Gangtok - Discovering India

Travelling to Gangtok

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Gangtok, a pretty good destination in India (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Gangtok and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Gangtok, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through India, here's everything to know about Gangtok for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Gangtok

Gangtok is the capital city of the northeastern Indian state of Sikkim. It is located in the eastern Himalayan range, at an elevation of 5,410 feet (1,640 meters) above sea level. The city is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, pleasant weather, and rich cultural heritage. Some popular tourist attractions in Gangtok include the Tsomgo Lake, Rumtek Monastery, Himalayan Zoological Park, Enchey Monastery, and the Nathu La Pass. The city also offers several adventure activities such as trekking, river rafting, paragliding, and more.

What to visit in Gangtok

Here are some tourist attractions in Gangtok, India: 1. MG Road: Also known as Mahatma Gandhi Road, it is a pedestrian-only street packed with shops, restaurants, and bars. It's the main hub of Gangtok where people gather and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
2. Rumtek Monastery: This is one of the largest monasteries in Sikkim and it holds great significance for the Buddhists. It is a beautiful and peaceful spot, and visitors can learn about the history and significance of the monastery.
3. Nathula Pass: This is a mountain pass on the border between India and China. It was a part of the famous Silk Route and offers a mesmerizing view of the Himalayas. Visitors need to obtain special permits from the government before visiting Nathula Pass.
4. Tsomgo Lake: Also known as Changu Lake, it is situated at an altitude of 12,313 feet above sea level. The lake is sacred to the locals and is surrounded by mountains. Visitors can take a Yak ride around the lake and enjoy the view.
5. Banjhakri Falls: It is a fantastic scenic spot located about 7 km from Gangtok. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery and a beautifully laid out park.
6. Enchey Monastery: It is a famous monastery of Gangtok, which has been in existence since the 19th century. It is known for its architectural design, the peaceful atmosphere, and the Buddhist chants played by the monks.
7. Ganesh Tok: It is a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh and boasts a panoramic view of the entire Gangtok city. It is situated at an altitude of 6,500 feet and visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from here.
Hope this helps!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in India, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Gangtok.

When to go on holiday to Gangtok

The best time to visit Gangtok in India is from March to June and from September to December. During these periods the weather is pleasant, the skies are usually clear and the temperature is moderate, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 21°C. The monsoon season, which lasts from June to September, brings heavy rain to Gangtok which can cause landslides and make the roads difficult to navigate. In winter (December to February), the temperature drops and the city experiences occasional snowfall. Although the snow makes Gangtok look beautiful, it can also result in roadblocks and disruptions in the transportation system. So, the best time to plan a trip to Gangtok is during the months of March to June or September to December to ensure favorable weather conditions and a memorable experience.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Gangtok

Gangtok is the capital city of the Indian state of Sikkim and is well-connected to the rest of the country by different means of transport. By Air: The nearest airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra airport, which is around 124 km away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shared cab to Gangtok.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri railway station, which is around 148 km away. You can take a taxi or a shared cab from the station to reach Gangtok.
By Road: Gangtok is well-connected to all major cities of the country through a network of highways. You can either drive your own car or hire a taxi from nearby cities like Siliguri, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, etc.
By Bus: There are several buses that run from nearby cities like Siliguri, Darjeeling, and Kalimpong to Gangtok. Sikkim Nationalized Transport (SNT) also operates regular buses between Gangtok and other cities in Sikkim. I hope this information is helpful for you. Let me know if you have any other questions!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Gangtok, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Gangtok

Sure, here are some typical foods of Gangtok (India) along with their descriptions: 1. Momos: These are steamed or fried dumplings usually filled with minced meat or vegetables and served with spicy tomato sauce.
2. Thukpa: A hearty noodle soup made with vegetables, meat, and a rich broth. It's a popular comfort food in the region.
3. Phagshapa: A dish made from pork belly boiled in water and then cooked with radishes, green chillies and dried chillies. It's a spicy and flavorful dish that's popular among locals.
4. Chhurpi: A type of hard cheese made from yak or cow milk and is often served as a snack or used in cooking.
5. Sael Roti: A deep-fried, ring-shaped bread made from rice flour. It's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside and is commonly served with potato curry.
6. Chhang: A traditional alcoholic beverage made from fermented millet, rice or barley. It's often consumed during celebrations and festivities.
7. Gundruk: A fermented vegetable dish made from leafy green vegetables like spinach or mustard. It has a sour, salty taste and is often served as a side dish.
These are just a few examples of the typical foods you can find in Gangtok. There are many more dishes to explore and enjoy in this region of India.
You can find general info about typical foods in India here.

