tourist spots near gangtok

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• 20 Most Spellbinding Places To Visit Near Gangtok In 2024

23 Mar 2023

The stunning landscapes surrounding the most popular places to visit in Gangtok consist of snow-laden highlands, sparkling lakes, and lush valleys. But the magical aura of the hills is not limited to just the capital city of Sikkim. It goes way beyond the city borders and extends up to some amazingly stunning places to visit near Gangtok . If you are all set for getting mesmerized by the state of Sikkim, then visiting Gangtok is a must! This city is surrounded by beauty and will make you fall in love with it. To make your vacation a memorable one, check the list of places that you can visit around this gorgeous city!

20 Best Places To Visit Near Gangtok

Here’s a list of the most beautiful places to visit near Gangtok city on your next trip to the northeast. Whether you’re a nature lover or a history buff, all of these places ought to be on your bucket. With some beautiful places near the city, it is inevitable that you will have lots of fun and in fact, there are some places that will make it an adventurous ride for you:

1. Namchi: A Magnificent Sikkimese City

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Literally translated as the top of the sky, Namchi is one of the best beautiful places to visit near Gangtok that offers a startling view of the Ranjit Valley and the Khangchendzonga range. The destination is famed for quite a few heritage monasteries, Buddhist pilgrim centres, and a life-size idol of Guru Padmasambhava. It is due to these attractions that the religious town is visited by devotees round the year. If you are looking for a spot where you can meditate amidst a tranquil ambience, then Namchi is the perfect spot for you!

Distance From Gangtok: 31 km Major Attractions: Choling Monastery, Ngadak monastery, and Rock Garden Things to do: Trek to Tendong Hill, gorge upon Tibetan cuisine at Hotel Sangay, enjoy cable car ride at Rock Garden

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2. Yuksom: The Meeting Place Of Lamas

The former capital of Sikkim, Yuksom is among the most beautiful tourist places near Gangtok. This quaint hamlet promises pristine beauty and serenity to tourists & locals alike. The hamlet houses Dubdi Gompa, one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim and many other monasteries and stupas. The religious hill town is also a heaven for trekking enthusiasts and is undeniably one of the best places to visit near Gangtok.

Distance From Gangtok: 38 km Major Attractions: Royal palace of Tashi Tenka, the monastery of Kathok Wodsalin Gompa, and Norbugang Park Things to do: Trekking, fish watching at Kartok Lake, jeep safari

3. Tsomgo Lake: The Sparkling Glacial Lake

Perched at 12,400 feet on the Gangtok-Nathula highway, Tsomgo Lake or Changu Lake is popular for being the highest & most famous lakes in India . This glacial lake that remains completely frozen during winter is certainly one of the most spectacular places to see near Gangtok. People love to indulge in yak rides & ice skating here or enjoy piping hot tea & instant noodles from the surrounding food kiosks.

Distance From Gangtok: 38 km Major Attractions: Blue & yellow poppies, Primulas flowers, and Brahminy ducks Things to do: Yak ride, ice skating, sledging

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4. Nathula Pass: Festooned With Stunning Scenery

Counted among the highest motorable roads in the world, Nathu La pass is located at 14,450 feet above the sea level; which makes it one of the must-visit places to visit around Gangtok. This famous corridor is a part of the historical Silk Route, connecting India and Tibet. Nathu La is open for Indians only from Wednesday to Sunday and one needs to take an entry permit from the tourism department zonal office in advance. The war memorial and the exhibition centre of the Indian Army are the major highlights here. This is indeed one of the best places to visit near Gangtok .

Distance From Gangtok: 52 km Major Attractions: NA Things to do: Walk along the international border of India and China, enjoy yak safari

5. Ravangla: A Picture-Postcard Destination

Snuggled between Tendong Hills and Maenam, Ravangla overjoys every tourist with tranquillity of nature, peace, and jaw-dropping beauty of the Himalayas. The hamlet, adorned with aromatic tea estates and monasteries, surely finds its name in the list of beautiful places to visit near Gangtok.

Distance From Gangtok: 64 km Major Attractions: Birds such as verditer flycatchers, babblers, blue whistling thrush, and dark-throated thrush Things to do:  Birdwatching, hiking, trekking

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6. Zuluk: Unconventional And Off-The-Wall

A winding road with 32 hairpin bends will take you to Zuluk, one of the best places to visit near Gangtok . The picturesque hamlet of Zuluk is also a part of the historical Silk Route and offers a stunning view of Mount Kanchenjunga. Driving through this route is among the most enthralling things to do near Gangtok , and this indeed attracts adventure riders from across the world.

Distance From Gangtok: 91 km Major Attractions: Thambi Viewpoint and Nag Temple Things to do:  Wildlife watching, hiking, mountain biking

7. Lachung: The Riverside Hamlet

Located at an elevation of 8,610 feet, Lachung is a quaint hamlet that is often described as the most picturesque village of Sikkim and also as one of the best places to visit near Gangtok city . The hamlet lies on the banks of the river by the same name and allures the foreigners & other tourists with its eternal charm, scenic beauty, and pristine landscape. The scenic splendour of this hamlet makes it among the loveliest places to visit in Gangtok in October, or in fact any other month!

Distance From Gangtok: 102 km Major Attractions: Lachung monastery, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary Best Time To Visit: Trek To Yumthang Valley, excursion To Zero Point

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8. Pelling: An Adventurous Wonderland

One of the best  places to visit in Sikkim , Pelling is adorned with sparkling waterfalls and lush green forests. But it has to be the amazing view of the mighty Himalayan ranges including the Kanchenjunga Peak from Pelling that will make your jaw drop in astonishment. Thanks to its easy connectivity this is among popular places to visit near Darjeeling and Gangtok.

Distance from Gangtok: 112 km Major attractions: Adventure sports like rafting, kayaking, trekking, and mountain biking Things to do: Tour to Darap Cherny Village, enjoy in the waters of Kanchenjunga Waterfalls

9. Yumthang: The Gorgeous Flower Valley

Yumthang is a charming valley near Gangtok. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, Yumthang valley is a natural habitat for exotic & rare species of wildflowers like cobra lilies, primrose, and louseworts. For the best views of the colour riot on the flower beds and enjoyable trekking experiences, one must visit this gorgeous valley during the summer & spring seasons.

Distance From Gangtok: 127 km Major Attractions:  Mt Brumkhangse, Yumthang Valley Natural Reserve, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary Things to do: Trek up to Shiva temple amidst pine forest

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10. Khecheopalri Lake: For Wishes To Come True

A nature lovers paradise, Khecheopalri Lake is one of the most popular religious places near Gangtok. Tourists, especially Hindus and Buddhists, visit this lake round the year or join the mass prayer during the 15th full-moon day of Lunar calendar (February-March) to make wishes. The lake, located amidst dense forests, is crystal clear and devoid of any leaves or other particles. It is believed and has been reportedly sighted by many, that birds from the forests immediately remove any particle that drops on the water.

Distance From Gangtok: 133 km Major Attractions: NA Things to do:  Excursion to the closely Lepcha village

11. Phurchachu Reshi: Therapeutic Hot Springs

Located by the River Ranjit near the Kadosangphu cave, Phurchachu Reshi Hot Spring is another famous tourist place in Sikkim. This thermal spring gushes out sulfur-rich water, which is said to have therapeutic values and skin disease healing properties. You can easily consider Phurchachu Reshi to be one of the best tourist places near Gangtok .

Distance From Gangtok: 135 km Major Attractions: Kanchenjunga View Point, Char Dham, Kanchenjunga Falls, Tendong Hill, Deolo Hill Things to do: Hot water baths in the thermal springs to reinvigorate mind and body

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12. Pemayangtse: Home To Second Oldest Monastery

Pemayangtse is a popular Buddhist religious center and houses a beautiful monastery by the same name. This 300-year-old monastery, raised in 1705 by Lama Lhatsun Chempo, comprises a huge prayer hall, a well-manicured garden, statues, paintings, and sculptures. The town is also the starting point for 46-km-long Dzongri trekking trail that goes through Khangchendzonga National Park.

Distance From Gangtok: 140 km Major Attractions: NA Things to do: Spend some spiritual time in the monastery

13. Lachen: A Picturesque Village

Located at an elevation of 2,750 meters, Lachen is a small village in the Northern Sikkim. This is where the very popular Chopta Valley is located. The gorgeous wide landscapes with snow-clad mountains, gushing streams, milky waterfalls, and lush greenery, all together make this one of the most picturesque places to visit near Gangtok. The place is also a hotspot for hosting many adventure activities.

Distance From Gangtok: 107 km Major Attractions: Thangu Valley, Lachen Monastery and Gurudogmar Lake Things to do: Go wildlife sighting, enjoy a tour to Rhododendron Sanctuary, trek to Lachen's valleys and hills

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14. Chungthang: A Must Visit

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Chungthang Valley is located at the confluence of river Lachen and River Lachung. Chungthang is also the only entrance to the two focus destinations of North Sikkim, Lachen and Lachung. One of the most popular tourist attractions of this place is a rock that is believed to be the seat of Guru Rimpoche. Chungthang is inhabited by Lepcha people and is a great place to get to know Sikkim better.

Distance from Gangtok: 81 km Major attractions: Naga Falls, Bhewma Falls, Gurudwara Nanak Lama Chungthang Things to do:  Hiking, trekking, camping

15. Kabi Lungchok: A Historical Site

Amongst the best places to visit near Gangtok in 1 day, Kabi Lungchok is a raw and serene historic site. This region is located about 17 kilometres north of Gangtok. Going by history, this is the place where two different tribes -Lepcha and Bhutia, living in the region had signed a Treaty of Blood Brotherhood through a religious ceremony. The location where it was conducted has been marked by stone pillars.

Distance from Gangtok: 17 km Major attractions: NA Things to do:  Enjoy a historical tour of the place

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16. Darjeeling: A Beautiful City

A beautiful city in West Bengal, Darjeeling is located in the lesser Himalayas and is majorly known for its mesmerizing beauty. Darjeeling is one of the best tourist places near Gangtok for all nature lovers! You will also get a view of the Kanchenjunga, enjoy the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and the vast expanse of tea estates. It is a gem of a destination and one of the best places near Gangtok for tourism. Enjoy day trips to Mirik, Kalimpong and Lamahatta, which are some top tourist places in Darjeeling .

