Gangtok Tour package | Himalayan Destination

t. Gangtok is the capital of the mountainous Northern Indian state of Sikkim. Established as a Buddhist pilgrimage site in the 1840’s, the city became capital of an independent monarchy after British rule ended, but joined India in 1975. Today, it remains a Tibetan Buddhist center and a base for hikers organizing permits and transport for treks through Sikkim’s Himalayan mountain ranges. Sikkim Tour or Gangtok Tour organized by Himalayan Destination can make your vacation memorable one, as we are specialist in this sector and we operate hotels The Sunrise Residency at Gangtok. Himalayan Destination is one of the best Gangtok tour and travel operator. Himalayan Destination is one of the best tour and travel operator, who organize Gangtok Tour.

Gangtok Sightseeing / Place to Visit in Gangtok

MG Road / MG Marg

MG Road / MG Marg is the heart of Gangtok and its most happening place. It is the central shopping hub of this charming state capital with various Shops, Restaurants and Hotels lined up along both sides. MG Road is an open Mall or Boulevard Square which is widely regarded to be the town center and is the best shopping destination for tourists. This is a great place to take a stroll or just sit on the benches and enjoy the dreamy ambiance.

The first thing one notices, the cleanliness of the roads around the city and the the boards hanging everywhere with the message i.e.”Welcome to M.G. Marg, Spit, and Litter Free Zone“. The entire area is free from smoke, litter, and vehicular traffic. It’s a pedestrian-only zone, and no vehicles are allowed. The buildings on both sides of MG Road in Gangtok are painted by green in line with the government’s green initiative. This place is also famous for an extravaganza festival which is known as the Gangtok Food and Culture Festival held in December every year and thronged by connoisseurs from all over the world.

The Statue of Unity is visible on the way of MG Road which comprises of the figures of Bhutia Chieftain Khye Bumsa, the Lepcha leader Thetong Tek and his wife Ngo Kong ngol. This statue symbolizes peace, love, and harmony.The statue of Mahatma Gandhi enhances the dignity of this place. Victorian lamps and various types of benches along the path make that place magnificent. MG Road gets stunning look during dark.

Ganesh Tok

Ganesh Tok is a small temple(dedicated to Lord Ganesha ) and a loved viewpoint in Gangtok. Situated on top of a hill, the quaint place has mind-stirring views ,from here the Kanchenjunga hill can be seen in its accurate form with great beauty but the tourists can enjoy the best look in the morning. The Ganesh Tok viewpoint, situated at a distance of 6500, offers stunning views of the mountains covered with snow.Due to the size of this temple only single person can enter at a time. A beautifully sculpted idol of lord Ganesha is inside the temple.The colorful holy flags are in a ascending order along the path.During the Ganesh Chaturthi festival the temple is adorned with the colorful lights and flowers, hymns are chanted followed by an Aarti ceremony and fireworks, creating a ambience of magical divinity.

.This temple’s tranquil ambience and circular viewing lounge provide a soothing combination of natural and saintly vibes,

Hanuman Tok

Hanuman Tok, dedicated to Lord Hanuman is situated near Ganesh Tok at an altitude of 7200 feet at a distance of 11 km from Gangtok and offers an amazing view of the Kanchenjunga range. The temple has a religious significance attached to it and offers a peaceful surrounding. It is known for fulfilling the wishes of its devotees. Hanuman Tok should definitely be visited at least once to experience its beauty . It is a perfect place for all nature lovers and photographers. When the tourists start to climb the paved stairs ,surrounding holy sounds from the hanging bells make the tourists mesmerized .hymns chanting and religious music make the heavenly feeling inside the temple.

There is a myth behind the Hanuman tok. When lord Hanuman was on his way to Lanka from Himalaya, he took rest here.He was carrying Sanjivani to cure Lakshmana from disease.

In 1950s a political officer named Appaji Pant got a dream at this place after that the Hanuman temple was consecrated.This temple is now completely maintained by Units of 17 Mountain Division of the Army.

