In the early 1980s, Gangtok became well-known as a Buddhist pilgrimage destination. Due to its outstanding natural beauty and religious importance, it is currently one of Northeast India's most popular cities. The best spots to visit in and around Gangtok should be explored over at least ten days if you plan a vacation there. There are now several hotels in Gangtok because of the area's rising popularity. Depending on your budget and schedule, you have a range of possibilities. Remember that MG Road is where most of Gangtok's eateries are located. If you stay somewhere else, you'll have to rely on the restaurant at the hotel. Choose accordingly. Tour packages in Gangtok include hotel, transportation, sightseeing tours, and other activities to provide a well-rounded and well-organized trip. Whether planning a honeymoon, a family vacation, or a solo excursion, the Gangtok tour packages offered by Gangtok may be tailored to your needs.
Best time to visit Gangtok
The best time to visit Gangtok depends on the kind of experience you desire:
Spring and Summer (March to June): Temperatures in Gangtok during these months range from 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), which is a good range. Due to the warm and inviting weather, this is the perfect season for outdoor activities like trekking, visiting beautiful landscapes, and visiting the local markets.
Monsoon (July to September): The monsoon season brings rain but endows Gangtok with a certain beauty. The waterfalls are flowing fully, and the hills are alive with vivid foliage. Despite the sporadic rain, this is a pleasant time to see the area's natural splendor.
Autumn and Winter (October to February): Temperatures in Gangtok plummet to about 0°C (32°F) during the winter, giving the area a chilly feeling. This time of year is ideal for seeing snowfall and taking in the winter scenery.
How to reach Gangtok
Understanding how to reach Gangtok is the first step in planning your vacation:
By Air: Bagdogra Airport, situated 124 kilometers from Gangtok, is the closest airport. To go to Gangtok, reserve a car or hire a cab. Bagdogra Airport offers simple air travel alternatives with connections from major Indian cities.
By Train: The railroad station closest to Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), 148 kilometers away. NJP is connected to important cities, including Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai, by regular trains. To go to Gangtok from NJP, use a bus or a cab.
By Road: Major cities in the area may be easily reached by road from Gangtok. Buses and taxis are available between Gangtok and adjacent cities like Siliguri and Darjeeling.
Major Attractions in Gangtok:
The most excellent way to experience Gangtok's beauty and appeal is through its wide range of attractions:
Tsomgo Lake
Tsomgo Lake should be your only destination in Gangtok if you have time for one! This high-altitude lake, which is 12,400 feet above sea level and is surrounded by mountains, receives its water from the melting snow of those mountains. The location's unmatched beauty is truly captivating. The lake's outstanding characteristic of changing color throughout the seasons. During the winter, it remains frozen, but in the summer, the surrounding snow is replaced by flowering flowers. According to legends, Buddhist monks formerly utilized the lake's hue to predict the future.
Nathula Pass
Nathula Pass, formerly part of the old Silk Road between Tibet and India, has beautiful natural scenery. Driving across its slick, rocky slopes while ascending to 14,140 feet will be quite the excitement. In the summer and fall, a lot of people visit Nathula Pass. The path is frequently blocked owing to severe snowfall, and winters may not be the ideal season due to the low temperatures. On Mondays and Tuesdays, the road is still off-limits to the public, so be sure to factor that into your travel plans.
Hanuman Tok
One of the most well-liked tourist destinations in Gangtok is the decades-old Hanuman temple, situated at 7,200 feet. This temple attracts travelers year-round because of its tranquil ambiance and breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga mountain. As you ascend the paved stairs that lead to this serenely beautiful heavenly location, you may take in the grandeur of the thick foliage, the picturesque hills and valleys, and a little portion of the town.
Himalayan Zoological Park
Himalayan Zoological Park, Sikkim's first zoo, provides a chance to learn about the local flora. This zoo is unique compared to most others in the nation since it is home to Himalayan Black Bears, Snow Leopards, Red Pandas, and Himalayan Palm Civets. The fact that animals are not caged and are housed in open enclosures that closely resemble their natural habitats improves the whole experience. The zoo, which is 1,780 meters above sea level, also provides magnificent views of Mount Kanchenjunga. Spend at least 3 to 4 hours at the zoo, especially if you're with kids.
Ranka Monastery
Your schedule should include a stop at the lovely Ranka Monastery for the breathtaking vistas it provides and, of course, the chance to speak with Buddhist monks. During breaks, you are welcome to take photographs with the monks, but you must respect their beliefs and way of life. The monastery, surrounded by dense trees on all sides, is breathtaking. The peace and calm here give a picture of a way of life very different from what one finds in cities.
Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
If you love history or want to learn about Buddhism, visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology. It offers a glimpse into the past of a fascinating civilization. The fourteenth Dalai Lama placed the institute's cornerstone. You will love exploring this place, and you will have a wonderful time over there. You can also learn a lot about Buddhism and their past lives, how they lived, their tradition, and so on.
Flower Exhibition Center
The Flower Exhibition Center, which showcases an enormous variety of flowers from all across Sikkim, is just a short stroll off MG Road. The exposition center, a haven for nature lovers, is constantly busy, especially from April to May when the annual flower show occurs. Unwind in the welcoming atmosphere, take in the vibrant flowers, and take breathtaking photos.
Thrilling activities to do in Gangtok
Gangtok's rich culture and beautiful landscapes make for various exciting activities. With thrilling adventures on the ground and in the air, the city is perfect for thrill-seekers of all stripes. Get ready to be blown away by everything Gangtok offers when you pack your bags and make the trip there.
Paragliding: Float above the Himalayas on a paragliding adventure to make the most of your stay in Gangtok. Fly far over the beautiful landscape and take in the breathtaking panorama of the snow-capped Himalayas, dense woods, and winding rivers below. It doesn't matter if you've been gliding before; this will pump your blood.
River Rafting: River rafting on the Teesta River can be dangerous due to its strong rapids. Learn to ride its unpredictable currents and winding courses. The river is suitable for novice and experienced rafters because of its varying grades. As you go through the torrent of water, take in the breathtaking scenery and experience the adrenaline rush.
Yak Safari: You may take a yak safari around the beautiful Tsomgo Lake instead of horseback riding. You may enjoy the serene beauty of this mountain lake while riding one of these hairy critters. It's surrounded by icy mountains on each side.
Trekking: Put on your hiking boots and grab your backpack because you're about to go on a once-in-a-lifetime hike across Kanchenjunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mountain Biking: Explore high alpine regions with dense woods, open meadows, and pristine lakes. The park is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers because of its rich fauna, including the elusive snow leopard.
Helicopter Ride: Take a helicopter ride over Gangtok to see the city and its environs from above. Gaze wonderfully at the majestic mountains, verdant valleys, and glistening lakes from afar. With any luck, you'll get an amazing view of the Eastern Himalayas on this trip.