Is Gangtok an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other popular tourist destinations in India, Gangtok can be considered a bit expensive. However, it is still relatively affordable compared to many other destinations around the world. The cost of accommodation, food, and transportation may be higher in Gangtok compared to other places in India, but it still offers good value for money and plenty of options across different budgets. So, it really depends on your budget and travel style, but Gangtok can be a great destination for those who want to experience the unique culture, natural beauty, and adventure activities that the city and surrounding areas offer.

Where to find accomodation in Gangtok

There are several areas in Gangtok where it is best to find accommodation depending on your preferences and the purpose of your visit. Here are some popular areas: 1. MG Marg: This is the main shopping area in Gangtok and also has plenty of restaurants and cafes. If you want to be close to the action and don't mind some noise, this area is good for you.
2. Tadong: This is a quiet and upscale residential area with many hotels, homestays, and resorts. If you want a peaceful and relaxed stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this area is a good pick.
3. Deorali: This is another popular area for accommodations, located just a few kilometers from Gangtok's main city center. This area is also close to popular tourist attractions like Namgyal Institute of Tibetology and Enchey Monastery.
4. Development Area: This area is located in the heart of Gangtok and is a good option if you want to be close to major attractions like the Gangtok Ropeway, Flower Exhibition Centre, and various shopping centers.
In general, Gangtok is a small city, and most of the accommodations are located close to each other. So, it's relatively easy to access all the major attractions from any of the above areas.
You can check hotel prices at Gangtok here:
Booking.com

Is Gangtok a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, in general Gangtok, India is considered a safe place for tourists. The crime rate is relatively low and the locals are friendly and helpful. However, it is always important to remain aware of your surroundings and take necessary safety precautions, such as safeguarding your valuables and avoiding travelling alone at night. It is also recommended to check the latest government travel advisories before planning a trip to Gangtok or any other destination.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in India here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Gangtok.

What type of travelers will enjoy Gangtok the most?

Gangtok, located in the state of Sikkim in India, is a destination that offers something for everyone. It is a popular destination that attracts tourists from all walks of life. Couples looking for a romantic retreat will enjoy Gangtok for its stunning views of the Himalayas, serene atmosphere, and charming streets filled with shops and cafes. Young people will enjoy Gangtok for its adventure activities such as paragliding, hiking, and river rafting. Families with kids can enjoy a fun-filled holiday in Gangtok by visiting its family-friendly attractions, such as the Gangtok Ropeway and the Himalayan Zoological Park. Overall, Gangtok is an excellent destination for all types of travelers.

How to get around Gangtok

In Gangtok, you can use various modes of transportation to move around such as taxis, shared jeeps, buses, and rented motorcycles. Taxis and shared jeeps are the most common and convenient options for tourists as they are readily available and can take you to any destination within the city. Buses are the cheapest mode of transportation, but they can be crowded and may not be very frequent. Renting a motorcycle can give you more flexibility and independence, but it is only recommended for experienced riders.

What to see around Gangtok

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit on a day trip from Gangtok: 1. Tsomgo Lake (also known as Changu Lake), which is a beautiful glacial lake located about 38 kilometers from Gangtok.
2. Nathula Pass, a mountain pass on the Indo-Chinese border known for its breathtaking views.
3. Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir, a popular pilgrimage site for both Indian and foreign tourists.
4. Rumtek Monastery, a prominent Buddhist monastery where you can explore various Tibetan artifacts and sculptures.
5. Pelling, a scenic hill station situated about 117 kilometers from Gangtok, famous for its beautiful waterfalls and monasteries.
6. Darjeeling, a popular tourist attraction known for its scenic views, tea gardens, and the famous Darjeeling Himalayan Railway.
7. Yumthang Valley, a beautiful valley located in North Sikkim, famous for its hot springs and stunning mountain views.
I hope this helps you plan your day trip from Gangtok!
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