Nestled high in the Eastern Himalayan mountains, like a precious gem in nature's crown, Gangtok, the capital city of the Indian state of Sikkim, is a place where serenity meets the sky. This enchanting hill station in India, perched at an altitude of 5,410 feet, is a destination that touches your soul and leaves an indelible mark on your heart. It is a great place for those seeking inner peace and can be frequented by adventure buffs.
As soon as you step into Gangtok, you'll be blown away by its setting which is nothing short of magical. Surrounded by lush green valleys and enveloped by the mighty Kanchenjunga, the world's third-highest peak, the city is a visual delight. The snow-capped Himalayan range forms an awe-inspiring backdrop, seemingly touching the heavens. And the moment the first rays of the sun kiss the mountain peaks, they blush in a hue of orange and pink, creating a spectacle that can only be described as ethereal.
For adventure enthusiasts, Gangtok offers a wide array of activities. Trekking trails, such as the Goecha La Trek, take you deep into the heart of the Himalayas, allowing you to witness breathtaking landscapes and pristine lakes. If you're into adrenaline-pumping activities, try paragliding from the hills around Gangtok for an unparalleled bird's-eye view of the region.
It would be worth noting that Gangtok changes its attire with every season, making it a year-round destination. Spring brings blooming rhododendrons, summer offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities, autumn showcases clear skies and panoramic views, and winter transforms the town into a snow-covered wonderland, perfect for snuggling by the fireplace with a warm cup of Sikkim tea.
Book an all-inclusive Gangtok tour package with us to enjoy your time in Gangtok to the fullest. We at Gangtok Tourism, a division of Holidays DNA, strive to deliver the best experience every time you plan a guided trip with our team of travel experts.
From booking flight tickets to accommodation reservations, shortlisting the best places to explore, and everything else that enables you to have a great time without worrying about anything else, we take care of all the details. With us, you can also customize the package as per your holiday interests along with curating an itinerary that allows you to cover the top sightseeing places in Gangtok. What else? Please fill out the Contact Us form to get in touch with us.
History of Gangtok
The city of Gangtok boasts a rich and diverse history with its roots dating back centuries. Speaking of the ancient era, its past begins with the settlement of the Lepchas, the indigenous people of Sikkim, who were the earliest known inhabitants of the region. They lived in harmony with nature, practicing a primitive form of animism and cultivating the land.
Gangtok and the entire region of Sikkim were ruled by a series of Chogyals (kings) from the 17th century onwards. The Chogyals played a crucial role in shaping the history of Gangtok and Sikkim. They were patrons of Buddhism and contributed to the growth of monasteries and the spread of Tibetan culture in the region.
In the 19th century, Gangtok became an important center for Buddhism in the region. Monasteries like Enchey Monastery were built during this period. The arrival of Buddhism significantly influenced the culture, architecture, and way of life in Gangtok and Sikkim as a whole.
During the 19th century, the British Empire sought to establish control in the Himalayan region, including Sikkim. A series of treaties, including the Treaty of Tumlong in 1861, established British influence in Sikkim. Gangtok, as the capital, saw increasing contact with the British administration.
After India gained independence in 1947, Sikkim remained an independent kingdom under the Chogyal's rule. However, by the mid-20th century, political turmoil and a desire for closer ties with India led to a referendum in 1975. In this referendum, Sikkim voted to become a part of India, and it was officially integrated as the 22nd state of India on May 16, 1975. Gangtok became the capital of the newly formed state.
Since its integration into India, Gangtok has experienced rapid development. It has transformed from a quiet town into a bustling city with modern amenities. Tourism has become a major industry, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to explore its scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and the charm of the Himalayas.
Today, Gangtok is not only the political and administrative capital of Sikkim but also a significant cultural and tourist hub. It retains its Buddhist heritage and Lepcha influences while embracing modernity and progress. The city's history is a testament to the blending of diverse cultures and the preservation of a unique way of life in the lap of the Himalayas.
Places to Visit in Gangtok
There are plenty of sightseeing places in Gangtok that are worth your time. Depending on your holiday style, mood, and other preferences, you can plan to add the tourist attractions to your itinerary list you like the most.
For instance, Tsomgo Lake, which is also referred to as Changu Lake, is a great spot for people looking to admire a breathtaking sight. Lying a stroll away from there is the Nathula Pass which serves as a border between India and China. As a wanderer, you can also head to the Rumtek Monastery, Ganesh Tok, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, and Himalayan Zoological Park to add more fun and excitement to your Gangtok tour.
Tashi Viewpoint, Seven Sisters Waterfalls, Saramsa Garden, Hanuman Tok, Do Drul Chorten Stupa, Banjhakri Falls, Ranka Monastery, Enchey Monastery, etc., are a few of the other points of interest in the city that draw a huge influx of visitors every year. Adding to them are Phodong Monastery, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, and Tsuk La Khang.
If you’re a shopaholic, you’re in great luck! The city of Gangtok delights shoppers with MG Road, which is considered as the main shopping and entertainment street. It is a pedestrian-only zone, making it a delightful place for visitors to shop, dine, and soak in the local culture. Here you can buy a wide range of handicrafts, woolen garments, shawls, tea and spices, Tibetan and Bhutia Antiques, local handmade jewelry, books, and many more items under one roof. These make for excellent mementos or gifts to take back home.
While not strictly shopping, MG Road is a great place to sample local Sikkimese cuisine and snacks. You can try traditional dishes like momo (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), and other local treats at various cafes and eateries. Please note that during festivals like Diwali and Christmas, MG Road is beautifully decorated, and you can shop for festive decorations, gifts, and sweets, immersing yourself in the holiday spirit.
How to Reach Gangtok?
To be there in Gangtok, you have several transportation options, and the choice largely depends on your starting point and preferences. Here are the common modes of transportation available:
By Air: The nearest major airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra Airport, located in the neighboring state of West Bengal. It is approximately 125 km away and has frequent flights from the metro cities of India. After deboarding your flight, you can hire a taxi to access your desired destination in your utmost comfort. The journey by road from Bagdogra to Gangtok takes around 4-5 hours.
By Train: There is no direct train connectivity to Gangtok as the city doesn't have its own railway station. However, you can take a train to New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP), which is well-connected to major Indian cities. NJP is approximately 148 km from Gangtok and it takes around 3 hours to cover the required distance by private vehicle.
By Bus/Road: Lastly, if you like road traveling, you can choose to self-drive from Siliguri. Siliguri is the gateway to Gangtok by road and acts as the starting point for the road journey to Gangtok. In case you’re traveling from Darjeeling, you’ll need to cover nearly 100 km to commute to Gangtok at your ease. Alternatively, the facility of both private and government-operated buses is also there.
In the end, it’s your comfort that matters the most. So, choose wisely! Once you’re in Gangtok, you can plan to book a cab from the list of top car rental companies in Gangtok to enjoy hassle-free traveling within the city.
When planning your trip to Gangtok, it's essential to consider the weather conditions, especially during the winter months when road travel can be challenging due to snowfall. It's advisable to check road conditions and make necessary arrangements in advance. Additionally, permits are required for foreign tourists to visit certain areas of Sikkim, so be sure to obtain the necessary permits if needed.
