15 Places to Visit in Gangtok
Sikkim, an eastern Indian state, is famous for its breathtaking beauty. One of its most fascinating destinations to visit Gangtok is a moving city with snow mountains and succulent landscapes that will leave you in awe. Wherever you go, you will discover a rich culture that adds to your experience in these incredible tourist spots. Gangtok was in the 1980s a significant Buddhist pilgrimage destination and has since then been one of the best tourist destinations in Northeast India. If you are going to visit this beautiful city, don’t forget to visit these top tourist spots in Gangtok.
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How to reach Gangtok from Delhi
If you are uncertain about the best route from New Delhi to Gangtok, taking flight is the most direct option. Gangtok boasts stunning mountains, scenic waterfalls and plush landscapes, so this nature is a perfect destination for thrilling and adventure lovers. You just need to book a flight ticket, and you can travel a distance of 1238 km from Delhi to Gangtok in two hours. Whereas alternative methods of transport such as trains, buses or cars, they can prove to be tired and long journey. To know how to reach Gangtok from Delhi for more information, check the guide below.
How to reach Gangtok from Delhi by Air
By air, you can quickly travel to Sikkim from Delhi in a minimum of time. Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) is the principal airport of the capital of India. From here, numerous airlines provide journeys to Gangtok’s closest airport, Bagdogra Airport (IXB). This journey is of 1238 km and lasts only 2 hours and 5 minutes. Specifically, the flights can go from Delhi to Bagdogra, making the travel convenient enough to arrive at Gangtok. Once in Bagdogra, it’s also easy enough to find taxis or bus -type transport to arrive at Gangtok.
How to reach Gangtok from Delhi by Train
To travel from New Delhi to Gangtok, take a train from New Delhi station to New Jalpaiguri station, just 120 km away. There are two choices of DBRT Rajdhani or Mahananda Express to reach New Jalpaiguri. When you arrive in New Jalpaiguri, take a private taxi or intrastate buses once again to head to Gangtok. The Rashturn Train provides a smooth ride for passengers traveling from Delhi to Sikkim, and the overall train travel time is around 25 hours. An additional 3 hours by road from Bagdogra takes one to Gangtok.
How to reach Gangtok from Delhi by Bus
Unmissable Places to Visit in Gangtok
1. Tsomgo lake
If you only have time to visit one tourist spot in Gangtok, then it should be Tsomgo Lake! At 12,400 feet above sea level, this stunning lake is melted and supplied between the mountains. Its sheer beauty never ceases to amaze travelers. One of the special things about the lake is its color change depending on the season. In winter, it ceases while heat causes a series of flowers around it. Legend has it that the ancient Buddhist monks used to look at the color of the lake to overcome the future.
2. Nathula Pass
Among the tourist places to visit in Gangtok, Nathula Pass would always be the first suggestion because of its awe-inspiring views. Situated between the Himalayan ranges, this mountain passes is one of the most motorized roads in the world and links Sikkim to China. The journey along this picturesque route is one that attracts people around the world. With a height of 4310 meters, it performs a great adventure function that will leave a permanent impression. Keep in mind that a zonal permit is required to access this near. Words cannot fully catch the beauty of this tourist attractions, so be sure to include it in your Gangtok Yatra program and experience it in advance.
3. Do Drul Chorten Stupa
A tourist attraction in Gangtok should be seen, Drul Chorten. This amazing stupa holds great importance as a Buddhist pilgrimage site in Sikkim, with the Golden Dome seen from various convenience points. Its attractive history is immersed in legend, local people claimed that it was once plagued by malevolent spirits that caused trouble for the community. For refuge at this site, the Sikkim royal family received a holy man of Tibet. In 1945, Rinpoche constructed a stupa, which is now called Do Drul Chorten. Now, this sacred site receives pilgrims from all across the globe who seek the blessings of Dorji Phuba.
4. Rumtek Monastery
Located in Gangtok, Sikkim, Rheumtech Math is a tourist attraction for tourists. It belongs to the Kagu sect of Buddhists settling in Tibet during the 12th century. Honored as one of the most important and influential monasteries in Sikkim, its design is closely similar to the original monastery in Tsurfu, Tibet. You can find Rumtech Math at Dharm Chakra Center near Gangtok. Be sure to include this stop on your journey to make Gangtok breathtaking and make unforgettable memories.
5. Buddha Park -Ravangla
As one of the best built parks in South Sikkim, Buddha Park is a popular tourist attraction among tourists visiting Rawangla. Situated around 3 hours from Gangtok, it is a tourist spot while looking for the area. The park was opened in 2006 and was established by the government to promote pilgrimage tourism. The area is dominated by a 130 feet long Buddha statue, which has been constructed to mark its 2550th birth anniversary. Referred to as Tatagata Tsal by local people, this park is also an important part of the Buddhist circuit and has intensive spiritual significance.
