Gangtok India

About Gangtok

Gangtok, literally meaning the 'hilltop', is the capital of Sikkim. One of the important hill stations of the country, Gangtok offers breathtaking views of the entire Kangchendzonga Range. Situated at an altitude 1,640 metres above sea level, the town houses some of the important Buddhist monasteries and religious sites. The town located on a long ridge bordering the Ranipul river, is dotted with several concrete structures. Gangtok retains a nice blend of both tradition and modernity. The presence of the peaceful Chortens or Stupas, old monasteries and the unspoilt natural beauty of Gangtok provides a memorable travelling experience.

Adventure Sports in Gangtok

Gangtok is the ideal destination for the adventure seekers. The hill station offers the adventure sports like trekking, white-water rafting, hand gliding, yak safari and mountain biking. The slopes of Gangtok hills offer amazing treks to Pemayangtse, Khechopalri, Yuksam, Tsokha, Dzongri, Thangshing, Zemathang, Chaurigang, Tashiding, Varsey, Yangang, Rabongla, Sang and Sikip.

Fairs and Festivals in Gangtok

Fairs and festivals are the important part of Gangtok. The fairs and festivals celebrated by the local people add more charm to the hill station. Several festivals are celebrated in Gangtok and its nearby areas. The Buddhist festival of Bumchu is held every January at the Tashiding Gompa. The dancing festival of Chaam is held during January-February in Enchey Gompa. The monthly mask dance called as Kagyat Dance is another attraction of the hill station. Saga Dawa is held during May, while Drukpa Teshi is celebrated during July throughout Sikkim. Losar celebrated during February-March at Pemayangtse and Rumtek marks the Tibetan New Year.

Major Attractions

Deer Park : The park located close to the new secretariat is also called the Rustomji Park. It is named after one of the Dewans of the Chogyal of Sikkim. The park is home to native animals of Sikkim like the red panda and Himalayan Bear. The park has a huge statue of Lord Buddha commemorating his preachings of the noble truths. In front of the Buddha statue burns a butter lamp, which is surrounded by flowers of exotic variety. The park offers the spectacular view of the surrounding hills.

Do-Drul Chorten : Situated at Dotapu Chorten, this is the most important stupa of Sikkim. Do-Drul Chorten was built under the supervision of Trulshi Rinpoche in 1945-46, in accordance with the prophecy made in 1944 by Dud-Zom Rinpoche.

White Hall : The White Hall was built in the year 1932, in memory of Claude White, the first political officer of Sikkim. It houses an Officers Club and a Badminton Court.

Lal Bazaar : Lal Bazaar is a must-visit place in Gangtok. On every Sunday, the market becomes a melody of colour, as varied ethnic groups from different villages gather to buy or sell their wares. The marketplace appears a virtual fair, with the chiming bells of the sweet shops, beggars, the advertising of the Sikkim lottery and the blaring Hindi love songs.

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology : Built in 1958, this is a research center for Mahayana Buddhism and Tibetan culture. The museum here has a collection of traditional and old artifacts, one can also buy Buddhist religious books and other craft items.

Rumtek Gompa : Rumtek Gompa is the biggest monastery in Sikkim. This is the abode of the head of the Kagyupa order of Tibetan Buddhism. A large number of devotees and tourists visit the Gompa throughout the year.

Changu LakeTsongo or Changu Lake : The lake is situated Northeast of Gangtok. Tourists need special permits to travel to this lake.

How to reach there

By Air : Bagdogra airport near Siliguri, is the nearest airport. Domestic flights are available from Bagdogra to rest of the country.

By Rail : Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri are the nearest railhead. New Jalpaiguri is connected to major towns and cities of the country.

By Road: Good road network connects Gangtok to Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Siliguri and Bagdogra. Buses, jeeps and taxis are available from Siliguri and other nearby places to Gangtok.

Where to Stay

The hill station of Gangtok offers plenty of accommodation choices to the tourists. Gangtok is dotted with star category hotels as well as economic hotels. The hotels offer pleasant stay to travellers.