Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, is a beautiful and serene hill station located in the eastern Himalayas. The city is known for its picturesque landscape, stunning views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range, and rich cultural heritage. Gangtok attracts tourists from all over the world who come to experience its natural beauty and cultural diversity. In this article, we will explore the top 10 places to visit in Gangtok that you should not miss during your trip.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Tsomgo Lake,
- Rumtek Monastery,
- Nathula Pass,
- Ganesh Tok,
- Tashi Viewpoint,
- Enchey Monastery,
- Banjhakri Falls,
- Hanuman Tok,
- MG Marg,
- Conclusion
- FAQs
1. Introduction
Gangtok is a picturesque city that has a lot to offer to its visitors. Whether you are an adventure enthusiast or a history buff, Gangtok has something for everyone. From serene lakes to stunning monasteries, the city has a lot of tourist attractions that are worth visiting. So, without further ado, let’s explore the top 10 places to visit in Gangtok.
2. Tsomgo Lake
Tsomgo Lake is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Gangtok. The lake is located at an altitude of 12,400 feet and is surrounded by beautiful snow-capped mountains. The crystal clear water of the lake reflects the surrounding mountains, making it a beautiful sight to behold. Visitors can also enjoy a ride on a Yak or a Mule around the lake.
More Read
3. Rumtek Monastery
Rumtek Monastery is a famous Buddhist monastery located in Gangtok. The monastery is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. It is also the largest monastery in Sikkim and is home to some of the most precious Buddhist artifacts in the world. Visitors can attend the daily prayer sessions and witness the monks performing their religious rituals.
4. Nathula Pass
Nathula Pass is a mountain pass that connects India with China. It is located at an altitude of 14,140 feet and is one of the highest motorable passes in the world. The pass is also of great strategic importance and was a major trade route between India and China in the past. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the Himalayan range and visit the Indo-China border.
5. Ganesh Tok
Ganesh Tok is a small temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha located in Gangtok. The temple is located at an altitude of 6,500 feet and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also enjoy a cup of tea and snacks at the tea stall located near the temple.
6. Tashi Viewpoint
Tashi Viewpoint is a popular tourist attraction located in Gangtok. It offers panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range and the surrounding valleys. Visitors can also enjoy a cup of tea and snacks at the tea stall located near the viewpoint.
7. Enchey Monastery
Enchey Monastery is a famous Buddhist monastery located in Gangtok. The monastery is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. It is also an important pilgrimage site for the Buddhists. Visitors can attend the daily prayer sessions and witness the monks performing their religious rituals.
8. Banjhakri Falls
Banjhakri Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in Gangtok. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green forests and offers a serene atmosphere to its visitors. There is also a park nearby that offers various recreational activities like ziplining, rock climbing, and rappelling. The park is inspired by the traditional shamanic practices of the Banjhakri tribe and features several sculptures of tribal deities. The falls are located around 7 km away from Gangtok and can be reached by a short hike.
9. Hanuman Tok
Hanuman Tok is a popular Hindu temple located in Gangtok. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It is located at an altitude of 7,200 feet and is surrounded by lush green forests. Visitors can also enjoy a cup of tea and snacks at the tea stall located near the temple.
10. MG Marg
MG Marg is a popular shopping and dining street located in the heart of Gangtok. The street is lined with several shops, restaurants, and cafes, and is a great place to enjoy the local cuisine and shop for souvenirs. The street is also pedestrian-friendly and offers a vibrant and lively atmosphere to its visitors.
Conclusion
Gangtok is a beautiful hill station that offers a lot of tourist attractions to its visitors. The city is known for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and stunning views of the Himalayas. In this article, we explored the top 10 places to visit in Gangtok that you should not miss during your trip. From serene lakes to stunning monasteries, the city has a lot to offer to its visitors.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Gangtok?
- The best time to visit Gangtok is between March and May and between September and November.
- Is Nathula Pass open for tourists?
- Yes, Nathula Pass is open for tourists, but a special permit is required to visit it.
- Can we visit Tsomgo Lake during winters?
- Yes, Tsomgo Lake can be visited during winters, but it is advisable to check the weather conditions before planning the trip.
- Are there any trekking trails near Gangtok?
- Yes, there are several trekking trails near Gangtok that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- What is the local cuisine of Gangtok?
- The local cuisine of Gangtok is a blend of Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian cuisine and is known for its delicious momos, thukpa, and gundruk.