Distance From Gangtok : 100 km Major Attractions : Ghum Monastery, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Peace Pagoda, Darjeeling Ropeway, Tenzing Rock Best Time To Visit: June to September Ideal Duration: 2 Nights/3 Days

17. The Seven Sisters Waterfall: A Mesmerizing Destination

It is one of the most splendid waterfalls in Sikkim which is one of the must-see places around Gangtok during the monsoons. Experience the gurgling waters plunge on the lush green vegetation through cliffs. Get a prismatic and picture-perfect view of the falls, while you decide to take a bath. Feel the freshness of nature around while you capture some wide-angle shots on your camera. You can also find a tea and coffee area near the falls to make sure you stay refreshed.

Distance From Gangtok : 31 km Major Attractions : Bakthang Waterfall, Ban Jhakri Falls Park, Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park

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18. Rumtek Monastery: For A Panoramic View

The Rumtek Monastery is also popular as the Dharmachakra Centre, the monastery is a focal point for the sectarian tensions that sparked with the Karmapa controversy. While visiting the monastery, you can see the vantage points from where you can literally get a panoramic view of the city. One of the sacred tourist places near Gangtok, the monastery is often associated with the idea of peace and is one of the largest in Sikkim.

Distance From Gangtok : 34 km Major Attractions : Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden, Pelling, Tsomgo Lake Best Time To Visit: May to June and September to November Ideal Duration: 1 Day

19. Rabdentse: A Historical Paradise

Rabdentse is very popular for its history of warfare and conflict. It is also famous as one of the best places to visit near Gangtok. It was the capital city of the former kingdom of Sikkim, destroyed badly by the Gurkha army. The years of battle and destruction at a time have now led to Rabdentse being one of the major tourist places near Gangtok. You can also see the ruins of the chortens and palace. If fact, another major attraction would be the Kanchendzonga ranges visible from a vantage point. 

Distance From Gangtok : 124 km Major Attractions : Pemayangtse Monastery, Khecheopalri Lake, Pelling

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20. Mangan: An Ancient Charm

To experience a quaint and offbeat destination which is full of natural beauty, Mangan is one of the best places to visit near Gangtok in December. It is an ancient village with a charm of a sort and a lovely evening stroll will start your rejuvenation process. In fact, Mangan is also popular for various adventure activities like mountain biking, rock climbing, paragliding, forest camping and so much more. If you are a nature as well as an adventure enthusiast, then Mangan should be on your itinerary.

Distance From Gangtok : 65 km Major Attractions : Labrang Gompa, Rong Lungten Lee,  Phodong Monastery, Singhik

Best Time To Visit Gangtok

Image Credit: Arñav Mahanta for Pexels

The peak season of Gangtok starts from the month of September till the month of June. During this time, many tourists visit Gangtok to make the best of their vacation. If you want to enjoy the spectacular views of Gangtok during the autumn, then visiting anytime between September and October would be the best.

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How To Reach Gangtok

Image Credit: Arvind Kumar for Pxhere

Listed below are the ways that you can consider to reach Gangtok without any hassle:

• By Air: The nearest airport from Gangtok is in Bagdogra at a distance of 124 kilometers. From here, you can easily get a taxi that will help you reach Gangtok
• By Train: it is in New Jalpaiguri, Siliguri that you will find the nearest railway station from Gangtok, which is at a distance of 148 kilometers. Many major cities are connected to this railway station
• By Road: if you are planning to visit Gangtok from one of the nearby cities, then using the road would be the best idea. You can easily get taxis or buses from these cities that will take you to Gangtok

So, which of these best places to visit near Gangtok is your favorite? Let us know in case we missed out on any of your favorite tourist places in this region. So, plan your Gangtok trip with TravelTriangle to add some other beautiful memories to your travel memoir.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Gangtok

What are the best places to visit near Gangtok in winter?

The following are the best places to visit near Gangtok during the winter months - Namchi, Yuksom, Nathula Pass, Ravangla, Zuluk, Lachung, Pelling, Yumthang, Khecheopalri Lake, Phurchachu Reshi, Pemayangtse, Lachen, Chungthang, Kabi Lungchok, Darjeeling, The Seven Sisters Waterfall, Rumtek Monastery, Rabdentse, Mangan, Pemayangtse Monastery, etc.

How can I spend 3 days in Gangtok?

You can plan to explore the top attractions in Gangtok, including Rumtek Monastery, Nathula Pass, Tsomgo Lake, Hanuman Tok, Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve, Namchi, Khangchendzonga, Do Drul Chorten Stupa, Tsuk La Khang Monastery, Flower Exhibition Center, Kabi Town, Saramsa Garden, Himalayan Zoological Park, Banjhakri Falls, etc.

Is it safe to visit Gangtok during Covid times?

You need to follow all the mandatory safety guidelines mentioned by the authorities to ensure a safe travel experience. Remain masked while stepping out of the hotel and maintain social distance. Avoid visiting crowded places and keep sanitizing your hands after touching surfaces.

How can I get to Zero Point from Gangtok?

To reach Zero Point from Gangtok, you will have to first reach Lachung. From Lachung it takes 3.5 hours till the point beyond which the vehicles cannot go. It is the Zero Point.

How many days are enough for Gangtok?

Around 2 to 3 days are considered enough for touring Gangtok. During your vacation, you can visit all the top tourist attractions and can also indulge in various adventrous activities.

What is the best time to visit Gangtok?

Though September to June is the peak season in Gangtok but Autumn season which falls between the months of September to October is the ideal time to visit this city.

How can I go to Nathula from Gangtok?

You can go to Nathula from Gangtok via Jawaharlal Nehru Road. The distance is 56.3 km which can be covered in about 2 hours.

What is Gangtok famous for?

The city of Sikkim is essentially known for its natural beauty that also attracts tourists in huge numbers. The locals here are quite welcoming and therefore the culture in this city is worth witnessing.

Is Gangtok safe?

Yes, the city of Gangtok is considered to be quite safe. One can even travel solo on this side of Sikkim. However, one must be cautious when exploring isolated spots.

What can I buy in Gangtok?

Some of the things you should definitely buy during your Gangtok trip have been listed below: 1. Tibetan carpets 2. Sikkimese cups 3. Black cardamom 4. Wall hangings 5. Thangkas 6. Teas

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28 Tourist Spots around Gangtok, Sikkim

1. enchey monastery.

An important seat of the Nyingmapa order, the Enchey Monastery is built on the site blessed by Lama Druptok Korpo, a tantric master known for his power of flying. This over 200-year-old monastery has on its premises images of gods, goddesses and other religious objects. Every year around January, “Chaam” or religious masked dance performed with great fanfare for two days attracts huge crowd. It is 3kms from Gangtok. This is a place of religious as well as archaeological importance carrying a piece of the history of Sikkim . This is one of the most visited Tourist Spots around Gangtok.

2. Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre

About 45 minutes drive from Gangtok, 24kms away from the heart of the capital of Sikkim , Gangtok, is the Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre, the seat of the Kagyud order, one of the four major Tibetan Buddhist sects. Since the 1960s, after the arrival of his Holiness the XVIth Gyalwa Karmapa, the centre houses some of the world’s most unique religious scriptures and rare objects. Traditional in design, it is almost a replica of the original Kagyud headquarter in Tibet. Visited by various religious tourists mostly from Southeast Asia, the site grows quite busy.

3. HUR-HURAY DARA (NAM NANG BHIR)

Situated Opposite the Sikkim Legislative Assembly Hall, one can have a very good walk from Nam Nang View Point to Sikkim Press. The visitors can also experience the breathtaking view of the dense forests and the lush green valley. A serene area to relish, an ideal nature walk. We would suggest one to take a walk in the pre-evening time to take full advantage of the place.

4. Gangtok Ropeway

Gangtok Ropeway is one of the most versatile tourist attractions present in Gangtok. One can enjoy the panoramic view and thrilling rise as the cablecar goes over the hills and meadows. It takes the passengers 7 minutes to complete the 1km ride. Though it is only a kilometre ride, the view of the gangtok from the cable car is mesmerizing. The breathtaking appearance of the city at dusk from the cable car will create a lifetime memory etched into your brain.

5. Banjhakri Falls

Located en-route to Ranka and 4kms from Gangtok, Ban Jhakri Falls Energy Park Lies amidst a lush green valley spread over 2 acres. Surrounded by trees and gushing mountain, streams and scenic beauty attracts every soul. The park has a Shamanistic theme. The park spreads toward the forest and seeks to enhance the essence of the occult and the unknown. The place littered with ethnic scriptures and figurines of the Jhakri Culture attracts many. This tourist spot defines the local history of the place and is surely the one to amaze.

6. Tashi View Point

Situated along the North Sikkim Highway, it is only 8kms from Gangtok. From this point, one gets a breathtaking view of Mt. Kanchendzonga and Mt Sinolchu, one of the most graceful peaks in the world. There is an Observatory Tower and a Cafeteria. The ideal time to visit is early in the morning on a sunny day. Usually, the peaks are covered with clouds once the day progresses and heats up, hence visiting as early as possible is the only option to have crystal clear views of the graceful peaks.

7. Ganesh Tok (6100 ft)

It is situated on a ridge at a distance of only 7 km from Gangtok. From this spot, one gets birds-eye view of sprawling Gangtok town down below while across the hills Mt. Khanchendzonga and Mt. Siniolchu loom over the horizon. A cafeteria serves hot tea, coffee and snacks. A Sikkim Government nursery is just nearby. The place is serene and has its own aura of enlightenment amidst the green vegetation. Mostly visited by religious tourists who prefer religious places in accordance with tourism.

8. Hanuman Tok

It is approximately 11 km away from the capital of Sikkim Gangtok. This is a temple of Lord Hanuman where devotees come in large numbers to offer prayers. It is just above Ganesh Tok and nearly similar kinds of spots with different temples. Because of its locational advantage, the view of the mountain along the horizon is magnificent, especially on a clear sunny morning. Situated at 6100 ft from the sea level has quite a low temperature round the year. Those offering prayer early in the morning with their shoes or slippers outside the temple and walking barefooted on those chilly floors would surely be blessed for such courage.

9. Himalayan Zoological Park

Himalayan Zoological Park is approximately 8kms away from the capital. This is very much near to Ganesh Tok and one can visit these two spots in a single go. The Park covers an area of 205 hectares. Or alternatively, this place is in fact known as bulbuley. One can spot Red Panda, Snow Leopard, Spotted deer, Bears, and Many other Birds and animals in a semi-natural habitat. Families with children have loads of fun visiting these places. This sport usually attracts wildlife lovers.

10. Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary

It is located at a distance of 25 km from Gangtok having an area of 51.76 sq. km. The main vegetation found are Oak, Katus, Kimbu, Champa, thick bamboos and ferns, the sanctuary is also home to a large number of wild orchids and rhododendrons. The verdant forest of this area known to be the home of various species of wild animals and birds attract diverse wildlife. There is also a short trekking trail. Permission for visiting the Sanctuary can be obtained from the Forest Department. This Tourist Spots around Gangtok is considered to be more of an adventure and thrill than a slow and joyous area.

