Gangtok - Zen in the Himalayas

This exotic capital of Sikkim, nestled amidst the majestic mountains and plunging valleys, is an eclectic blend of culture, adventure & romance. A city of delectable food, folksy-rock music, tranquil monasteries and heart-warming people- Gangtok is an exhilarating experience!

Major Attractions

Tsomgo Lake

Around 40kms from Gangtok, a twisting road through rough mountain terrain and sharp cliffs leads you to Tsomgo. This ethereal glacial lake at an elevation of 12,400ft is known for its surreal beauty and various local legends associated with it.

Rumtek Monastery

Perched on a hill around 23kms from Gangtok, this 16th century monastery with its beautiful Tibetan-styled architecture, murals and frescos, offers both visual and a mental solace.

Tashi View Point

A perfect place to view brilliant sun rise & sunsets and to get the bird’s eye view of the valley sprawled below- Tashi View Point is a regular haunt of the tourists and nature lovers in Gangtok.

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

This institute was established in 1958 for research & promotion of Tibetan art, culture, religion and language. The museum houses a unique collection of statues, coins, masks, Thangkas, Tibetan art work & objects, and ancient manuscripts.

Hanuman Tok

Dedicated to Hanuman, the Hindu monkey God, Hanuman Tok is a perfect combination of striking views and innate spirituality.

Phurchachu Hot Springs

These hot water sulphur springs located near the ‘Cave of the occult fairies’, are considered sacred and also believed to have medicinal properties.

Adventure

Trekking, camping, Yak safaris and white-water rafting in the rippling Teesta waters are some adventure activities you may indulge in while in Gangtok.

Other Attractions

• Do Drul Chorten- Buddhist Stupa
• Banjhakri Falls
• Tsuklakhang Royal Chapel and Monastery
• Seven Sister Waterfalls
• Enchey Monastery

Excursions from Gangtok

• Nathu la Pass (56kms)-  A high altitude mountain pass at the Indo-China border Darjeeling (98kms)
• Kalimpong (75kms)
• Kanchenjunga National Park (46kms)
• Namchi (80kms)

Fairs & Festivals in Gangtok

• Loosong Festival, Rumtek Monastery
• Sagadawa Festival
• International Flower Festival

Food in Gangtok

Momos (dumplings), Thupkas (thick noodle soup), Chhurpi(fermented dairy snack), Phagshapa ( pork dish)and  Seal Roti (Nepali dish) are some of the must try dishes in Gangtok.

Shopping in Gangtok

Traditional Sikkimese porcelain cups, bamboo & cane handicrafts, Tibetan curios, colorful prayer flags, and Khukri (traditional curved Nepali knife) – Gangtok spoils you for choice!

Best Time to Visit

The pleasant climate of Gangtok makes it an all-year-round destination; however the peak season is from March to June in summers and then from October to December in winters.

How to Reach

By Air- The closestairport, Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal, is around 124 kilometers from Gangtok.
By Rail: The nearest railhead located in New Jalpaiguri, around 117 km away from Gangtok, is connected to major Indian cities.
By Road: Gangtok is connected with major cities in the area through a network of roads & highways.