Modern cityscape, magical streets, vibrant cultural vibes, and spectacular Himalayan vistas. These are the first thoughts that come to my mind while thinking of this beautiful hill station in Sikkim. Much like the entire north-east India, Gangtok is refreshingly different from rest of India. It’s an absolutely adorable city spread across the lower Himalayas. Collecting from the memories of my numerous visits to the city, here’s a list of the best places to visit and things to do in Gangtok.
To some extent, it gives one similar cultural vibes as that of McLeod Ganj in Himachal Pradesh and Tawang in Arunachal Pradesh. However, the similarities are limited to Tibetan Buddhism practiced by its populace, and the Himalayan views. But Gangtok is a much larger city, and also offers the modern city vibes that a hill station needs.
From spectacular mountain views to enchanting waterfalls, from beautiful Buddhist monasteries to historic sites, Gangtok has it all. One can take a day trip to high-altitude passes like Nathu La, or visit Buddhist heritage sites like Ravangla. And come evening, Mahatma Gandhi Marg, at the heart of the city becomes the center of all attractions.
{If you love Sikkim, here’s another destination: Yuksom- Kangchenjunga NP}
The city, and its history:
In the eastern Himalayas, Gangtok spreads over the hills at a height of 1650 meters (~5410 feet). In fact, the literal meaning of Gangtok is hill-top. With a population of over 100,000, Gangtok is not really a small city. From a distance, it looks much like other Himalayan cities like Shimla (Himachal) or Aizawl (Mizoram). But it has a charm of its own.
The known history of Gangtok starts in 1840, when the eighth King- Sidkeong Namgyal built the Enchey Monastery. A little hamlet that it was then, started building up only when Thutob Namgyal made it the capital of Sikkim in 1894.
Gangtok, style in the air:
Much like other north-east cities like Aizawl and Kohima, Gangtok exudes style. The youth and the old alike, people are just stylish in their outfits and manners. It’s a pleasure just observing its locals in the finest and the latest sneakers, sweaters and scarfs. It’s common to hear latest western music playing in street corners. I haven’t seen any other city of wholesome style in India, not even Mumbai, supposedly the fashion capital of India.
Not only the outfits, but the buildings on the streets of Gangtok, they look so elegant and cool! There’s no dull cafe, no ugly street. A walk around the MG Marg, and towards the New Market will give one a feel of a European city. Plus, it’s absolutely neat and clean all over the city. To add to that, the civic sense of the citizens- no honking, abiding by the traffic rules, no unnecessary noise. I find all of these stylish, and classy.
Gangtok, a paradise through the year:
Through out the year, Gangtok remains a paradise. During summer- monsoon months of May to August, it rains incessantly. So, the city hardly experiences any hot wave. Besides, this is why Gangtok remains lush green through out the year. If you want to enjoy rains, Gangtok is one of the best places to be at.
Autumn is pleasant with clear skies before it gives way to a chilly winter. But winter is when scores of travellers come here to experience snowfall and enjoy winter sports. The entire city and the route towards Tsomgo Lake and Nathu La Pass is covered under a thick blanket of snow. Quite an amazing scene!
My numerous trips to Gangtok
My first visit to Gangtok is still fresh in my mind. It was June 2019, monsoon had already set in, and we arrived there one evening from Darjeeling. I didn’t have much idea about weather in Gangtok, nor had I done any proper research beforehand! I was expecting pleasant weather, and bright sunshine. But we were welcome by rains with thunderstorm! Our plan of visiting north Sikkim was a non-starter due to heavy rains. Instead, we planned to take a city tour and visit Nathu La Pass. But even Nathu La Pass road faced a landslide, and we had to be content with a visit to Baba Mandir.
Next time, in April 2024, I was a bit more careful while planning. I travelled extensively across west Sikkim, and came to Gangtok with a hope to visit north Sikkim. But again, I faced disappointment because the roads to north Sikkim was still closed after the cloudburst in the previous season. So, I visited Nathu La Pass and then explored Gangtok a bit more.