11. Gonjang Monastery

Gonjang Monastery near Tashi View Point established in the year 1981 is the only monastery near Gangtok. The founder is H.E. Tingkye Gonjang Rimpoche. Recognized as an incarnation of Yolmo Terton Ngakchang Shakya Zangpo, a 15th-century Nyingmapa Terton. The monastery follows the Jangter tradition of the Nyingmapa school of Tibetan Buddhism. This is a high-end Religious tourist place to visit.

12. Flower Show Complex

Flower exhibitions are organized around the year. The orchid show held during the spring season is one of the most popular shows organized in the state. If your travel luckily coincides with the exhibition then you should not miss to give it a visit. The rare and exquisite varieties of orchids are there in the exhibition. This will really lure in all the flower-loving people towards itself. the chance to coincide your travel dates with the exhibition is very thing but if it does then it is the opportunity of a lifetime. This is not an independent and all time available Tourist Spots around Gangtok.

13. Directorate of Handlooms & Handicrafts

Instituted with the aim of promoting and keeping alive the State’s traditional art and craft, the DHH is a store house of hand-woven woollen carpets, with traditional motifs, blankets, shawls and exclusively carved “Choktse” or table and many other gift items. This is the place where you can get a souvenir for the remembrance of your trip to Sikkim. All the local items that can be used as a display or as a decorative piece in your home originates here. Heaven fo the artists and people inclined toward such arts and themes.

14. Do-Drul Chorten

The Do-Drul Chorten or Stupa built by the Venerable Trulshi Rinpoche, head of the Nyingmapa order of Tibetan Buddhism in 1945 is another holy place. Inside a stupa, a complete mandala set of Dorjee Phurba (Vajra Kilaya), a set of King Gyur Relics (Holy Book), complete “Zung” (mantras) and other religious objects resides. Around the Chorten, there are 108 Mani Lhakor (prayer wheels). Surrounded by Chorten Lakhang and Guru Lakhang, where there are two big statues of Guru Padmasambhaya with enchanting views. Truly a very important religious place for the Tibetan Buddhism of the Nyingmapa Order.

15. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology (NIT)

The most prestigious of its kind in India, this Buddhist institute is a treasure of the vast collection of rare Lepcha, Tibetan and Sanskrit manuscripts, statues and rare “Thankas” (tapestries used in Buddhist liturgy). It has over 200 Buddhist icons and other prized objects of art. Today, it is a renowned worldwide centre for the study of Buddhist Philosophy and religion. Educations Sport, as well as this place, has importance in preserving its culture and traditions that are on the verge of extinction due to lack of proper channelling and passing on to the next generation. Tourists usually interested in studying other religious philosophies should find this place very rare and exquisite. This is an educational spot rather than considering it as a Tourist Spots around Gangtok.

16. Chogyal Palden Thondup Namgyal Memorial Park.

Dedicated to the memory of Miwang Chogyal Chempo Palden Thondup Namgyal, 17th in the line and 12th consecrated Denzong Chogyal (King of Sikkim). He was gracious, valiant and very enlightened. He ascended directly from Namgyal Dynasty, which began in the year 1942 A.D. With the installation of Phuntsog Namgyal as the first consecrated ruler of Sikkim, at Yuksom, in West Sikkim. Born in 1923 he successes as Chogyal in 1963 and died in 1982. Deeply inspired by his cherished dream of the welfare state for his country, even from his young years as heir apparent, the Chogyal dedicated his entire efforts for a clear, effective and timely fruition of the precious plans.

During his illustrious era, firm foundations were laid for basic amenities and social aids. Having initiated elector reforms and transfer of power to people’s representatives in stages, this humane democrat with highest sense of justice made the judiciary completely independent, soon after his coronation. He was devout Buddhist and highly attained in religious scholarship. He was the founder president of the Namgyal Institute of Tibetan studies as Dotapu(gangtok) and the President of the Maha Bodhi Society of India. Chogyal, Palden Thondup Namgyal was undoubtedly a pioneer among his peers, in advocating the modern system of Governance.

17. Pal Zurmang Kagyud Monastery (Lingdum)

Zurmang Kagyud Monastery, located at Lingdum, East Sikkim is at a distance of about 20 km from Gangtok. The present Gharwang Rimpocher is the 12th successive incarnation of the glorious emanation of Zurmang Gharwang. A place worth visiting for its religious and exquisite architecture and serence atmosphere. It is considered to be the highly religious Tourist Spots in and around Gangtok.

18. Saramsa Flower Pavilion

About 14 km from Gangtok, the Saramsa Flower Pavillion and Exhibition Centre has been promoted as centre for Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) for holding National and International seminars, exhibitions. Beautifully landscaped flower garden for the visitors to take a leisurely walk and enjoy the nature. This place is also called as Ipecac Garden. This is place was originally a Flower Garden which later was converted in a gathering centre without disturbing the flower garden. That was a marvellous plan which did work well. It is a must have location for your travel bucket list to Gangtok, Sikkim.

19. Water Garden

Water Garden is located beside Martam Khola in National Highway 10, 16 km away from the State Capital Gangtok. It is an ideal spot for picnic with a small swimming pool for children with a tourist cafeteria and way side amenity. Minimally human intervened tourist place with best possible outcome. The tourist can get connected with the wild nature and get the real feel.

20. Bakthang Waterfall

20 minutes drive from Gangtok is Bakthang Water Falls along the highway leading to North Sikkim. It originates from Raley Chu, the main water source of Gangtok area. The cascading crystal clear water gives a feeling of freshness and relaxation. This is a small and a very elegant waterfall. A perfect location for a getaway from a small family on a vacation.

21. SA-NGOR Monastery

Tibetan refugee monastic institution established in 1961 by His Eminence Luding Khen Rimpoche. Head of Ngorpa, sub-sect of the sakya Order, with the blesssings of HH Sakya Trizin and HH the Dalai Lama. This is the only monastery of the Sakya order of Tibetan Buddhism in Sikkim. It is located on a beautiful hill top at a distance of 5kms from Gangtok town.

22. Tourist Village, Pastanga

Pastanga in Assam Lingjey is Located at an altitude of 1425 meters (4676ft). It is two hours drive from Gangtok. The enchanting little village provides magnificent view of the mountain ranges. Take a stroll in the lush green forest trails where one comes across beautiful waterfalls along the path. there are rare species of bamboos within dense rhododendron and magnolia forests.

The tourists are provided with homestay facilities with organized cultural programme and local handicrafts shows. It is also worthwhile to visit traditional houses of ethnic communities, some being one hundred and fifty years old. Pastanga is also a takeoff point for Khedi trekking route. Khedi is one of the most desirable trekking route of Sikkim. Pasta acts as the base from where the trekking can be started. Since trekking to Khedi is long and treacherous so most of the people prefer to stay at Pastanga for a day before starting a trek to Khedi.

23. Aritar Lake

The Aritar Lake (Ghati-Tso) near Rhenock, about 3 hours drive from Gangtok, is worthy visiting. For those interested in spending a night or two in the peaceful environment, trekker’s huts, lodges and resorts are available. Activities like boating short treks and hikes are the main attractions. Visit Lingsay Monastery and a (Manghim) temple of Rai community. A night spent in an old Bungalow build in 1895 located half kilometer below the Lampokhari lake could be an enthralling experience. This is one of the best place to visit. The lake amidst the lush green forest is a majestic place. The natural lake maintained here is an extravagant thing that we can experience in Aritar.

24. Angling in Sikkim

Sikkim with its massive bio-diversity is a heaven for adventure and nature lovers. With its vast river systems, Sikkim is an anglers delight. For an ardent agnler – the Mahseer, the Katley and the Trout provide angling opportunities. The Teesta and the Rangeet provide ample scope for Mahseer and Katley. Amongst the alpine regions in East, North and West Sikkim, there is an ample opportunity for Trout Angling by Fly Fishing or Spinning. Ideal months are March – May and August – September. However we strongly urge the anglers to avoid the practice during the rainy seasons. Since the rivers here at Sikkim are quite high in current hence all the angling enthusiasts are requested to be extra cautious while in and around the river area.

25. Tsomgo Lake

It literally means the “Source of the Lake” and is located at a distance of 38 Kms from Gangtok. This Serene Lake situated at an altitude of 12400ft gets huge snowfall. The Lake about 1km long, oval in shape, 15 meters deep and considered sacred by the local people. This placid lake remains frozen during the winter months. Variety of flowers like Rhododendrons, Primulas, Blue & Yellow Poppies, Irish sway magically in the cool breeze. It is also an ideal habitat of Red Panda and birds. It is open for both the Foreigners and Indians. Foreign visitors are allowed in a group or two or more with a permit obtained through Travel Agents registered with the Department of Tourism, Government of Sikkim.

26. Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple

Built in the memory of Harbhajan Singh, a sepoy in the 23rd Punjab Regiment, the temple lies between the Nathu-La and the Jelep-La Passes. Legend has it that he appeared in a dream a few days after he went missing while patrolling the border, and expressed a desire that a monument be built in his memory. His fellow soldiers then built a monument that has over the years acquired the status of a pilgrimage center. Believers leave a bottle of water to be collected a week later to be used for its healing powers. This has a very long and interesting story attached to it. This has to be clearly understood from the mouth of the local inhabitants.

27. Nathula

56 Kms from Gangtok is Nathula Pass, situated at an altitude of 14,450 ft. at the border of India and China. Containing one of the highest motorable roads and richly covered with varieties of alpine flora and fauna. A tranquil place to visit, Nathula is open only for Indian Nationals on Wednesday to Sunday. The visitors require to procure permit from the tourism department through a Travel Agent registered with the Department of Tourism, Government of Sikkim.

28. Sikkim Science Centre, Marchak

A Sikkim Science Centre at Marchak, Ranipool, East Sikkim set up under Sikkim State Council of Science & Technology in collaboration with National Council of Science Museums, Government of India attracts considerable Number of Visitors specially students and the general public and tourists. There are three main galleries having thirty nine exciting and most interactive exhibits. Inflatable dome planetarium (taramandal) with a capacity of 25 visitors at a time. Beside these galleries a lush green park with exhibits on simple mechanics, sound, optics, pendulum, turn pulleys lifting loads hear echo of sound, sympathetic swing, dinosaurs etc is of another attraction along with the bust of eight eminent Indian scientists. The centre is also provided with EDUSAT Centre in collaboration with Vigyan Parasar & ISRO and Village Resource Centre (VRC) in collaboration with ISRO.

