Gangtok

Gangtok is the capital city of the tiny Himalayan state Sikkim. Jagged white peaks, deep green forests, flower beaded valleys make Gangtok a favorite holiday escape for all nature lovers. Brightly painted pagoda roofed houses, age-old monasteries, crisscrossing chains of prayer flags and the groups of lamas reciting the holy chants reflect the deep-rooted belief of people in Buddhism. The tiny shops are stuffed with authentic Tibetan souvenirs that include the glistening idols of Lord Buddha, exquisite silver jewelry, fine silk robes and aromatic spices. Stroll down the surrounding countryside of the city to capture the glimpses of grand Himalayas and dazzling Kanchenjunga peak.

Places of interest

Rumtek Monastery
Dharma Chakra Center or Rumtek Monastery is one of the most prestigious monasteries in Sikkim. Located at a distance of 24 kms from Gangtok, Rumtek Monastry is the seat of the head of Kagyupa sect of Buddhism, Karmapa Lama.

Changu Lake
Changu Lake meaning "source of the lake" in Bhutia language is 35kms away from Gangtok. This placid lake rests at an altitude of 12000 ft from Gangtok Nathu La highway. Changu. The lakeside is bejeweled with a small temple of lord Shiva. The serene ambiance and the dazzling water of Changu Lake offer real feast to your eyes.

Kangchendzonga National Park
Kangchendzona National Park is the abode to some of the endangered wildlife species that include musk deer, snow leopard and the shy Himalayan Tahr. The park has now been named as Biosphere Reserve. Located at a very high altitude, Kangchendzonga National Park is endowed with snow-covered mountains, deep pine forest and glistening glaciers. The ideal time to visit this park is between March to May and September to November.
For shopping, browse through the Old market, New market and the Lal market of Gangtok . The shops clinging to the roadside offer wide range of items to be purchased such has lepcha weave bags, intricately designed carpets and durries and vibrant bamboo artifacts and Thongka hangings.

Accommodation in Gangtok
Gangtok offers several accommodation options to tourists all year around. The streets are lined with star properties to countless budget class hotels. During low season, the hotels offer heavy discounts on room tariffs. For winter stay, it is advisable to check out the hot water provisions in the hotels.

Best Time to Visit Gangtok
Between October and March

How to Reach Gangtok

By Air
The nearest airport is at Bagdogra in West Bengal, which is about 24 kms from Gangtok. The Bagdogra airport is connected with all the major cities in India.

Flights to Bagdogra
Air Deccan, Indian Airlines and Jet Airways operate regular flights to Bagdogra from Delhi.

By Rail
The closest railway station is at New Jalpaiguri, which is 125 kilometers from Gangtok and is well connected with all key cities in India.

By Road
Gangtok is well connected with Siliguri, Darjeeling and Kalimpong by the National Highway 31A. Sikkim Transport Corporation runs regular buses between Gangtok and Siliguri. Private buses and taxis can be hired from Bagdogra and Siliguri to Gangtok.