 Tsomgo Lake

Tsomgo Lake, Gangtok | Places to Visit in Gangtok

Among many serene places, Tsomgo Lake is one of the most pristine and incredible places to visit in Gangtok. It is a glacial lake located at an unimaginable altitude of 3753m above sea level and must feature on the top of your Gangtok sightseeing itinerary just for one reason – its overwhelming scenic beauty. It has sparkling aquamarine blue waters in the summers that commence in mid-May and the periphery of this lake is dotted by beautiful blossoms that bloom during the season – a picture-perfect moment for all photographers. In the winters, the lake freezes and appears in a translucent colour. Also known as Changu Lake, a visit to this place promises you tranquillity and an impressive view!

4 Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Gangtok | Places to Visit in Gangtok

One of the popular Gangtok tourist places, the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is an important place of study and research for Tibet and Buddhist culture and history. The museum and the library are the main attractions of NIT that showcase the carefully preserved religious and cultural artefacts that main include statues, paintings, coins, thangkas (embroidery) and Tibet artworks. An incredible example of Tibetan architecture, NIT has a huge facade, huge golden towers and intricately designed frescos. Among the many places to visit in Gangtok, NIT is a must-visit for both history buffs and travel enthusiasts planning a trip to Gangtok.

• Timings:  10 AM to 4 PM, Monday – Saturday
• Entry Fee:  Rs 10

5 Tashi Viewpoint

Tashi View Point, Gangtok | Places to Visit in Gangtok

Tashi View Point is the place that offers you the best sunrises and sunsets along with a breathtaking view of the majestic Himalayas. You can literally spend an entire day clicking pictures of the picturesque landscape and enchanting views from here, which makes it one of the most important places to visit in Gangtok. On a clear day, you can also get a glimpse of the snow-covered pristine Mt Sinilochu and Mt Kanchenjunga (the third tallest peak in the world). The clean, unpolluted air, the lush green landscape and the white, snow-clad mountains are enough to convince anyone to visit this place during their Gangtok local sightseeing.

6 Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple

Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, Gangtok | Places to Visit in Gangtok

Present at a height of 4000m above sea level, this unique temple is actually built at the Samadhi of a martyred Indian soldier, Harbhajan Singh, who lost his life in the Sino War. As a tribute to this intrepid soldier who died fighting the enemies near the Nathu La Pass, the Indian Army built this shrine. The soldiers patrolling here believe that Baba Harbhajan Singh visits this temple every night and protects them as well. The temple has a huge picture of Baba Harbhajan Singh that is worshipped by many devotees. Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple is undoubtedly one of the most interesting and important places to visit in Gangtok and must feature in your Gangtok local sightseeing list as well!

• Timings:  6 Am to 8 PM
• Entry Fee:  None

7 Himalayan Zoological Park

Himalayan Zoological Park, Gangtok | Places to Visit in Gangtok

Located just 3kms from the city centre, the Himalayan Zoological Park is a great place and an incredible tourist attraction to include in your Gangtok local sightseeing list. Built on an area of 205 hectares and located at an altitude of 1780m, the Himalayan Zoological Park is an abode to some exotic species of flora and fauna that include the Himalayan red panda, Himalayan palm civet, goral, snow leopard cat, Himalayan Black Bear and others. The park also offers a great view of the Mt Kanchenjunga.

• Timings:  9 AM to  4 PM
• Entry Fee:  Indians – Rs 10 and Foreigners – Rs 50

Book comfortable hotels in Gangtok with Treebo and enjoy a pleasant stay here.

8 Seven Sister Waterfalls

Seven Sister Waterfalls, Gangtok | Places to Visit in Gangtok

The scintillating and awe-inspiring view Seven Sister Waterfalls is definitely one of the incredible places to visit in Gangtok. True to the name, there are 7 waterfalls arranged sideways falling harmoniously from a rugged cliff. One can witness the amazing creativity of nature in the way these falls are created and admire the beauty of the milky white water falling from a great height. The water flows from the falls in 7 stages but only 4 are visible to us. The roaring sound of the gushing water coupled with the scenic beauty of the surroundings is sure to take your breath away! This locale is also famous for its mesmerizing sunsets that give photographers an opportunity to click to their heart’s content. Seven Sisters Falls is located 32kms from Gangtok.