Other Tourist Spots around Gangtok :

• Khanchenjunga Cultural Cum Village Tourism Complex
• Jurassic Park, Rakdong Tintek
• Assam Lingjey to Khedi Trek
• Village Tourism Tumin
• Places of Tourist Interest in Sikkim - The Sikkim July 13, 2022 Permalink
• How To Travel To Gangtok - Sikkim Details December 3, 2022 Permalink

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35 Places to Visit in Gangtok

“My imagination is a monastery, and I am its monk.”

― John Keats

John Keats said it metaphorically, of course! But imagine a place where there is an enchanting monastery at every point all around the city. Welcome to the Land of Monasteries: Gangtok, Sikkim! Gangtok has been a pilgrimage for the Buddhists and Monks for decades and continues to do so. This mesmerizing hill station has also attracted many tourists and is one of the key destinations in India for a summer vacation!

So, how can you reach this precious hill station? Well, you can catch a train from your city to New Jalpaiguri railway station. From there you can book a shared cab and reach Gangtok in almost 5 hours (117 km). Since it is a mountain road, it takes more time than a usual highway would. Once you reach your destination, Gangtok, it is easy to navigate and find hotels and restaurants. Tourists who prefer to travel by flight can reach the nearest airport, Bagdogra airport, from their respective cities. Upon reaching, you can start your journey with the site seeing straightaway.

Table of Contents

1. Tsomgo Changu Lake

One of the most scenic sites near Gangtok, Tsomgo Changu lake is a glacial lake that is spread in an area of 24.47 hectares. The name originated from the Bhutia language and means “source of water”. Before the lake was formed, it was a shed for yaks to stay and it was surrounded by a village where early tribal people lived. But as the lake formed, it is believed that it submerged the entire village and there were no traces of life left. 

The source of the water in the lake is still unknown and it is predicted that the water comes from glaciers. The water surface is very clear with the surrounding mountains perfectly reflecting on it. This gives the lake a mirror-like appearance.

How to reach: It is 44 km away from Gangtok and takes almost 1 hour 30 mins to reach via taxi.

Best time to visit : between April to September.

Highlights: The reflection of the surrounding mountains on the glass-like water surface is the most beautiful thing you’ll ever see. You can also spot a yak or two.

2. Nathu La Pass

The word “Nathu” in Tibetan means listening ears and La means pass. The Nathu la pass is situated high up in the Himalayas and it connects Sikkim to Tibet. The Nathula pass has huge contributions to Indian trade and economy. It has also helped in improving international relations with China. It is one of the best places to visit on your Gangtok trip. 

How to reach: It is 66 km away from Gangtok and it takes almost 2 hours via cab.

Best time to visit: from May to October

Highlights: If you are a snow lover, you might as well be lucky to find snow-covered areas here. It is a humble abode for trekkers and hikers.

3. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

Tibetology means the study of Tibetan history, traditions, culture, art, and language. Named after the 11th Chogyal of Sikkim, Sir Tashi Namgyal, this institution and museum have attracted various visitors and tourists from all over the world. The museum celebrates the rich Tibetan culture which has influenced the state of Sikkim for generations. 

It was inaugurated on 1st October 1958 by former Prime minister Mr. Jawaharlal Nehru. The ambiance inside is the most peaceful, and the museum hosts information about the history of Tibetan monasteries and so on. It is one of the most historical places to visit in Gangtok. 

How to reach: it is located in the main city of Gangtok and can be reached via local taxi.

Visiting hours: From 10 am to 4 pm (Monday to Saturday, Sunday closed). There is an entry fee of Rs. 10 per person.

Highlights : It has a rich collection of art, culture, history, language, and religion of Tibetan people,

4. Tashi View Point

A vantage point situated at a high altitude, the Tashi View Point provides a spectacular view of Himalayan mountain peaks like the Kanchenjunga, Simbu, and Sinochalu peaks. It was built around 1914 by the Sikkim king, Tashi Namgyal and it is one of the best places to visit in Gangtok. 

The altitude at which Tashi View Point is located is 6000 ft. There are many handicrafts stalls here where you can buy traditional Sikkimese bone China and other showpieces. 

How to reach: it is about 7 km away from the city center. 

Best time to visit: from March to June.

Highlights : A spectacular view of the Kanchenjunga Mountain.

5. Seven Sisters Waterfall

What are hill stations without waterfalls? Nothing, right? The Seven Sisters Waterfall is one such pristine location and one of the best places to visit in Gangtok. Spectators can click photos or enjoy a picnic with their families, lovers can sit and talk about their romantic endeavors and children can play in the water. The gurgling sounds of the falls will mesmerize you the most.

As the name suggests, the seven Sisters Waterfall is a group of seven small falls and together they make this brilliant display. During the monsoons, these falls are full of water and allure the visitors. The photographic shed near it is meant for clicking pictures with a beautiful backdrop of these falls.

How to reach : it is 31 km away from Gangtok and a taxi should solve the purpose.

Best time to visit: from May to June.

Highlights : Explore the waterfalls and the trekking trails that surround the area.

6. Kanchenjunga Mountain

The third highest mountain in the world, Kanchenjunga is one of the mountains in the Himalayan range. The word Kanchenjunga is of Tibetan origin which means “The five treasures of the high snow”. The height of this mountain is 8,586 m. The area is also converted into a National park of the same name as there are many exotic species found. 

When the sun rays fall on the snow-capped peaks of this mountain, it acquires a rich golden color which appears as if the peak is embedded with gold. This distinct phenomenon can be seen from any of the Kanchenjunga viewpoints in Gangtok.

How to reach: Pelling is the nearest town from where Kanchenjunga can be viewed very clearly. 

Best time to visit :  from April to June and from September to October. 

Highlights : During sunset and sunrise, the mountain peak glows with a distinct golden color.

7. Ganesh Tok

For all the Hindu pilgrims that come here, Ganesh Tok is one of the best places to visit in Gangtok. The temple is quite small and as the name suggests, the idol that is worshipped here is Lord Ganesha. The whole temple is decorated with colorful flags and that gives an aesthetic look to the shrine. People come here to worship and enjoy the view of the mountains visible from here.

How to reach: it is situated at an altitude of 6500 m and is 7 km from Gangtok.

Visiting hours: the gates open at 6 am. 

Highlights : Panoramic view of the entire city of Gangtok.

8. Hanuman Tok

Another hotspot for the Hindu pilgrims, Hanuman Tok has been the “talk” of Gangtok trip for ages and is one of the best places to visit on your Gangtok trip. There is a gigantic red Hanuman idol that marks the area from far away. So it’s like, you are on the mountain road and you can spot the yay-big statue before you even reach there. You can also spectate the amazing view of the city below.

How to reach: It is about 11 km far from Gangtok.

Visiting hours: The gates open at 6 am.

Highlights : The large orange statue of hanuman.

9. Fambonglho Wildlife Sanctuary

Here’s to the Safari lovers! The Fambonglho Wildlife Sanctuary has a vast variety of flora and fauna, with a dense habitation of evergreen and semi-evergreen trees. Travelers usually come here to explore the biodiversity of flora and fauna. 

It houses some exotic mountain varieties of wildlife and plantations. The government organizes Jeep Safaris. So, if you are a Safari lover, then this site is a must-visit for you. And who knows, you might have some sightings too if you are lucky enough! 

How to reach: it takes about 43 min (19.5 km) via Gangtok-Chungthang Road.

Best time to visit: March to late May and September to mid-December.

Highlights : Safaris and wildlife photography spots.

10. Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park

This Zoological Park is the largest high-altitude zoo in India. It is situated at a height of 7000 feet above sea level and was open for spectators in 1958. It houses some of the endangered alpine species like snow leopard, red pandas, and Himalayan wolf. It is one of the best places to visit in Gangtok.

The park is named in the honor of Padmaja Naidu, daughter of Sarojini Naidu. The zoo is also a center for captive breeding of red pandas under the program name Central Zoo Authority of India’s red panda program. 

How to reach: 97 km away from Gangtok and it takes almost 3.5 hours to reach.

Visiting hours: 08:30 am – 04:30 pm. The entry fee is 20 Rs. per person.

Highlights : Red Pandas, Himalayan wolves, and snow leopards.

11. Do-Drul Chorten Stupa

Here’s an interesting story about this tourist site! Legends have it that this site was a haunted place many years ago. And the spirits here were very violent and evil. So anyone who went near this place never returned! When in 1946, a Tibetan lama named Trulshik Rinpoche came here for hermitage, he built the Do Drul Chorten Stupa to drive away all the evil spirits.

The Stupa is built on a hilltop and falls within walking distance from the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology. The top of the building has a golden deity that is visible from afar. The inside, like any other monastery, has a peaceful environment that puts you at ease within moments. It is one of the best places to visit while you are on your way to Gangtok local sightseeing. 

How to reach: It is within the reach of the city of Gangtok and can be reached via local cabs.

Visiting Hours: Open all days from 6 am to 8 pm.

Highlights : The Tibetan architecture and relics inside the building.

12. Phodong Monastery

Gangtok is the land of monasteries and Tibetan culture. Built in the 18th century by Chogyal Gyurmed Namgyal, Phodong Monastery is one of the most popular monasteries of the Gangtok trip. Here you can explore the rich traditions and worshipping methods of the Buddhists and Tibetans and even try some of their meditation techniques. The whole area is surrounded by surreal mountains and green valleys which give you a picture-perfect backdrop for your photos. It is one of the best places to visit in Gangtok. 

How to reach: It takes one-and-a-half hours to reach via road.

Visiting Hours: from 9 am to 5 pm.

Highlights : The Tibetan architecture and relics inside the building

13. Rumtek Monastery

Also known as the Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre, this monastery was inaugurated in the year 1966 and belongs to the Karma Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism. In the local language, it is called a gompa, which means a Buddhist building of learning, lineage, and worship and is built in a remote place. 

Surrounded by a rich history and a pinch of controversy, this monastery has served as a pilgrimage attraction for many tourists. The inside of the monastery is as peaceful as any other Buddhist monastery and meditation here can be a blissful experience. The controversy that haunts this place is the talk of the town and it is one of the best places to visit in Gangtok. 

How to reach: It takes 44 mins (21.8 km) via Ranipool-Rumtek-Sang Rd

Visiting hours: It is open 24 hours

Highlights: The story of the controversy behind the ownership of this Monastery.

14. Temi Tea Garden

One of the best in the world, the Temi Tea Garden grows exotic organic tea plantations and the processed products are exported to various countries. Established in 1969 by the government of Sikkim, it is one of the largest producers of tea in the country. The tea quality is considered the best in the world. Not to mention, the beauty of these gardens surrounded by mountains that are enveloped in clouds. Visiting the tea gardens in monsoons is a blissful experience. And who knows, you might as well spot a rainbow there. 

