Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim in northeastern India.This is a beautiful city , full of tourist attractions. It’s well connected by road and the nearest airport is Bagdogra airport. Monasteries, Himalayan zoo, a Tibetan Institute are some of the places to visit in Gangtok. Gangtok has a fantastic view of mount Kanchenjunga. Gangtok is abundant in natural beauty and has various natural attractions such as the Tsomgo Lake, Ban Jhakri falls etc.
Best Time To Visit Gangtok
The best time to visit Gangtok is from late September to November and March to June. These autumn and spring-summer months undergo a friendly climate, excellent for sightseeing. From October to February, although temperatures fall below 0 degrees Celsius, Gangtok gets a bizarre charm. Avoid Gangtok during the monsoon season as heavy rainfall leads to landslides.
What are the places to visit in Gangtok
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Nathu La
Nathu La is one of the highest motorways in the world, situated at a height of 14450 feet. The mounatain pass connects Sikkim and China. This is one of the most essential Himalayan passes in the country. Nathu means “hearing ears”, and La means “pass”. Nathu La is one of the three open trade border posts between India and China. The pass offers picturesque beauty and beautiful surroundings. Throught out the year the temperature remains very low, but still attracts lot of tourist.
Tsogmo Lake
Lake Tsomgo, located at a staggering 1,4000 feet above sea level. Also known as Lake Changu, is part of every hiking trail and for a good reason – stunning picturesque beauty. The enchanting beauty of Lake Tsogmo surrounds the steep snow-capped mountains.
This is a glacial lake that gets its water from the melting snow in the mountains around it. This glacial lake known for its colour, changing the water. During monsoon the lake is crystal clear and in the winter months it freezes. As the summer approaches in mid-May, the periphery of this lake is dotted with thousands of blooming flowers.
Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, is the abode of centuries-old Tibetan Buddhist culture and its history. The NIT preserves the glorious past of the country, religion and its precious culture. Wth the utmost commitment, indicating an excellent collection in the museum and library. Being relevant to the persecutors of Asian culture and Buddhist studies, his role is a paradise for tourists, especially casual history enthusiasts. Indoor photography is not allowed, but you can take off the technology and take everything you want with the lens of your eyes. Namgyal Institute has become a significant tourist attraction in Gangtok. It supports the study, research and preservation of Tibetan history. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is the cornerstone laid by the high Dalai Lama himself.
Ganesh Tok
Ganesh Tok is a small temple and a beloved viewpoint in Gangtok. Situated on top of a hill, Ganesh Tok has a quaint spot of views. – The majestic Kanchenjunga Hill can be seen from here in its true form of fame, and is best especially in the morning. The Ganesh Tok View Point located at 6500 feet offers spectacular views. The great place takes you one step closer to nature with its unreal surroundings.
The Ganesh Tok temple itself is quite small. Coloured flags are tied up the stairs to make them stand out. There is a place where shoes can be kept safely, and hands can be washed before entering the temple. In front of the temple is also a lounge and balcony, which is the main attraction of this place. The peaceful Ganesh Tok is surrounded by hills, countryside and beautiful mountains. It is so crowded that devotees must go down all fours to worship Lord Ganesha.
MG Road, Gangtok
MG Road is the heart of Gangtok and its most important place. MG Road is an open shopping center or square that is generally considered the city centre and is the best shopping destination for tourists. It’s a great place to take a stroll or just sit on benches and pamper yourself in an eclectic setting.
The Rumtek Monastery
Rumtek Monastery is one of the largest and most important monasteries in Sikkim. Perched on top of a hill 23 km from Gangtok. It was initially called the Dharma Chakra Center and belonged to the Kargyus Buddhist sect. The monastery is surrounded by green mountains. Climbing to the top of the Rumtek Monastery will give you a beautiful view of the entire town of Gangtok.
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