Gangtok,
the capital of Sikkim, is known for its stunning Himalayan landscapes, serene
monasteries, and vibrant cultural spots. Below are some additional details to
make your visit informative and enjoyable.
Ten Essential Highlights in Gangtok
MG
Road: A lively pedestrian street, perfect for leisurely walks, local shopping,
and trying Sikkimese cuisine.
Rumtek
Monastery: A beautiful monastery with breathtaking views and intricate Buddhist
relics.
Tashi
View Point: Offers stunning sunrise views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range.
Namgyal
Institute of Tibetology: A museum and research centre showcasing Tibetan art
and religious texts.
Enchey
Monastery: A serene monastery surrounded by lush pine trees, over 200 years
old.
Ban
Jhakri Waterfalls: A scenic park featuring a 100-foot waterfall surrounded by
lush greenery.
Ganesh
Tok: A small temple providing panoramic views of Gangtok and the surrounding
mountains.
Flower
Exhibition Center: A vibrant greenhouse showcasing seasonal and exotic
Himalayan flowers.
Tsomgo
Lake: A glacial lake situated 40 km from Gangtok, known for its breathtaking
beauty.
Nathu
La Pass: A mountain pass at the India-China border offering adventure and
scenic views, though it requires a special permit.
Accommodation
Options
Budget
Hotels: Prices for a single bed in budget hotels like Hotel Yashshree Sikkim
Blossom start around ₹600–₹700 per night, while double beds range from ₹1,200
to ₹1,500.
Mid-Range
Hotels: Properties like Summit Ttakshang Residency Hotel & Spa near MG Road
have single beds from ₹1,500–₹2,000 and double beds ranging from ₹3,000–₹3,500
per night.
Luxury
Options: Five-star hotels like Lemon Tree Hotel charge ₹6,000 and upwards for
luxury rooms with double occupancy.
Nearest
Transport Hubs
Nearest
Railway Station: The closest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP),
located about 120 kilometres away. From NJP, you can hire a shared taxi or take
a bus to Gangtok, which takes roughly 4 to 5 hours.
Nearest
Airport: Pakyong Airport is the closest airport, only 35 kilometres from
Gangtok. Alternatively, Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal, about 125 kilometres
away, offers more frequent flights and transport options to the city.
Gangtok’s
unique combination of natural beauty and cultural depth makes it a prime
destination in Northeast India. For a complete experience, explore
both the serene monasteries and the thrilling outdoor adventures.