21 Places to Visit in Gangtok for a Memorable Holiday

most popular tourist destinations in Gangtok

Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is located at a distance of only 70 kilometers from Nathula Pass, which is the border between Sikkim and Tibet. Until 2008, Gangtok was closed for foreigners on account of political concerns. However, since then, Gangtok has seen a huge influx of tourists to its snow-capped mountains and monasteries. No doubt there are some of the best places to visit in Gangtok.

It is a perfect holiday destination for those who love snow, nature and adventurous activities. This is one such place where you can enjoy a holiday while shopping for some souvenirs as well.

If you are planning a trip to visit Gangtok then make sure that you visit these most popular tourist destinations in Gangtok.

Top 21 Tourist Attractions to Visit in Gangtok 

1. Tsomgo Lake – A Serene and Peaceful Glacial Lake

places to visit in gangtok

Source: wikimedia.org

places to visit in gangtok

Source: outlookindia.com

A serene and beautiful lake located at an altitude of 12,000 feet, the Tsongmo Lake is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Gangtok. The lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is a perfect spot for a picnic or a day trip.

Tsomgo Lake is a pristine glacial lake in the Himalayas. The lake has a thin layer of ice near its shores and visited round the year.

Getting there: Tsomgo Lake located in Gangtok, the city of Gangtok, which doesn’t have its own railway station. The nearest railhead is Siliguri Railway Station in New Jalpaiguri located at a distance of 148 kilometers. 

It is possible to take a taxi to Gangtok or catch the bus from the Siliguri Bus Station which is just next to the station. It takes between 5 and 6 hours to reach Gangtok from Siliguri Bus Station.

Best time to visit: Between April and May when the lake covered with a breathtaking blanket of rhododendrons and orchids.

Things to do: The breathtaking picturesque beauty has attracted tourists all over the world and makes them want more, particularly during summer and winter months.

2. Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple – A Temple Dedicated to a Brave Soldier

places to visit in gangtok

Source: beingpahadi.com

The road that passes between Nathu La and Jelepla Pass, at a distance of 64 km and an altitude of 4000m, Baba Mandir is the temple that was built in the Samadhi of Harbhajan Singh. 

There is a local belief that anyone who visits Nathang Valley Nathang Valley and crosses through this beautiful area required to pay tribute in honor of Baba Harbhajan Singh.

Legend says that, 35 years ago, the leader of a group of mules from his division in Tukla up to Deng Dhukla in East Sikkim, Sepoy Harbhajan Singh went missing. 

Following a thorough search his body found after three days of searching by the army. It’s believed that he was the one who led the soldiers to the body. 

Afterward, many soldiers from the group claimed that Baba was appearing in their dreams , begging for them to construct an altar in his memory. 

A samadhi was therefore built to honor his memory. Don’t miss the most popular tourist attractions in Gangtok.

Getting there: You can simply take a cab to reach Baba’s mandir.

Best time to visit: Most suitable time to visit Baba’s mandir is from April to June.

Things to do: Tourists who visit this area leave their water bottles for a couple of days, and take it back later to drink it. It is believed that when you drink water, all wishes are fulfilled.

3. Nathula Pass – A Stunning High-altitude Mountain Pass

places to visit in gangtok

Source: googleusercontent.com

places to visit in gangtok

Source: thrillophilia.com

Nathula Pass is a mountain pass in the Himalayas. At an elevation of 16,400 feet (5,000 m), it is the highest motorable pass in India and the second highest road in the world. Nathula Pass is one of the beautiful places to visit in Gangtok.

The pass is on the Indian National Highway 27, which connects Gangtok to Lachung and was opened to the public in 1964. 

The road over Nathula Pass serves as a lifeline for local inhabitants of the North Sikkim district, who are mostly involved in apple farming and related businesses.

There are two routes over the pass – one from each end. In order to reach Tumling at its northern end, one has to travel via Pakyong or Jorethang – a distance of about 70 km from Gangtok.

From Tumling, another 100 km journey takes one to Lachung at its southern end from where Numla town can be reached.

Getting there: 

Highway: Nathula is well connected via road to Gangtok. Taxis can be taken from Gangtok to get to Nathula.

Rail: The closest railway station can be found in Jalpaiguri which is 98 km from Gangtok. It is possible to take a taxi from Jalpaiguri to reach Gangtok.

