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About Gangtok

Gangtok, the exotic capital city of Sikkim, is a Buddhist haven. In sync with the Zen philosophy that divinity can only make its way through clear and clean surroundings, Gangtok is an epitome of neatness and is one of the few such places in India. The stunning panoramic views of the snow-capped Mount Kanchenjunga, only add to the Gangokian environs. Offering the best tourist places in Gangtok, this place is also famous for its distinct cuisine, of which Momos and Kinema, are an excellent example. Gangtok is a city of great food, atmospheric sceneries and beautiful Buddhist monasteries, which include Rumtek and Enchey. It has great potential for sightseeing as well, including the Nathu La Pass and Tsomgo Lake. Gangtok is also a testament to the unique fashion sense of the North East. The folks here are known to have a keen sense of style and have a totally refreshing way of wearing the most casual outfits. Gangtok also has a very folksy and indie live-music sentiment. Finally, the people make the place and it is the helpful and friendly citizens of Gangtok, who are true exemplars of the principles of the Buddhist lifestyle.  

Situated in the eastern Himalayan range, state capital Gangtok combines a modern, resort town style with ancient spiritual beliefs and an impressive natural heritage. Mountain views act as the backdrop to holidays in Gangtok, where much of the focus also lies on the monasteries, shrines, and temples of this old center of Tibetan Buddhist pilgrimage. Local delicacies such as momo (stuffed dumplings) also link Gangtok to Tibet. Use Gangtok as your gateway for exploring the state and beyond, with tour operators offering a number of day excursions and longer trips. To know more about the best tourist places in Gangtok, read below:

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Gangtok FAQ's

Which are the best places to visit in Gangtok?

Tsomgo Lake: Located on the eastern side, Tsomgo Lake is one of the most frequented places to visit in Gangtok. The lake is perched atop a mountain at an altitude of 12,000 feet and presents an ethereal beauty that you have to see to believe. The magic of the lake is further accentuated because it has a holy significance with many myths and legends associated with it, and is revered by the local populace.

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology:
This one of its kind institute, also the third in the world, is renowned for housing the largest collection of Tibetan works outside Tibet. Based in the southern part of Gangtok, the institute houses a museum that boasts over 200 Buddhist icons and artifacts. If you are drawn towards history and the intriguing Tibetan architecture and manuscripts, this certainly is one of the perfect places to visit in Gangtok.

Seven Sister waterfall:
Get drowned in the thundering sounds as a set of seven waterfalls lunge their way down the mountain sides. Named for its seven stages of fall, this is one of the most popular places to visit in Gangtok on the Gangtok – Lachung route. Experience the unique beauty of the fall from three different vantage points.

Phodong Monastery:
Located at a breathtaking altitude of 4500 ft, this picture perfect monastery is one of the most ideal places to visit in Gangtok to get mind boggling views of its towering mountains and deep valleys. The edifice was built in the 18th century and is one of the six most important monasteries in Sikkim.

Also Checkout and Book: Sikkim Darjeeling Gangtok Tour Package From Mumbai

Which are the best Gangtok tourist places for families?

Do Drul Chorten Stupa: The beautiful golden dome of the stupa stands out brilliantly and can be seen from different parts of Gangtok. It is a great place to visit with your family to get deep insights into the rich history of the place. Built in 1945 by the head of the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism, the Venerable Trulshik Rinpoche, the striking structure is surrounded by Chorten Lhakhang and Guru Lakhang, two mammoth statues of Guru Padmasambhava.

Ganesh Tok:
the perfect family place to not only pray together but also to experience the gorgeous surrounding beauty of the place. Located at a height of 6500 m, the inner sanctum of the temple is a bit of a trek and physically challenging, but definitely worth the effort. After your prayers, come out to catch breathtaking views of the Raj Bhavan complex as well as the Kanchenjunga from here.

Rumtek Monastery:
Also known as the Dharma Chakra Center, the Rumtek monastery is the seat of the head of the Karma Kagyu order of Tibetan Buddhism, His Holiness Gyalwa Karmapa the XVI. This is the largest monastery in Sikkim and the beautiful 16th century architectural splendor is something you can enjoy as a family.

Himalayan Zoological Park:
Spanning across an area of 205 hectare over the mountains of Sikkim, this is the state’s first zoological park. The park offers scintillating views of the mountainous terrains from its height of 1780m above sea level and is home to the Himalayan palm civet, crimson horned pheasant, snow leopard, goral, the Himalayan red panda, among several others.

Feel the thrill by indulging in Paragliding in Gangtok

What are the best things to do in Gangtok?

Go on a cable car ride: This kilometer- long zig zag ride from Deorali to Tashiling is one of the most fun things to do in Gangtok. Get a bird’s eye view of the city as you zip along and if the weather permits, get panoramic views of the snow bathed Kanchenjunga as well.

Take a yak safari:
This is the best way to experience the local culture and traditional way of traveling. Traverse through the rocky terrains surrounded by unsurpassed beauty in the popular trails of Tsomgo Lake and Dzongri area.

Go mountain biking:
The craggy trails and grueling tracks here maked mountain biking is one of the ideal things to do in Gangtok especially if you are yearning to unleash your adventurous side. You can join one of the several groups of mountain bikers who go for anything from 4 to 15 days of biking expeditions and experience raw nature along the way.

