One of the most popular hill resorts in northeast India is without a doubt Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. The hamlet, located at 1700 metres above sea level on a hill’s ridge, is renowned for its natural splendour and breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga, the tallest mountain in the world. With summer highs of about 23 degrees Celsius and winter lows of about 6 degrees Celsius, the town has a warm, temperate climate. Of all the tourist destinations in India, Gangtok is among the most picturesque. There are numerous places to visit in Gangtok. To help you make a detailed itinerary according to locations and timings, the top Gangtok tourist places to visit are mentioned in this article.
What is Gangtok famous for?
With all the modern conveniences one might want, Gangtok is a cosmopolitan city. It offers an active nightlife with a number of nightclubs, restaurants, retail centres, and pool lounges. A significant centre of Tibetan Buddhist culture and knowledge has also formed in Gangtok as a result of the abundance of monasteries, religious educational institutions, and Tibetology centres. Geographical factors play a role in why Gangtok is such a desirable vacation destination. It is a cool place because it is 1,650 metres above sea level and situated in the lower Himalayas. Gangtok offers a variety of possibilities for whatever tourists are searching for, whether it be unmatched natural beauty or an adrenaline rush from adventure activities. Considering how many monasteries Gangtok is home to, it is also known as the “land of monasteries.” You simply cannot pass up visiting some of the finest monasteries in India, since it has become a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. Below are the top attractions of Gangtok places to visit on your vacation.
Places to visit in Gangtok
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Tsomgo Lake
Tsomgo Lake should be your only stop in Gangtok if you just have time for one location. It is one of the best places to visit in Gangtok. The water for this high-altitude lake, which is 12,400 feet above sea level and surrounded by mountains, comes from the melting snow of those mountains. The location is truly mesmerising due to its unmatched beauty. The lake’s remarkable seasonal colour variation is one of its most outstanding features.
In the summer, flowering flowers take the place of the snow that had been there during the winter months when it is still frozen. In the past, according to legends, Buddhist monks would analyse the lake’s colour in order to predict the future. There are many places in Gangtok but this is a must-visit.
Address: Sikkim 737103 Direction: Map
2. Nathula Pass
Nathula Pass, which is situated along the historic Silk Road that connected Tibet and India, is blessed with a beautiful natural environment. It will be quite an adventure to drive through its treacherous, steep slopes that reach a height of 14,140 feet. It is another best place to visit in Gangtok. During the summer and autumn, Nathula Pass is very busy with tourists.
Given the chilly weather and frequent closures of the route owing to heavy snowfall, winters may not be the ideal season to come. Make sure to adjust your travel plans because the road is still off-limits to the public on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Address: Kupup, Sikkim 737131 Direction: Map
3. Hanuman Temple
This venerable Hanuman temple, which has been there for a while, is one of the most well-liked places in Gangtok and is situated at a height of 7,200 feet. Visitors to this temple throughout the year come for its tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga range. While ascending the paved stairs that lead to this serenely beautiful divine location, you may take in the grandeur of the thick foliage, the picturesque hills and valleys, and a little portion of the town.
It is one of the must-visit Gangtok places for Gangtok sightseeing. While transporting the mountain containing the Sanjeevani plant from the Himalayas to Lanka, it is thought that Lord Hanuman rested here.
Address: 8JXH+4FP, Gangtok, Sikkim 737103 Direction: Map
4. Himalayan Zoological Park
Himalayan Zoological Park, Sikkim’s original zoo, gives visitors a chance to learn more about the local flora. It is unlike other zoos in the nation and is home to Snow Leopards, Himalayan Palm Civets, Red Pandas, and Himalayan Black Bears. Since animals are not confined and are maintained in open enclosures that mimic their natural habitats, the experience is made a little more pleasant overall. The zoo, which is 1,780 metres above sea level, has stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga as well.
Spend at least 3 to 4 hours at the zoo in Gangtok in Sikkim, especially if you’re travelling with kids. The entrance fee is Rs. 25 for adults and Rs. 10 for kids. Visiting hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; Thursdays are closed.
Address: Jawaharlal Nehru Rd, Sungava, Gangtok, Sikkim 737103 Direction: Map
Also read : BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN AMRITSAR | PUNJAB TOURISM
5. Ranka Monastery
You should include Ranka Monastery on your schedule because of the breathtaking vistas it provides and, of course, the chance to speak with Buddhist monks. During breaks, you are allowed to take pictures with the monks, but you must respect them and their way of life at all times. The monastery is stunning since it is encircled by dense forests on all sides providing the best Gangtok sightseeing.
This place’s peace and calm provide a window into a way of life that is very different from that of the metropolis. The Buddhist lineage practised in the monastery is known as Zurmang Kagyu. The hours are from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Address: 8HJH+FJF, Lingdum, Sikkim 737135 Direction: Map
6. Flower Exhibition Center
The Flower Exhibition Centre is close to MG Road and features a vast assortment of flowers from all around Sikkim. The exposition centre, a haven for those who love the outdoors, is always busy, but it’s extremely busy from April to May when the annual flower show takes place. The exhibition centre, which is home to a wide variety of exotic plant species, provides a welcome diversion from the never-ending road trips.
Simply unwind in the welcoming atmosphere, take in the vibrant flowers, and take some stunning photos. One of Gangtok’s best places to visit. The visiting hours are from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Entry fee is Rs.10.
Address: 8JJ8+MG7, Arithang, Gangtok, Sikkim 737111 Direction: Map
Also read: TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN KASOL NOVEMBER 2023
Wrap Up
Early in the 1980s, Gangtok became a popular destination for Buddhist pilgrims. Due to its spectacular natural beauty and significant religious significance, it is now one of Northeast India’s most popular cities. When creating a thorough itinerary for your trip to Gangtok in Sikkim, this article’s list of the city’s key attractions can be helpful.
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