Are you planning a trip to Gangtok? If yes, then you must add Ganesh Tok View Point to your itinerary. This place offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding hills. In this article, we will explore Ganesh Tok View Point in detail and provide you with all the information you need to plan your visit.
What is Ganesh Tok View Point?
Ganesh Tok View Point is a popular tourist spot located in Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim. It is a small temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, situated at an altitude of 6,500 feet above sea level. From the temple, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city, the snow-capped Himalayas, and the surrounding hills.
How to Reach Ganesh Tok View Point?
To reach Ganesh Tok View Point, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus from Gangtok city center. It is located about 7 kilometers from the city and takes about 30 minutes to reach by road. The last 500 meters of the road leading to the temple is steep and narrow, so be prepared for a bumpy ride.
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Best Time to Visit Ganesh Tok View Point
The best time to visit Ganesh Tok View Point is from March to May and from September to November when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear. You can avoid the monsoon season as the roads may become slippery, making it difficult to reach the viewpoint.
What to Expect at Ganesh Tok View Point?
Once you reach the temple, you will be greeted with a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The temple is small and beautifully decorated with colorful flags and flowers. Inside the temple, you can offer your prayers and seek blessings from Lord Ganesha.
The main attraction of Ganesh Tok View Point is the breathtaking view it offers. From the viewpoint, you can see the entire Gangtok city, and on clear days, you can even spot the Kanchenjunga peak in the distance. There are several binoculars installed at the viewpoint that you can use to get a closer look at the surrounding hills.
Tips for Visiting Ganesh Tok View Point
- Wear comfortable shoes as you need to climb a few stairs to reach the viewpoint.
- Carry a light jacket as the temperature may drop in the evening.
- Avoid visiting on Mondays as the temple remains closed.
- Respect the religious sentiments of the locals and maintain silence inside the temple.
- Carry your own water and snacks as there are no shops or vendors near the temple.
Other Places to Visit Near Ganesh Tok View Point
- Tashi Viewpoint: Located just a few kilometers from Ganesh Tok, Tashi Viewpoint offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range and the surrounding hills.
- Hanuman Tok: Another popular viewpoint located in Gangtok, Hanuman Tok offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills. There is also a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman here.
- Enchey Monastery: This is a famous Buddhist monastery located about 3 kilometers from Ganesh Tok. It is known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings.
Conclusion
Ganesh Tok View Point is a must-visit place in Gangtok, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills. It is a great place to spend some peaceful time and seek blessings from Lord Ganesha. Make sure to add it to your itinerary when you visit Gangtok next time.
FAQs
- Is there an entry fee for Ganesh Tok View Point?
No, there is no entry fee for Ganesh Tok View Point.
- How long does it take to reach Ganesh Tok View Point from Gangtok? It takes about 30 minutes by road to reach Ganesh Tok View Point from Gangtok.
- Can we take photographs at Ganesh Tok View Point? Yes, you can take photographs at Ganesh Tok View Point. However, it is recommended to avoid using flash inside the temple.
- Is there any dress code to be followed while visiting Ganesh Tok View Point? There is no dress code as such. However, it is recommended to dress modestly and respect the religious sentiments of the locals.
- Can we visit Ganesh Tok View Point during winters? Yes, you can visit Ganesh Tok View Point during winters. However, the weather may be cold, and the views may be obstructed due to fog or snowfall. It is recommended to check the weather forecast before planning your visit.