Situated in the heart of the Himalayas, Gangtok stands as a beautiful place in the northeastern state of Sikkim, India. This beautiful city, at an altitude of 1,650 meters (5,410 feet), welcomes tourists with its calm atmosphere and beautiful views of snowy mountain peaks. As the capital of Sikkim, Gangtok gives a special combination of traditional Tibetan culture and modern charm, making it the best tourist place in Northeast for travellers who are looking for both peace and adventure. From its markets filled with enthusiastic handicrafts to its peaceful monasteries echoing with chants, Gangtok offers a glimpse into a world untouched by time. Visitors can engage themselves in the calm beauty of Tsomgo Lake, take in scenic views from the iconic Nathula Pass, or explore the colorful flora at the enchanting Flower Exhibition Centre. Whether walking through narrow streets decorated with prayer flags or trying delicious local cuisine, every corner of Gangtok promises an unforgettable experience. With its outstanding beauty and rich cultural heritage, Gangtok rightfully earns its place as one of the best tourist destinations in India.
Places to visit in Gangtok (Updated 2024 List)
Here is an updated list of the best places to visit in Gangtok, that you should not miss if you are planning a trip to Gangtok in 2024.
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Nathula Pass
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Tsomgo Lake
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Himalayan Zoological Park
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Hanuman Tok
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Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
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Ranka Monastery
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Flower Exhibition Center
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MG Marg
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Rumtek Monastery
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Ganesh Tok
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Mangan
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Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple
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Tashi Viewpoint
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Kabi Longstok
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Seven Sisters Waterfalls
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Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary
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Do Drul Chorten
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Saramsa Garden
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Ban Jhakri Falls
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Phodong Monastery
1. Nathula Pass
Nathula Pass is part of the ancient Silk Route between India and Tibet. Driving there is an adventure because of the steep, slippery slopes, reaching up to 14,140 ft. Many tourists visit during summer and autumn. Winter isn’t the best time to go because it gets very cold and the road often closes due to heavy snow. Also, remember the road is closed to the public on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.
2. Tsomgo Lake
If you can only visit one place in Gangtok, make it Tsomgo Lake! Situated at 12,400 ft. above sea level, this lake is surrounded by mountains and gets its water from melting snow. It’s incredibly beautiful, and what’s cool is that it changes colour depending on the season. In winter, it freezes over, but in summer, flowers bloom around it. According to legends, Buddhist monks used to study the lake’s colour to predict the future long ago.
3. Himalayan Zoological Park
The first zoo in Sikkim is the Himalayan Zoological Park. It is among the places to visit in Gangtok city to see the animals of the region. You can find Snow Leopards, Himalayan Palm Civets, Red Pandas, and Himalayan Black Bears here, which you might not see in other zoos in the country. The animals aren’t kept in cages but in open enclosures that mimic their natural habitat. This makes the visit more enjoyable. The zoo sits at 1,780 meters above sea level, offering stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga. Plan to spend about 3 to 4 hours there, especially if you’re with kids.
Timings: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (Closed on Thursdays)
4. Hanuman Tok
This old Hanuman temple is high up at 7,200 ft. It is among the places of tourist interest in Gangtok. People love coming here for the amazing view of the Kanchenjunga range. Tourists come all year round to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery. As you climb the steps to the temple, you can admire the greenery, hills, valleys, and a bit of the town below. It’s a calm and divine place to be. While carrying the mountain containing the Sanjeevani herb from the Himalayas to Lanka, it is believed that Lord Hanuman rested at this tourist place in Gangtok.
5. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
The Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is a must-visit places in Gangtok to visit for history lovers and those curious about Buddhism. Inside, you’ll find lots of artwork, objects, manuscripts, and mementoes related to Tibetan culture. It even has one of the world’s biggest collections of Tibetan documents and literature. The institute was founded by the 14th Dalai Lama, making it a truly special place to explore Tibetan history and culture.
- Timings: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm (Closed on Sundays)
- Entry Fee: ₹ 10
Note: Photography is not allowed inside the premises
6. Ranka Monastery
Make sure to add Ranka Monastery to your plans! It’s not just about the amazing views, but also the chance to meet Buddhist monks. You can take photos with them during breaks but remember to be respectful of their beliefs and lifestyle. Surrounded by dense forests, the monastery is truly beautiful. The peaceful atmosphere gives you a taste of a life far from the busy city. For an amazing experience, try paragliding here.