• Timings:  8 AM to 5 PM
• Entry Fee: None

9 Phodong Monastery

Phodong Monastery, Gangtok | Places to Visit in Gangtok

Phodong Monastery in Phodong is one among the 6 most important Buddhist monasteries and popular places to visit in Gangtok. Situated at a towering height of 4500m, Phodong Monastery, an abode to more than 250 monks, is a significant religious place near Gangtok. Phodong Monastery boasts of impressive exterior architecture with intricate designs and astounding interiors of awe-inspiring paintings, frescoes and murals that adorn the internal structure of this monastery. If you to stop by a tranquil and serene place, visit Phodong Monastery and enjoy the inner peace and solace that you can feel here.

• Timings: 8 AM to 5 PM

10 Do Drul Chorten

Do Drul Chorten, Gangtok | Places to Visit in Gangtok

Do-Drul Chorten is an important Buddhist stupa that was built in 1945 by Trulshik Rinpoche, the head of the Nyingma order of Tibet Buddhism, This enormous stupa is believed to have around 108 prayer wheels (Mani Lhakor) engraved with mantras that are chanted by devotees while rotating them. Inside the stupa is the complete set of Dorjee Phurba, religious book and texts and other objects. a quiet and serene locale, Do-Drul Chorten is one of the best places to visit in Gangtok for those who love to explore Buddhist sites and monasteries.

• Timings:  8 AM to 6 PM

11 Hanuman Tok

Hanuman Tok, Gangtok | Places to Visit in Gangtok

One of the most famous places in Gangtok, Hanuman Tok is a well-known temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman maintained by the Indian Army. Situated at a height 7200ft, this remarkable temple also gives you a chance to witness the majestic Mt Kanchenjunga peak (the third-highest peak in the world) and undoubtedly is a must-include in your Gangtok local sightseeing itinerary. The captivating beauty of the surrounding hills, lush greenery and the blue sky is a spectacle to behold, which is why Hanuman Tok is must-visit for every local and tourist alike. If you reach this temple before 5 AM, you can also witness the mesmerizing sunrise from here!

• Timings:  5 AM to 7 PM

12 Tsuklakhang Monastery

Tsuklakhang Monastery, Gangtok | Places to Visit in Gangtok

Tsuklakhang Monastery is a palatial monastery that is worth visiting while you plan your Gangtok local sightseeing. The monastery belonged to the former royal family in Sikkim and is one of the most charming places to visit in Gangtok. This monastery was built by Thutob Namgyal in 1898 AD and is a significant place of worship for the Buddhist local residing nearby. This monastery is also famous for various festivals such as Losoong and Phang Labsol celebrated here. Visit this beautiful Gangtok tourist spot while planning a trip to Gangtok and admire the astounding architecture and breathtaking beauty fo the surroundings.

• Timings:  7 AM to 5 PM

13 Tashiding Monastery

Tashiding Monastery, Gangtok | Places to Visit in Gangtok

One of the oldest and most sacred monasteries in Gangtok, Tashiding Monastery is an important religious site founded by Ngadak Sempa Chempo Phunshok Rigzing in 1941. This monastery is located close to Yukssom village, one of the famous  places to visit in Pelling . Tashiding Monastery is also famous to be a part of the traditional Buddhist pilgrimage that commences from the Yuksom Village with the Dubdi monastery and ends at Khecheopalri Lake. Tashiding Monastery indeed is an important site to visit during your Gangtok local sightseeing.

• Timings:  9 AM to 6 PM

14 Banjhakri Falls

Ban Jhakri Waterfalls, Gangtok | Places to Visit in Gangtok

Ban Jhakri Falls is another famous tourist attraction and one of the best places to visit in Gangtok for some fun and recreation. Ban translates to “forest” and jhakri means “healer”, the name of the falls literally means a traditional healer who worships spirits in the cave present on the forest area – a belief that locals trust. This waterfall is situated 10-12kms from Gangtok and it falls from a height of 40feet. The waterfall is surrounded by a park that houses beautiful statues and a large variety of flora which will make you feel relaxed and rejuvenated when you spend some time here.

