Summary
Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is situated on a cloud-covered ridge 5,500 feet above sea level. Renowned for its cleanliness, it’s an ideal destination for short visits filled with sightseeing and travel planning. For travelers seeking relaxation, Gangtok offers one of India’s finest Himalayan spa resorts. Additionally, the city houses a vibrant casino.
Many attractions in Gangtok can be explored via popular local tours ranging from “three point,” “five point,” to “seven point,” offered by various travel agents, hotel concierges, and taxi drivers. The “three point” tours cover the city’s primary viewpoints: Ganesh Tok, Hanuman Tok, and Tashi Viewpoint. If you wish to explore further, the “five point” tours can incorporate Enchey Monastery, while “seven point” tours visit monasteries outside of Gangtok, like Rumtek and Lingdum.
Enchey Monastery
The monasteries in Sikkim are major highlights for visitors. Enchey Monastery, perched above Gangtok, offers a tranquil atmosphere. Its name translates to solitary monastery. Established in 1909, it was reconstructed after a fire in 1947. This intimate, non-commercial monastery features breathtaking interiors adorned with colorful murals, dazzling statues, and an impressive collection of masks used in traditional dances. The monastery is linked to Lama Druptob Karpo, a Tantric master famous for his levitation abilities.
Enchey Monastery operates daily from 4 a.m. to 4 p.m., and until 1 p.m. on Sundays.
For a scenic excursion from Gangtok, don’t miss Rumtek Monastery and the striking Lingdum (Ranka) with its colossal golden Buddha statue. Arrive early or late to witness the monks’ captivating chants at Lingdum.
Ganesh Tok and Hanuman Tok
Travel northeast from Enchey Monastery to vibrant Ganesh Tok, where colorful prayer flags flutter. This spot offers breathtaking views over Gangtok and features a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesh, along with cafes and souvenir shops. Further up lies Hanuman Tok, which boasts an even better vista, highlighted by a grand statue of Lord Hanuman. The Indian Army maintains the Hanuman temple, ensuring a clean, peaceful environment surrounded by beautiful gardens and walking paths, with the majestic Mount Khangchendzonga visible on clear days.
Himalayan Zoological Park
Situated opposite Ganesh Tok, the Himalayan Zoological Park is recognized as one of India’s best-maintained zoos, featuring a natural jungle environment. Covering 230 hectares, this park is home to several rescued rare species, such as Himalayan bears, snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, and red pandas.
The zoo is accessible daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., except Thursdays. Entry tickets are priced at 60 rupees.
Tashi Viewpoint
Northern from the town, Tashi Viewpoint is reputed to offer the finest glimpses of Mount Khangchendzonga within Gangtok. Nevertheless, visitors often express dissatisfaction with the trek, as comparable views can be found in other spots. The visibility can be uncertain; expect the view to be obscured on cloudy days. There are telescopes available for rent and a roadside gift shop operated by the Indian Army, with proceeds supporting the establishment.
Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
For those intrigued by Buddhism and Tibetan culture, exploring the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is highly recommended. Opened in 1958, the institute features a beautifully designed Tibetan-style building that houses a museum and a library with one of the largest Tibetan collections outside Tibet. Visitors can admire various artifacts, including rare statues, monk relics, ritual items, exquisite thangkas (scrolls), and ancient manuscripts in multiple languages. A souvenir shop and coffee shop also grace the premises.
The Institute’s hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday to Saturday (closed Sundays, second Saturdays, and government holidays). Entrance fees are 10 rupees.
Nearby, the striking white Do-Drul Chorten stands out. According to local lore, it was constructed by a powerful Tibetan lama to expel harmful spirits. The stupa is surrounded by 108 prayer wheels, and at twilight, countless lamps illuminate a glass room beside it in honor of ancestors.
Gangtok Ropeway
Close to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, the Gangtok Ropeway offers a stunning aerial view of the city and its picturesque valley. This cable car ride ascends the ridge towards Tashiling Secretariat.
The Ropeway operates daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tickets are priced at 110 rupees per person, with discounts available for children.
Flower Exhibition Center
For those visiting Gangtok between April and June or from September to November, after your cable car experience, consider a leisurely stroll through Ridge Park to the Flower Exhibition Center located just below. This greenhouse showcases a stunning array of high-altitude blooms, particularly orchids, and you may purchase orchid bulbs and seeds as well. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., with entry tickets priced at 20 rupees.
Moreover, the Deorali Orchid Sanctuary, close to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, presents yet another chance to view exotic orchid varieties.
Alternatively, you can enjoy a stay on an orchid farm at one of India’s premier homestays near Gangtok, such as Hidden Forest Retreat.
MG Marg Market
It’s a straightforward walk from the Flower Exhibition Center to MG Marg, Gangtok’s charming main street. This pedestrian-friendly area is notably clean, with regulations against littering, spitting, smoking, and vehicles. MG Marg is lively, often bustling with crowds in the evenings. It’s an excellent place to shop and coordinate travel arrangements with various tour operators. Don’t miss the Golden Tips tea showroom (Punam Building, First Floor, MG Marg), famous for its boutique teas, including the popular temi tea grown in Sikkim’s only tea estate.
Shops typically open at 9 a.m. and close by 8 p.m., though many remain closed on Tuesdays.
