Gangtok is the best tourist destination in Sikkim, India.
Gangtok, Sikkim is popular for its magnificent natural beauty, rich traditional culture, and vibrant city life.
Gangtok is the capital city of the North-Eastern Indian state of Sikkim, located in the eastern Himalayan range. With its magnificent natural beauty, rich traditional culture, and vibrant city life, Gangtok has become one of the most visited tourist destinations in North-East India.
The town is located at a height of 1,437 meters above sea level and offers a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Gangtok is known for its untouched and serene natural surroundings, with lush green forests, clean rivers, and snow-capped hills as far as the eye can see.
One of the main attractions of Gangtok is the beautiful and colorful traditional culture of the local people, with a mix of Tibetan, Nepalese, and Bhutia influences. The city is renowned for its vibrant festivals and traditional rituals, which are an integral part of its rich cultural heritage. The famous Losar festival, celebrated in January, is a colorful and lively celebration that attracts tourists from all over the world.
Things to know
Time zone: IST (GMT+5:30)
Currency: Indian Rupee (INR), (Current exchange rate)
Languages: Hindi
Country calling code: +91
Police, Medical helpline: 100
In addition to its natural beauty and cultural richness, Gangtok also offers a wide range of tourist activities and amenities. The city is home to several trekking trails, such as the most popular Dzongri trek, that offer an amazing view of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys. Adventure enthusiasts can experience white-water rafting, mountain biking, and paragliding in the city.
For those people who are interested in Buddhist culture and spirituality, Gangtok is home to several historic Buddhist temples and monasteries, including the renowned Rumtek Monastery, which is one of the largest and most important pilgrimage sites of Tibetan Buddhism in the world.
In conclusion, Gangtok is a city that offers a perfect mix of natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and modern amenities. Whether you are an adventurer lover, a spiritual seeker, or just searching for a relaxing vacation in a beautiful mountain, Gangtok is a must-visit destination that will leave a lasting impression. Gangtok also offers a thriving urban life, with multiple restaurants, cafes, and shopping complexes, as well as modern amenities such as hotels, resorts, hospitals, and banks.
How to reach Gangtok, Sikkim?
Gangtok, Sikkim is one of the major tourist destinations in North-East India. The city is well-connected to the rest of the country by road, rail, and air, making it easy to reach and explore.
By road: The city has a well-developed road network and is well connected with Siliguri, which is one of the major cities in the Nort-East. Gangtok is around 110 Km away from Siliguri, West Bengal and the travel time between the two cities is around 4 hours.
Trains to Train: Gangtok doesn’t have its own railway station. The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri Junction, which is around 115 Km away from the town.
By flight: Gangtok got its airport on 24 September 2018, Pakyong Airport connects the city with other major cities in the country.
Online ticket booking websites in India
Flights: Makemytrip
Bus: Redbus
Train: IRCTC
Best places to visit in Gangtok, Sikkim.
Nathula Pass
This high-altitude pass on the Indo-China border is one of Gangtok’s most popular tourist destinations. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers and is a popular spot for trekking and adventure sports.
Address: Yadong County, Shigatse, Sikkim (location)
Opening hours: 24 hours (May close after heavy snow falls)
Entry fee: Free
Tsongmo Lake
This serene and pristine lake is located 40 km from Gangtok and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and forests. The lake is a popular site for boating, fishing, and spending a day with family.
Address: Sikkim 737103 (location)
Opening hours: 24 hours (May close after heavy snow falls)
Entry fee: Free
Rumtek Monastery
This beautiful and historic Buddhist monastery is one of the largest and most important centers of Tibetan Buddhism in the world. It is a popular place for tourists to learn about Buddhist culture and spirituality.
Address: Tsurphu Labrang Pal Karmae Sangha Dhuche, Dharma Chakra Centre, Sikkim (location)
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entry fee: Free
Ban Jhakri Falls
Ban Jhakri waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located near Gangtok. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and rolling hills. Ban Jhakri Falls is one of the most popular sites for locals and they come here for picnics and nature walks.
Address: Gangtok, Sikkim (location)
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entry fee: Free
Tashi View Point
This scenic viewpoint offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can also experience the stunning view of the snow-capped peak of Mount Kanchenjunga.
Address: Gangtok, Sikkim (location)
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entry fee: Free
Saramsa Garden
This beautiful botanical garden is located on the outskirts of Gangtok city. The garden is home to various flowers, trees, and plants.
Address: Gangtok, Sikkim (location)
Opening hours: 8 Am – 6 Pm
Entry fee: Free
Enchey Monastery
This beautiful and historic Buddhist monastery is located on a hill overlooking Gangtok. Enchey Monastery is well known for its stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Address: Gangtok, Sikkim (location)
Opening hours: 6 Am – 7 Pm
Entry fee: Free
Pelling
This beautiful hill town is located near Gangtok and is known for its scenic beauty. This place is famous for its historic monasteries, and trekking trails. It is a popular destination for tourists who want to experience the rural and natural beauty of the region.
Address: Near Gangtok, Sikkim (location)
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entry fee: Free
Important apps to download
Redbus online bus booking
MakeMyTrip Online hotel and flight booking
Uber app-based taxi
Swiggy app-based food delivery
IRCTC, train booking app
Google translate
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