15 beautiful must-see tourist places in Gangtok


Northeast tourism is different compared to other countries. Mountains, spectacular Himalayas in the background and unique cultural heritage Gangtok tourist places offer everything you need to see. Tourist places include cultural heritage sites and ancient monuments, beautiful landscapes. The best part is that you can see the entire area at once. Read this article for more information about Gangtok tourism as well as other places you should visit during your vacation.



  Best Places to Visit in Gangtok:


If you are looking for Sikkim-Gangtuk tour then you are at right place. Gangtok has many tourist attractions to visit. Among the places we have listed below are the top 15 Gangtok tourist spots that will give you an amazing trip to remember for a lifetime. Read on to know more about tourist attractions close to Gangtok.








1. Himalayan Zoological Park:

This zoo is the first thing that comes to our mind when we think of places close to Gangtok. Himalayan Zoological Park is one of the most popular Gangtok attractions. The park is spread over 230 acres of forest and provides a pleasant environment for Sikkim's wildlife, especially the endangered red panda. Abundant natural habitats ensure residents an environment with little disturbance from external sources. It is an ideal place for wildlife lovers.

Highlights of the tour: Goral Himalayan Palm Civet Red Panda, Snow Leopard Cat, Black Bear Animals kept in natural surroundings with a variety of flora and fauna and the list goes on.

Things to do: Take in the diversity of flora and fauna maintained in safe and natural conditions.

Best time to visit: Throughout the year especially from January to March.

Peak season: April and May

Nearest City: Gangtok

How to reach: Local taxis can be found at market places including shared taxis. You can also contact tour operators. But to reach Gangtok, one has to go to Bagdogra or Pakyong airports and transfer to Gangtok by taxi.

Languages spoken: English, Hindi, Nepali and Sikkimese and a few also speak Tibetan.

Ideal Visit Duration: A full day should be devoted to the zoo due to the wide variety of animals.


2. Somgo Lake:

Top of the list of things to do in Gangtok is this gorgeous lake. A glacial lake above 12,000 feet. Lake Tsomgo is a popular tourist destination, although permits are required as the lake lies within a restricted zone. The lake is considered sacred to the locals and there is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva near the lake shore.

Highlights of the Tour: You must get permission to visit this beautiful and beautiful lake near the Nathula Pass on the China border.

Things to do: Visitors to the lake can take a yak ride, which is only available at Tsomgo Lake.

Best time to visit: April and May

Peak Season: It is winter and the lake is frozen. During summer the lakes are filled with blooming flowers.

Nearest City: Gangtok is the nearest city.

How to reach: Contact the tour operator to get the permit and get a taxi or shared taxi from the tour operators themselves.

Languages spoken: English, Hindi, Nepali, Sikkimese and some Tibetan language is also spoken.

Ideal trip duration: One day. It is definitely one of the best places in Gangtok.


3. Rumtek Monastery:

Next among the most important tourist attractions in Gangtok is this Math. Rumtek, also known as the Dharma-Chakra Center, is a famous Buddhist monastery near Gangtok. First built in the sixteenth century, the building was destroyed and restored in 1966 during the reign of the 16th Karmapa. The largest monastery in Sikkim is home to a group of Tibetan monks, as well as an important shrine, retreat center, monastic college and an ancient golden stupa containing relics of the 16th Karmapa.

Highlights of the Tour: The entire monastery exudes serenity and is held in high esteem by Buddhists around the world.

Things to do: Enjoy the serenity of the atmosphere and admire the beautiful architecture and stupa.

Best time to visit: The most ideal time to visit these tourist places in Gangtok is between December and April.

Peak Season: April and May are the peak time to visit this place.

Nearest City: These tourist places are the nearest place to Gangtok city.

How to reach there: You can take a shared taxi or a private vehicle available in the markets to reach this place.

Languages spoken: English, Hindi, Nepali, Sikkimese and some Tibetan language is also spoken.

Ideal Trip Duration: The ideal duration for the trip is a maximum of two hours that can be allocated to this location.


4. Saramsa Garden:


Next on our list of things to see in Gangtok is this amazing garden. Established in 1922, the park has grown into a major tourist attraction since it was opened to the general public. Since the garden's inception, it has seen the growth of a variety of fruits cultivated by the colonial authorities in the area and also growing a plant used for medicinal purposes and as a result, it has become more popular. Like the Ipecac garden. The garden was later transformed into an Orchidarium in 1975. It is dedicated to cultivating different types of orchids. It's a well-known theme park in the town of Gangtok.

Tour highlights include: Highlights from: Take a look at this amazing garden that features a wide range of plants, including orchids and other species.

Things to do: You can visit the entire place in Gangtok by taking photos that help to convey the amazing beauty of the amazing place.