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is located at Deorali and less than 2km. from Gangtok.it is one of most important organization of Tibetan language and culture.Inside the premises of the institute,there is also a museum & a library enriched with very famous Tibetan books. This institute is surrounded by a small forest of birch,oak. magnolia.The institute building represents the Tibetan architecture.The foundation stone was laid by the 14th Dalai Lama in the year of 1957.It was inaugurated by Jawaharlal Nehru.Ground floor of the institute is occupied by the museum,very rare collection of statues, coins.thankas, Tibetan artwork etc are preserved here.however the most prominent majestic image of Manjushri is also established inside the museum. Inside the institute ,visitors can enjoy so many kinds of modern art & murals which are at several section of the walls around.Apart from this library holds one of the largest collection of Tibetan literature in the world.The rich collection of manuscript of Tibetan, Sanskrit,Lepcha, Chinese language are also preserved here.Library has over 60,000 volumes which contain the translation of Buddha’s teaching & very interesting xylographs.

The land area of the institute was donated by late king of Sikkim Tashi Namgyal,from then such the name of the institute.In the year of 1950 it was occupied by China,After getting the indication of the brutal chinese activity,tibetan realized to store the precious religious books & manuscripts somewhere securely outside Tibet where scholars & researchers from all over the world could utilize them to research on Tibetan culture & heritage.After getting concept, inhabitants tried to form the institute conceptually .In the year of 1956 ,Buddha.s 2500th birth anniversary was celebrated and getting the royal invitation Dalai Lama & Panchen Lama came to heartily join the program.Dalai Lama laid the foundation stone of Namgyal Institute of Tibetology.In 1958, the institute was inaugurated by Jawaharlal Nehru.Under the able guidance of Mr.Nirmal kumar Sinha ,institute became a world class institute.

The Himalayan Zoological Park

The Himalayan Zoological Park is located in Bulbuley, 5 km away from Gangtok and is the place for all the wildlife lovers. With an altitude of 1780 meters, one gets an amazing view of the Mount Kanchenjunga from here. Established in 1991, Himalayan Zoological Park is the first one of its kind situated in the North-Eastern part of India. The park fulfils all the requirements of a Zoo where the creatures are kept under regular conditions and safeguarded as well as tamed without irritating them and ensuring that they live in their normal habitat. Spread over 205 hectares of land in the mountainous terrain, the park is home to a variety of fauna including the snow leopard cat, goral, Himalayan Palm Civet, Himalayan Red Panda, Himalayan Monal Pheasant, Crimson-Horned Pheasant, and Himalayan Black Bear etc.

The Forests, Environment & Wildlife Management Department, Government of Sikkim maintains this first ever zoological park of Sikkim. A 2.5 km road runs through the park where you can either drive or walk. In case you decide to walk, be prepared since it will take a long amount of time to reach the habitats. So, it is advisable for you to hire a car for about half a day and explore the zoo. Some facilities present at the zoo include café, souvenir shop, drinking water points, washrooms and a watchtower for you to get an amazing view of the entire area. Do visit the Himalayan Zoological Park in Gangtok to be a part of the natural habitat of a variety of species and enjoy the wonderful natural beauty surrounding the place.

Flower Exhibition Center

Flower Exhibition Center, is located in Gangtok. .It lies at one end and below the ridge park. , it is at a walking distance from the MG Marg. The government of Sikkim organizes an annual orchid show which make the flower lovers enriched.Inside the center fantastic and rare collections of flowers are displayed.The best time is between March to June for flower lovers because on that time orchids are in full bloom. In this exhibition participants from the neighboring states are invited to be a part of the annual flower contest held in the premises by the Government of Sikkim.

This center is filled with unusual species of plants, notable of them are Blue Venda Orchids ,Celosia ,Chrysanthemum, Paps etc.There is a small footbridge over an artificial pool that the tourists can walk across.Enchanting fragrances of anonymous flowers make refreshing ambience inside the center. a very refreshing place for the visitors.