This April (2025), I visited Gangtok for the third time. To my good fortune, this time north Sikkim road was open, and I did an amazing trip to the Gurudongmar Lake. On my way back, I stayed in Gangtok for a couple of days, and explored the city thoroughly. Now I can easily say that I have seen all the best places in Gangtok, and have experienced all the quintessential Gangtok things. Hence, I would love to share my experiences with some travel tips for your convenience.
Best places to visit in Gangtok
While visiting a destination, one would like not to miss the most iconic places. Of course, if one has more time, they can visit some offbeat places as well. So, in this article, I will cover the best places (in my view) and offbeat places in Gangtok separately so that one can easily plan their trip well.
Gangtok is known for its Buddhist vibes and mystical charm. Moreover, I find the monasteries in Gangtok among the best in India, both in terms of aesthetics and heritage value. Hence, one must not miss any of the four iconic monasteries and other such Buddhist heritage places there. Plus, Do Drul Chorten (a Buddhist Stupa), Banjhakri waterfalls, Namgyal Institute and MG Marg complete the list of best places to visit in Gangtok.
1. Enchey Monastery:
Being in Gangtok, and not visiting the Enchey Monastery is not a good idea. Because it’s here where the journey of Gangtok as a city began. In 1840, eighth King of the Chogyal dynasty decided to build a shrine at the ancient place of Lama Drupthob Karpo’s hermitage. However, that small shrine was replaced by a beautiful monastery in 1909 by the then Chogyal.
The monastery belongs to the Nyingma- Vajrayana Buddhist sect. Built like a Chinese Pagoda, the architecture of the monastery is a fine balance between simplicity and opulence. In fact, it resembles many a monasteries across Leh- Ladakh. {To know more, check out: Best monasteries in Leh- Ladakh}.
I visited the monastery one fine morning as a stopover on the way to Nathu La Pass. I was fortunate to have the opportunity of having a conversation with some of the Lamas. Observing the morning rituals at the monastery, and witnessing the Lamas chanting in devotion was a surreal experience. So, definitely Enchey Monastery is one of the best places to visit in Gangtok.
2. Rumtek Monastery:
More than 100 years before the Enchey Monastery was established, about 20 kms away, another monastery was established in1734 by Gyurmed Namgyal, the 4th Chogyal. Then known as Karma Chokhor Thubten Ling, it’s now called the old Rumtek monastery. A few hundred meters away, the 16th Karmapa- RR Dorje founded a new building and inaugurated it in 1966. This is known as the new Rumtek Monastery.
The largest monastery in Sikkim, Rumtek is one of the most important shrines for the Kagyupa sect. The main shrine is surrounded by the buildings for the young Lamas who study Tibetan Buddhism here. Painted in maroon, bright golden-yellow, red and white, the massive building looks beautiful and quite impressive.
We visited this monastery on our first trip to Gangtok in June 2019. At the time of our visit, a large number of devotees had assembled there to celebrate the birthday of the 17th Karmapa- Trinley Dorje.
3. Gonjang Monastery:
Established in 1981, the Gonjang Monastery belongs to the Nyingmapa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Tingkye Gonjang Rimpoche, its founder is considered to be a reincarnation of a 15th century Nyingmapa Terton. Apart from its religious importance, the architecture of the monastery is a sight to behold. Typically modelled on the Tibetan architectural style, both exteriors and interiors, and sitting on the edge of a hill, it couldn’t be more appealing to the heart.
Just in front of the monastery, the Himalayan valley offers a spectacular panoramic view. When I visited the monastery in April this year, it was a cloudy day. So, the monastery as well as the valley was under a thick blanket of floating clouds making it look like a scene out of a fairytale.
4. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology:
Established in 1958, the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is one of the two premier institutions preserving Tibetan literature and culture. {The other one is the Norbulingka Institute in McLeod Ganj}. The institute’s eminence and importance can be gauged from the fact that its foundation was laid (1957) by the 14th Dalai Lama, and inaugurated (1958) by Pt. Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India. Hence, undoubtedly, this is among the best places to visit in Gangtok.