Air: The closest airport to Nathula is Bagdogra airport. This airport linked to cities such as Delhi as well as Kolkata. From there, you can book taxis to get to Gangtok which connected to Nathula via roads.

Best time to visit: If you want to experience snowfall, then its a must place in winter with thick woolen garments.

Things to do: Nathu La Pass offers a wide variety of plants along with a breathtaking wildlife diversity.

4. Rumtek Monastery – One of the Largest Monasteries in Sikkim

places to visit in gangtok

Source: outlookindia.com

places to visit in gangtok

Source: wikimedia.org

Rumtek Monastery is a Buddhist monastery, surely hit your list of places to visit in Gangtok. Located atop a hill, and is one of the most prominent landmarks in Gangtok. 

There are ten floors inside Rumtek monastery which have been kitted out with modern facilities, including kitchens and toilets. The monks here engaged in activities such as teaching and performing rituals.

Getting there: 

Air: Bagdogra located within West Bengal is the nearest airport situated 124 kilometers from Gangtok. For civil flights, there’s an air-conditioned helicopter service that is available daily that flies between Bagdogra and Gangtok. From there, you can take an auto to Gangtok or take taxis.

Road: Bus services are regularly available from Bagdogra, Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Calcutta.

Rail: Siliguri (114 km) or New Jalpaiguri (125 km) both railway stations nearest to Gangtok. From there, take a taxi or a bus.

Best time to visit: During the annual Ladrang festival that falls in the month of February. This three-day event sees thousands of devotees entering the monastery to pay homage to Guru Padmasambhava, believed to be an incarnation of Lord Amitabh Bhagwan.

Timings: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM 

Entry Fee: INR 10

Time Required: 1-2 hrs

5. Kanchenjunga: One of the Beautiful Places to Visit in Gangtok

places to visit in gangtok

Source: pinimg.com

places to visit in gangtok

Source: neptuneholidays.com

The third-highest peak on earth, the magnificent Kanchenjunga which is also spelled Kangchenjunga is among the most breathtaking mountains. This amazing place surrounded by Nepal, Sikkim and Tibet, Mt Kanchenjunga was first reached in 1955, and since then, it is declared sacred place. ”Kanchenjunga” is the Tibetan name that translates to “The Five Treasures of the High Snow’.

Getting there: 

Rail: New Jalpaiguri acts as Jalpaiguri’s closest railway station to Yuksom located about 150 kilometers away.

Road: Yuksom The base camp of Goecha La is easily accessible by road from a variety of major cities , including Siliguri. It’s about 140 kilometers away and is an entry point to Sikkim as well as the capital, Gangtok.

Best time to visit: From December to January

Things to do: Take in a breathtaking panorama of the mountain, Tiger Hill is among the top.

6. Kanchendzonga Biosphere Reserve – An UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest protected areas in India

places to visit in gangtok

Source: indiaheritagewalks.org

Kanchendzonga Biosphere Reserve Kanchendzonga Biosphere Reserve is a large reserve in the Himalayan Mountains that is managed by the Government of Sikkim, India. 

Located in the state of Sikkim, it is home to many rare and endangered species such as the Red Panda, Snow Leopard, and many others. The area designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014. 

The Kanchendzonga Biosphere Reserve located between two mountain ranges: the Himalayas on one side and the Karakorams on the other. Located 430 kilometers of boundary lines surround this beautiful area.  

Things to do: Animal gazing

Also Read: 10+ TOP JHARKHAND TOURIST PLACES TO VISIT IN 2022

7. Tashi View Point – A scenic spot overlooking the valley below

most visited places in Gangtok

Source: ytimg.com

The charming and small Tashi View Point is an ideal spot to take in the breathtaking scenery, which includes mountains, valleys , and Gangtok itself. This popular tourist attraction situated within 8 kilometers of the town. 

This place renowned for providing some of the most breathtaking views of sunset and sunrise. 

Breathtaking view of changing colors of Kanchenjunga as well as Siniolchu Peaks. As the sun slowly shifts away across the viewpoint with the view of the monastery in Gangtok, Phodong and Labrang.

Timings: 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Time Required: 1-2 hours

Entry Fee: No entry fee

Things to do: Purchase binoculars nearby and search for Phodong or Labrang Monasteries and find rare birds. Tashi Point also has a cafeterias where you can enjoy snacks and drink hot tea while taking in the breathtaking views.