Do Drul Chorten

This monument (locally known as Chorten ) is located at a short distance from Namgyal Institute of Tibetology and on a hill top.Top of the temple is made with gold and a deity enshrined on it.

very interesting &terrified story was established by the locals about this place.It is heard that entire this place was thronged with the evil ghost and always tried to harm the locals.Later an honourable &renowned lama of tibet,named asTrulshik Rinpoche came to this place to establish tranquility on the prestigious invitation of quee of sikkim .He consecrated this chorten in the year of 1946 to force out evil spirits.Rinpoche couldn’t communicate in any language other than Tibetan, but he was admired by the local people because of his polite behavior .There are so many valuable items were preseved like Buddhist religious book ‘Tanjur’,complete Mantras ,Buddhist Articles etc.Rinpoche also donated his expensive Swiss watch which was guifted by queen.

108 prayer bells are around the chorten and all of which devine mantras are inscribed on them in Tibetan.

Saramsa Garden

This landscaped garden is situated at a distance of 14 km. from Gangtok town.It is the ideal place for tourists’ amusement.This garden was established in the year of 1922 by the Sikkim Forest Department.Inside the Saramsa Garden,different kinds of fruit plants were introduced by forest manager Rai Saheb Bhim Bahadur & practicing of fruit growing was continued until 1940.Some days after fruit garden was transformed into Ipeca Garden due to the plantation of medicinal plant Ipecacuanha.This plant has curative abilities.There is a gigantic nursery inside the garden and it forms an exhibit of Sikkim’s floriculture.The flowing water of Rani river through this garden is an extra achievement for the connoisseur tourists.This garden is divided into several blocks.The canopy of treese are giving the nature shade by blocking out the sunlight.The essence of this garden snitch the heart of the tourist.

Tashi Viewpoint

Tashi view point is located at a distance of 8 kms from Gangtok station,nearest location is Ganesh Tok. It is one of the best sunrise & sunset view point.This view point is a circular shaped platform,from this point visitors can enjoy 360 degree perspective of that entire region.This point was built by the king of Sikkim, Tashi Namgyal.Impressive Himalayan mountain especially Mt. Kanchenjunga & Mt. Siniolchu attract the nature lovers.The Phodong Monastery & the Labrang Monastery are also visible from here.Most of the visitors visit that place early in the morning to be witness of beautiful sunrise & play of light over the mountain.This is the ideal place for visitors to spend some peaceful & quality time.The tourism department has built some resting sheds, park & cafeteria.

Banjhakri Falls

Banjhakri Waterfalls Park is situated at 7 km from Gangtok town.It is a landscaped park & contains man made lake , footbridge, paved pathways.The forest spread out over 2 acres of forestland.A shamanic deity is consecrated inside the park & it is known to all,God Shamanic is the founder of Nepali shamanism.Banjhakri falls is sourced from freshwater springs.The soothing hum of waterfalls is uplifted in the morning time and it is really euphonious & enjoyable.The park is lightened by the solar powered lamp.

Ban Jhakri means jungle priest.Local belief says that the first jhakri or shaman acquired the power from God to subdue the evil spirit.However he required the right boys & teach the technique secretly in forest cave.After the training the boys became jhakris and applied there techniques to bring the evil spirit under control.There are so many figurines inside garden which depict the Jhakri mythology.This park is also known as Energy Park.this is the ideal place for picnic.

Ranka Monastery

Ranka Monastery also known as Lingdum Monastery, the Ranka Monastery which follows the Zurmang Kagyud lineage of Buddhism is situated at a distance of 20 km from Gangtok. The magnificent monastery is spread over a vast area and provides enchanting views to the tourists. Considered as one of the most significant and glorious monasteries in East Sikkim .It is considered by the Bollywood Film Industry as one of the preferable shooting spot for it,s regal beauty .

This monastery is surrounded by forested mountains.

There is a 2-storied building with several classrooms for the young lamas to study near the Monastery.Here the young lamas undergo training. During the break, the courtyard thronged with monks, wearing beautiful robes which are red &saffron in color. There are a restaurant and a gift shop on the premises for relaxation.Tourists are allowed to free access almost every part of the monastery.Main Monastery building is located at the inner sanctum.The most interesting part of the building is it’s pagoda top.Inside the prayer room there is a big golden statue of Buddha.Inside the prayer room.The wall of this room is decorated with intricate designs & thankas also hanging on them.Another interesting part is retreat center where the lamas meditate.Outside of the prayer hall tourists get the extended terrace,which is really wonderful.

