Snowy highlands, serene lakes, and attractive valleys: Gangtok’s stunning landscapes form a magical collage that attracts tourists from all over the world. The capital city of Sikkim is a beautiful mountain station located in the lap of the eastern Himalayas. With the kind of natural beauty that Gangtok has, it becomes charming to prevent one from exploring these beautiful places to visit in Gangtok.
Top 32 Places To Visit In Gangtok in 2020
List of places to visit in Gangtok. Concentrating on one is a difficult task. It had one ready that could help. Here are the 30 shortlisted Gangtok places to visit.
1. Nathula Pass
Located at an altitude of 14,450 feet, Nathu-La is the main corridor of the passage between India and Tibet. On the way Passing by the tranquil lake Tsomgo. Tsomgo is one of the most important places to see in Gangtok. It has one of the most manageable roads in the world that makes it a popular adventure destination. The height of the Nathula Pass is 4310 meters. Access to this area is restricted and entry permits are needed from the area office to visit Nathu La. You will be surprised by the beauty of this place.
Timings: There are no opening hours as such. The pass is open to the public from Wednesday to Sunday.
How to get there: High season April to June and October to November). The shared vehicle would cost around INR 900 per person for Nathula, including the permit fee.
Things to do: walk along international borders, ride a bike and see Chinese soldiers in action
2. Rumtek Monastery
Rumtek Monastery is one of the most popular places to visit in Sikkim, Gangtok. The monastery belongs to the Kagyu sect of Buddhists who began living in Tibet in the twelfth century. It is one of the most important also magnificent monasteries of Sikkim. The style and structure resemble the original located in Tsurphu, Tibet. Rumtek Monastery is located in the Dharma Chakra Center near Gangtok. Be sure to stop by on your trip to the magnificent Gangtok and recover some pleasant memories.
Timings: At the time of the summer season of 10:00 a.m. at 5:00 p.m. in winter, from 8:00 a.m. at 5:00 p.m.
How to reach: you can use a taxi or a bus at the airport to the Rumtek monastery. The total distance from the airport to the monastery is about 34 kilometers and it takes an hour and a half to arrive by taxi.
Things to do: Exploring the golden Stupa, downhill hiking, and several other ancient and historical monasteries
Suggested to read: 20 Best Places to Visit in India in 2020 (Updated)
3. MG Road, Gangtok
MG Road is the heart of Gangtok and its busiest places to visit in Gangtok. It is the central commercial center of this beautiful state capital with several shops, restaurants, and hotels aligned on both sides. MG Road is an open mall or boulevard square. which is widely regarded as the city center and is the best shopping destination for tourists. This is a great place to take a quiet walk or just sit on the benches and enjoy the eclectic atmosphere.
Timings: From 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM (Closed on every Tuesdays)
How to reach: The local NE taxi service offers taxi services. Uber and Ola and is a good option. Usually, the cab will leave you a little away from the main market where vehicles are not allowed on MG Road.
Things to do: You can do a lot of shopping from nearby shops. You can hang out in restaurants and bars with friends. Remember one thing smoking is not allowed here and it has a fine if caught.
4. Tsomgo Lake / Changu Lake
Located off the Gangtok Nathu La highway at a height of 12,400 feet, Lake Tsomgo or Lake Changu is a glacial beauty in the Sikkim hills and is one of the many beautiful places in Gangtok. The turquoise water of the lake, the magical backdrop and the serenity of the place are absolutely hypnotic. One cannot afford to lose Lake Tsomgo among many beautiful places to visit in Gangtok. You will be surprised by the hypnotic beauty of this place and the hospitality of the locals of Gangtok.
How to reach: It is located on the steep route known as Jawaharlal Nehru Road that leads to the Nathula Pass.
Things to do: yak and mule rides along the lake, tea, and hot instant noodles in small restaurants, ice skating and a river walk in the winters.
5. Hanuman Tok
It is one of the top places to visit in Gangtok. This ancient Hanuman Temple located at a height of 7,500 feet offers the best views of Khangchendzonga from Gangtok. It has attracted tourists for centuries. You must visit this place. On way spend some time here sunbathing and the spiritual vibrations that these places give off. Hanuman Tok is like nowhere else in Gangtok. You will feel that you have entered a Zen state like here.
Timings: It opens from 7 AM to 5 PM
How to reach: By train, you must stop at Siliguri or New Jalpaiguri train stations.
