From high challenging passes to astonishing national parks, Gangtok is an amazing place to visit for every kind of travel. The azure lakes and rivers lure nature lovers on one hand and the high mountains, and trekking trails draw the attention of adventurers.
But do you know, Gangtok has a perfect melange of natural and man-made wonders? If you are confused about what places you should visit and what to miss.
Then here is the list of 12 best places to visit in Gangtok in 2023
1. Nathula Pass
The go-to destination for all adventure enthusiasts is Nathula Pass. It is a popular spot where challenging roads and astonishing height chills the spine of the people. Every year, this pass is opened for tourists between May to October.
But while you plan your trip to this place, ensure it is between Wednesday and Sunday. The other days of the week, it is closed for tourists.
2. Mahatma Gandhi Marg
Not everyone likes the thrill and secluded places right? Some do love spending time in markets so that they get to taste different cuisines and get a chance to shop as much as they want. If you want to go on a shopping or eating spree then Mahatma Gandhi Marg is the place that’s apt for.
It is one of the most lively and popular markets of Gangtok. From a variety of shops to restaurants, a person gets to enjoy a lot of things here. Moreover, this place is also known for hosting carnivals and festivals.
3. Tashi View Point
If you are visiting Gangtok with your family, then choosing a place where not only the elders but even the kids love to spend time is difficult. But you should definitely head to Tashi View Point which is located in the heart of the city.
Tashi View Point is an active and perfect family spot where everyone can enjoy the enthralling view of the surroundings and play in the nearby area. While you come here try to make plans during the sunrise. The entire place becomes lively during this time.
4. Rumtek Monastery
Most of the North-Eastern states in India show strong roots of Buddhism in their culture and monuments. One of the best places where you get to enjoy the highlights of Buddhism is the amazing Rumtek Monastery.
It is an important monument and an attraction visited by travelers in large numbers. The monastery has 3-storeys and students of the school learn the globally accepted Kagyu teaching. Rumtek Monastery is one place you should not miss on your trip to Gangtok.
5. Ban Jhakri Falls Park
Looking for a recreational park that can give you a break from all the mainstream traveling? Or are you traveling with your family where your kids want to visit a place where they can have fun? Whatever the reason, Ban Jhakri Falls Park is the answer.
This is a recreational park and an active tourist attraction of Gangtok. The entire park is divided into sections and it is recommended to visit all of them.
6. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is the place that shows how strong Tibetan Buddhism is in this state. This institute is a place where travelers and visitors can go and see different phases of this religion. The institute houses an extensive museum where it is believed to have housed 60,000 books of Lord Buddha that can enlighten the reader.
While you visit here on your trip to Gangtok, ensure that you keep all the important things in check. Make no mistake and follow all the rules that are told to you. Respecting the rules here is important.
7. Do-drul Chorten
While you are visiting a place like Gangtok, getting around a temple (monastery) is inevitable. One of the best places (monasteries) of Gangtok is Do-drul Chorten.
It is more of a stupa that was built by Trulshik Rinpoche in 1945 to promote peace and end the war. It is a wonderful place offering a breathtaking view of the surroundings.
8. Hanuman Tok
Hanuman Tok is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman located at an elevation of 7200 ft. This is a famous temple that is located in the heart of Gangtok. This marvelous piece of architecture has been managed well by the Indian Army.
A lot of visitors come here to offer their prayers and bow to the lord. The amazing surroundings add to the beauty of Hanuman Tok.
9. Ranka Monastery
- Ranka Monastery is a highly popular place to visit and one of the most peaceful in Gangtok.
- There is a very strong positive aura surrounding the place and it makes everyone feel elevated, at least emotionally.
- The monastery is approximately 15 km from Gangtok city and you can easily find a cab or taxi for commuting. And the traveling part amuses people a lot.
- The architecture of this monastery is extremely amazing and its vibrant colors will surely astonish you a lot.
- One of the best things to do here on your visit is to see the monks chanting in a peaceful environment. It feels calming and in many ways, simply transcendental.
- The prayers get over by 1 pm so if you want to be a part of it, you will have to reach here before this time.
- Don’t worry, there is a small but hygienic and good cafe on the top, on the premises of the temple.
- The monastery also has other facilities like clean toilets, a gift shop for buying souvenirs, and a small canteen.
10. Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park
Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, this is one destination you would not want to miss out on. The Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park is located at the foothills of the Himalayas and houses some endangered species. This zoological park offers a lot of amazing things and lures people every year.
11. Ranka Monastery
Ranka Monastery is a highly popular place to visit and one of the most peaceful in Gangtok.
There is a very strong positive aura surrounding the place and it makes everyone feel elevated, at least emotionally. The monastery is approximately 15 km from Gangtok city and you can easily find a cab or taxi for commuting. And the traveling part amuses people a lot.
The architecture of this monastery is extremely amazing and its vibrant colors will surely astonish you a lot.
One of the best things to do here on your visit is to see the monks chanting in a peaceful environment. It feels calming and in many ways, simply transcendental.
The prayers get over by 1 pm so if you want to be a part of it, you will have to reach here before this time. Don’t worry, there is a small but hygienic and good cafe on the top, on the premises of the temple. The monastery also has other facilities like clean toilets, a gift shop for buying souvenirs, and a small canteen.
12. Enchey Monastery
Enchey Monastery is a 200-year-old Buddhist worship place that’s located in the heart of Gangtok. The monastery is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the city. It is considered one of the most important monasteries in Sikkim and is known for its stunning architecture. It features intricate carvings and colorful prayer flags. Inside the monastery, there is a large prayer hall where visitors can observe monks chanting and performing rituals. Enchey Monastery is a peaceful and serene place that offers visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Sikkim.
Know here: Best Time to Visit Gangtok | Places to visit in Darjeeling | Places to visit in Sikkim
