Gangtok, Sikkim's unique capital, is a Buddhist paradise. Gangtok is an ideal of neatness and one of the few such places in India, in keeping with the Zen idea that spirituality can only find its way via clear and spotless surroundings. The breathtaking panoramic views of Mount Kanchenjunga only contribute to the Gangokian ambiance. The state capital of Gangtok, located in the eastern Himalayan range, mixes a contemporary resort town design with traditional spiritual beliefs and a stunning natural heritage. Holidays in Gangtok are set against a backdrop of mountain scenery, with most of the attention on the monasteries, shrines, and temples of this ancient hub of Tibetan Buddhist pilgrimage. Momo (stuffed dumplings), a local delicacy, also connects Gangtok to Tibet. Use Gangtok as a jumping-off point for seeing the rest of the state and beyond, with tour operators providing a variety of day tours and longer journeys.
Gangtok is also known for its unique cuisine, which includes dishes such as Momos and Kinema. Gangtok is known for its delicious food, gorgeous Buddhist monasteries like as Rumtek and Enchey, and evocative scenery. It also offers a lot of tourist attractions, such as the Nathu La Pass and Tsomgo Lake. Gangtok also exemplifies the North East's own fashion sense. The locals are noted for having a sharp sense of style and a completely unique manner of dressing even the most casual attire. Gangtok is well known for its folk and indie live music scene. Finally, it is the people that create a place, and the helpful and courteous locals of Gangtok are great exemplars of Buddhist living norms.
-
Q: How to reach Gangtok?
Ans:
By Air
Gangtok’s nearest airport is in Pakyong which is around 26 km away. The airport connects it to fewer major cities in India.
By Train
The nearest railway station to Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri, which is around 116 km away.
By Road
National Highway 10 connects Gangtok to many cities and towns of India like New Jalpaiguri.
-
Q: What is the best time to visit Gangtok?
Ans:
Summer Season In Gangtok
In the summer season i.e between March and June, Gangtok’s temperature remains about 30°C, which is perfect for enjoying sightseeing tours.
Monsoon Season In Gangtok
The months between July and September are when Gangtok receives rainfall. Rain in Gangtok is moderate to heavy making visiting Gangtok in monsoon slightly difficult and inconvenient.
Winter Season In Gangtok
Gangtok enjoys heavy snowfall in the winter season. Between December and February, the mercury dips to 0°C or even less followed by heavy snowfall. If you enjoy the snow, winter is the best time to visit Gangtok.
-
Q: What are the best places to visit in Gangtok?
Ans:
1. Nathula Pass: The connecting route between Sikkim and Tibet, the Nathula Pass offers an enthralling view of the Kanchenjunga Mountain, especially during winter.
2. MG Road: MG Road, one of the most happening places to visit in Gangtok, is considered a prime shopping hub of the city.
3. Rumtek Monastery: Widely admired as one of the most visually appealing monasteries in Gangtok, the Rumtek Monastery offers a significant outlook of the Buddhist culture.
4. Tsomgo Lake: If you wish to take a walk around an eye-catching lake with your loved one, then Tsomgo Lake should be a must-visit place for you.
5. Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple: The small yet beautiful temple of Baba Harbhajan Singh offers an authentic outlook of Hindu culture and attracts a wide array of devotees from all around the world.
6. Seven Sisters Waterfalls: Just like its name suggests, the Seven Sisters Waterfalls comprise seven exquisite waterfalls, which can take the breath away of any nature aficionado.
7. Tinkitam Village: Known as one of the most visually appealing Gangtok tourist places, the Tinkitam Village offers an exquisite view of the Kanchenjunga Mountain.
8. Do Drul Chorten: Built in the year of 1945, the Do Drul Chorten is considered to be one of the most culturally significant stupas in Gangtok. -
Q: What are the best tourist places in Gangtok for families?
Ans:
1. Saramsa Garden: The exotic Saramsa Garden offers is, in essence, an excellent family-friendly location where you can initiate a picnic and have a great time with your family.
2. Tashi ViewPoint: The Tashi View Point in Gangtok offers an enthralling view of sunrise and sunset through Mount Kanchenjunga.
3. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary: If you want your kids to fall in love with a wide array of flora and fauna, then be sure to visit the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary.
4. Banjhakri Falls: A quaint sightseeing destination, the Banjhakri Falls offers a sublime view of exquisitely landscaped gardens and beautiful statues of Buddhist Monks.
5. Enchey Monastery: The Enchey Monastery is yet another amazing location, which offers a significant amount of knowledge about the background of Gangtok and Sikkim. -
Q: Is Gangtok safe for tourists?
Ans:
The crime rate in the city of Gangtok is quite low, which, in turn, makes it an ideal and safe haven for tourists. However, if you want to be extra careful about your security, then it will be better for you to stay in groups during the nighttime.
-
Q: Does one need to be medically fit to visit Gangtok?
Ans:
If you’re visiting Gangtok for adventure activities, it is necessary for you to be medically fit
-
Q: Are ATMs easily available in Gangtok?
Ans:
Yes, ATMs of varied private and government banks are widely available in Gangtok.
-
Q: What languages are spoken in Gangtok?
Ans:
English and Hindi is the official language of Sikkim and India respectively, are also widely spoken and understood in most of Sikkim, particularly in Gangtok. Other languages spoken in Gangtok include Bhutia (Sikkimese), Tibetan, and Lepcha.