Ropeway

Ropeway is known to be one of the top thrilling things to do in Gangtok, Gangtok Ropeway offers not only an exhilarating experience but also a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the valley below. Inaugurated in 2003, the double cable zig back ropeway can carry upto 24 passengers and covers a distance of 2 km to and fro. Usually the cable cars are full and you have to wait in line for your turn. But the gorgeous views of the Kanchenjunga peaks and high hilly area on the way is totally worth the wait. Also, since there are no seats inside the cable car, so to obtain a good view standing seat (next to the glass pane), you will have to try and get in first.

The aerial ropeway is 935 m long, from the start to the end point and the complete journey takes a total of 15 – 20 minutes. It has three terminal stations – Tashiling, Namnang or Deorali, the lowest one being at Deorali. You can get on or get down at either of the three stations. The Deorali Station is situated near the Institute of Tibetology and offers beautiful views of the Gangtok market and the township below. As you go higher and higher, there are even better panoramic vistas of the valley below and of the blue hills in the backdrop. Namnang is the central station and the highest one is at Tashiling near the Secretariat.

The Rumtek Monastery

The Rumtek Monastery is one of the largest and most significant monasteries in Sikkim, perched on top of a hill 23 km from Gangtok. Originally called as the Dharma Chakra Centre, it belongs to the Kargyu sect of Buddhists who originated in Tibet in the 12th century. Verdant green mountains surround the monastery and thus serves as a visual treat besides being a focal point for spiritual solace. If you climb on top to the Rumtek Monastery, you can have a breathtaking view of the whole Gangtok town situated right opposite the hill. Besides this, the architecture of the striking monastery is one of the finest in the world.

The glorious Rumtek Monastery houses a beautiful shrine temple and a monastery for the monks which were established with the aim of spreading the Buddhist teachings around the world. The sublime structure has a walkway around it on which the monks, pilgrims and visitors perform Kora (a circuit round of the monastery). The splendid Rumtek Monastery has preserved a golden stupa and various other sculptures which belonged to the 16th Karmapa. It also serves as the storehouse for many unique objects besides storing some of the world’s unique religious scriptures. The massive prayer hall inside the stunning monastery is a place worth seeing that is decorated with splendid murals, statues and thangkhas.

Nathula

Nathula, one of the highest motor-able roads in the world, is a mountain pass in the Himalayan peaks that connects India with China. Situated on the Indo-Tibetan border 14450 ft. above sea level, Nathu La is one of the most important Himalayan passes in the country. Nathu means ‘listening ears’, and La means ‘pass’. Nathula is one of the three open trading border posts between India and China and is famous for its picturesque beauty and beautiful environment. The temperature here remains low for most parts of the year, and it becomes a hot-spot for tourists during summer.

New Baba Mandir is new constructed shrine of sepahi Baba Harbhajan Singh, who died as he fell from horse back on to a gorge while on duty, is popularly known as Baba Mandir. This mandir, located 50km away from Gangtok, at an elevation of 4000 meters, is worshiped by local people as well as army officials. This Mandir hosts all the memories of Baba Harbhajan Singh. There is an interesting belief about this temple. Baba Harbhajan was an Indian soldier who died near the Nathula Pass. He is revered by the soldiers of the Indian army, who have built a shrine in his honor. Baba is believed to have granted favors to the soldiers, and guard each one in the inhospitable terrain. There is a Old Baba Mandir near Changu (Tsomogo Lake) dedicated to Baba Harbhajan too.

Inside the Baba Mandir, you will come across a large photo of Harbhajan Singh which is worshiped by his devotees. Tourists who come here leave their water bottle for a few days. And collect it later for the belief is that by drinking that water all the wishes come true. Harbhajan Singh’s office has been built on one side of the temple with a dining place. And a room for him to stay at with his uniform and shoes. Though the temple is present on the side of a road, it is surrounded by magnificent mountains thereby giving an amazing view to the tourists. Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple is a must-visit due to the tales associated with the place.

