The capital of the Indian state of Sikkim, Gangtok, is tucked away in the Himalayas and is a location of unmatched tranquility and beauty. This beautiful hill town is a paradise for nature lovers, adventure lovers, and anyone looking for a quiet retreat from the rush of city life. We’ll take you on a verbal tour of Gangtok in this blog post to help you understand its allure.
Getting There
Let’s first discuss how to go to Gangtok before we see its charms. Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal is the closest airport to Gangtok. To go to Gangtok, which is 124 km distant, you may either rent a cab or take a bus from there. You may alternatively take a train to New Jalpaiguri Railway Station and then go by road to reach Gangtok if you prefer the more picturesque option.
Things to Do in Gangtok
- Take a trip on the Gangtok Ropeway: It is one of the greatest ways to see Gangtok from above. It provides beautiful views of the town and the mountains in the area.
- Visit Monasteries: Gangtok is home to various monasteries where you may learn about the rich spirituality and culture of Buddhism, including Rumtek Monastery and Enchey Monastery.
- Trekking: Gangtok offers some excellent hiking paths if you’re an adventurer. Popular options that will take you through thick woods and unspoiled scenery include the Yuksom-Dzongri Trek and the Goecha La Trek.
- Tsomgo Lake: This high-altitude glacier lake is a marvel to see and is located 40 km from Gangtok. If you go in the winter, you may even be able to walk on the frozen ground!
- Nathu La Pass: If you’re an Indian national and have the necessary permissions, you absolutely must go to Nathu La Pass. It is located on the India-China boundary.
- Taste Local food: Sikkimese food should not be missed. You may enjoy tasty delicacies like momos, thukpa (noodle soup), and phagshapa (pork with radish).
Weather in Gangtok
Because of its year-round mild temperature, Gangtok is a popular travel destination. The beautiful summer months of April through June include temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. This is the perfect time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Heavy rainfall brought on by the monsoon season, which begins in July and lasts through September, may sometimes cause landslides. Temperatures may dip as low as 0°C during the harsh winters that last from November to February. This is the best time to go if you like snowfall. However, owing to sometimes occurring road closures, it is essential to check the weather before making travel arrangements.
Accommodation in Gangtok
It has a wide variety of lodging choices to accommodate various spending limits and tastes. There are opulent hotels and resorts with first-rate services and breathtaking mountain views. High-quality service and pleasant accommodations are offered by mid-range hotels and boutique guesthouses. Consider staying at homestays for a more immersive experience so you may meet the people and benefit from true Sikkimese hospitality. It will be great if bookings for the lodges and hotels will be done in advance to avoid any problems with accommodation later. Your trip to Gangtok will be even more unforgettable because of the many locations that provide breathtaking Himalayan views.
Shopping in Gangtok
Shopping in Gangtok is a fun activity. The town’s main thoroughfare, MG Marg, is a pedestrian-only boulevard dotted with stores and kiosks selling a variety of things. You may purchase trinkets like prayer flags, customary Sikkimese crafts, and handcrafted carpets here. Don’t pass up the opportunity to try and buy Sikkimese delicacies, organic spices, and native teas. In addition, the market has antique stores, booksellers, and contemporary boutiques. You’ll discover that shopping in Gangtok is not only about purchasing stuff but also a cultural adventure in and of itself if you remember to bargain for the best prices.
Conclusion
Whether you are a nature lover, want some peaceful time, or enjoy the culture of Sikkim, Gangtok is a perfect place for all these things. Because of its beautiful natural surroundings, wonderful culture, and lovely people, this place has the heart of a lot of tourists. Visiting this place can be one of the best decisions of your life.
