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Gangtok travel guide
Written by Nigilesh on September 28, 2020 Share on

Gangtok Travel Guide

Settled in the mountains, this wonderful capital city of Sikkim, Gangtok is renowned for its normal magnificence and Buddhist religious communities. One can appreciate the views on the whole scope of Kanchenjunga from this peaceful slope station. Indian Nepalis, Lepchas, and Bhutias are significant populace in the city. The languages expressed are Nepalese, Hindi and English. This can be considered as a proper Gangtok travel guide that you need before planning a vacation to Gangtok.

One can appreciate the stunning views on the scenes and relish the nearby foods it offers. Momos, Thukpa, Chowmein, Thanthuk, Fakthu, Wanton, and Gyathuk are to give some examples. The climate is wonderful throughout.

Weather in Gangtok

Weather in Gangtok
Source: Google Images

During its high season, that is from September to June, Gangtok attracts a lot of visitors, but if you’re looking for the best season to explore Gangtok, then the bracing autumn, which is the months of September and October, and from spring to summer, which is from March to June, is the perfect opportunity. Well, anyone planning a wild and adventurous trip to Gangtok during a rainy season should be conscious of landslides, which are often disastrous.

1. Winter Season in Gangtok

The winter temperature in the locale midpoints between 4 °C (39 °F) and 7 °C (45 °F). Snowfall is very uncommon in the area and freezing is likewise uncommon. In winters, the temperature arrives at the very least at 4°C. It is additionally considered as the best opportunity to visit Gangtok.

2. Summer Season in Gangtok

Gangtok normally has a fair climate all year round. Mercury levels typically range from an average of 22 ° C in summer. The area is undergoing its summer season from March to June.

3. Monsoon Season in Gangtok

The storm season begins from June to September. This season is described by profound heavy rains that frequently causing landslides also. The rainfall starts off gradually in the start of may and transforms into a high-intensity storm during the monsoon season.

How to Reach Gangtok

Gangtok being an esteemed Buddhist ritual centre in India as well as a perfect hill station for leisure travellers surrounding some high elevation lakes and mountain passes is well linked by road to other gigantic hill stations as well as nearby towns. Through these three ways, you can reach Gangtok,

  • By Air
  • By Rail
  • Via Road

1. How to Reach Gangtok by Air

Unless you plan to reach Gangtok by airway, the nearest airport is Bagdogra, West Bengal. The travel length between Bagdogra and Gangtok is approximately 124 km. This major airport is well linked to all major Indian cities. One can also opt for helicopter services run by the Sikkim tourism department, which provides regular services from Bagdogra to Gangtok and will only take around 20 minutes to get there.

Nearest Airport: Pakyong Airport, Pakyong

2. How to Reach Gangtok by Rail

The closest rail lines are located in New Jalpaiguri, New Jalpaiguri, 117 km from Gangtok. The train station is well connected to both primary and secondary parts of the country. Most of the tourists choose to get to Gangtok by train.

3. How to Reach Gangtok by Road

Gangtok is well connected by road to Siliguri, Darjeeling and Kalimpong as you can choose National Highway 31A to reach the city. There are a number of daily Sikkim public transport busses that operate its services connecting Gangtok and Siliguri. You can also hire private busses, jeeps and taxis from Siliguri and Bagdogra.

Places To Visit In Gangtok

The list of best places to visit in Gangtok is so vast that zeroing in on one is a challenging job. Nonetheless, having one ready could help. Here are the finest-short-listed places to visit in Gangtok:

  • Rumtek Monastery
  • Nathula Pass
  • Tsomgo Lake

1. Rumtek Monastery

Rumtek Monastery
Source: Google Images

The Rumtek Monastery is amongst the most famous sites to visit in Sikkim, Gangtok. The monastery belongs to the Kagyu sect of Buddhists who began living in Tibet in the 12th century. It is one of the most popular and most beautiful monasteries in Sikkim. Design and structure are identical to the original one in Tsurphu, Tibet. The Rumtek Monastery is situated in the Dharma Chakra Center near Gangtok. Make sure you rest here on your journey to the glorious Gangtok and get some nice memories back.

2. Nathula Pass

Nathula Pass
Source: Google Images

Situated at an elevation of 14,450 ft, Nathu-La is the main corridor connecting India and Tibet. Passing through the serene Tsomgo Lake, it is one of the most popular tourist spots in Gangtok. It has one of the highest motorized roads in the world that makes it an excellent adventure spot. The height of the Nathula Pass is 4310 meters. Also, entry to this area is limited and one must be permitted to enter Nathu La from the zoning office. You ‘re going to be overwhelmed at the beauty of this place.

3. Tsomgo Lake

Tsomgo Lake
Source: Google Images

Situated off the Gangtok Nathu La highway at an altitude of 12,400 ft, Tsomgo Lake or Changu Lake, the glacial glory of the Sikkim hills is one of the many beautiful places in Gangtok. The royal blue water of the pool, the mystical history and the serenity of the location are completely hypnotic. One didn’t want to miss Tsomgo Lake among the other beautiful places to visit in Gangtok. You’ll be astonished at the mesmerizing beauty of this place and the generosity of Gangtok ‘s residents.

4. Hanuman Tok

Hanuman Tok is also among the best places to visit in Gangtok. This age-old Hanuman Temple, situated at an inclination of 7,500 ft, provides the best view of Khangchendzonga from Gangtok. It’s not the religion, but the serenity of the location that has drawn visitors for years. You’re supposed to hit this place in the daytime and spend some quality time here relishing under the sun and the positive feelings that these places give off. Hanuman Tok is more than any other place in Gangtok at all. You ‘re going to feel like you’ve reached a zen-like condition here.

Want to understand a bit more about the destination? We at Pickyourtrail have destination experts who are more than willing to tailor your vacation plans according to your needs. What are you waiting for? Check out tour packages curated specially for you. For more insights on the destination check out our guides page.

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