Best time to visit: March to June since the weather is warm and pleasant.

8. Yak Golf Course – The World’s Highest Golf Course, Located in Pelling

most visited places in Gangtok

Source: curlytales.com

Yak Golf Course located in Pelling, a town in the west of Sikkim. It is the highest golf course in the world and is open to the public. With an altitude of 3,500 meters above sea level, it takes 4 hours from the city of Gangtok to reach Pelling. 

Things to do: The drive through green forests and hills will give you goosebumps. The sheer height and steepness of this mountain makes every shot a thrilling experience!

9. Kokchurong Valley – A Secluded and Beautiful Valley

most visited places in Gangtok

Source: trekthehimalayas.com

Kokchurong Valley is one of the most beautiful sites in the world, located in the Himalayas. It is a very secluded valley and only few people have ever ventured here. One of the most visited places in Gangtok, this place offers some of the best trekking trails in India. 

There are multiple campsites available for travelers to unwind, rejuvenate, and enjoy natural beauty around them. Campsites are beautifully set up such that they allow you to enjoy the surrounding nature from your tent itself. 

Things to do: The best part about Kokchurong Valley is that it offers extreme fun activities like paragliding and rock climbing etc.

10. Do Drul Chorten is a Stupa Located in Gangtok

most visited places in Gangtok

Source: trawell.in

Do Drul Chorten is one of the largest stupas in Sikkim situated in the breathtaking valleys that surround Gangtok. Korten Stupa Korten Stupa considered to be haunted spirits of evil until the highly revered Lama Trulshig Rinpoche arrived at this spot and built a stupa in 1946.

11. Rope Way: The Rope Way is a Cable Car System that Offers Views of Mt. Kanchenjunga

most visited places in Gangtok

Source: travelgangtok.com

Rope Way cable-car route offers panoramic views over Mt. Kanchenjunga and the valleys around it. The Rope Way is a distance of 2 km with a height of 150m. 

The point where you begin the route is Deorali Bazar situated close to the city and is easily accessible to the majority of. The ropeway built-in 2003. It connects to the Tashiling Secretariat via Sikkim Legislative Assembly. 

Timing, bookings, price:

  • One has to spend Rs. 117 per person for a Two- way journey.
  • For children, the cost will be of Rs. 77 for a Two- way journey trip.
  • The ropeway will take approx. 6 people in one ride.
  • This service available from 9.00 AM TO 5 PM

12. Enchey Monastery: One of the oldest Monasteries in Sikkim

most visited places in Gangtok

Source: mapio.net

Originally built in the 8th century, destroyed by a devastating earthquake in 1897 and rebuilt soon after. Its name means “place of prayer” in the local language. The monastery is restored over time to its former glory and is now a popular tourist attraction for visitors to Sikkim.

The Enchey Monastery located on a hilltop overlooking Gangtok. The monastery known for its traditional architecture and stunning views of the mountains and valleys below.

Best time to visit:  September and October, since it’s situated in height, it becomes inaccessible in winters.

Getting there: Via road 

Things to do: If you’re curious about the traditions of monks or their past in a serene and surreal setting away from the clamor in the cities, this is the right spot for you.

13. The Ganesh Tok View Point

most visited places in Gangtok

Source: pinimg.com

Located at an altitude of 7200 feet, Ganesh Tok View Point offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range. The viewpoint is also home to a small temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh, making it a popular spot among Hindu pilgrims as well as tourists.

Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm

14. The Ban Jhakri Waterfalls

most visited places in Gangtok

Source: wordpress.com

The Banjhakri waterfalls located in Sikkim are, without a doubt, among nature’s amazing marvels. They are a hundred-foot waterfall situated within the Ranka Monastery. 

The park in which the waterfalls situated in a forested region of Swastik which is approximately seven kilometers from Gangtok.

Banjhakri falls are naturally-created waterfalls, which are derived from springs located at higher elevations. Ban refers to “forest” while Jhakri means “priest”. It is among the most popular tourist destinations in Gangtok.

Getting there: By taxi or bus.

Admission fee: 50 rupees

15. Mt. Katao

most visited places in Gangtok

Source: tripoto.com

A must-see places to visit in Gangtok, believe me or not this place is simply amazing. You’ll feel as if you’re located in Switzerland or perhaps in heaven. The view you get here is something you’ll want to capture as accurately as you can through your vision.