Best time to visit: December to March

Peak season: April and May are the most popular times to travel

Nearest City: Gangtok is the nearest city.

How to reach there: You can take a uninvolved or private taxi to reach this place.

Languages spoken: English, Hindi, Nepali, Sikkimese and some Tibetan language is also spoken.

Ideal tour duration: A minimum of two to three hours is required.


5. Tashi View Point:


One of the most popular places to visit in Gangtok is this spectacular sight. Tashi view point is an ideal place to enjoy the magnificent and breathtaking panorama of Mount Kanchenjunga. On clear days, you can see the famous mountain range up close. A beautiful view of Fodong along with Labrang Monasteries can be seen from the hill opposite this place.

Highlights of this tour: You can see Kanchanjunga from this place.

Things to do: Things to do in top tourist spots in Gangtok where you can see and appreciate the beauty of the landscape. Additionally, the small market near the viewpoint is also a great place to buy souvenirs.

Best time to visit: October to February

High season: Peak season from April to June.

Nearest City: Gangtok is the nearest city to this region.

How to reach there: The best way to reach this place is to take a taxi from the markets as you won't find many alternative transport options in the area.

Languages spoken: English, Hindi, Nepali, Sikkimese and some Tibetan language is also spoken.

Ideal Tour Duration: 1 to 2 hours is ideal for a tour.


6. Do-Drul Chorten Stupa:

Do Drul Chorten is the most famous and largest stupa in the state of Sikkim, not only for tourists but also for faithful pilgrims from all over the country. It is definitely one of the top tourist places in Gangtok. Built in 1945 and built by Trulshik Rinpoche, this stupa houses relics of holy scriptures and other religious objects.


Some highlights from the tour: The sacred Stupa is adorned with 108 prayer wheels and gold plating which is the height of its beauty.

Things to do: The ancient shrines and the peaceful atmosphere around the area should be part of the list

Best time of year to visit: October to March.

Peak season: April to June.

Nearest City: Gangtok

How to reach there: To reach there you need to take a private taxi.

Languages spoken: English, Hindi, Nepali, Sikkimese and some Tibetan language is also spoken.

Ideal travel time: 2 hours


7. Hanuman Tok:

It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, Hanuman Tok is one of the most famous temples and tourist places in Gangtok, India. It is manned by the Indian Army and situated at a high point, it offers a magnificent panorama of the valley below and the surrounding Himalayan beauty.

Highlights of the tour: The peaceful atmosphere and picturesque backdrop make this place great

Things to do: Clear temple grounds allow photographers to take great photos. It is also possible to buy souvenirs in the temple, there are many shops around.

Best time to visit: November to March

Peak season: April and May

Nearest City: Gangtok is the nearest city.

How to reach: To reach this popular tourist destination in Gangtok city, you must use private transport from any local market or from your place of stay within the city.

Languages spoken: English, Hindi, Nepali and Sikkimese and a few also speak Tibetan.

Ideal travel time: 2 hours


8. Enche Monastery:


Another one of the most famous tourist places in Gangtok Sikkim is Mche Ashram. This 200-year-old Enche Monastery is the oldest in the region. Not only is it small, but it is also considered sacred by Buddhists who believe in the guardian deities who reside in Kangchendzonga and Yabdian. It is one of the must-see places in Gangtok city.

Highlights of the Tour: Perched on a hill slope, this monastery offers a breathtaking view of the Kanchenajanga peak. It is surrounded by a serene environment that is spiritually inspiring.

Things to do: Enjoy relaxation and tranquility in the monastic environment. Relax and unwind.

Best time to visit: December to March of the year

Peak season: April to June

Nearest City: Gangtok is considered to be the nearest city.

How to reach: To reach this tourist spot in Gangtok Sikkim, one needs to take a private taxi from the tour operators.

Languages spoken: English, Hindi, Nepali and Sikkimese and a few also speak Tibetan.

Ideal Trip Duration: Ideal duration for trip 2 hours is the ideal time required to stay here.


9. Seven Sisters Falls:

An important place to visit is Gangtok, with seven waterfalls located close to each other and spread over seven different stages. It is a wonderful sight to behold. The waterfalls are in full bloom during monsoons. A set of stairs takes you to the top of the falls where you can take amazing pictures of the magnificent falls as well as the surrounding views of Mother Nature. Seven Sisters Falls is one of the most sought after and breathtaking Gangtok sightseeing spots.

Some highlights of the tour: The beautiful and green scenery makes this place stand out among the tourist spots in and around Gangtok.

Things to do: From here you can also see Bhanjakri Falls and Tashi View Point. Relax and enjoy the beauty of the view and browse the small market next to the falls.

Best time to visit: May to July during monsoon.