How to reach: It is almost 46 km away from Gangtok.

Best time to visit: From March to May

Highlights : you can experience the aroma of exotic tea species and buy your favorite flavors too.

15.  Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple

Mountains are rich in folklore and stories. One of these stories is the one of Baba Harbhajan Singh. He was an ex-military who died after a drowning accident. A search party was launched to find his body but it wasn’t successful. Soon after, somebody dreamt of him telling where his body lies and surely enough, they found it right there! Legends say that during an Indo-Chinese war, the spirit of baba used to warn the soldiers of any attacks three days prior. 

All these stories surround this Memorial Temple in the name of Baba Harbhajan Singh. Thousands of pilgrims visit here to worship and know about the legends of Saint Baba. The aura here is magical indeed and the history is definitely something that interests the tourists.

How to reach: While you are at the Nathu la Pass, this destination is about 19 mins away. 

Best time to visit: From April to November.

Highlights : the holy shrine of Baba Harbhajan Singh 

16.  Mahatma Gandhi Marg

What is a hill station without a Mall road? That’s right! Mahatma Gandhi Marg, commonly known as the MG Road, is in the heart of the town of Gangtok. From food outlets to traditional Tibetan attire, you will find everything here. It is one of the places in Gangtok for Gangtok local sightseeing.

There are hundreds of shops aligned on both sides and the walking area has benches where you can sit and enjoy your vacation time. The real essence of the Gangtok trip is here where you can buy handicrafts and eat dumplings! The evening lights make the mall road look as ravishing as ever!

How to reach: It is in the very heart of the city.

Best time to visit: Throughout the year, especially in the early monsoon season.

Highlights : Enjoy the food street of Gangtok along with shopping.

17.  Goecha La Pass

Another high pass situated in the Himalayan range, the Goecha La Pass is one of the best places to visit Gangtok and especially for trek lovers. The hike is moderate and the slopes are only slightly steep. The terrain only becomes difficult as one reaches the heights. If you are a beginner, you can easily enjoy the trek up to the Goecha La Pass and enjoy the snow-capped mountains around you meanwhile.

How to reach: It is 52 km away from Gangtok, Sikkim. 

Best time to visit: from September to November.

Highlights : A popular trekking destination.

18.  Palzor Football stadium

Here’s an attraction for all sports lovers, especially if you are a football enthusiast! It is not exactly known when the Palzor Football stadium was constructed but it was roughly around 1943. Currently, it can hold around thirty thousand spectators at once. The stadium has been upgraded over the course of years and it now holds all the state premier league matches.  

Address : Palzor Stadium Rd, Upper Sichey, Arithang, Gangtok, Sikkim 737101

Best time to visit: Open 24 hours

Highlights : Football league matches

19.  Ban Jhakri Falls and Park

A recreational area in Gangtok, the Ban Jhakri Falls is another place to visit here. The words ‘Ban’ means ‘forest’ and ‘Jhakri’ means ‘healer’. The park is dedicated to the religious sect of shamanic healers and you will find statues of the same all around the park. The area is covered with dense flora and during monsoons, the falls gushing down are the most mesmerizing thing you’ll ever see and it is one of the best places to visit in Gangtok.

How to reach : The falls is about 7 km away from Gangtok. 

Best time to visit: Monsoons

Highlights : The recreational park is an attraction for children.

20.  Ridge Park

Ridge Park is one of the best places to visit in Gangtok. Heaven for botanists and botany enthusiasts, this park houses numerous varieties of flowers and plant species which are a gem to the eye. It is one of the places in Gangtok for Gangtok local sightseeing.

An annual exhibit is hosted each year at the flower exhibition center located just below the park. The park also has gazebos for the visitors who want to rest for a little while after walking around the park.

How to reach : A local destination of the city of Gangtok. A local taxi should solve the purpose.

Visiting hours : 9:30 am to 4 pm. The flower exhibition center is open 24 hours.

Highlights : The Flower Exhibition Center

21.  Tashiding Monastery

This monastery is considered to be the holiest monastery in Sikkim. The shrine belongs to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It is situated on another hilltop. The entire monastery is decorated with Tibetan flags and the inside of the monastery is the most peaceful. 

The annual festival of the Buddhists, that is Bumchu, occurs here on the 14-15th of the first month of their lunar calendar. The word Bumchu means “holy water” and it is celebrated to predict all the upcoming events of Sikkim in the coming year. Nevertheless, it is one of the most important festivals of this religion.

How to reach: it is 98 km away from Gangtok, Sikkim.

Visiting hours: 07:00 am – 07:00 pm

Highlights: The Tibetan architecture and relics inside the building.

22.  Gonjang Monastery

It is one of the distinctive monasteries of Gangtok and situated at a height of 6,066 feet above sea level. Named after H.E. Tingkye Gonjang Rimpoche, it was established in 1981. You can spot a hundred monks here as they live in this monastery. It is also a hub for students who are pursuing Monastic schooling and education along with the Tibetan language. A Health Care Centre has also been set up here for delivering medical facilities to monks and the local people.

The monastery looks magnificent if you take a glance from the outside of the building. In the interior of this monastery, you will witness one of the Idols of Khen-lop Cho-Sum and 3 saint personalities, also known as the founding Fathers of Tibetan Buddhism from the 8th century.

How to reach: Gonjang Monastery is situated at Fatak Bojhogari near Tashi Viewpoint in Gangtok, Sikkim, which is precisely at a distance of 8 km from Gangtok Bus Station.

Best time to visit: Throughout the year.

Highlights : The inscribed statues of the 25 disciples of Guru Padmasambhava called Je-bang Nyer-Nga.

23. Pemayangtse Monastery

The second oldest monastery of Sikkim, the Pemayangtse Monastery was founded in the year 1705. The word Pemayangtse means “perfect sublime lotus”. During the summers, the beauty of this monastery is especially highlighted as the clear skies complement the natural background of the architecture. Being 3000 years old, it is a great site for meditation and discovering the religious traditions of Buddhism.

How to reach: It is 110 kilometers from the capital city of Sikkim, Gangtok.

Best Time to Visit : from March to June.

Highlights : ruins of Rabdentse can be witnessed from Pemayangtse Monastery.

24.  Enchey Monastery

The exact meaning of Enchey Monastery is ‘Solitary Temple’. It is one of the oldest monasteries in Gangtok and is located 3 km northeast of Gangtok. It belongs to the Nyingma order of Vajrayana Buddhism. The location was co-founded by Lama Drupthob Karpo, an eminent spokesperson of meditational art adapted by Buddhism. 

It has been heard and known that initially a small Gompa was established by him after which he flew from Maenam Hill in South Sikkim to this site. And after coming back from the south of Sikkim he built a small refuge hermitage at the site of the monastery. 

How to reach: While you are going to Do-Drul Chorten Stupa, you can visit this monastery on your way. 

Visiting Hours : from 9 am to 6 pm.

Highlights : Festivals during the months of January and February. You can also witness Chaam dance, a religious masked folk dance.

25.  Sa-Ngor-Chotshog Centre

An institution and monastery for Tibetan refugees, the Sa-Ngor-Chotshog Centre has a collection of Buddhist murals and thangkas. There is also a huge statue of Buddha in a Shakyamuni form and the outer area of the building is decorated with colorful prayer flags. 

How to reach: It takes about 42 mins to reach via cab.

Visiting hours : 8 am to 6 pm.

26.  Tathagata Tsal

The Tathagata Tsal or the Buddha Park of Ravangla was built between 2006 to 2013. The main attraction of this park is a 130 feet high Buddha statue. The park was inaugurated to celebrate the 2550th birth anniversary of Gautama Buddha. The whole area is gigantic with mountains surrounding the whole park. 

There is a lake surrounded by forests and trekkers can walk up to the lake to explore the plantations. There is also a meditation center, a Buddhist conclave, and a museum with a spiral gallery. There is also a viewpoint at the far end of the park, opposite the Buddha statue where spectators can have a panoramic view of the entire park.

How to reach: It takes about 2.5 hours to reach via cab.

Visiting hours: It is open from  9 am to 6 pm. The entry fee is 50 Rs. per head.

Highlights : 130 feet high Buddha statue, Rabong monastery.

27.  Khecheopalri Lake

The Khecheopalri Lake is located in the Khecheopalri Village, a tribal village near Gangtok. The locals named the lake “Sho Dzo Sho” which means “Oh lady, sit here.” This lake is considered to be a sacred one for the villagers and pilgrims alike. It is said that if you wish for something here, it comes true. The nearby hill, called the Khecheopalri hill is also one of the sacred hills of Tibetan culture and is known for its landscape.  The lake is located in the valley of rice or Demazong.

How to reach: It is 152 km away from Gangtok.

Best time to visit: In the winter from October to February.

Highlights : This landscape is also known as a land of hidden treasures blessed by Guru Padmasambhava.

28.  Reshi Hot Spring

Sikkim is best known for its hot springs. Among all the others, Reshi Hot Spring is the most famous hot spring in the area. It holds a special stature due to its location and religious significance and also because of its medicinal value. It is believed to cure skin diseases and hence people come here to take a dip in the therapeutic waters. 

The spring is situated on the banks of the Rangit River and adjacent to it is a small monastery and a holy cave called the “Lho Khandro Sang Phug”.

How to reach: around 20-25 km from Gangtok.

Best time to visit: between December to February

Highlights : The water has medicinal values and is known to cure skin diseases.

29. Kabi Longstok

A small town in Sikkim, Kabi Longstok is one of the most visited places. The town has a historical significance; a friendship treaty was signed between the Bhutia chief Khey Bum Sar and the Lepcha chief Tekung Tek. A stone pillar marks the location where this treaty was signed and this is one of the major attractions among tourists. 

How to reach: It is about 17 km far from Gangtok.

Best time to visit: during the months of October and June

Highlights : A stone pillar marking the location of the signing event. 

30.  Saramsa Garden

The Saramsa Garden was constructed in 1922 and it served as a cultivation ground for the local colonial officers. This site is also known as Ipecac Garden because of the cultivation of the medicinal plant ipecacuanha.

But after a few years, the cultivation of Ipecac was banned and since then it has become a recreational site for spectators and a picnic spot for locals and tourists alike. Currently, there are a number of plant species growing in the gardens. It is one of the most popular places to visit on the Gangtok trip.

How to reach: It is about 13 km away from Gangtok, Sikkim.

Visiting hours: 8 am to 6 pm

Highlights : A popular recreational site for children and picnic-goers.

