Sikkim Land of Beauty And Adventure “Small and Beautiful”
Sikkim is a state in northeastern India bordering Bhutan, Tibet, and Nepal. The region is part of the Himalayas and has dramatic scenery including India's highest peak, his 8,586m Kanchenjunga. Sikkim is also home to glaciers, alpine meadows, and thousands of species of wildflowers. Rugged paths lead to hilltop Buddhist monasteries such as Pemayangtse, which dates back to the early 18th century.
Gangtok
Gangtok is the capital and wherever you go you can start from Gangtok.
The capital of Sikkim, Gangtok is awe-inspiring with its spectacular natural beauty and spiritual architecture. Whether you're looking for a family or romantic travel destination, an adventurous tourist destination, or just a quiet getaway in the midst of nature, you'll find his or her type of vacation in Gangtok, Sikkim. From picturesque tourist attractions like Gangtok, Pelling, Lachung, and Namchi to mouth-watering Sikkimese cuisine to snow-capped mountains, Sikkim has it all! Despite being one of India’s smallest, obscure states, Sikkim is widely known for its hospitality, natural beauty, and multicultural diversity.
Places to Visit in Gangtok
It has an amazing view of mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain peak in the world. Also, like everything around it, Gangtok is abundant in natural beauty and has various natural attractions such as Tsomgo Lake, Ban Jhakri falls, Tashi Vie, and more. Other places to visit include the Enchey Monastery, Ganesh Tok, Do Drul Chorten Rumtek Monastery, etc. Also, river Teesta is one of the best spots for white water rafting in North East India.
- Tashi Viewpoint: A great viewpoint for watching the Kanchenjunga Snow Peaks on a clear day. Also an excellent place for a sunrise view.
- Ganesh Tok: A Ganesh Temple with a viewing lounge and open balcony.
- Hanuman Tok: A Hanuman temple with a wonderful viewing area.
- Ban Jhakri Waterfalls: Excellent wide water streams falling on a canopy of trees. The fall is located close to Tashi View point by the roadside and also offers great views all around.
- Bakthang Waterfall: Excellent wide water streams falling on a canopy of trees. The fall is located close to Tashi View point by the roadside and also offers great views all around.
- Gonzang Monastery: Located on a hilltop, it's one of the oldest monasteries around.
- Plant Conservatory: Collection of Himalayan plants and flowers. Garden and waterfalls.
- Flower Exhibition Centre: Located near Gangtok town and at one end of The Ridge park, the center has a great collection of flowering plants including Orchids (in the season though).
- Handicraft Centre: This is the building of the Directorate of Handicraft & Handloom including a Sales emporium and a Museum showcasing many different handicraft items and artwork created by local artists and craftsmen.
- Chorten Stupa: A famous Buddhist religious monument with a golden dome top that is visible from many places around Gangtok.
- Institute of Tibetology: A world-famous institute doing research on Tibetan language and culture also has a great museum and library with rare and huge collections. It's located within a short walk from Chorten Stupa.
- A ropeway (Cable Car): Great ride to view the whole of Gangtok, the valley, and the peaks from far above.
- Best time to Visit: Gangtok enjoys heavy snowfall in the winter season. Between December and February, the mercury dips to 0°C or even less followed by heavy snowfall. If you enjoy the snow, winter is the best time to visit Gangtok.
- Transportation: By public or private vehicle. North Sikkim tours require the assistance of a travel agency to obtain the necessary permits. A permit is also required to visit the Nathula Pass, with a voter card and pass photo.