Things to do: temple walk, place serenity and Khangchendzonga biosphere reserve
6. Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve
This great natural habitat in Gangtok boasts the rich flora and fauna of normal, endangered and almost extinct varieties. Extending over an area of around 850 km2, this biosphere reserve is one of the few high altitude reserves in India with musk deer, snow leopards. The ticket for the reserved bio has a nominal price. You have a great opportunity with your friends and family. Be sure to take them with you to visit this one of the best places to visit in Gangtok.
Timings: 10 a.m. at 6:30 p.m.
How to reach there: Sikkim state transport buses are available between Gangtok and Siliguri. Private buses are available from Siliguri and Bagdogra.
Things to do: animal safaris, hikes, and walks to the reserve, and snow leopard watching.
7. Namchi
Namchi means the top of the sky. Whereas it is one of the tourist places to see in Gangtok that offers a picturesque view of the Khangchendzonga mountain range and the Rangit valley simultaneously. The 135-foot-tall statue of Guru Padmasambhava, perched in the valley at Samdruptse in Namchi, is one of the famous places to visit in Namchi. It is preferred as the best places to visit in the city of Gangtok. Be sure to include Namchi in your itinerary. We promise you will not be disappointed and have a good time here in this beautiful place.
How to reach there: The closest airport to Namchi is Bagdogra Airport, which is about 124 km from Gangtok.
Main attractions: Shedrup Choling monastery, Ngadak monastery, Dechen Choling monastery, rock garden, hiking in the surrounding valley and photograph of the magnificent Khangchendzonga from Namchi
8. Khangchendzonga
Visit Gangtok to get the best views of Khangchendzonga. Khangchendzonga, for those of you who don’t know, is the third highest peak in the world. Especially it is considered the highest mountain in the world before Mount Everest was recalculated. Tashi Viewpoint and Singhik View Point are considered one of the best places for photography. You can go to this place with your polaroids and create memories that you can store for a lifetime. Also, be sure to get to this place before sunrise/sunset to catch the sky in all its splendor.
Timings: From Monday to Saturday (Sunday closed)
How to get there: The nearest train station is Jalpaiguri, about 221 km from Khangchendzonga National Park.
Main attractions: Goeche La, Dzongri, Khangchendzonga National Park and Khecheopalri Lake.
You can read more about Khanchendzonga from here.
9. Do Drul Chorten
If you love peace, spend some time at Do Drul Chorten Stupa. The stupa surrounded by 108 prayer wheels is one of the most popular places to see in Gangtok. Definitely you are looking for serenity should definitely visit the place since there aren’t many people. You can relax and meditate in a quiet environment. The spiritual vibrations you receive from this place will change your day. I recommend that you come to this must visit the place of Gangtok with friends and family.
Timings: 8 a.m. at 6 p.m. every day of the week
How to reach there: It is only 2 km from the city of Gangtok, in the Deorali area.
10. Tsuk La Khang Monastery
The walls, platforms, and slabs of this palatial monastery are extravagantly ornamented with paintings and images of Buddha, Bodhisattva and other tantric idols of Buddhism. All those who follow the path of spirituality and Buddhism should definitely visit the monastery. It is one of the top places to visit in Gangtok. You will be seduced by the glamorous walls of this popular attraction and you won’t want to leave even after spending two solid hours here. The aura that surrounds this place is truly magical, leaving a mark on visitors.
Timings: It opens from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
How to reach there: Tsuk La Khang Monastery is located at a distance of 3 km from Gangtok SNT bus station. You can rent a taxi from here to reach the monastery.
11. Flower Exhibition Centre
Are you a nature lover and looking for everything green? Now pack your bags and visit the Flower Exhibition Center in Gangtok. The exhibition center is located near Ridge Park in Gangtok and hosts the annual orchid show. From March to June, many exclusive varieties of orchids are shown. The beauty of colorful flowers makes it one of the best places to visit from Gangtok.
Timings: From 9 AM to 5:15 PM.
How to reach there: Since the roads in Gangtok are very well connected, you can also access the Exhibition Center.
12. Kabi Longstok
located around 17 km from the north of Gangtok. The small settlement is historically significant since the friendship agreement between the head of Lepcha, Te Kung Tek, and the head of Bhutia, Khey Bum Sar, was signed here. Besides, there is also a small monastery in Kabi. The city has some optimistic cafes, beautiful monasteries, and warm hospitality. Local people warmth hospitality make it another best places to visit in Gangtok.