Peak season: April and May

Nearest City: 32 km from Gangtok Falls.

How to reach there: The most amazing places in Gangtok can be visited by private transport from the city.

Languages spoken: English, Hindi, Nepali, Sikkimese and some speak Tibetan.

Ideal Tour Duration: Three to four hours is the ideal tour duration.




10. Nathu Law:

It is one of the most important and desirable destinations to visit in Gangtok. People love the views of this area, which is why it is considered one of the most popular tourist spots in Gangtok. It is near the Chinese border and one can see the Indian Army and the Chinese Army on the opposite side. Gangtok has a special significance among all tourist places. Nathu La is well-known for both its lengthy history and rich cultural legacy.

Tour highlights: It's essential to wander and take in the high altitude. It was a whole other kind of encounter.

Activities: There are a lot of lakes, mountains, and other bodies of water. It is regarded as one of the most breathtaking locations in Gangtok and one of the most well-liked tourist destinations in the city.

Best time to visit: April to June

Peak season: May and June

Nearest City: Gangtok

How to get there: Take a private taxi or share a taxi with tour operators. A permit is required to enter this location which the tour operators can arrange for you. Contact them before the day and submit identification documents.

Languages spoken: English, Hindi, Nepali, Sikkimese and some Tibetan language is also spoken.

Ideal tour duration: All day.


11. Pemayangtse Monastery:


Among all the monasteries in Gangtok, one of the most spectacular places in and within Gangtok. The atmosphere of this place is amazing and it is the main reason why people visit this place more and more. People like monks as well as ordinary people are looking to quit their job and start a whole new chapter in their life. It is a fascinating place and terrifying at the same time. The architecture of the monastery attracts the inhabitants and makes them feel that they can live here for the rest of their lives.

Highlights of this tour: This monastery offers guests spectacular views and a peaceful setting. It is one of the places where people go to find eternal peace after satisfying all their desires for luxury and wealth.

Things to do: A visit to this place is a must as it is a great place to experience the serenity of the place and the amazing architecture that surrounds it.

Best time to visit: November to April

High season: Peak season from April to June.

Nearest city: Gangtok city is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Gangtok.

    How to reach there: How to access the best tourist spots in Gangtok by taxi You can take taxis from any part of the market in the city.
      Languages spoken: English, Hindi, Nepali and Sikkimese and a few also speak Tibetan.
        Ideal Tour Duration: Two hours to explore this popular tourist destination in Gangtok, India.

          12. Khecheopalri Lake:
            There are many places to explore in Gangtok and this is one of the most popular.  The lake has the nicest views, drawing tourists from all over the world to this spectacular body of water. The spectacular beauty of the lake is amazing, and visitors are often attracted by the large crowds that gather to experience the attraction. The attraction's popularity attracts even the most disinterested visitors.
                Highlights of the Tour: The natural beauty surrounding this lake is amazing and is believed to be one of the main motives behind the attraction of this amazing lake. Buddhists in the region consider the lake sacred.
                  Things to do: If you are looking for more to see in Gangtok, this is a must visit place, relax in this scenic beauty and atmosphere.
                    Best time to visit: Monsoon season from July to October is one of the most ideal times to observe it.
                      Peak Season: April and May are the peak season here
                        Nearest City: Gangtok is the nearest city. If you are wondering how to get to and from Gangtok, you can fly to one of the airports, Bagdogra or Pakyong airports and then take a taxi to Gangtok.
                          How to reach there by taxi: From any place in Gangtok to reach this site
                            Languages spoken: English, Hindi, Nepali, Sikkimese and some speak Tibetan.
                              Ideal Tour Duration: This place takes two hours.

                                13. Fodong Monastery:

                                  You can visit various ashram places in Gangtok. The second thing you should visit in Gangtok is the beautiful Fodong Monastery. But it is of particular importance. The monastery is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and the overall atmosphere is peaceful. This may be regarded as one of the main things that draw visitors to this location.



                                  Highlights of the tour: Include the monastery, which is regarded as one of Gangtok's most well-liked tourist destinations and has great historical value.

                                  Activities: It's worth visiting the stunning architecture and the breathtakingly lovely scenery that serve as the monastery's backdrop.

                                  Best Time to Visit: November through May are the best months to visit this area.

                                  Season of peak: April to June

                                  Most Close City: Gangtok

                                  How to get here: To go to this location, use a taxi.

                                  Spoken languages: Include English, Hindi, Nepali, Sikkimese, and a bit of Tibetan.

                                  Perfect Journey Duration: A minimum of two hours must be spent in the region.



