Gangtok is a hill resort and capital of Sikkim. Largest industry in Gangtok is hospitality. At the end of 19th century, Tibetans was defeated by Britishers. Then Gangtok became a major stopover in the trade between Tibet and British India.
What to see in Gangtok:
Hanuman Tok: This one of the major attractions of Gangtok. Army department is managing this temple. Height is 7200feet.
Namgyal Institute: This is a Tibet museum which was inaugurated in 1958 by Jawaharlal Nehru. Major attractions of this museum are ancient manuscripts, wide collection of thangkas, statues, Tibetan works.
Deorali Orchid Sanctuary: Huge collection of Orchids can be seen here. In total there are 454 varieties of Orchids. Out of which 200 can be seen here.
Do-Drul Chorten Stupa: This was built in 1945 and it is located adjacent to Tibetology Institute. Prayer wheels on the stupa have a holy inscription engraved on it as Om Mani Padma Hum.
Tashi Viewpoint: This is the best place to enjoy beautiful view of Mount Kanchenjunga.
Tsuk La Khang Monastery: This is located inside the Royal Palace. Major attractions of this place are figure of snow lion’s head, Wooden Sculptures, Huge collection of Buddhist Scripture works.
White Hill: This is a two storied architecture. It is a permanent venue for Flower show held in Sikkim.
Ban Jhakri Falls: This is one of the attractions of Gangtok. It is the best place for Jogging and morning walk. Ethic sculptures can be seen here.
Mt.Katao: This is the best place for the people who want to have experience of snow. Prior permission from Indian army is essential.
What to see around Gangtok:
Enchey Monastery: This is 200 years old monastery which is located 3kms away from the city. It is an important Nyingma Sect of Tibetan Buddhism. This was constructed by Lama Druptab in 1909.
Ganesh Tok: This is located 7kms away from Gangtok. Lord Ganesha is worshipped here. It is so small only one person can go inside.
Tsomgo Lake: This is located in East Sikkim which is 38kms away from Gangtok. This is the holy lake for the Sikkim people. To visit this place Inner Line Permit is essential from the police. Entire Lake gets frozen during the winter season.
Himalayan Zoological Park: This is located 3kms away from Gangtok. For the wildlife lovers this is the best place. Major attractions of this place are Himalayan Black bear, Barking deer, Musk Deer, Blue sheep, Red Panda.
Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary: This is located 31kms away from Gangtok. Wide variety of flora and fauna can be seen here. Medicinal plants also can be seen here. Major attraction of this sanctuary is Rhododendron, Rare Panax, Gentians, Primulas etc…
Other attractions near Gangtok: Other attractions near Gangtok are Nathula Pass, Rumtek Monastery, Changu Lake, Ranka Monastery, Tashiding Monastery, Saramsa Garden, Fambong La Wildlife Sanctuary, Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden, Kabi Lungchok.
Getting to Gangtok: Gangtok is well connected through Road way and Railway. From the major cities such as Patna, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Kolkata, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Nagpur etc buses and trains are available to reach this place. Nearest airport is located at Bagdogra which is 124kms away from the city.
Getting around Gangtok: Private vehicles, Buses, cars are available to visit the surrounding places of Gangtok.
Best time to visit Gangtok: Visitors can come to this place throughout the year. Snowfall can be experienced during the winter season. Best time to visit this place is between September to June.
Where to stay in Gangtok: Plenty of accommodations starting from budget hotels to luxury hotels are available here. Cost of Budget hotels is Rs.795 and cost of luxury hotels is Rs.4500.
Where to eat in Gangtok: Plenty of restaurants are available to eat in Gangtok. Best restaurants found in MG Marg.