Gangtok, the heartland of magical Sikkim, is certainly among the favorite places in northeast India. Roosted at a height of 5410 ft in the hills of the Eastern Himalayas, Gangtok is quite a lovely visitor destination.
The city extends across a forested mountain that encounters the snow-tipped Kanchenjunga mountains. There are multiple viewpoints in and around Gangtok from where you can witness the majestic sights of Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan ridges.
Once you’re in the city, there are multiple areas to see and lots of things that will just make you yearn for this mountainous capital of Sikkim. Here’s what you need to know about Gangtok.
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What is the Best time to Visit Gangtok
The finest time to see Gangtok is between late September and mid-December and between March and May. These autumn and spring-summer periods encounter friendly weather which is perfect for sightseeing.
The months of late September to December are when the days are sunny with clear vistas of the Himalayas. Between March and May, the blooming of Rhododendron flowers is a spectacle truly priceless.
It’s good to avoid visiting Gangtok during the monsoon months from July to early September as the serious rain leads to landslides which might cause plenty of trouble.
Explore Places to Visit in Gangtok
There are plenty of visitor draws in and around Gangtok including waterfalls, stunning monasteries, and vantage points. Here, we’ve provided some of the major draws and sites to visit in Gangtok.
1. M G Marg
The M G Marg is the core of Gangtok and is certainly so. It’s a nice strolling lane with no rowdy traffic, vehicles, or garbage. This is certainly among the most excellent spots to explore in Gangtok.
There are countless food joints and shops on both sides of the M G Marg and seats in between. Once you explore M G Marg, you’ll absolutely discover that you’re in a distinct location and not in any packed Indian city.
2. Rumtek Monastery
Found approximately 22 km from the major city, Rumtek Monastery is the most renowned monastery in the city and must be on your checklist of sites to witness in Gangtok.
Rumtek monastery is among the biggest in Sikkim and is associated with the Kagyu sect that formed in the 12th-century in Tibet. The architecture of the monastery is among the best worldwide and showcases the actual one in Tsurphu, Tibet.
3. Enchey Monastery
Found on the northern boundary of the Nathula to Gangtok road, Enchey monastery is nearly 200 years old. Enchey Monastery certainly denotes ‘the solitary temple’. The small Buddhist monastery is covered by conifers and pines.
The entrance to the central sanctum displays the Kings of four cardinal directions that shield the universe and the monastery. It stays open for tourists daily from 6 AM to 4 PM. You can employ a cab from Gangtok and arrive at Enchey in 10-15 minutes.
4. Lingdum or Ranka Monastery
Ranka Monastery or Lingdum Monastery is located 20 km from the city and is believed to be the most attractive in East Sikkim. Like the other two, Ranka monastery is covered by montane forest as well.
The monastery has a massive courtyard and includes a 2-storeyed tower. There is a stair that leads to the upper level where the internal shrine is found with a giant golden Buddha sculpture. The walls are decorated with detailed paintings and exquisite thangkas.
5. Tashi View Point
Tashi View point is about 8 km from Gangtok town. It’s the ideal location to see the enclosing valleys and mountains of Gangtok and the town itself.
It provides a beautiful picture of the sunrise with the snow-tipped mountains decorated with varying colors. On the opposite end, you can witness the Labrang and Phodong monasteries.
6. Ban Jhakri Waterfall and Energy Park
Ban Jhakri waterfall is located in an excellent landscaped park within a wooded region around 7 km from Gangtok town and is among the most attractive locations to explore in Gangtok.
The park extends over a region of 2 acres and is nicely trimmed with paved paths and footbridges. There is also an artificial lake here where you can try boat rides.
7. Ganesh Tok
Ganesh Tok is found near the Tashi vantage point and is a temple devoted to Lord Ganesha. It’s found at a height of 6,500 feet and at a hill neighboring to that of the enormous TV Tower.
Travelers visit here not only to deliver prayers to Lord Ganesha but also to marvel at the majestic vistas from the circular balcony and viewing lounge around it.
8. Paragliding in Gangtok
The exhilaration of obtaining an aerial outlook of Gangtok City and several Himalayan mountains is just alluring. You can head for paragliding in Gangtok.
There are two kinds of paragliding sports delivered in Gangtok – High Fly and Medium fly. You don’t need any particular training for these activities as you’ll be attended by a skilled pilot.
How to Reach Gangtok
Gangtok is well connected. Getting travel guide below detailed information about how to reach by Road, Train or Flight.
● By Flight
The closest well-linked airport from Gangtok is in Bagdogra in West Bengal which is around 126 Km. You can book a taxi or cab from there to Gangtok.
● By Train
The closest train station from Gangtok is in Siliguri, which is perfectly linked to the main cities of the country. State bus services and taxis are available from Siliguri to Gangtok.
Where to Eat in Gangtok
Gangtok is a home for the food-lovers. You’ll receive different Tibetan and Sikkimese meals. Also, simple street meals like thukpa and momos are delicious. Most of the eateries and restaurants are near the M G Marg Area.
Some well-known restaurants of the city are Green Tara restaurant, Café Culture, Taste of Tibet, and Gangtalk among so many others.
Where to Stay in Gangtok
Gangtok provides a vast range of properties beginning from homestays, budget hotels, hostels, and mid-range to luxury stays. There are several hotels near M G Marg, the most favored choice for staying in Gangtok.
M G Marg is certainly the soul of the town and you’ll get all the fine shops, restaurants, and draws nearby. However, if you desire to bypass the crowds, then you can book a homestay slightly away from the town.