Gangtok is the capital of the mountainous northern state Sikkim, one of the most popular hill station in India. I have traveled to many hill stations in life but visiting Gangtok will always remain one of my favorite trip especially because of the first time of experiencing the snow, spotting the ranges of Mt. Kanchenjunga from hotel balcony, beautiful weather, those spectacular nature, those hills covered with fogs, those dizzy rains, amazing sunrise and sunsets in the mountains and the list never ends. And also one thing I would mention about its cleanliness, damn I have never seen such well maintained hill stations ever, the streets, the cafes, shops, hotels and everything is so well maintained and clean.
So, if you are planning a trip to Gangtok, Sikkim read this article for details about the things to do in Gangtok, sightseeing, must visit tourist places, adventure places etc.
1. MG Marg Road
Mahatma Gandhi Marg popularly known as MG Marg road located in the downtown of Gangtok, Sikkim. One of the beautiful streets I have ever seen in my life. This place is the most popular and famous tourist attractions in Gangtok, people spends hours here with friends and family, and the streets and street lights in the evening and everything about this place is so beautiful I cannot explain in words. Shopaholic people gonna love this place as it has number of branded clothing stores, footwear stores and many store is available. Also there are many cafes, restaurant and street foods is available here. So, overall you are going to love and enjoy this place very much.
How to visit – Located in the Downtown of Gangtok, Sikkim.
Entry fee – No entry fee
2. Tsongmo Lake
If you are in Gangtok then you must visit to Tsongmo Lake which is also known as ‘Changu Lake’. This is the place where I experienced my first snowfall and it was the most happiest moment in my life. The drive to Tsongmo lake or Changu lake cannot be explain in words as it was so spectacular. The lake was frozen like glacier when I visited in April and all the hills around the lake was covered with snow and also you can spot many yaks near the lake. Overall its a wholesome experience of nature. All you need is few permits and some document with yourself before you visit Tsongmo Lake.
How to visit – It is some 40km away from the capital Gangtok.
Entry Fee – Permits pass is 200/- per person
3. Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple
Its a memorial temple of Indian army soldier Baba Harbhajan Singh. Its a unique destination for tourists due to his legacy attached to it. It is believed that his spirit is still present in that place and protects the soldiers. The temple is surrounded by beautiful landscape of snow covered mountain and its a very peaceful area.
How to reach – It is located between Nathula and Jelepla pass and about 52kms away from Gangtok. All you have to is book a car which can be provided by the hotel authorities and you need some permits and documents.
Entry fee – permits for Nathula pass is 200/- per person.
4. Hanuman Tok
This temple is dedicated to lord Hanuman. Its a divine place surrounded by beautiful scenery and well maintained by the Indian army. If you visit Gangtok you should visit this place.
How to reach – 11km away from Gangtok.
Entry fee – No entry fee
5. Bakthang Waterfall
Bakthang waterfall is a famous tourist attractions in Gangtok. The waterfall is treat to the eyes because of the crystal clear water flowing down the mountains. Also there are few adventures activities like zipline and all are present in that place which is fun and attracts young generations a lot.
How to reach – It is about 4km away from Gangtok and you can easily hire local taxi and reach that place.
Entry fee – No entry fee
6. Ganesh Tok view point
There is a Ganesh temple located in the Ganesh Tok view point. Its an amazing place to spot spectacular sceneries, beautiful sunrise and sunsets in the mountains, and also you can spot some ranges of snow covered Mt. Kanchenjunga if the sky is clear. The view point is up in the hill so you have to hike up the stairs to reach the view point and the temple.
How to reach– It is located in Jawaharlal Nehru Rd, Sungava, Gangtok, Sikkim.
Entry fee – No entry fee
7. Tashi View Point
Tashi view point is one of the beautiful tourist place in Gangtok and one of the best place to watch the Kanchenjunga very clearly. And you can also watch the whole Gangtok city from that view point. Its a perfect place for nature lovers.
How to reach – It is 8km away from the Gangtok town.
Entry fee – No entry fee but 10/- for binocular view of the peaks.
8. Flower Exhibition Centre
Its a beautiful flower park in Gangtok. It has many flowers and plants available which attracts tourists the most. Its a nice long way to have a walk through the floral road and eat fast foods available nearby. Overall its an amazing place to spend time with friends and family.
How to reach – It is located in Arithang, Gangtok.
Entry fee – 20/- per person
9. Rumtek Monastery
Its a famous Buddhist temple in Sikkim and a beautiful place with natural scenery. The temple is situated on the top of the hill with amazing views. Its a main tourist attraction because of the beautiful monastery, calm and peaceful area and the nature.
How to reach – Located at the distance of 40 minutes from Gangtok.
Entry fee – INR 10/-
10. Gangtok Ropeway
Like other hill stations Gangtok also has cable car i.e ropeway facilities. Those who wants to experience the whole township view and breathtaking nature then you must take a ride in cable car. Its a 1km long cable car ride with amazing views of Gangtok township, snow peaks and the valley below.
How to reach – cable car facilities is located in Vishal Gao, Gangtok.
Entry fee – 177/- per person.
There are many more things to do in Gangtok, but these are the best 10 things to explore in Gangtok. So, if you are planning your trip to Gangtok, Sikkim this article will be helpful to you to do the basic things and nearby sightseeing and tourist places in Gangtok.
Read More : HILL STATIONS IN INDIA