• Entry Fee: Rs 50

15  Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary

Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Sikkim | Places to Visit in Gangtok

Located close to Gangtok, the exquisite and astounding Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is nestled in the calm and serene Yumthang Valley in North Sikkim and is one of the most marvellous places to visit in Gangtok. it houses 40 beautiful varieties colourful rhododendrons, he sight of which is sure take your breath away! The park also has other trees such as Aconites, Saxifrages, Potentillas, and others that bloom into green trees with colourful flowers in the spring season. The picturesque landscape drenched with colourful flowers in this park will make your Gangtok local sightseeing worth your while!

That’s all folks! Here’s our list of 15 of the top places to visit in Gangtok to make your vacation a memorable and cherishable one. Visit Gangtok between October and mid-December to enjoy the cold climate and snowfall or visit it during Spring to witness the nature in its full bloom. Do check in to high-quality hotels in Gangtok and explore the city as long as you like.

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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

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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.

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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.

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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 .

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

Thank you, sir, for your appreciation 🙂

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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.

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• Destinations

Gangtok is a picturesque town in Sikkim's eastern area with lots of attractive places to visit. At an altitude of 1600 meters, Sikkim's capital town has pleasant weather throughout the year, making it one of the most well-known hill stations in North East India. Many visitors have been fascinated by the panoramic view of Mt Kanchenjunga soaring over the slopes surrounding Gangtok. Gangtok's bustling streets, brimming with a dynamic spirit and brilliant hues, add to the city's peculiar charm. If you are considering a trip to the North-Eastern section of India, the fascinating places in Gangtok make this capital town a must-see in Sikkim.

Are you planning a trip to Gangtok? Allow North Bengal Guide to assist you in planning a custom tour package that is not only affordable but also includes most of the places in the Gangtok area, depending on the package duration you select.

Places to Visit in Gangtok (At a Glance)

Rumtek monastery.

• Mahatma Gandhi Road (M.G Marg)

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

Fambong la wildlife sanctuary, tsomgo lake, nathula pass, enchey monastery, hanuman tok, places to visit in gangtok (in detail).

Gangtok has a plethora of best places to visit. Thousands of tourists visit this capital town each year to discover its gorgeous town, which has a rich tradition, a stunning view of Kanchenjunga, pleasant weather, and more. The following are some of the best places to visit in Gangtok.

Rumtek is one of the most magnificent monasteries in the world. It is around 24 kilometers away from the main city of Gangtok. The enormous architecture and vivid paintings on the walls of the palace, which was founded in 1966 by the 16th Karmapa, are simply amazing to watch. This Buddhist holy site, also known as Dharmachakra Centre, is one of the best in the world and is open to visitors from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day.

Ganesh Tok is one of the city's most beautiful attractions, as well as one of the most preferred places to visit in Gangtok. The magnificent architecture, dedicated to Lord Ganesh, is highly intriguing. Tourists will have an enticing view of the Himalayan range in addition to the architecture. It will be a fantastic experience to spend time here while admiring the beauty of Tibetan architecture and the natural scenery. Ganesh Tok, at a height of 6500 feet above sea level, is a must-see destination for every kind of tourist.

Mahatma Gandhi Road

Travelers wishing to visit Gangtok and discover its tourism can pay a visit to M.G Marg. M.G Marg, one of the city's busiest streets, allows visitors to observe local life, sample Tibetan cuisine, and shop. Visitors may enjoy the city's nightlife while taking a leisurely stroll, exploring the nearby stores, and sampling delectable Tibetan cuisine. In short, M.G Marg is one of the best places to visit with your friends and family.

The Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is one of Gangtok's most prominent tourist attractions. It's a mansion built in the style of traditional Tibetan architecture that provides insight into Buddhist culture. Cloth paintings, documents, ritual paraphernalia, and human bone trumpets are among the items on display. There is also a souvenir shop where you may purchase jewelry, keepsakes, and other items.

Fambong La Wildlife Sanctuary, which covers 51 square kilometers and is located 30 kilometers west of Sikkim, is another best place to visit in Gangtok. A wide range of will animals and avian fauna can be found in this nature sanctuary. Birds such as the hill partridge, rusty-fronted brewing, satyr tragopan, bar-throated minla, red-tailed minla, black-eared shrike babbler, fire-tailed myzornis, scaly laughing thrush, streak-breasted scimitar babbler, Yellow-browed tit, red-headed bullfinch, crimson-browed finch, Barking deer, Himalayan brown bear, red panda, takin, yellow-throated martin, and other mammals of note can be found here.

