Gangtok is one of the most famous tourist destinations in India. It is the capital city of Sikkim, the most beautiful northeastern location in India. Sikkim is a picturesque state with wonderful scenic views and geographical locations. Gangtok is on the higher peaks of the Himalayas and is the gateway for entering Sikkim. Hill station gives a beautiful view of Mount Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-largest mountain peak.
The hill station is 1650 meters high above the sea level. This incredible hill station provides everything equally. Whether it is picturesque views or amazing adventure sports. The adventure junkies visit the valley for trekking and campaigning in the mountains of the Himalayas. In the spring season, the hill station is covered with mesmerizing wild Rhododendrons making the whole area colourful.
Tourist attraction
Gangtok is the cosmopolitan city of Sikkim, having diverse lifestyles, vibrant restaurants, shopping centers, nightclubs, and so on. This hill station offers various experiences as well as unforgettable memories. also, the town offers many tourist destinations with never-forgetting views and experiences.
- Nathu La Pass:- It is the highest motorable road in the country. This road co-joins China and Sikkim by Himalayan Mountain pass. Nathu La Pass is 14450 ft. above the sea level on Indo-Tibetan borders. Moreover, the word Nathula means “whistling pass”. This road gives a beautiful dreamy view of ranges covered with snow.
- Tsomgo Lake:- This lake is found by the melting of ice glaciers and snow from the mountains. It is famously known as Changu Lake. It is the religious lake of Sikkimese, which is related to many historical stories and myths. Tsomgo Lake is between the high mountains enveloped with shining snow and green alpine forests. The lake has an astonishing beauty and scenic views, which carry you to the heaven.
- Do-Drul Chorten:- This is the most famous Stupa of Sikkim in the Valley. The stupa is famous for its 108 sacred prayer wheels decorated with Tibetan mantras. However, the place is a very prominent location for its religious temple under the idol of Dorjee Phurpa. Here you can meditate in the spiritual surroundings to feel the tranquility and peace during your vacations.
Speciality of Gangtok
The hill station is famous for its monasteries, temples, waterfalls, and natural beauty. Along with these Gangtok offers various shopping products such as handicrafts, traditional carpets, and many more. It is the cultural and commercial center of Sikkim. Tourists can buy anything according to their preferences and needs. The hill station is the hub of handicrafts in northeast India. Here you can find products from home décor to traditional clothes.
MG Road is the shopping center of the town. It is also known as the open market where you can find anything you want. This is a 1km long way with huge statues in the center. MG Road is the cleanest road in Gangtok. However, there are shops and restaurants on both sides of the road along with benches set up for sitting in the centre.
Deorali Orchid Sanctuary is a small but beautiful location in the valley, situated next to Namgyal University. The sanctuary hosts 200 species of orchid from 454 total species in the world. During the blooming seasons, this is a real retreat away from the hustling life of cities. Therefore, thousands of tourists visit here to rejuvenate their senses in a peaceful environment.
Must Visit Places in Gangtok
The town is a beautiful tourist attraction in itself. It is the place where both peace and experience lie at the same time. This hill station is full of adventures between the sloppy mountain ranges of the Himalayas. Here you can experience extraordinary things with the feeling of tranquillity and harmony. Some of the must-visit attractions are given below:-
- Phodong Monastery:- This monastery was formed in the 18th century and is 4500 ft. high, with a view of an alluring valley and white Himalayas. It was rebuilt in 1977 after it was destroyed by an earthquake. Furthermore, it has many old paintings and murals of famous artists from around the world.
- Teesta River:- It is an extended river with exciting twists and turns. This river is famous for rafting experiences in Gangtok. The river flows between the mountains, providing the perfect views of the valley.
- Seven Sisters Waterfall:- This waterfall lies 32 km away from the main town and is the must-visit attraction of northeast India. You can see four falls from the bottom and others can be seen from the higher level.
- Tashi Viewpoint:- From this point, tourists get the breathtaking views of Mt. Kanchenjunga along with the beautiful valley. Here tourists visit to witness the sunset and sunrise between the mountains on clear days. Many cafeterias and parks are established by the government for tourists.
Buddhist Pilgrimage
Gangtok is known as the Buddhist pilgrimage center of the country. Here are several temples reflecting the tradition and culture of Buddha. The town has more than 6 monasteries providing comfort and relief to the visitors. These monasteries are the Buddha temples called Viharas.
In Sikkim, several Buddha parks are formed, and huge structures of Gautam Buddha are in the center. These parks are decorated with colorful religious flags as well as prayer wheels. Under these huge statues, there is a temple of Buddha. These have a small idol of Buddha. The walls and pillars of these temples depict the life story of Gautam Buddha.
Adventures of Gangtok
- River Rafting:- The best spot for rafting in Gangtok is the Teesta River. It is an extended river with high turns and astonishing twists. This river has a fencing of beautiful lusty green mountains providing a mesmerising experience. Tourists can enjoy both oar rafting as well as paddle rafting.
- Cable Car Ride:- It is a double cable ropeway 3500 ft. above sea level. This cable car ride provides a breathtaking view of the hill station. It is a 1 km long ropeway taking 15-20 min. to complete the distance. Tourist should do pre-booking for their ride as bookings are not available during the peak seasons.
- Mountain Biking:- It is an experience that takes bikers to a complete peace. The ride through the Rumtek town is one of the best exposures that one can have. Mountain biking is an exciting and thrilling sport as it gives you a deep experience of the Gangtok’s colorful culture.
- Hang Gliding:- It is a sport that has become famous recently in India. Sikkim provides the best hang-gliding experience. Gliding is like flying among the foothills of the Himalayas and having a breathtaking view of the valley.
- Cycling:- This is one of the most fun activities to do in Gangtok. Tourists who love to try different adventure sports, it is a must-try sport here. However, the trail on the silk route of the Himalayas and Mt. Kanchenjunga provides the best and most thrilling experience.
The Best Time to Visit Gangtok
There is no better time to visit Gangtok because it is a whole year’s destination. Hill Station looks different in every season. It gives beautiful views and mesmerizing vibes whenever you visit the hill station. If you want to see the natural blooming side of the town then visit in March to May. Hence, during the spring season, the weather here is quite chilling, with clear blue skies and beautiful ranges covered with blooming flowers. This is the peak season for tourists visiting the town.
Conclusion
Gangtok is a location with pleasant weather and breathtaking views. The town is famous for its amazing tourist destinations, never-ending adventures as well as for easy availability of food. This is where you can gain experiences and enjoy India’s natural beauty and culture. Therefore, Gangtok is a relaxing destination in northeast India.
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