Its architecture is so beautiful that it looks more like a monastery than an institution. With two libraries, a museum and a research center, the institution has been serving its purpose aplomb. We visited the institute on a rainy morning, and spent about an hour in its museum. The museum holds a rich collection of Tibetan literature and artefacts.
5. Do Drul Chorten:
Walking about 500 meters from the Namgyal Institute, one reaches a quiet and historic site- Do Drul Chorten. Established in 1945-46, its basically a stupa containing some important holy books and relics of Tibetan Buddhism (Nyingma sect). Surrounding the stupa are 108 prayer wheels, and a monastery for the monks. The monastery houses statues of Guru Padmasambhava and his manifestation.
6. M G Marg:
Along with Mall Roads of Shimla, Mussoorie and Nainital, MG Marg is among the best markets at a hill station. About half-kilometer long from Gandhi statue to the red-panda statue, it’s a no-vehicle zone. Beautiful buildings flanking both sides, the 30-feet wide road is divided by a row of large plant vases. European style street lamps and iron chairs adorn the street.
Moreover, it has amazing vibes, very different in the morning and in the evening. And when it rains just lightly, the rain-soaked walking street becomes even more beautiful. While mornings are peaceful with scenes of visitors feeding the pigeons, evenings are busy with fun in the air. Hence, most of the tourists to Gangtok list it among their best places to visit.
Though I loved walking around the street in the morning, majority of visitors come in the evening. The market has some of the best cafes and restaurants in the city. Shopping lovers will definitely enjoy the myriad Sikkimese hand crafted products, winter wears, Thangka paintings, prayer flags, and organic spices. Also, if you want to party, it’s your go-to place in Gangtok.
Adjoining the MG Marg at the red-panda statue, two roads emerge- the New Market and the Lal Bazaar. While New Market looks and feels almost the same way as MG Marg, Lal Bazaar has a more rustic and old market vibe. One will enjoy walking around these streets/ markets, consuming at least 2-3 evenings.
7. Lingdum/ Ranka Monastery:
Now let’s move to the other side of the hill, exact opposite to the Gangtok main city. Ranka, a sleepy village, just 20 kms away from Gangtok, has a number of tourist attractions. A lovely waterfall (Banjhakri), the Kirat Rai Center and Lingdum Monastery, three lovely places to explore in one village!
A relatively new monastery, Pal Zurmang Kagyud Monastery is popularly known as Lingdum/ Ranka Monastery. Founded by Zurmang Gharwang Rinpoche in 1999, Lingdum Monastery belongs to the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism.
In awe of the hidden wonder:
When I visited the monastery this April, I found it surprisingly empty! Maybe, since it’s a new shrine, it has not captured the imagination of the religious entity. However, the campus and its architecture are absolutely impressive. In fact, this was among the largest monastery-campuses anywhere in India that I have visited.
At the entrance there is a long row of prayer wheels leading to the main gate of the monastery. After climbing about hundred large steps, and passing through the main gate, I reached the courtyard. As I reached there, I noticed a film maker busy in shooting for a spiritual movie. It was interesting to observe the crew shoot the scenes involving a young Lama.
Afterwards, while exploring the main shrine, I met a family from Nepal. Inside the shrine, big statues of the Buddha and Guru Padmasambhava sat exuding serenity. Thangka paintings depicting stories from Buddhist tradition adorned the walls.
Climbing to the top of the shrine, one could have an amazing view of the hills surrounding the monastery. On one side of the monastery, about hundred meters uphill is a hostel for the young Lamas studying there. I wish I had a drone-camera! The view of the monastery sitting over the hills would look majestic. Apparently, not many tourists visit here. However, in my view, this is easily among the best places to visit in Gangtok.