Tsomogo Lake is roughly 40 kilometers from Gangtok and is one of Sikkim's most beautiful lakes. The glacial lake is surrounded by hills and is at a height of 12,310 feet. The deep blue water of Changu Lake, with the Himalayan range in the background, provides a truly relaxing image. There is a Shiva Temple on its beach that attracts both Bholenath believers and tourists. The lake is also thought to be sacred since the surface of the lake changes color with the seasons. Local dishes can also be sampled at the nearby food stalls.

Nathula Pass is another must-see place to visit near Gangtok. It is one of the highest motorable crossings in the world, and it connects Sikkim to China's Tibet autonomous area through the Silk Route. Natula Pass is unquestionably an ideal tourist destination for those seeking solitude in nature and a view of the intimidating highlands. Visitors may definitely enjoy the quiet atmosphere of nature, fresh breeze, and breathtaking view of the snow-covered mountains as well as the lovely Chumbi valley of Tibet by spending a few hours here. In short, due to its fascinating beauty, Nathula Pass should be included in your holiday itinerary list.

Enchey, one of the oldest monasteries in the area, is another best place to visit in Gangtok. The monastery was founded in 1909 and is popular with tourists during the Cham (mask dance) festival in January. Enchey Monastery is a solitary monastery, which means that no other temples, monasteries, or structures are permitted to be erected or permitted near it. Due to its stunning architecture, serene view of the hills, and more, every minute spent here will undoubtedly be quite delightful.

Hanuman Tok, a notable Hindu holy place devoted to Lord Hanuman, is located within 2 kilometres from the Gangtok city. The temple, which is located at an elevation of 7,200 feet, gives a promising view of Kanchenjunga, the world's third tallest peak. A massive statue of Lord Hanuman stands in the centre of the temple, providing a relaxing view to visitors. Tourists can also arrive at the temple before 5 a.m. to get a stunning view of the sunrise looming over the mountain peaks, thanks to its high height. The onlookers are utterly awestruck by the surrounding scenery of the mountains and lush foliage.

Things to Do in Gangtok (At a Glance)

Enjoy gangtok cable car ride, thrilling river rafting at teesta, trek to goeche la pass, paragliding in gangtok, yak ride at tsomgo lake, mountain biking in gangtok, things to do in gangtok (in detail).

Tourists can indulge themselves in many outdoor activities while holidaying in Gangtok. The following are the most popular activities to do.

A cable car trip is one of the most popular and enjoyable activities in Gangtok. This two-link ropeway provides an excellent vantage point from which to view the city. It provides a spectacular perspective of the valleys below. During the peak season, these cars are always fully booked, and there is always a large line waiting to ride them. Make sure you schedule this ride ahead of time. The entire ride is one kilometre long and includes three stations. Deorali, Namnang, and Tashiling are the three stations where you can get down.

The Teesta River is one of the major rivers in Sikkim, not just in Gangtok. The river has a lengthy stretch, and some sections provide the best rafting opportunities. Teesta is ideal for both experienced and novice rafters because to the variety of swirls and twists generated by the ever-changing terrains. River rafting is ideal because of the large volume of water flowing through the twists and turns. Professional coordinators will help you through the entire process to ensure your safety. You will also be provided with the essential rafting equipment. Aside from river rafting, you may also spend some time relaxing by boating.

This is one of the Himalayan poluar treks where you may genuinely romance the high mountains, valleys, and beautiful weather conditions! The habitat, as well as the culture of the people who live here, is in stark contrast to the rest of the country. As you stroll through the woodlands full of Rhododendron trees that radiate exquisite pristine-ness, you are always enchanted. There is a growing feeling of delight when you are here, whether you are trekking across the wide Dzongri and Thansing meadows or admiring the gorgeous scenery of the Samiti Lake. The Kanchejunga and Pandim ranges surround you the entire way.