How to reach there: Regular jeep and taxi services move between Kabi and Gangtok, which takes almost 40 minutes to arrive.
Main attractions: Buddhist monasteries
13. Saramsa Garden
This is a perfect place for families. Although, there is nothing better than a green garden. A picnic and leisure destination, Saramsa Garden is managed by the Sikkim Forest Department. The garden has many species of rare and exclusive plants and offers a picturesque view of the Rani River and the surrounding hills. It is perfect for a small picnic with children and a holiday getaway with the family.
Timings: 8 a.m. at 6 p.m. from Monday to Saturday
How to reach there: A taxi can leave you at Saramsa Garden, which is located almost 45 minutes from the city center.
14. Himalayan Zoological Park
If you are traveling to Gangtok with family, be sure to include the Padmaja Naidu Himalaya Zoological Park in your list. It is famous for pandas, black Himalayan bears, snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, Himalayan palm civets, large Indian civets, and other animals. You will have a lot of fun with your friends and family. Keep a respectable distance from animals and avoid feeding them to ensure their safety and that of animals.
Timings: From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Sunday closed)
How to reach there: The park is located at a distance of about 6 km from Gangtok in Bulbulay. The entrance to the Himalayan Zoological Park is located along a small path, in front of Ganesh Tok. You can take a taxi to get here.
15. Banjhakri Waterfalls
This is a 100-foot waterfall located in a park near Ranka Monastery and is popular with tourists and locals for picnics. All nature lovers and aquatic babies should definitely try. Be sure to come here with your partner and take many pictures against the waterfall with them. Actually, this place is popular with couples for their wedding photo sessions. So make sure you go here!
Timings: From 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Sunday closed)
How to reach there: It is 7 km away from Gangtok SNT bus station.
Main attractions: Ban Jhakri Falls Energy Park
16. Namgyal Institute Of Tibetology
One of Gangtok’s most popular attractions, the Namgyal Institute of Technology, is a mansion that reflects traditional Tibetan architecture and offers information about Buddhist culture. Exhibits cloth paintings, manuscripts, ritual objects, and human bone trumpets. In addition, there is a souvenir shop where you can buy jewelry, souvenirs and more. Don’t think about it anymore, pack your bags and go to Gangtok now.
Timings: From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Sunday closed)
How to reach there: The Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is 2 km from the city of Gangtok. One can hire a taxi to get here in just 10 to 15 minutes.
17. Phurchachu Reshi Hot Spring
The Phurchachu Reshi hot spring is located near a cave called Kadosangphu. It is located about 135 km away from Gangtok. The water that flows from the hot springs is rich in sulfur and has medicinal value. Be sure to visit this place and have a good time with your friends and family. Do not jump into the water without consulting with the authorities. Cheer up and have fun.
Timings: There is no time limitation
How to get there: The spring is located 6 km from Legship, near Reshi, which is about 20-25 km from Gangtok. You can get here by taking a taxi to a certain point after which you must walk for 15 minutes.
18. Pemayangtse Monastery
140 km from Gangtok, the Pemayangtse monastery was built by Lama Lhatsun Chempo in 1705. It is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Sikkim, which has been a popular name among the places to visit in Gangtok for many years. A morning or an afternoon in this monastery is a once in a lifetime experience. Be sure to visit the Pemayangtse monastery during the summers!
Timings: From 9:00 a.m to 6 p.m.
How to reach there: It is 2 kilometers from Pelling.
Main attractions: sculptures and architecture of the old monastery, visiting the remains of Rabdentse, located near the monastery.
19. Khecheopalri Lake
Located at an altitude of 6,000 feet, Lake Khecheopalri is believed and worshiped as a sacred lake that fulfills the wishes of its devotees. The fifteenth full moon day of the first month of the lunar calendar, which is celebrated between February and March, is a feast of mass prayers offered by a crowd full of locals and visitors. You will be surprised by the hospitality of the locals of Gangtok and the general atmosphere of this place.
Main attractions: walks to the surroundings, a visit to the village of Lepcha and glimpses of the native culture and tradition.
How to reach there: The lake is 34 km from the town of Pelling.