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
7. Flower Exhibition Center
The Flower Exhibition Center is near MG Road and showcases lots of flowers from all over Sikkim. It is among the tourist attractions near Gangtok for nature lovers and stays open all year round. The best time to visit Gangtok is during the annual flower show from April to May. You’ll see many amazing plants there. It’s a nice break from long trips on the road. You can relax, enjoy the colorful flowers, and take some great photos.
Timings: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
Entry Fee: ₹ 10
8. MG Marg
MG Marg is the heart of Gangtok, and you’ll probably end up there anyway! But if you have some extra time, it’s worth spending it in this car-free zone to experience Gangtok’s way of life. It’s a lively market with lots of shops, some of which have been around for ages. There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes, and souvenir stores. Don’t miss trying the cold coffee and sandwiches at Hungry Head- they’re delicious.
9. Rumtek Monastery
The Rumtek Monastery is on a hill near Gangtok and is one of Sikkim’s biggest monasteries. It used to be called the Dharma Chakra Centre and was built like a traditional Tibetan building. Inside, there’s a beautiful prayer hall with paintings, statues, and amazing murals. You’ll also see the golden stupa of the 16th Karmapa and many other special items and scriptures. This old monastery belongs to the Kargyu sect of Buddhists and is among the famous places in Gangtok for its incredible architecture. It looks even more beautiful with hills and waterfalls in the background.
Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm
Entry Fee: ₹ 10
Note: As the monastery is under the jurisdiction of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police, don’t forget to bring your identity cards.
10. Ganesh Tok
Ganesh Tok is among the places of tourist interest in Gangtok, mainly because of its amazing views of the Kanchenjunga range and its peaceful atmosphere. Even though it’s a small shrine, many people visit to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the town, hills, and snowy mountains from its viewing area. The temple is at 6,500 ft. above sea level and attracts lots of visitors all year round.
Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm
11. Mangan
Mangan is loved by nature lovers and those seeking peace. It’s surrounded by snow-covered mountains and filled with blooming shrubs, sparkling streams, and great hiking paths. You can also see the spectacular Kanchenjunga, the third tallest mountain in the world, from here. Many trekkers start their journeys here, making it popular among backpackers too. Bright Buddhist flags add to the charm of this small and scenic place, making it the best places to see in Gangtok. Early winter is the best time to visit Mangan. Avoid a trip during the monsoon season.
12. Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple
The Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple is a tourist attractions near Gangtok, built to honour a soldier named Harbhajan Singh. It sits high up at 4000 meters (13123 feet), and many visitors to the beautiful Nathang Valley stop here to pay their respects. Harbhajan Singh went missing near Nathu La Pass in 1968, and after three days of searching, the army found his body. It’s said that he guided the soldiers to find him. Even after his death, he’s believed to have continued protecting the border soldiers. The Indian Army sees him as a soldier who never died and even promoted him until he reached retirement age.
13. Tashi Viewpoint
If you want to relax in a clean and peaceful place, Tashi Viewpoint is perfect. The fresh air and beautiful scenery, with stunning mountain views, attract lots of people who love picnics and nature. From here, you can see Mount Kanchenjunga, Mount Siniolchu, and important monasteries in Gangtok like Phodong and Labrang. If you love taking photos, come early in the morning or evening to capture amazing sunrise and sunset scenes.
14. Kabi Longstok
Kabi Longstok is a small, pretty town about 17 km from Gangtok. It’s historically important because it’s where Buddhist culture and Sikkimese history started in the 13th century. The town has a peaceful and lovely monastery where people can learn about Buddhism. There’s also a library, a garden, and two big statues of Bhutia and Lepcha. Kabi Longstok is where Bhutia Chief Khey Bum Sar and Lepcha Chief Tekung Tek signed a friendship treaty. Thakurbari temple is another Gangtok visiting places.
15. Seven Sisters Waterfalls
Seven Sisters Waterfalls lives up to its name with seven waterfalls flowing over a wide cliff. It’s a popular places to visit in Gangtok on the Gangtok-Lachung Highway, about 32 km from the main town. Surrounded by greenery, the sight of the milky-white water flowing among lush trees and hitting the rocks below is amazing! The waterfall looks even more beautiful during and after the rainy season when it’s at its strongest. There are tourist sheds and a ropeway nearby, perfect for getting a close-up view of the falls. Don’t forget your camera for some stunning nature photos.
16. Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary
Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary is a tourist attractions near Gangtok for nature lovers. It’s located between Singtam and Dikchu villages and covers an area of 52 sq. km. The sanctuary is home to many animals like Clouded Leopards, Red Pandas, Himalayan Brown Bears, and Barking Deer. You can also see various birds like bar-throated minla, red-headed bullfinch, crimson-browed finch, and the endangered rufous-headed hornbill. The dense rainforest is full of bamboo, ferns, oaks, and medicinal plants. Plus, there are plenty of orchids and rhododendrons to admire.
17. Do Drul Chorten
The Do Drul Chorten stupa is an important place in Gangtok, built-in 1945-46 by Trulshik Rinpoche, who was the head of the Nyingma tradition of Tibetan Buddhism. It’s in the calm and beautiful valleys of Gangtok and is visited by both devotees and tourists all year round. The stupa has 108 prayer wheels, each with Buddhist mantras that you can chant while turning them. Inside, you’ll find religious texts, mandala sets, and other important objects. The spire holds the deity of Vajra Kilaya or Dorjee Phurpa. Because of its lovely surroundings, the monastery is popular among those seeking peace and photographers alike.
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm; 7 days a week
18. Saramsa Garden
Saramsa Garden is a lovely spot in the hills of Pakyong and Gangtok. It covers 6 acres and is filled with colorful flowers and green plants. There’s also a greenhouse with lots of orchids and other plants. You can do fun stuff here like playing volleyball or football. Or you can simply sit on a bench and enjoy the beautiful nature around you.
19. Ban Jhakri Falls
Ban Jhakri Falls is one of the top spots near Gangtok. It’s a waterfall that drops from 100 feet, surrounded by lush greenery and pretty gardens. Nature lovers, picnickers, and those seeking peace often visit here. In the Energy Park where the waterfall is, there’s also a manmade lake where you can go paddle boating. The park has a swimming pool, food stalls, and places to rest. Throughout the park, you’ll see Sikkimese architecture and statues of Lyam, Lepcha, Mangpas, and Ban Jhakri ancestors, adding to its beauty.
20. Phodong Monastery
Sitting high up at 1372 m (4500 feet), Phodong Monastery is one of Sikkim’s top six monasteries. It was constructed in 1740 AD and is a must-visit if you want toz feel the spirituality of this state. The monastery has colorful exteriors with detailed architecture, and inside, you’ll find stunning paintings and murals. The hills and valleys around it bring a peaceful vibe, making it an ideal spot to relax in nature.
Frequently asked questions about places to visit in Gangtok
Q.1: What are some must-visit attractions in Gangtok?
Ans: Some popular attractions in Gangtok include Tsomgo Lake, Rumtek Monastery, and MG Marg.
Q.2: Is there any entry fee to visit Tsomgo Lake?
Ans: Yes, there is an entry fee for visiting Tsomgo Lake, which is regulated by the local authorities.
Q.3: Are there any adventure activities available in Gangtok?
Ans: Yes, Gangtok offers various adventure activities such as river rafting, trekking, and paragliding.
Q.4: What is the best time to visit Gangtok?
Ans: The best time to visit Gangtok is during the spring and autumn seasons, from March to May and September to November when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear.
Q.5: Can I visit Nathula Pass from Gangtok?
Ans: Yes, you can visit Nathula Pass from Gangtok with a permit, which is arranged through authorized tour operators.
Q.6: Are there any famous monasteries to visit in Gangtok?
Ans: Yes, some famous monasteries in Gangtok include Rumtek Monastery, Enchey Monastery, and Ranka Monastery.
Q.7: What is the distance between Gangtok and Darjeeling?
Ans: The distance between Gangtok and Darjeeling is approximately 98 kilometres, and it takes about 4 hours by road.
Q.8: Are there any local markets or shopping areas in Gangtok?
Ans: Yes, MG Marg is a popular shopping street in Gangtok, offering a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Q.9: Can I explore Gangtok on foot or do I need to hire a vehicle?
Ans: You can explore the main attractions of Gangtok on foot, especially around MG Marg, but hiring a vehicle might be convenient for visiting places located further away.
Q.10: Is Gangtok a family-friendly destination?
Ans: Yes, Gangtok is a family-friendly destination with plenty of activities suitable for all age groups, including sightseeing, nature walks, and cultural experiences.