31.  Gangtok Ropeway

The real beauty of the Gangtok trip can be experienced only when you are flying in the sky. But of course, humans can’t and that is where the ropeway kicks in. These cable cars link Deorali Bazaar with Tashiling Secretariat and offer a panoramic view of mountains & the city. It is one of the places in Gangtok for Gangtok local sightseeing.

Address : 8JC6+WV7, Vishal Gaon, Gangtok, Sikkim 737102

Timings : 9:30 am to 4:30 pm

Highlights : Enjoy the aerial view of the city.

32.  Tinkitam Village

Another nearby town of Gangtok and Namchi, the Tinkitam Village has been a budding tourist destination in the past decade. Mount Kanchenjunga is located near this town and can be viewed very clearly from here. The atmosphere here is as fresh as ever and one can truly enjoy the perks of hill stations!

How to reach: it takes 2.5 hours to reach the village from Gangtok, Sikkim. 

Best time to visit: from October to November.

Highlights: a dormant volcano that one can come across during the trek from Dentham to Tendong National Park.

33.  Siddheshwar Dham (Char Dham)

For any Hindu pilgrim, the original “char dham yatra” is considered to be the holiest of all. But it may not be possible for each one of us. Situated in a small town called Namchi, the Siddheshwar Dham offers an experience just like the Dham Yatra. 

Built in a vast area at the top of the Solophok hill, this tourist venture houses a gigantic statue of Lord Shiva, replicas of the four dhams, and jyotirlingas of Somnath, Mallikarjuna, Mahakaleshwar, Omkareshwar, Kedarnath, Bhimashankar, Viswanath, Trimbakeshwar, Vaidyanath, Nageswar, Rameshwar and Grishneshwar.

How to reach: It takes around 2 hours and 20 mins from Gangtok to reach by road. 

Visiting hours: 06:00 AM to 09:00 PM. The entry fee is 50 Rs. per person. 

Highlights:  108 feet statue of Lord Shiva.

34. Teesta River

While you are on your way to your Gangtok trip from Jalpaiguri, West Bengal, you will come across this magnificent water body which stretches up to 414 km. There are many bridges on the road to your Gangtok trip where you can hover over the river. The Teesta River is a tributary of the Brahmaputra river and flows through many districts of Sikkim and West Bengal. 

How to reach: It falls on the road while going to Gangtok from Jalpaiguri.

Best time to visit: from December to June.

Highlights: The landscape is apt for your camera. 

35.  Magnan

A less crowded town near Gangtok, Magnan is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Gangtok. The town is free from the daily hustle and bustle of tourists. This town is not only known for its enormous and beautiful landscape but also is a hub for various tourist activities like trekking, camping, rafting, and many others. You can check in here with your family or friends for a quiet vacation and enjoy nature at its best!

How to reach: This town is located 59 km away from Gangtok. 

Best time to visit: from April to July.

Highlights : Nature and tourists activities like trekking, camping, rafting, and many others.

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• 20 Places to Visit in Gangtok and Darjeeling

Tourist Places in Darjeeling and Gangtok

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Places to Visit in Gangtok

Khangchendzonga national park.

Crowned as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of Sikkim’s prized possessions, the Kanchendzonga National Park is home to the majestic Mt. Kanchendzonga, its namesake. Nestled in the laps of Himalayas, the park is also a biosphere reserve, housing rich biodiversity.

Stretched over an area of 1,784 sq.km, several trek routes, including those leading to Goechala, and Dzongri meander through the verdant hearts of this park. It also harbours 18 different glaciers, including the famous Zemu Glacier! Kanchendzonga National Park is one of the most favourite hiking trails amongst avid trekkers, who flock here from around the world to behold the splendour of Mt. Kanchendzonga, world’s third highest peak.

Timings: Remains open 24 hours

Entry Fee: INR 200 per Indian

Lake Tsomgo

Also known as 'Changu Lake', Tsomgo is a glacial lake perched atop a staggering 12,310 ft. in Sikkim. It falls enroute Nathula Pass, on the Jawaharlal Nehru Road. Besides the glacial beauty of the lake, what makes the waters truly mesmerizing is the undulating reflections of the bordering mountains. The trail used to be a treacherous climb, but proper roads have been built now. Plan your vacation here anytime of the year as all seasons are best seasons to visit in Gangtok .

The path leading to the lake makes for a steep, challenging drive, but the rewards are well worth it. The Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary also greets you about 10 km into you road, bearing promises of sightings of rare mountain wildlife like the red panda!

Entry Fee:    No entry fee

Nathu La Pass

One of the most famous mountain passes in India, the Nathula Pass is linked to a brand of the magnificent Old Silk Route in Sikkim. Reigning atop 14,140 ft., Nathula Pass is an ancient trade route connecting India and Tibet. If you’re blessed with clear skies on your trip to Nathula, the beautiful Chomolhari peaks of Bhutan greet you. 

The Indo-China border here is guarded by the armies of India and China, giving you a fleeting glimpse of the winding trails of Chumbi Valley. En route Nathula Pass sits the world’s highest ATM at Thegu! Considering the extreme high altitude of Nathula though, it is advisable to carry portable oxygen cylinders in order to keep the risks of altitude sickness at bay.

Timings: Open on all days except Monday and Tuesday

Entry Fee: The permit fee is about INR 200 per person.

Baba Mandir

Flanked by Nathula pass on one side and Jelep La pass on the other, Baba Mandir, also known as Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, is perched at a height of 13,123 ft.. It stands as a tribute to Baba Harbhajan Singh, a soldier who had lost his life, but whose soul is believed to wander in the mountain surrounding the temple. In fact, many have confessed to having seen the ‘spirit’ of Baba Harbhajan Singh, standing guard and warning the army against foreign attacks.

The place has now been turned into a memorial and is visited by troops of devotees every year. It is one of the most interesting places to visit in Gangtok and Darjeeling. 

Timings : The temple timings are 08:00 AM to 02:30 PM, everyday

Entry Fee: No entry fee

Fondly referred to as the ‘Valley of Flowers’ of Sikkim, Yumthang Valley sits at an altitude of 3,500 meters, about 25 km away from Lachung. The valley is home to rich biodiversity, sits under a lush carpet of floral species that crisscross its length. 

The famous Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is also a part of Yumthang, which makes it one of the most unmissable places to visit in Gangtok and Darjeeling. Tall and lofty peaks guard either flanks of the valley, while the gurgling Teesta river dissects its verdant heart, making it a mesmerising sight to behold and it is one of the best tourist places in North Sikkim ! It is also one of the top most choices for camping amongst hikers, owing to the expansive beauty and lesser explored trails of the valley.

Timings:  Remains open 24 hours

Banjhakri Water Falls

Banjhakri Waterfall is nested inside the heart of a forest about 10 km away from Gangtok, and falls enroute Ranka Monastery. Cascading down from 40 meters, its roar is almost entrancing. Spanning nearly 2 acres of lush green land, the place is also famous as a picnic spot amongst natives. 

The name literally translated into ‘healer of the forest’ and is a reference to a myth which states that there dwells a man in the rocks of the forest, and guards it from evil. There is also a manmade lake which sits at the base, graced by a magnificent dragon at its centre. The park with guards the waterfall is steeped in Shaman culture and traditions, which its architecture clearly mirrors.

Timings:  08:00 AM to 06:00 PM every day.

Entry Fee: INR 50 per person

Himalayan Zoological Park

A paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, the Himalayan Zoological Park in Sikkim is spread over an area of about 205 hectares and commands mind-boggling views of the mighty Mt. Kanchendzonga. It is essentially an alpine forest which is home to a stunning array of flora and fauna. The elusive Himalayan Red Panda, Monal Pheasant, Snow Leopard, Palm Civet and Black Bear are some of the rarest species that can be sighted here.

The forest of its kind in Sikkim, animals are kept in nearly natural conditions, and well looked after. If you visit the park is the summer or autumn, the medley of floral colours that grace the landscape will take your breath away! Timings:  08:30 AM to 04:30 PM everyday

Entry Fee: INR 60 per head

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

Founded in October 1958, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is one of the most eminent research centres in the field of Tibetan culture and language. Situated nearly 2 km from Gangtok, the institute is cradled by a lush forest of oak and birch. The institute also harbours a museum, containing a rich Tibetan library, fully stocked with books on Tibet and the endless Himalayan mountains. 

Another fascinating sight is the clear reflection of the fine Tibetan architecture that the building carries. You can spend endless hours here, perusing books on Tibetan history, manuscripts written in Sanskrit, Tibetan, and Chinese, along with artwork, statues and coins that are exhibited inside. It is simply one of the most fascinating places to visit.  Timings:  10:00 AM to 04:00 PM, from Monday to Saturday.

Entry Fee: INR 10 per person

Location: Deorali, Gangtok, Sikkim 737101 Do Checkout:  Meghalaya Family Tour Packages                           Meghalaya Trip From Delhi

Enchey Monastery

Enchey Monastery is a 200 years old Buddhist monastery that is only a 10 minutes drive away from the main town of Gangtok. Formerly owned by Lama Dhrupthob Karpo, the architecture of the monastery is adorned by the classic Chinese Pagoda design, which has attracted countless tourists over the years. 

The cavernous prayer hall is adorned with numerous images of Gods and Goddesses, along with a handful of Tantric murals. One of the most astounding tourist places in Gangtok and Sikkim, the monastery is currently home to over 90 monks! Having been reconstructed during the reign of Sidkeong Tulku in 1909, the architecture of the monastery bears striking touches of the Chinese styles.

Timings: 06:00 AM to 04:00 PM everyday.

Location: Gangtok, Sikkim 737117 Must Checkout:  Arunachal Pradesh Tour Package From Guwahati                              Arunachal Pradesh Tour

Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary

Perched in the laps of Yumthang valley, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is sandwiched beautifully between the Chomp Zomei and Chiba - Sagochen ranges. As the name unmistakably conveys, it is applauded for its unprecedented range of various rhododendron species that it fosters! Sprawled over 43 sq.km., it is one of the most sought after camping sites in Sikkim. 

A vibrant layer of colours covers the ground during the spring season, when floral beauty is at full bloom. The crystal ribbon of Yumthang Chu snakes through the valley, while dozens of resident and migratory birds find respite here. Skirting the Tibetan Plateau, the valley experiences extremely cold winters, with heavy, sometimes incessant, snowfall.

Location: Yumthang Valley, North Sikkim District, Gangtok, Sikkim 737120 Also Checkout:  Tawang Tour                              Arunachal Pradesh Tour Package From Kolkata

Best of Manali

Do Drul Chorten Stupa

Perched over a little hill that sits at a walking distance from the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, the Do Drul Chorten Stupa is designed with a massive golden dome that can be viewed from almost any spot in Gangtok! The hillock that the stupa rests on is believed to have been haunted by evil spirits, resulting in the death of several visitors. 