20. Yumthang Valley
Located in northern Sikkim, the Yumthang Valley is a paradise on earth, full of natural wonders and picturesque beauty. It is home to a trillion flowers, spectacular mountains, and a serene river, and is often also called the Yumthang Flower Valley as the one found in Uttarakhand. It goes without saying that its impressive and magical surroundings make it a must-see visiting place of Gangtok for all travelers.
How to reach there: It is about 113 kilometers from Gangtok. The city of Lachung is well connected by road.
Main attractions: Trekking along the banks of the Yumthang River through pine forests to a Shiva temple
You may read: 7 Best Himachal Pradesh Destinations That Still Unexplored and Lonely
21. Lachung Valley
Lachung is located at the junction of Lachen and the Lachung River, at an altitude of 9,600 feet. Lachung means small step and this has an Indian army base and has been described by foreign travelers as the most picturesque town in Sikkim. Listed as a strange and picturesque village in Sikkim, Lachung is visited mainly by hikers, photographers and adventure fans. But believe me, this can be one of the best places to visit in Gangtok to all.
How to reach there: Located at a distance of 125 km from Gangtok, Bagdogra Airport is the closest to Lachung.
Main attractions: Lachung Monastery, skiing in Phuni near Lachung.
22. Lal Bazar Gangtok
This Bazaar is a meeting palce of local artisans and farmers from Sikkim where they meet to negotiate, gossip or sell their products. The Bazaar is an ideal place to go shopping in Gangtok. On Sundays, Gangtoks Lal Bazaar is a colorful melody where ethnic groups from different villages meet. Lal Bazaar is located just below the M.G Marg and is within walking distance of most hotels in Gangtok.
You can easily find several useful things in the market. The smell of dried fish, vegetables and cheese permeates the air as you venture through the streets of the market. The bustling bazaar makes it an ideal tourist places of Gangtok.
Timings: From 9 AM to 8 PM
How to get there: It is located near MG Marg.
23. Cable Car Ropeway
Known for being one of the best exciting things to do in Gangtok, Gangtok Ropeway offers not only a stimulating experience but also a panoramic view of the valley from a bird’s eye view. Opened in 2003, the double cable zig cable car can carry up to 24 passengers and covers a distance of 2 km. You can see the magnificent views of the Kanchenjunga peaks and the high mountainous area. I can not forget to mention this place in my list of popular places to visit in Gangtok.
Timings : 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Entry Fee: Rs.110 for adults and Rs.70 for kids bellow 6 years old.
24. Tinkitam
This village located south of Sikkim falls in the Sikip town. Mount Kanchenjunga can be easily seen in the background with rare orchids that grow left and right. If you want to visit this town, you must visit it in the month of October or November, since these rare terrestrial orchids are in full bloom at that time. While this is not exactly a place in Gangtok, it can be an excellent day trip from the region.
How to reach there: About 200 km from Bagdogra airport and 27 km from Darjeeling train station, you can take a bus or rent a taxi to Tinkitam
Main attractions: the rare orchids that grow in the months of October and November.
25. Enchey Monastery
A beautiful temple surrounded by blooming meadows, Enchey Monastery is an important pilgrimage site for many Buddhists. The backdrop of pine trees with Kangchenjunga visible in the distance, Enchey’s meaning is lonely. Just 3 km from Gangtok, this quiet monastery is almost 200 years old and houses around 90 monks. His presence only adds to the wonderful aura of the monastery which makes it the other beautiful places to visit in Gangtok.
Timings: 6 AM – 4 PM
How to reach there: it is only 15-20 minutes from Gangtok; you can take a bus or rent a taxi
26. Seven Sisters Waterfall
The Seven Sisters waterfall is just 32 km from Gangtok, making it one of the most visited places in the region. This is due to the 7 waterfalls that provide on a wide cliff. After a little rain, the area seems to cool; You can even see a cheerful rainbow then. Therefore, the best time to visit the waterfalls of the seven sisters is the rainy season. You can go there for a picnic or just to capture the beautiful landscape that Seven Sisters Falls offers.
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
How to reach there: you can hire a taxi or take a local bus
27. Ganesh Tok
If you are in Gangtok, you should visit the Ganesh Tok Temple, where you can observe the breathtaking views of Kanchenjunga Hill. One of the most exciting and beautiful tourist places in Gangtok. The temple is located on top of a hill. It offers stunning views of Gangtok. Usually, in the winter season, when the city is covered with snow. It is one of the perfect places in the city for photographers and nature lovers.
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
How to reach there: It is located 6 kilometers from the city and can be easily reached by local taxi.