Getting there: Hire a taxi from Lachung or drive all the way in your private vehicle.

Best time to visit: Perfect time to visit Mount Katao is from March to June

16. Hanuman Lok:

most visited places in Gangtok

Source: tripinvites.com

At an altitude of 7,200 feet. This centuries-old Hanuman temple is among the most popular places to visit in Gangtok. It offers spectacular views over and the Kanchenjunga range, the temple visited by visitors throughout the year due to its tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking views. 

It is possible to enjoy the splendor and lush foliage, beautiful valleys and hills, and only a tiny portion of the town when you climb the steps that are paved to this tranquil divine location.

Getting there: You can hire a taxi from the hotel you are staying in.

Timings: 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Time Required: 1-1.5 hours

Entry Fee: None

17. Flower Exhibition Center a Popular Tourist Place in Gangtok

most popular tourist destinations in Gangtok

Source: tripoto.com

The Flower Exhibition Center located close to MG Road and displays a large variety of flowers across Sikkim. An ideal places to visit in Gangtok for those who love nature The exhibition center stays active all through the year, but especially in the flower display, which runs from April through May.

Timings: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm

Entry Fee: ₹10

18. MG Marg 

most popular tourist destinations in Gangtok

Source: voiceofsikkim.com

MG Marg is a must visit when in Gangtok. It’s an amazing spot that blends the most beautiful aspects in Gangtok and its tourist culture and showcases its visitors colorful spectacles. Clean of smoke and litter certainly is a great spot to stay for your night in Gangtok.

19. Lachen, Lachung and Yumthang Valley

most popular tourist destinations in Gangtok

Source: adotrip.com

The three stunning villages show the rich culture of Sikkim and you should visit these places when in Sikkim. It is a must to visit Lachen, which happens to be a tiny village located within North Sikkim. Lachen is home to Tibetan nomadic tribes during winter. 

20. Gurudongmar Lake

most popular tourist destinations in Gangtok

Source: cloudinary.com

Gurudongmar Lake looks much similar to Pangong Tso Lake which situated in Leh. The vibrant turquoise hue of this serene lake with the lively tradition of North-East surrounding it makes Gurudongmar Lake one of the top locations within Sikkim that you can visit. This beautiful lake located at an elevation of 17,800 feet higher than sea-level.

21. Sikkim Research Institute Of Tibetology

most popular tourist destinations in Gangtok

Source: wikimedia.org

This beautiful location is on the top of an incline, the institute gives a great insight into the customs and practices that are part of Tibetan culture. 

The institute originally named”the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, the institute founded in 1958. Named after the late Palden Thondup Namgyal (The Chogyal, the Chogyal in Sikkim). 

Its primary goal includes study and analyze its findings regarding the Mahayana Sect of Tibet along with the whole Tibetan culture and the Tibetan language.

FAQs:

1. Is there an airport within Gangtok?

The answer is: No, there is no airport in Gangtok. If you want to travel via air it is possible to fly up to Bagdogra Airport (128 km) and then take a taxi ride to Gangtok. The drive can take between 4 to 5 hours.

2. What is the best way can I get to Gangtok via train?

As there isn’t a railway station at Gangtok therefore, firstly get to New Jalpaiguri Junction (122 km) in Siliguri via train. Then travel to Gangtok via road.

3. Which kinds of transportation do you have for travel in Gangtok?

One of the best ways to get from your Gangtok hotels to various tourist spots in the city is via taxi. Taxis offered for both sharing and private use.

4. When is the most ideal time to go to Gangtok?

The autumn season (October-November) is the best time to visit Gangtok. It is also possible to schedule an excursion to Gangtok in spring, which runs from March through June. take in the stunning Rhododendron flowering in bloom.

5. Which places in Gangtok are best for shopping?

Most well-known mall located in Gangtok is Lal Bazaar, from where you can buy churpi the yak cheese Nepalese Khukris baskets, cane and bamboo and Tibetan prayer flags. MG Marg is also a popular location for shopping in Gangtok.

6. Which are the places to visit in Gangtok for a honeymoon?

There are many places in Gangtok for honeymoon couples like Tea Gardens, Tiger Hill, Mirik, Batasia Loop, Ghoom Monastery, Khangchendzonga National Park and many more.

We hope our blog useful information about places to visit in Gangtok.

Keep following IndianTripster for more amazing travel guides.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published.