Tsomogo Lake / Chango Lake

Tsomogo Lake is also known as Tsongmo Lake or Chango Lake. It is one of the most famous lake in this route. Altitude of this lake is 12,313ft and situated 40km away from Gangtok. The lake is surrounded by steep mountains which are covered with snow during winter. During summer the snow cover melts and forms the source for the lake. The lake surface reflects different colors with change of seasons and held in great reverence by the local Sikkimese people. The lake which remains frozen in winter season, sometimes extending up to May, receives an average annual precipitation of 1,183 mm (46.6 in) with temperatures recorded in the range of 0–25 °C.

Tsomogo Lake is a glacial lake that derives its water from the melting snows of the mountains around it. This glacial lake is famous for its color changing waters. Monsoons see a bright aquamarine lake whereas, in the winters, it freezes into a translucent cover of ice. As the summer approaches in mid-May, the periphery of this lake is dotted with a thousand blossoming flowers. All thesse lend the waters a riot of vibrant colors.
In the Bhutia language, ‘Tso’ means lake and ‘Mgo’ mean head and essentially means ‘source of the water’, holding immense religious and cultural significance to the Bhutia people. Considered as a sacred lake by the Sikkimese, Changu Lake is associated with many myths and legends. They say the Buddhist monks used to analyze the color of the lake to forecast the future.

Best time to visit

Though Gangtok can access throughout the year but Tsomogo Lake, Baba Mandir & Nathula route is not accessible for 365 days. So you have to considered about those route accessibility and plan accordingly on your Gangtok vacation.

In January – February

From January to February Gangtok is at its coldest; especially in the mountains, but clear skies reward those who brave the low temperatures. The valleys are warmer and sunny with clear views of the incredible Himalaya. Due to colder temperatures, visitor numbers will be lower.

High altitude area specially Tsomogo Lake, Nathula & Baba Mondir road mostly closed due to heavy snow. Difficulty for getting permit on this area. It is ideal for those who want chilled weather and heavy snow. Night temperature may goes near to negative. Travelers may arrested by snow in this time in high altitude. Travelers may visit in this time with sufficient buffer day.

In March

On March Gangtok is at its coldest; snow melting has started in high altitude areas. Temperature may closer to negative sometimes at night. Mountains remain covered snow clapped. The valleys are warmer and sunny with clear views of the incredible Himalaya. Due to colder temperatures, visitor numbers will be lower. You can plan at this time but you can stuck any time at high altitude due to snow falls. Road to Tsomogo Lake, Nathula & New Baba Mondir may close and you may not get permit due to snow.

In April – May

April and May are among the most popular times to travel as temperatures are pleasant. And the valleys are abundant in nature; especially as all the flowers start to bloom. Early April witnesses the Rhododendron, so mountain slope may colorful. It is ideal for photographers and nature lovers Early April you may get snow at Tsomogo Lake, Nathula & New Baba Mondir route.

In June – September

June to September is monsoon season in Sikkim. But monsoon comes in this area little late so any one can visit till mid June. Although showers can occur at night without spoiling daytime explorations. But conditions aren’t ideal for those who want to explore remote areas. Sightseeing is still possible – just prepare yourself with a raincoat. Views are best in the mornings following night-time downpours. It is the best time for mountain shower lover. But landslide can happen any time to spoil your trip. So plan accordingly with sufficient buffer time.

In October

The majority of travelers (around 80%) want to visit Gangtok in October. So plan well in advance to ensure you get your perfect accommodation and good value flights. It is are ideal for offbeat lovers and enjoying stunning views and pleasant temperatures. Expect it to be around 25°C in the sun, but there will be cooler temperatures in the evenings and at higher altitudes.

In November

It is ideal time for those traveler who want mostly clear sky for photograph. So don’t hesitate to plan in this season. This season is famous for mostly clear with blue sky, Snow Clapped mountain & less crowd so anyone can spend their memorable time with your love one.

In December

On December Gangtok weather started cold; especially in the mountains, but clear skies reward those who brave the low temperatures. The valleys are warmer and sunny with clear views of the incredible Himalaya. Due to colder temperatures, visitor numbers will be lower. But from 20th to 31st December Gangtok mostly overcrowded. Tsomo Lake, Nathula & Baba Mandir route close any time due to sudden snow falls.

Gangtok