Destinations India > Hill Stations in East India

Gangtok

Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, lies on a ridge overlooking the Ranipool River. Its name means 'High Hill'. The setting is spectacular with fine views of the Kangchendzonga range, but the town itself has lost some of its quaint charm. New buildings dominate the urban landscape. Some parts of the town still has old 5-6 storey wooden buildings with traditional doors and window frames. It is a heavily forested region bounded by the rivers Tista and Tolung, and surrounded by the mountain ranges of Kangchendzonga, Pandim, Narsing, Simvo and Siniolchu. Mid-February to late May and between October and December is the best period to visit Gangtok. Suggested clothing include light woolens in summers and heavy woolens in winters.

Places to visit

Deer Park

The Red Panda and fleet footed deer can be observed in a natural habitat. An imposing statue of the Buddha is situated here. (Open from 8.00 am- 11 am. on working days and 8.00 am. to 5.00 pm. on holidays). Do-Drul Chorten (Stupa) - Encircled by 108 prayer wheels, this is one of the most important stupas of Sikkim, built by Truisi Rinpoche, head of the Nyingma order, containing rare mandalas, of Doli Phurpa (Bajra Kilaya), holy books and mantras.

Research Institute of Tibetology

Renowned worldwide centre for study of Buddhist philosophy and religion, it is a treasure house of rare thankas, statues, over 200 Buddhist icons and prized objects of art. (Closed on Second Saturdays and Govt. holidays).

Orchid Sanctuary

An exotic treat of over 200 species of orchids set amidst beautiful landscape. Situated just below the Institute of Tibetology.

Enchey Monastery

3 kms. from Gangtok, this 200 year old monastery was built on the site blessed by the great tantric master Lama Druptab Karpa, revered for the flying powers accredited to him. Religious masked dances are performed here on special occasions.

Orchidarium

Maintained by the Dept. of Forests, one can see a spectrum of colourful orchids and other rare tropical and temperate plants.

Rumtek Monastery

Situated 24 kms away, this is the seat of the 'Kagyu order' a close replica of the original Kagyu in Tibet. Here one can find some of the most unique art objects in the world. Tashi View Point - Situated 8 kms from Gangtok, this place offers a breathtaking view of the majestic mount Khangchendzonga and Mount Siniolchu.

Situated 24 kms away, Rumtek Monastery is the seat of the Kagyu order, a close replica of the original Kagyu in Tibet. Here one can find some of the most unique art objects in the world.

Phodong Monastery

38 kms from Gangtok, one of the six major monasteries of Sikkim. About 4 kms. from Phodong is the uniquely architectured Labrang Monastery.

Shopping

Reliable shops for local handicrafts are the Govt. Institute of Cottage Industry in Gangtok or the Dalai Lama Trust Fund shop in the basement of Hotel Tibet. These are also available in other shops, but shop around for an idea of prices. You can check out the canvas wall hangings, thankas, prayer wheels, Tibetan carpets, rugs and jewellery, particularly the exquisitely carved dragon sets in silver and gold inlaid with precious stones, which are unique to Sikkim. Sikkim tea and cardamom are other good buys.

Best Season, Climate, and Clothing

The eastern state of Sikkim lies couched between the borders of Nepal and Bhutan. Gangtok became the capital of the state in the 19th century and lies to the south of the district of East Sikkim. It is a hilly town and spreads down the western side of a long ridge flanking the Ranipul River. The entire Kanchenjunga range can be viewed from the town and, in fact, it is worshipped as a local deity. The town experiences a lot of rainfall throughout the year and temperatures are mild. Tourists may visit Gangtok throughout the year. The tourists will need to carry woolen clothing to Gangtok for a comfortable stay.

Best time to visit

Throughout the year

How to get there

Air : The nearest airport is Bagdogra in North Bengal which is 124 kms and approximately 5 hrs. drive from Gangtok. Bagdora has regular Indian Airlines Services from Calcutta and Delhi and also within the North East.

Rail : The two closest railway stations are Siliguri (114 kms.) and New Jalpaiguri (125 kms) connecting Calcutta, Delhi, Guwahati, Lucknow and other important cities in India.

Road : Gangtok is connected by road with Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Siliguri and other centres and also with all the district headquarters within Sikkim. The Sikkim Nationalised Transport plies regular bus services linking these places.