28. Baba Harbajan Singh Temple
The Baba Harbajan Singh Temple is located on the road that passes through Jelepla Pass and Nathu La Pass. The sanctuary was built to respect Baba Harbajan Singh and is believed to protect the lives of soldiers on the border. The sanctuary contains a photo of Harbajan Singh along with prayer materials. I suggest coming with your family at these beautiful places to visit in Gangtok.
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
How to reach: To get to the temple, you must hire a taxi. The temple is located three hours from the city.
29. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary
Your tourist experience in Gangtok will be much better if you plan to visit the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary. Located in the Yumthang Valley, the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is one of the best visiting places in Gangtok. If you are excited to see different species of flowers, you should visit this place and admire the colorful rhododendrons that extend over an area of 43 square kilometers. Some of the species you will find here are Aconites, Gentiles, Saxifrages, Potentillas, and Aconites.
Timings: It opens from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
How to reach there: As this sanctuary is located near Lachung, one has to hire a taxi to get to this sanctuary.
30. Ranka Monastery
If you are looking for tourist places in Gangtok, Ranka Monastery is one of them. It is relatively new compared to other monasteries, so it is not famous among travelers. But if you are looking for a picturesque place with fewer tourists, you should visit this monastery. Also popular as Lingdum Monastery, Ranka Monastery is one of the best places to visit in Gangtok in 3 days.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
How to reach there: You can take a bus from the Gangtok bus stop or rent a taxi to get to this monastery and it is 15-20 kilometers away.
31. Gonjang Monastery
Located just 8 kilometers from the city, you will find Gonjang Monastery near Tashi Viewpoint. To put it from personal experience, honestly, Gonjang Monastery is another Gangtok tourist spot. The monastery is situated at an altitude of 6066 feet. It offers a charming view of Gangtok at the time of snowfall. It houses the idols of Khen-lop Cho-Sum, the founders of Tibetan Buddhism in the eighth century.
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
How to reach there: Being located near the Tashi viewpoint, travelers can easily reach and explore it.
32. Saga Dawa Festival
The Saga Dawa festival is one of the most important festivals of the people of Sikkim and It is celebrated with great enthusiasm in the capital of Gangtok. The Mahayana Buddhist tradition recognizes the full moon day of the fourth month of the Buddhist calendar as the anniversary of the birth of Buddha. The day is celebrated with several names throughout India and abroad. It is said that customs and rituals, which are carried out in memory of the Buddha, will bear fruit for observers in the future.
I hope this article will help you a lot with your next Gangtok trip. Start your planning to one of the most beautiful hill stations in northeast India. Make your next trip to Gangtok immediately, as you don’t want to miss these beautiful places to visit in Gangtok. You will be surprised by the joyful memories that you will earn from this trip. Refresh your body and mind by booking your tickets for the Gangtok immediately.
Images of Gangtok
Few Commonly Asked Question About Places To Visit In Gangtok
Q. What is the best time to visit in Gangtok?
A. Gangtok is such a destination that can be experienced all over the year except for the rainy season. The peak season to visit Gangtok is autumn. From September to November are the best month to visit Gangtok. However, the summer season also an ideal time to visit Gangtok.
Q. Which are the best places to visit in Gangtok in 2 days?
A. The best places to visit in Gangtok in 2 days are Namchi, Hanuman Tok, Rumtek Monastery and Do Drul Chorten Stupa
Q. Which are the top 10 places to visit in Gangtok and Darjeeling?
A. Darjeeling Toy Train, Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling, Ghoom Monastery, Happy Valley Tea Estate, Tsomgo Lake or Changu Lake, Nathula Pass, Namchi, Rumtek Monastery, Yumthang Valley and Hanuman Tok.
Q. Where to shop in Gangtok?
A. Lal Bazaar, MG Road, New Market, and Old Market are very famous places in Gangtok for shopping.
Q. Why is Gangtok Famous?
A. Gangtok is one of the best hill stations for quiet and peaceful places in North-East India. Many beautiful monasteries, cleanliness, and pollution-free hill stations, the wonder of nature, Snowfalls and vibrant lakes which attract tourists from all over the world.
I am Shamik, a blogger from India. I want to inspire people who love traveling or planning their dream trip. I guide them to find comfortable accommodations that feel like a second home. I share my experiences to help you decide where to stay during your travels. After all, a great holiday needs a great place to stay!