Gangtok, an alluring capital of Sikkim is a highly popular tourist destination. It lies in the eastern part of the Himalayan Ranges and is known for its natural splendor that is inclusive of an illustrious picturesque. A lush green environment, spectacular views of mountain ranges, gushing waterfalls, trekking trails, and the Buddhist culture are some highlights that help in making a tranquil holiday.
Catch the Glimpse of Mount Kanchenjunga
If you are planning to catch the majestic glimpses of Mount Kanchenjunga, then Gangtok will be the best place. Also, some additional trekking trails will mesmerize the tourists. As the place comprises a strong Tibetan influence, it is home to beautiful monasteries.
Your trip to Gangtok will remain incomplete if you do not catch glimpses of the waterfalls, rivers, snow-capped mountains, and natural view. The best time to visit Gangtok is between September to December and March to May. Booking the right package will provide you with splendid accommodation, permits to various places, a comfortable journey, a knowledgeable guide, and a driver.
How to Reach Gangtok?
On the way to the breathtaking hill station of Gangtok, it will become easy to explore some of the most popular attractions of this stunning destination. The place is easily accessible from every corner of India through both railways and flights. The choice is yours! New Jalpaiguri is the nearest railway station Gangtok from where you may hire a shared taxi to reach Gangtok. That too within two to three hours!
Tourists planning to travel by flight may get down at the Bagdogra Airport, which is the nearest airport from Gangtok. On your way to travel, there are some essential items that you must not forget to carry along with you. Those include the following:
- Winter clothes including jackets, sweaters, gloves and proper shoes
- Valid photo identity proofs in original and Xerox
- Seven-to-eight passport sized photographs
- Camera and smartphone
- Few medicines
Here you will get jackets for rent as well. Gangtok is, no doubt, the right place for a memorable trip with family and friends. The cool climate, pollution-free environment, and cooperative people will add to your tour. The journey from Bagdogra to Gangtok can also be covered by hiring a private cab.
Trip to the Changu Lake
The Changu Lake in Gangtok in Sikkim is situated at a distance of almost thirty kilometers from the city. Once you reach an altitude of 12,000 feet; you will be able to experience the immense beauty of the place. You may ride on yaks and click some photographs. While on the way, you will be taken through a winding road comprising of rigged terrains of mountains along with sharp cliffs.
The crystal clear water of the lake comes from the melting of the snow situated on the mountain. The lake does not hold a stable look all along the year. It changes its color every season. In the late spring, there remains a profusion of flowers while during winter the lake remains covered with snow.
The Harbhajan Singh Smarak
Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple is another highly popular tourist place that is situated at a distance of almost fifty-two kilometers from Gangtok. The legacy attached makes it a highly unique visit place of Gangtok. It is believed that the spirit of Baba is protecting every soldier in the high altitude of the Himalayas.
The next most interesting place to visit in Lachung is in proximity to Lachung. The village comprises a self-governing body known as Dzumsa. The village has remained successful in retaining its unique culture over the years. The Lachung Monastery is one of the most prominent places for various religious and cultural activities.
On the way to Lachung from Gangtok, you will come across the Singik View Point and Chungthang Dam from where you will be able to catch glimpses of the immense natural beauty. In the Lachung, you are not allowed to carry mineral water bottles along as they harm the environment. If caught, a high penalty may be imposed.
The Zero Point – A Must-to-Visit
People looking forward to enjoying the mystic view of Switzerland in India must pay a visit to the Zero Point. It is a highly popular Gangtok visit place that will for sure bring a chilling experience. The exotic confluence of three rivers along with marvelous scenic views and surrounding snow-clad mountains make this place a highly popular tourist place.
As it is too cold, you must put on proper clothes. Also, you may have some sips of bears and whiskey to prevent yourself from catching a cold. The Yumthang Valley is the next place to pay a visit. It is a highly popular valley of flowers with few trees. There are hundreds of blooming Himalayan flowers and an astounding collection of Rhododendrons.
The valley is a highly popular vantage point of some of the beautiful peaks of Shundu Tsenpa and Panhunri. The view of the Teesta River is one more amazing sight.
The Nathula Pass and the Gurudongmar Lake are some additional spots that must not be missed at any cost. There will be an experienced guide along with you to take you to the place safely.
Additional Places to Visit in Gangtok
Some additional places to visit from Gangtok include the Mahatma Gandhi Market, Rumtek Monastery, Ganeshtok, Hanuman TokNamgyal Institute and Flower Park. There are numerous small places that you will come across while on the way to move to and fro from Gangtok.
A total itinerary of five days will let you explore the beauty of in and around Gangtok City. It is advisable to shake hands with a reliable travel agency to avoid unnecessary hassles on the spot. The rules and regulations of Sikkim are very strict. A little bit of violence may result in a huge penalty.
The agent is familiar with some of the descent rules and ethics will let you enjoy the tour with fun and frolic. Some of the things that you can shop for your nearest and dearest ones include monkey caps, umbrellas, tea, and many other Chinese gift items. Tired of the continuous summer? Plan a trip to Gangtok and enjoy a good time in this chilly environment.