Paragliding is certainly one of the most popular and fun activities in Gangtok. Tourists travel from all over the world to take part in this pastime in Gangtok. You may appreciate and admire the 'scenecity' of breathtaking Himalayas, streams, and deep forests while paragliding. You can pick between a medium flight, which takes you up to 1400 metres, and a high flight, which takes you up to 2000 metres. This will be guided by a paragliding specialist to guarantee that the ride is completed safely and without incident.

Yak safari is one of the best things to do in Gangtok. Tsomgo Lake is 40 kilometres from Gangtok. Yak safari is unquestionably a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you should not miss. These gentle and fragile creatures are covered in lengthy hair to protect them from the cold climates in which they live. Brilliant mats and strips are affixed to the horns of the Yaks in this area. When you're riding a Yak, you'll be accompanied by a tutor who will keep the creature under control.

Mountain biking on a rocky terrain with a panoramic view in the background is a fantastic experience for sure as the town has some of the most beautiful bike tracks in the earth. Witness the beauty of the scene, perfection of the verdure, rich green slopes, and interesting settlements while biking through this city. Experience and absorb the splendour of Gangtok by taking a journey and snapping photos and waving to locals whose inspiring grins make your vacation worthwhile! Take note of the aroma as you pass through cardamom farms. From the peaks of the mountains, you may get breathtaking views of the city. Rejuvenate yourself by swimming in the crystal-clear mountain streams.

Best Time to Visit in Gangtok

Gangtok is truly worth visiting at any time of the year. However, if we talk about the ideal time, it will be September to mid-December and then again March to May. The climate is nice during the autumn and spring-summer months, making them perfect for sightseeing. The days are bright and sunny from late September to mid-December, with uninterrupted vistas of the Himalayas. The blooming of Rhododendron flowers between March and May is a sight to behold. It is advisable to avoid visiting Gangtok and the state of Sikkim during the monsoon season, which runs from July to early September, because severe rains trigger landslides, which can be quite inconvenient.

F.A.Q about Gangtok Tour

Sightseeing places in sikkim.

Perched on the rugged terrain of the lower Himalayas in East Sikkim at an altitude of 10100ft, Zuluk or Dzuluk

Nathang Valley

At an altitude of 13500ft Nathang Valley or Gnathang Valley is popularly known as the 'Ladakh of East India'

Rinchenpong

Situated in the West Sikkim about 40km from Gangtok is Rinchenpong a cool and calm hamlet popularly

Nestled on the lap of Himalayan foothills in the West Sikkim is a picturesque village called Kaluk

Located in North Sikkim at an altitude of 13500ft nearly 144 kilometers away from lively and warm town Gangtok is a small valley

Far away from the maddening city crowd amidst the pristine nature of the south Sikkim, Borong at an altitude of 5800ft has

Teesta Bazar

Teesta Bazar is a small town located 4km downstream from the industrial town Melli on the right bank of River Teesta

Over the past decade there has been several trade routes, which played a major role for the rise of international trades round

Sited at a distance of 56kms from Gangtok in Eastern Sikkim, Nathula is a mountain pass on the Indo-Chinese

Perched on a hilltop above the Dalapchand village under the Rongli Sub-Division of Eastern Sikkim sited adjacent to one of

Located on the edge of Himalayas in the East Sikkim at an altitude of 1498mt is a quaint village called Aritar

At an elevation of 1,650 meters, Gangtok is Sikkim's largest and the most popular town with full of tourist attractions.

Namchi is a pictorial landscape in South Sikkim situated at an elevation of 1,315 metres.

Lachen is one of the vibrant yet less explored places in Sikkim at an elevation of 2750 meters.

Approximately 115 km distance away from Gangtok, Pelling is a perfect hideout for tourists.

At an elevation of 7000 feet above sea level, Ravangla is a perfect hill station for travelers.

Lachung is a small hamlet in Sikkim surrounded by and is blessed with breathtaking tourist attractions.

Yumthang Valley

Yumthang in Sikkim offers ethereal beauty and spectacular Himalayan views which makes it a must-see destination.

Gurudongmar Lake

At an elevation of 17000 feet, Gurudongmar Lake is a serene lake in northern Sikkim.

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!

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• Khangchendzonga National Park
• GURUDONGMAR LAKE
• BUDDHA PARK RAVANGLA
• BARSEY RHODODENDRON SANCTUARY
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• Sikkim in January
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