6. Ganesh Tok
Located at a distance of seven kilometers outside Gangtok at an altitude of 6,500 meters, Ganesh Toka Temple is a small temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha that provides amazing views of the city and surrounding hills. Ganesh Tok Temple is so small that it can catch only one person at a time. Nevertheless, the scene from here is luxurious, the entire city incorporates Gangtok, Raj Bhawan Complex and even Mount Kanchanjunga.
7. Himalayan Zoological Park
Situated in Bulbulay, 3 km from Gangtok, the Himalayan Zoological Park is a must-see for wildlife lovers. Situated at an altitude of 1,780 meters and covering an area of 205 hectares, this zoo was set up by the state government in 1991 and was the first of its kind in Sikkim. Unlike other zoos, the enclosures of the animals here are made to mimic their natural surroundings, giving the viewer a special experience.
The zoo is ringed by forest and provides ample room for people to roam and see the animals in their natural habitat. There are rest areas along the way with great views of Mt. Kanchenjunga and a watchtower at the top with a panoramic view of the region. Among the endangered and rare species inhabiting here are Blue Sheep, Musk Deer, Himalayan Black Bear, Red Pandas, Barking Deer, Goral Spotted Deer, Bears, Snow Leopards, and many more. It is surrounded by thick vegetation looking like forests. This park gives a great chance to see all these animals up close.
8. MG Marg Gangtok
If you have more than a few hours, then the major of MG route to discover and experience Gangtok’s culture. This is part of your traveling journey by default! If you have more than a few hours then you can enjoy cold coffee and sandwich on a hungry head. There are many shops in this bustling market which have been in long operations, in addition to many eateries, cafes and souvenir shops.
9. Tashi View Point
Tashi view point located in Gangtok is a top option for couples seeking a romantic space. From this convenient point, you can take the snow -covered Kanchenjunga mountain, Verdant valleys and attractive Gangtok city. Although it can be a short distance from MG Road, a taxi ride can easily take you there. Do not forget to use telescope at Tashi view point for an up-close scene of the stunning seven sisters waterfall. Additionally, do not remember on the occasion of grabbing some refreshments in cafeteria and enjoying some quality time with your partner. And make sure to catch some photos forever in traditional Sikkimi outfits, for those on your honeymoon in Sikkim!
10. Kanchenjunga Mountain
Have you heard about the royal mountain in Sikkim? Have you seen its true grandeur? It is time to add this adventure work to your list while living in Gangtok. This holy mountain is known as the “The Five Treasers of the High Snow” and is believed to be the God’s gold, silver, gems, grains and repository of holy books. In fact, to appreciate its grandeur, trek with its various routes through green forests and beautiful rural areas. Spend one night in the base camp to take in the breathtaking beauty of this snow -covered mountain.
11. Hanuman Tok
Positioned at an altitude of 7,200 feet, Hanuman Temple in Gangtok has found favor with travelers. Admired for the fresh air it enjoys and wonderful Vista of Kanchenjunga peak, the sacred destination has been inviting visitors for several decades. For this delightful sanctuary, climbing the coblastone ladder, raw greenery, through picturesque hills and valleys, and a glimpse of the city.
12. Namibian Institute of Tibetology
If you are interested in Buddhism or history, you should definitely visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibet Science, which offers a window in the past of an attractive society. The institute holds all important Tibetan cultural artifacts in addition to Tibetan artwork, artifacts, manuscripts, souvenirs and its large collections of literature and literature. The 14th Dalai Lama established this institute.
13. Flower Exhibition Center
The flower exhibition center in Gangtok is famous for showing all types of flowers found in Sikkim. It contains a stunning collection of rare and foreign flora that will fascinate you. Walking through these delicate blooms is a calm and joyful experience. The vision of lively flowers around is really delightful, a welcome from the journey of sightseeing. Take a moment to relax among the diverse species, which can promote your dopamine levels. If you are to travel between April and May, be sure to stop this enchanting tourist attractions for your annual flower show. Fragrant aroma and picturesque performance of exotic flowers are sure to uplift your souls.
14. Banjhakri Falls
Banjhakri Falls is a 100-foot cascading waterfall set amidst a park just behind Ranka Monastery and is enjoyed by tourists as well as the locals alike on day picnics. Take your partner to this waterfall and pose together taking numerous photoshoots. As a nature admirer or a water baby, you would find this place most exciting.
15. Valley of Yumthang
Situated at North Sikkim, the Yumthang Valley is a heaven on earth, offering natural beauty and stunning landscapes. It has zillion flowers, breathtaking mountains & a peaceful river, and so is referred to as the Yumthang Valley of Flowers, similar to the one that is found at Uttarakhand. There cannot be any confusion that its ravishing and spellbinding environment places it on must-visit schedules for tourists.