When the great and revered Guru Padmasambhava visited this place, and blessed it, cleansing it of all the evil spirits. Thus, in 1945, the Stupa was born. It is a shrine of Dorjee Phurpa, also known as Vajra Kilaya, making it one of the most revered tourist places in Gangtok and Darjeeling. There are 108 prayer wheels here, rotated in a clockwise direction by Buddhists while chanting ‘Om Mane Padme Hum’.

Timings:  08:00 AM to 06:00 PM everyday.

Entry Fee: No entry fee.

Best of Ladakh

Tashi View Point

Tashi View Point is lapped in the Tashi district of Gangtok, and is a window to expansive views of the Kanchenjunga Range. The sunrise from here is something you should not miss out on if you’re visiting. The Kanchenjunga range sits shrouded in a golden-orange hue at the break of dawn, as the day’s first sun rays hit the peaks.

 Make it a point to reach the view point before 05:00 AM if you wish to catch this heavenly sight. Throughout the day, the peaks keep changing colours, looking just as beautiful each time. It is advisable to carry a pair of binoculars if you wish to have a closer look.

Timings:  05:00 AM to 06:00 PM

Best of Nainital

Gangtok Ropeway

Another one of the most unmissable places to visit in Gangtok and Darjeeling is the Gangtok Ropeway. It is a dual cable, zig-zag ride which was inaugurated in the year 2003. The capacity of the cable car is 24 persons, but during offseason, you may find very less tourists here, making the ride that much more joyful. The cable ride is 1 km long, one way, and hovers at a height of 100 ft.. The ticket window to the ride can be reached from Deorali, situated near the Institute of Tibetology. 

During the ride, you can feast your eyes on the sweeping views of the sprawling landscape of Darjeeling, while lofty hills and mountains ride up on either side. It is a truly mesmerising experience.

Timings:  09:30 AM to 04:30 PM

Entry Fee: INR 110 per person

Best of Darjeeling

Places to Visit in Darjeeling

Tea gardens.

Besides the sprawling Eastern and Greater Himalayas surrounding the beautiful state of Darjeeling, it is best known for its iconic tea gardens that have been the subject of admiration of tourists for several years! The verdant stretched of tea gardens speak of misty early mornings, and the intoxicating aroma of tea plants blending in the cool mountain breeze. 

The Puttabong Tea Estate is the biggest and oldest in Darjeeling, and its landscape is dominated by the mighty Mt. Kanchenjunga. Another estate best known for its organic tea leaves in Risheehat. Sungma, North Tukvar, Balasun, Happy Valley, and Ging Tea House are some of the most famous estates to visit.

Best of Sikkim

Standing tall at an altitude of 2590 meters, Tiger Hill is the most famous and beautiful destination in Darjeeling. The most breathtaking time of the day is early in the morning, though. That is when the early rays of the rising Sun break on the snow capped peaks of the Kanchenjunga Range, bathing everything in a soothing, golden hue! This is the sight that visitors yearn to see, flocking to Tiger Hill in large numbers every year, just for a glimpse of this magnificent phenomenon. To add to this allure, the Hill is also a vantage point to staggering views of Mt. Everest itself! 

Tiger Hill is also the sixth highest peak of West Bengal, in addition to being the summit of Ghoom. And it is amongst the most phenomenal places to visit in Gangtok and Darjeeling.

Best of Shillong

A quaint, sleepy little town in Darjeeling, Mirik sits about 50 km away from the main town of Darjeeling, making for a two hours drive. It houses several sweeping tea gardens that Darjeeling is celebrated widely for. While travelling to Mirik, make it a point to visit the well known Thurbo tea estate of Goodricke, and the Gopaldhara tea estate. Apart from the iconic tea gardens, the town also fosters a vast range of orange orchards, spread over the rich grasslands. 

The Mirik Lake is yet another relatively unexplored sight, where you can spend the best part of your evenings, or early mornings if staying overnight. While you explore the untrodden paths of Mirik, the mighty mountain peaks keep a close watch over you.

Best of Lachung

Batasia Loop

The Bastia Loop is a stunning railway loop in Darjeeling and sits about 4 km away from the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Located on Hill Cart Road on the NH 55, this beautiful loop was built in 1919, and can be visited either by a toy train ride or by a cab. Surrounded by rich floral species, the lush greenery of the blooming garden reaches the peak of its beauty during the summer and autumn season. A medley of floral colours carpet the area, and breathe peace into the atmosphere. 

The loop is also home to some of the mesmerising panoramic views of the snowcapped Eastern Himalayan massifs, along with the majestic Mt. Kanchendzonga. Take a leisurely stroll around the length of the loop, and drink in the verdant beauty. Timings: 05:00 AM to 08:00 PM

Entry Fee: INR 15 per person

Location: Near Ghoom, Darjeeling Check This Out:  Darjeeling Tour Packages From Bangalore                               Darjeeling Tour Packages From Siliguri

Best of Pelling

Ghoom Monastery

Founded in the year 1875, the Yiga Choeling Monastery in Ghoom, also known as the Ghoom Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in Darjeeling. The exterior of the structure was designed by Sokpo Sherab Gyatso, a distinguished Mongolian monk and astrologer. It falls under the care of the Gelukpa sect of Buddhists, and is marked by a massive, 15 ft. high statue of the Maitreya Buddha, installed under the orders of Lama Domo Geshe Rinpoche.

The statue is one of the oldest and the most massive in Darjeeling, crafted with clay imported from Tibet! The neighbouring beauty that haloes the monastery makes it one of the most frequented places to visit in Gangtok and Darjeeling.

Timings: 10:00 AM to 06:00 PM

Best of Arunachal Pradesh

Peace Pagoda

The Peace Pagoda sits in touching proximity to the beautiful Nipponzan Myohoji Buddhist Temple. Established in 1972, the place is essentially a manifestation of Lord Buddha himself and emanates peaceful and non-violent vibes. The pagoda also displays four magnificent avatars of Lord Buddha, which lures several travellers and devout who pay homage here. 

The pagoda top commands terrific views of the landscape of Darjeeling unfolding under the unwavering gaze of the sprawling Kanchenjunga Range. Fun fact - The Peace Pagoda is the tallest free-standing building in all of Darjeeling!

Timings:  04:30 AM to 07:00 PM

Entry Fee:  No entry fee

Tenzing Gombu Rock

Tenzing Rock, as is evident, is a natural rock named after the legendary sherpa Tenzing Norgay. It is also used by the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute for training its students in rock climbing. The right flank of the rocks ideal for all climbers - amateurs and professionals alike, whereas the left face of the rock is dangerously steep, nearly vertical, and can be scaled only by professionals. Right opposite the Tenzing Rock is another famous HMI climbing areas known as the Gombu Rock, bearing the name of Tenzing Norgay’s nephew, sherpa Nawang Gombu who was the first one to summit Mt. Everest twice. Though it isn’t as steep and challenging as the left face of Tenzing Rock, Gombu Rock demands prior rock climbing knowledge. Timings:  06:00 AM to 06:00 PM Entry Fee: No entry fee Location: Jawahar Parbat, Darjeeling, West Bengal, 734104 Also Checkout:  Kaziranga Tour Package                             Shillong Tour Packages

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Trending in Gangtok

Sightseeing in gangtok, 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

Hanuman Tok provides a spiritual retreat and tourists are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan range. Admire the temple’s beautiful architecture, decorated with bright prayer flags. It holds a statue of Lord Hanuman, the monkey deity celebrated in Hindu mythology for his power and devotion.It is believed that Lord Hanuman stopped here on his way back to Lanka from the Himalayas bearing the Sanjeevani herbs to cure Lord Lakshman. This is the reason why the temple is also popularly known as the wish-fulfilment temple.Climb a short flight of stairs to reach the peaceful and sacred Hanuman Tok. Admire the mesmerising vistas of the Kanchenjunga mountain range at sunrise and sunset.

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

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

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

Places to visit in Gangtok(List):

1. tsomgo lake, gangtok.

#1 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

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

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

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2. Nathula Pass, Gangtok

#2 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

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

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

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3. Hanuman Tok, Gangtok

#3 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

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

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

4. Himalayan Zoological Park, Gangtok

#4 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

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

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

5. Ranka Monastery, Gangtok

#5 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

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

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

6. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Gangtok

#6 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

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

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

7. Flower Exhibition Center, Gangtok

#7 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

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

• Timings : 8:30 am to 5:00 pm

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8. MG Marg, Gangtok

#8 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

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

9. Ganesh Tok, Gangtok

#9 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

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

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

10. Rumtek Monastery, Gangtok

#10 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

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

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

11. Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, Gangtok

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

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

12. Mangan, Gangtok

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

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

13. Tashi Viewpoint, Gangtok

#13 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

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

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

14. Kabi Longstok, Gangtok

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

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

15. Seven Sisters Waterfalls, Gangtok

#15 of 20 Best Places to Visit in Gangtok

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

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

16. Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary, Gangtok

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

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

17. Do Drul Chorten, Gangtok

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

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

18. Saramsa Garden, Gangtok

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

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

19. Ban Jhakri Falls, Gangtok

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

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

20. Phodong Monastery, Gangtok

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

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

Place to Visit in Gangtok (Video):

Frequently Asked Questions About Gangtok:

Q: What is the best time to visit Gangtok?

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

Q: Is there an airport in Gangtok?

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

Q: How to reach Gangtok by train?

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

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

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

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

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

Q: Where to shop in Gangtok?

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

[showhotelbycity hotelcity=’Gangtok’]

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

Useful details I am planning to visit in Oct.

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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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

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• Places to Visit in Gangtok

34 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Gangtok

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

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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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Places to Visit in Darjeeling and Gangtok for a Perfect Vacation

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Here is the list of 21 places to visit in darjeeling and gangtok for a perfect vacation, 1. tiger hill, darjeeling.

Lying at an altitude of 2590 meters and a distance of 13 kilometres away from the Darjeeling, Tiger Hill is most famous for its splendid sights of the morning sunrise from where you can see the peaks of Kanchenjunga illuminate before the sun is seen at lower elevations. The magnificent view of snow - capped mountains sitting amidst cotton clouds attracts tourists to Tiger Hill from all over the country. Interestingly, this is also the summit of Ghoom, which is the highest railway station in the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

2. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Darjeeling

The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, also referred to as the DHR, and lovingly called the 'Toy Train', is a 2 feet narrow gauge train that runs between New Jalpaiguri and Darjeeling, in West Bengal, India. A journey in this Toy Train has amazing sights on display. Passengers on the train witness pleasing mountain views and pass by villages and local shops on the way, with children merrily waving at them. The pace of the train is so slow that local children often hop and off the moving train.