                                  14. Tibetology Institute of Namgyal:



                                  It is both a well-known museum and an old Buddhist monastery. One of the most crucial things to do in Gangtok is this. The city's rich and diverse culture attracts visitors from all over the world. This place is home to some amazing scenic beauty. It is considered to be one of the institutions where you can enjoy your time in prayer and get uplifted. It is a place full of religious feelings and a wonderful atmosphere that immerses the visitors in its stunning beauty.
                                    Some highlights from the tour: The site promotes research into Tibetan religious beliefs, language and traditional culture.
                                      Things to do: Enjoy this beautiful architectural beauty and stunning backdrop amidst some lovely markets nearby.
                                        Best time to visit: The best time to visit Gangtok and this place is between November and April.
                                          Peak season: May and April
                                            Nearest City: Gangtok
                                              How to reach: To reach there, one must take a private or shared taxi from the city.
                                                Languages spoken: English, Hindi, Nepali, Sikkimese and some Tibetan language is also spoken.
                                                  Ideal travel time: 2 hours







                                                    15. Ranka Monastery:


                                                    We end with Ranka Monastery, one of the best places you should visit in Gangtok. It is one of the most revered and famous monasteries in Gangtok. There are many things such as peace, awareness etc. that this ashram allows you to experience. It has been described as one of those places where you feel a sense of eternal peace and the feeling that you have completed your journey. And now able to rest in peace.
                                                      Some highlights of this tour: The peaceful atmosphere of this place makes them feel close to God. The monastery is big and has a lot of amazing beauty.
                                                        Things to do: Enjoy the architecture and beauty of the landscape along with the delicious food and market stalls in the area
                                                          Best Date to Visit: One of the most popular places to visit in Gangtok, the most ideal time to visit is between November and April every year.
                                                            Peak Season: Runs between April and May.
                                                              Nearest City: Gangtok
                                                                How to Reach: How to reach the destination by taking a taxi or hiring a car from a tour company.
                                                                  Languages spoken: English, Hindi, Nepali and Sikkimese and a few also speak Tibetan.
                                                                    Ideal Trip Duration: At least three hours should be allocated to this destination

                                                                      Additional Tips for Tourist Places in Gangtok:
                                                                        For Gangtok tourism, the best time to go is throughout the year, but it is best to go in winter between December and February to enjoy its splendor under the snow, which will leave you speechless with its beauty.
                                                                          Make sure to get permission to visit Somgolek and Nathula the day before when you plan to visit this area. You can find tour operators located on MG Road in the city
                                                                            Be sure to carry medication for high altitude sickness.
                                                                              In general, there are no concerns about safety as far as enjoyment of the city is concerned. However, it is always safe to be cautious
                                                                                There are a variety of Gangtok attractions, all locations can be accessed by hiring a taxi or share taxi from the markets.
                                                                                  Many tourist spots in Gangtok are usually crowded during peak hours between April and June as it is the peak season of summer and holiday season.
                                                                                    Accommodation in Gangtok can be easily reached with the help of various options. Gangtok has a variety of great places to stay, ranging from budget to luxury lodging options in town. There is also a homestay that you can check out in Gangtok.
                                                                                      The temperature can be very cold and chilly, especially near Nathula and Tsomongo Lake, because of the high altitude, the temperature can drop to minus temperatures and vice versa, so make sure you wear warm clothes.
                                                                                        Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim nestled between clouds and mountains. It is a wonderful hill station. There are many tourist attractions in the vicinity of Gangtok Sikkim as we read in this article. There are places to see in Gangtok in one day and places to see in Gangtok in two days. You can plan your trip according to your schedule and time. Top tourist attractions in Gangtok are described in the above post. Make sure not to miss any of these amazing tourist spots in Gangtok discussed in this article.

                                                                                            Frequently Asked Questions and Answers:
                                                                                                1. Are there any special places to visit in Gangtok this month of January?
                                                                                                  Most places in Gangtok are open throughout the year. Lakes like Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass are best visited in the month of January if you want to visit these lakes. Other destinations to explore in Gangtok are Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park, Do Drul Chorten Monastery, Flower Exhibition Center - Ridge Park, Gangtok Ropeway, Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden, Lyngdom Monastery, Kyongnosla Alpine Saramsanctuary.
                                                                                                      2. Are these places friendly people or should we be concerned about scams or thefts at these popular tourist spots?
                                                                                                          There is no need to worry about security or safety in this place. North East is a very welcoming region which is ideal for women who have single travel plans. People living here are very friendly and helpful.
                                                                                                              3. How can I reach Gangtok within your budget?
                                                                                                                  It is also possible to check the train routes to Gangtok by first traveling to Siliguri at New Jalpaiguri Junction in West Bengal. There are various options to reach Gangtok near the railway station including taxis, shared taxis or shared cabs. It may take 4 to 5 hours depending on traffic. The nearest airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra in West Bengal.