8. Banjhakri Park/ Waterfall:
Not far from the Lingdum monastery, Banjhakri waterfall is a great place to unwind and relax. The three level waterfall is almost 100 feet tall, and quite beautiful. A natural waterfall, developed for tourism purpose like a park, this has become a popular place recently. It was conceived by the then Chief Minister of Sikkim- Pawan Chamling in 2004, while visiting Lingdum Monastery.
Spread over 2 acres of land, the park offers various kinds of fun and amusement options. There are some shopping options and cafes/ restaurants as well.
Best places near Gangtok for a day trip
Once the best places in Gangtok city is done, it’s time to explore the nearby places. Talking about day-trip options, let’s consider those which are within 100 kms from the city. From Gangtok, one can easily go on a day trip towards Nathu La Pass covering Changu lake and Baba Mandir in east Sikkim. Driving towards west Sikkim, one can cover Ravangla and Namchi, another day.
1. Tsomgo Lake/ Changu Lake:
About 40 kms away from Gangtok, Tsomgo, or the Changu lake is situated at an elevation of 12,313 feet. Since it comes on the way to Nathu La Pass, one can do it as a stopover to Nathu La. Best part is that one can visit the lake through out the year. A clear view of the lake in spring/ autumn is as good as a snow-covered lake in the winter. So, it’s obvious that Tsomgo lake is perhaps on every tourist’s list of best places to visit in Gangtok.
{For detailed information on Tsomgo Lake, Nathu La Pass, and Baba Mandir, do check out: Nathu La day-trip}
2. Nathu La Pass:
At 14,140 feet, Nathu La Pass is one of the highest motorable passes in India. However, the other major attraction for Nathu La is that it serves as a border pass with China. From Gangtok, Nathu La Pass is just 60 kms, and takes a two-hour drive to reach there. So, it’s among the most popular tourist places and an easy day trip option from Gangtok. But keep in mind that not always the place is open for tourists. Most part of winter, and some days in the summer- monsoon season, the road to Nathu La remains closed. So, check from your sources if the road is open before visiting.
3. Baba Harbhajan Shrine:
In a lovely valley, 58 kms away from Gangtok, there is this cute little shrine of Baba Harbhajan, or simply Baba Mandir. On the way back from Nathu La Pass, one can take a detour midway to reach Baba Mandir. The death (and afterwards) of Baba Harbhajan, a soldier in the Army, is shrouded in legends. After visiting the temple, one can hike up to a Shiva temple uphill across the valley.
4. Ravangla:
One of the iconic images of Sikkim is the 130 feet high statue of the Buddha in Ravangla. In fact, it’s the biggest attraction of Ravangla for most tourists, and surely among the best places near Gangtok. Towering over Ravangla, sitting in the middle of the Buddha Park, the awe inspiring statue is indeed a marvel.
Apart from the Buddha Park, one may explore other monasteries in the vicinity like the Ralong monastery, and the Bon monastery. During my trip to Ravangla, I visited a number of ancient, not-so-known monasteries in the region. Besides, if you love the landscapes of tea gardens, Temi tea garden is a nice place to visit as well. Approximately 60 kms from Gangtok, Ravangla an easy day trip options.
5. Namchi:
While coming back from Ravangla, one can take a detour to visit Namchi. The major attractions for tourists in Namchi are the Char Dham temple, and Samdruptse hill/ Statue. The Char Dham temple, though doesn’t have a lot of heritage value, is a nicely developed religious complex for tourists. One can see the replica of the major four Hindu pilgrimages- Jagannath, Badrinath, Dwarkanath, and Rameswaram at one place. Apart from the temples, the complex also hosts the replicas of the 12 Jyotirlingas as well.
Over the Samdruptse hill near Namchi, sits a 108 feet high statue of Guru Padmasambhava. Covering both Ravangla and Namchi in one day will take some effort, and a long day.
Beyond the best: Off-beat places to visit in Gangtok
If you have been to Gangtok once, and have seen the best places I mentioned above, it’s time for you to look for other places that one generally overlooks. Here are a few best offbeat places to visit in Gangtok.
