Gangtok gained prominence as a Buddhist pilgrimage site in the early 1980s. Today, it is one of the most visited cities in Northeast India owing to its breathtaking natural beauty and religious significance. If you are planning a holiday in Gangtok, you must have at least 10 days to explore the top places in and around the city. The growing popularity of the destination has also given rise to a number of hotels in Gangtok. You can choose from a variety of options, depending on your budget and itinerary. Remember that most of the restaurants in Gangtok are on MG Road. If you stay anywhere else, you’ll be dependent on the hotel’s restaurant. So choose wisely!
Nathula Pass, Gangtok
A part of the ancient Silk Route between India and Tibet, Nathula Pass is bestowed with natural beauty and stunning scenic views. Driving through its steep, slippery slopes, up to an altitude of 14,140 ft., will make for quite an adventure. Nathula Pass sees a large number of tourists during summer and autumn. Winters might not be the best time to visit as the temperatures are quite low, and the route is often closed due to heavy snowfall. The road remains closed for public on Mondays and Tuesdays, so make sure you plan your itinerary accordingly.
MG Marg, Gangtok
MG Marg is the center of all activity in Gangtok, and it’s on your itinerary by default! However, if you have an extra day or a couple of hours to spare, do spend time in this vehicle-free zone to learn and explore the way of life in Gangtok. This buzzing market is home to a number of shops, some of which have been there since decades along with many restaurants, cafes and souvenir stores.
Rumtek Monastery
The Rumtek Monastery, perched on a hilltop near Gangtok, is one of the largest monasteries in the state of Sikkim. Once known as the Dharma Chakra Centre, this glorious monastery is built in traditional Tibetan style. The three-storied building encompasses a splendid prayer hall with tangkhas, statues and stunning murals, the golden stupa of the 16th Karmapa and many other unique objects and religious scriptures. Belonging to the Kargyu sect of Buddhists, this ancient monastery is known for one of world’s finest architectures and it stands beautifully against the backdrop of majestic hills and waterfalls.
Tsomgo Lake
If you have enough time to visit just one place in Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake it is! Located at 12,400 ft. above sea level, this high altitude lake sits amidst mountains and derives its water from their melting snow. The unparalleled beauty of the site is absolutely mesmerizing. A striking feature of the lake is that it changes color with every season. It remains frozen during winters, but the snow around is replaced by blooming flowers in summers. Legends reveal that Buddhist monks used to study the lake’s color to forecast the future in olden times.
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