3. Nathu La Pass, Gangtok

Nathula, one of the highest drive roads in the world, is a mountain pass in the Himalayan peaks that co-joins Sikkim and China. Nathula Pass is situated on the Indo-Chinese border and is one of the biggest tourist attractions in India. Several tourists flock here every year for trekking in the valley and enjoying the scenic beauty. There are a number of waterfalls that gush along the way from Gangtok to Nathula. It also offers an opportunity to see beautiful snow peaks encircling the area.

4. Rumtek Monastery, Gangtok

The Rumtek Monastery is one of the largest and most significant monasteries in Sikkim, perched on top of a hill 23 km from Gangtok. Originally called as the Dharma Chakra Centre, it belongs to the Kargyu sect of Buddhists who originated in Tibet in the 12th century. The monastery is surrounded by verdant green mountains and thus serves as a visual treat besides being a focal point for spiritual solace. If you climb on top to the Rumtek Monastery you can have a breathtaking view of the whole Gangtok town situated right opposite the hill. Besides this, the architecture of the monastery is one of the finest in the world.

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Best sikkim tour package with darjeeling, best selling kalimpong gangtok darjeeling premium tour package, 5. sandakphu trek, darjeeling.

Sandakphu Peak (11,941 Feet) is the highest peak in West Bengal. The highest peak of Singalila Ridge in Darjeeling district, almost near the border of Nepal, it is located very close to Singalila National Park.

6. Tsomgo Lake, Gangtok

Perched between the mountains at a dizzying height of 12400 ft above sea level, the Tsomgo Lake is one of the few high-altitude lakes in India situated on the Gangtok-Nathula highway. This lake is a part of every tourist's itinerary and for a good reason- its overwhelming scenic beauty. Enveloped by steep snow-capped mountains and resting between a bright green carpet of alpine forests, the charming beauty of Tsongmo Lake is bound to leave you in awe. The lake's mesmerising scenic allure combined with its legendary significance to the locals definitely makes it a must visit attraction of Sikkim.

7. Darjeeling Ropeway, Darjeeling

Darjeeling is renowned across the world as one of the most picturesque hill stations, where one can witness a myriad of exquisite landscapes, from the glorious snow-capped mountains to the charming valley replete with verdant tea estates. For this reason, the Darjeeling Ropeway finds itself as a prime attraction of Darjeeling, giving its passengers an array of divine panoramic views as they travel across the magical valley.

8. Kanchenjunga, Gangtok

The third highest peak in the world, the majestic Kanchenjunga is one of the most stunning mountains in the world. Surrounded by Nepal, Sikkim and Tibet, this mountain was first scaled in 1955 but since then has been declared sacred. Kanchenjunga' is a Tibetan name which means 'The Five Treasures of the High Snow'. The treasures represent the five repositories of God, namely gold, silver, gems, grain and holy books. There are a lot of trekking routes in Kanchenjunga which will take you through woody forests and serene countryside.

9. Singalila National Park, Darjeeling

Located at an altitude of more than 7000 feet above the sea in the Singalila range, the Singalila National Park is the highest national park in the state of West Bengal. Initially a wildlife sanctuary, the place was converted into a national park in the year 1992. The national park encompasses a beautiful, 78.60 sq km land of virgin rhododendron forests, alpine valley and rare species of animals and orchids. It is most famous for the breathtakingly mind-stirring view of the Himalayan peak that it offers, providing a panoramic view of the gigantic Himalayas from Nepal to Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh (India), up to Bhutan. 

10. Batasia Loop, Darjeeling

Perhaps one of the most picturesque train routes in all of Darjeeling , the Batasia Loop is a lush green toy train pathway that is meant to minimise the elevation of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. One of the most enchanting aspects of the Batasia Loop is its unmatched natural beauty which is a wonderful sight to behold.

11. Seven Sisters Waterfalls, Gangtok

Justifying its name, Seven Sisters Waterfalls comprises of seven different waterfalls amicably arranged side by side on a wide rugged cliff which seems distinct when looked at from a distance. It appears even more beautiful after rains when it comes to life and offers a captivating view. The gurgling water passes through the green vegetation onto the rugged cliffs and falls on the limestones making a roaring sound. The view of the setting sun pulls the visitors to indulge in a long photography session.

12. Nightingale Park, Darjeeling

This park was earlier called 'The Shrubbery' when it was a private courtyard. The park was closed for renovation for about four years and has reopened for public since 2011. There is a giant statue of Lord Shiva, a musical fountain along with the great scenery.

13. Tashi View Point, Gangtok

Situated 8 km away from central Gangtok, Tashi Viewpoint is a scenic beauty from where travellers can get a view of the magnificent Mount Sinilochu and Mount Kanchenjunga. It was built by Tashi Namgyal who was the king of Sikkim between 1914 and 1963, and that is how the place got its name. Developed by the tourism department of Sikkim and nestled in a perfect location, one can get a beautiful view of the snow-capped mountains from here. This spot also serves as a fabulous picnic place for local as well as foreign tourists due to the presence of a cafeteria and sheds bordering the site of the viewpoint.

14. Rock Garden, Darjeeling

The Rock Garden or the Barbotey Garden as its commonly known, is located a little far from the city around ~10 km away. The benches in the garden are made by cutting rocks at different levels.

15. Reshi Hot Springs, Gangtok

Sikkim has numerous hot springs, but the Reshi Hot Spring is the most famous one due to its strategic location and the religious significance that it holds. These hot water springs or Cha-chu present in Reshi are winter spas from the ancient period where pilgrims along with visitors spend a week or more soaking themselves in the springs which are believed to contain medicinal properties. Easily accessible, the spring is present right after a downhill drive of an hour towards the Rangit River valley.

16. Happy Valley Tea Estate, Darjeeling

At a magical altitude of 6,800 feet, the Happy Valley Tea Estate is a fine land expanse of about 437 acres, growing some of the finest shrubs of this delightful drink in the world. It is the second oldest tea estate in the tea-rich town of Darjeeling, with its origins being closely connected to the history of cultivating and producing the world-famous Darjeeling Tea. The endless expanse of lush plantations situated on a hilly slope combines well with the captivating aroma ensuing from within, mesmerising travellers as they are treated to the charming nuances of producing tea.

17. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, Gangtok

Nestled in the exquisite Yumthang Valley in North Sikkim, the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is surrounded by Chuba-Sagochen mountain range on the East and by Chomzomei Tso on the West which expands all the way up to the Lava Pass. Sprawling over an area of 43 square kilometres and comprising of several species of rhododendrons, the sanctuary is situated at an elevation of 3,048 to 4,575 meters. The azaleas bloom to their full capacity and turn the sanctuary into a riot of colours during April to July thereby making it the best time to visit the place. The sanctuary gets its picturesque look from the Yumthang Chhu meandering through it.

18. Ghoom Monastery, Darjeeling

At a grand elevation of 8,000 feet, the Yiga Choeling or old Ghoom Monastery is the oldest Tibetan Buddhist Monastery of Darjeeling. Established in 1850 by Lama Sherab Gyatso, this shrine is part of the Yellow Hat sect known as Gelupka who worship the 'Coming Buddha' or 'Maitreyi Buddha'. A 15-foot high statue of Maitreyi Buddha is seen in the central hall, made entirely of clay brought from Tibet. Visitors are treated to a beautiful view of the majestic Kanchenjunga outside the monastery. Prayer flags are flown by the resident monks in typical Tibetan tradition.

19. Observatory Hill, Darjeeling

Like most other hill stations in India, Darjeeling also has a Mall Road and atop the Mall is the Observatory hill. The hill hosts the famous Mahakal temple and the original shrine of Bhutia Busty monastery, making the place of religious significance for Hindus and Buddhists alike.

20. Banjhakri Falls, Gangtok

A new sightseeing destination for the tourists and spread over an area of two acres of land, the Banjhakri Falls is situated at a distance of 10-12 kilometres from Gangtok on the way to Ranka monastery. The waterfall which falls from a rocky height of about 40 feet and cascades down with a lot of force is the main attraction of the Energy Park present here. Beautifully landscaped gardens abound the waterfall along with beautiful statues of Lyam Lymay, Mangpas, Lepcha, and Ban Jhakri ancestors. The entrance of the park also comprises of several recreational activities and refreshment stalls. In addition to several resting places, there is a swimming pool present for the visitors as well.

21. Yumthang, North Sikkim

The popular Yumthang Valley in North Sikkim is located 140 km North of Gangtok. Famous as the "Valley of flowers", this is a rare and exotic valley where the tree line ends. Yumthang Valley is a must visit on your holiday to Sikkim and the nearby beautiful town of Lachung is the base station for an expedition of Yumthang. The Yumthang Valley is a paradise for nature lovers with a spectacular blend of flora and fauna and splendid picturesque beauty. Unique wildflowers such as primulas and Rhododendrons cover the entire valley in rich colours every spring, making it a great tourist attraction.

Check from our elaborate list of places to visit in Darjeeling and Gangtok before you head off to your amazing vacay!

This post was published by Aqsa Aleem

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The 13 Most Popular Places to Visit in Gangtok

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

Table of Contents

List of 13 Incredible Places to Visit in Gangtok:

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

1. The Monastery Rumtek

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

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

Read More: 10 Best Places to visit in Sikkim

2. Nathula Pass

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

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

3. MG Marg Gangtok

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

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

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4. Seven Sisters Waterfalls, Gangtok

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

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

5. Tsomgo Lake

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

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

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

6. Hanuman Tok

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

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

7. Bio-Reserve Khangchendzonga

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

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

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

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

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

Also Read:  20 Best Places to Visit in Assam

9. Khangchendzonga

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

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

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10. Drul Chorten Stupa

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

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

11. The Buddhist Monastery

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

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

12. Tashi Viewpoint, Gangtok

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

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

13. Phodong Monastery, Gangtok

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

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

Best Time to Go to Gangtok:

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

Gangtok Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit gangtok.

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

How to reach Gangtok by train?

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

How to reach Gangtok via Air?

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

Also, read more information in Sikkim:

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

About The Author

Tusk Travel Team

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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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10 tourist places to visit in Gangtok: Distance, weather, tips

Weather Around the Year in Gangtok

Top 10 places to visit in gangtok:, nathula pass - gateway to tibet, rumtek monastery - seat of tibetan buddhism, tsomgo lake - jewel of sikkim, ganesh tok - scenic viewpoint, enchey monastery - abode of deities, banjhakri falls and energy park - natural retreat, tashi viewpoint - sunrise spectacle, do drul chorten - sacred stupa, hanuman tok - spiritual haven, flower exhibition centre - floral extravaganza.

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