Splash along as you go river rafting:
Rafting along the currents of the Teesta river is one of the most exhilarating things you could do while in Gangtok. The rapids of Rangit and Teesta have been graded at level of I to IV even in accordance with international standards, making this one of the best stretches to test your rafting skills in the whole world.

Indulge in delectable local fare:
Head to M G Marg, the town center if you wish to get a taste of the local cuisine. Replete with some of the best cafes, restaurants and eateries in Gangtok, you can feast on scrumptious Tibetan dishes like Dim sums, Momos, Sikkimese Set Meal with Chicken, Fermented Soybean and Mushroom Kachi.

Enjoy the most romantic trip by booking 8 Days Romantic Tour of Gangtok North Sikkim and Darjeeling

Is Gangtok worth Visiting?

Gangtok is an important center for Buddhist pilgrims with some of the most exquisite monasteries in the country here. It is certainly worth visiting to experience the calm and peace amidst heavy Tibetan influenced culture, scintillating natural beauty, high altitude lakes and gorgeous views of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga and some of the best trekking trails. 

Also Book: Gangtok Tour Packages For Couple

What is special in Gangtok?

Gangtok is best known for being home to some of the most beautiful monasteries in the world. There are umpteen monasteries here which has also made it a famous center for pilgrimage among the Buddhists. Apart from this, it is also blessed with abundant natural beauty and trekking trails for adventure seekers. 

Checkout & Book: Gangtok Family Tour Packages

Which are some famous treks in Gangtok?

Yuksom- Dzongri Trek: This is a relatively moderate trek with minimal challenges yet an abundance of beauty. Starting at Yuksom, you will trek till a height of 15000 ft to Dzongri, spotting famous peaks like Ratang, Kabru and more, along the way. You will also cross beautiful sunset points, waterfalls and the legendary Khecheopalri Lake en route the 11-day trek.

Green Lake trek:
Known to a handful of people, this 16-day trek will give you an experience of a lifetime. Although it is arduous and lengthy, the sheer surrounding bliss will take your breath away. Located in the small town of Lachen, this trek will take you to the Green Lake, hidden amid famous mountain peaks of Sikkim.

Kanchenjunga Base Camp trek:
If you are a seasoned trekker and looking for something more difficult and challenging, you will find it here in this 11-day expedition. It starts at Yuksom and crosses several gorgeous points including Paha Khola, Rathong river bridge and many more.

Varsey trek:
If you are not up for the most strenuous treks, yet wish to admire some of the hidden natural beauty here, the Varsey trek is cut out for you. It takes you along rhododendron forests and offbeat hills and includes some of the most stunning views of the region.

Explore the mesmerizing Gangtok by booking Gangtok Darjeeling Private Tour Package

Gangtok Reviews

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Abhishek Sarkar
Reviewed: 02 Jan 2023
5.0/5
Excellently arranged trip by Trillophillia for my travel to Sikkim and Darjeeling for 8 days and 7 nights. Hotels were comfortable to stay with good views. Food was delicious and hygienic. Sightseeing was arranged with no hassles by the drivers. I would strongly recommend everyone to book your holid... Read More
Abhishek Sarkar
Abhishek Sarkar
Abhishek Sarkar
Abhishek Sarkar
Abhishek Sarkar
Abhishek Sarkar
(38+)View All
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Amey Khot
Reviewed: 28 Dec 2023
5.0/5
In this trip, We visited east, south and west Sikkim and then Darjeeling and places around it. All the hotel bookings were great and the set itinerary was good as well. This trip provided us a much private and customizable experience which we wanted. I am especially thankful for Tilak ji, our driver... Read More
Amey Khot
Amey Khot
Amey Khot
Amey Khot
Amey Khot
Amey Khot
(26+)View All
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Shreya
Reviewed: 09 Apr 2023
5.0/5
Drivers were well behaved. Hotels were nice with the staffs being kind and helpful.Overall a very nice experience 😊
Shreya
Shreya
Shreya
Shreya
Shreya
Shreya
(6+)View All
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Elixir Medsol
Reviewed: 31 Dec 2023
5.0/5
Booked:6SKUP-2412
It was an amazing experience . The entire trip was very well organized by Ayushi . She was very helpful and prompt . Would always recommend Thrillophilla to plan the entire itenary . Thanks to all . Special thanks to Ayushi :) .
Elixir medsol
Elixir medsol
Elixir medsol
Elixir medsol
Elixir medsol
Elixir medsol
(3+)View All
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Prashant Tomar
Reviewed: 30 Jun 2022
5.0/5
@wanderwithprashant Pls feature me on your Instagram and mentioned me I have a growing profile with 11.6 k followers
Prashant Tomar
Prashant Tomar
Prashant Tomar
Prashant Tomar
Prashant Tomar
Prashant Tomar
(4+)View All
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Vijnandeep R
Reviewed: 29 Jan 2023
5.0/5
Trip was well planned. Shubham who managed the trip from thrillophilia was helpful. Local travel patner was very helpful and professional. All hotels we stayed and drivers who took us to different places were awesome.
Vijnandeep  R
Vijnandeep  R
Vijnandeep  R
Vijnandeep  R
Vijnandeep  R
Vijnandeep  R
(2+)View All

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