- Kirat Rai Center: In Ranka village, while driving towards Lingdum Monastery, you will come across an impressive building on the main road itself. It’s the Kirat Rai Center, or Paruhang Sapten Mangkhim. I had no idea of this place until my driver told me about this. It’s not on any tourist list! But absolutely worth a visit. Inaugurated in 2024, the center houses rich cultural heritage of the Rai people, an ethnic group from Nepal and Sikkim. Apart from its cultural significance, a panoramic view of Gangtok city from its courtyard is an added attraction.
2. Hanuman Tok: Located on a hill top, Gangtok’s highest point, this modest Hanuman temple offers a spectacular panoramic view of the valley, and the city.
3. Ganesh Tok: Just like Hanuman Tok, this is another modest temple with lovely views of the hills around.
4. Himalayan Zoological Park: Basically a zoo, good for a few hours of fun for the children and wildlife lovers.
5. Tashi View Point: Popular for viewing the Kangchenjunga peak.
6. Bakthang Waterfall: Though not that spectacular as a waterfall, still it’s a nice place to hangout.
7. Flower Exhibition Center: Since Gangtok has a pleasant weather through out the year, it’s blessed with flowers, flowers and flowers! So, visit this cute exhibition of flowers, if you are a flower lover.
8. Lal Bazaar: Adjacent to MG Marg, this is among the best places for shopping in Gangtok.
Best things to do in Gangtok
From cultural and spiritual experiences to enjoying natural beauty, or having fun with city vibes, Gangtok is perfect for everything that a traveller loves. Here’s a list of best things to do in Gangtok.
- Explore Tibetan Buddhist traditions: Being in Gangtok, and not having a date with Buddhism is not a good idea. Visit a monastery, or the Namgyal Institute, and talk to the monks there. If you like, there are agencies who organize guided cultural/ heritage walks.
- Gangtok Ropeway: Another must do in Gangtok is taking a cable car ride over Gangtok city. It runs between two hills connected by a ropeway, just above the Deorali and Tashiling markets.
- Evening/ Morning walk at MG Marg: As I said above, both evenings and mornings are great times to take a stroll at MG Marg. Different vibes, but both enjoyable in their own ways.
- Coffee/ tea with Himalayan views: If you are in Gangtok only to have some leisure time, go to one of those viewpoints (Hanuman Tok/ Ganesh Tok/ Tashi), and sit for long hours with a cup of your favorite coffee/ tea, and enjoy the surreal view.
- Forest/ nature walks: If you are a nature lover, take a walk in the forest, or go on a hike.
- Paragliding: If the weather is good, adventure seekers can go for paragliding.
- Snow sports near Tsomgo lake: If you are visiting in the winters, snow sports is a good option near the Tsomgo Lake area.
Gangtok: Travel Tips
A suggested itinerary:
Best time to visit:
Gangtok is generally good to visit through out the year. But avoiding a trip during monsoon months (May- August) is a good idea. Winters are cold, but good for those who love snow fall. So, the best months are October- November, and March- April. First part of May is also good; but rains start early in Gangtok, around late May. So, look out for weather conditions before planning a trip.
How to reach:
- Flight: The nearest airport is at Bagdogra (West Bengal), about 120 kms away. From there, one can take a private taxi or a shared one. But shared taxis are available from Siliguri taxi stand, 10 kms away from Bagdogra. From Bagdogra/ Siliguri, it takes about 4-5 hours to reach Gangtok.
- Train: Nearest railway station to Gangtok is in New Jalpaigudi, about 125 kms away in West Bengal. From there, one can take a private taxi or a shared one.
Where to stay:
Being the state capital of Sikkim, there are plethora of all kinds of accommodations in Gangtok. In my view, best places to stay in Gangtok are around MG Marg. If your hotel is at a walkable distance from MG Marg, you can easily hangout there till late night, or sit peacefully in the morning.
Some budget suggestions:
- Budget Hotel suggestions (Gangtok): Greendale Residence ||| The Golden Crest ||| Muscatel Grand Silkroute ||| Tarayana ||| Great Eastern Valley ||| Pearl Retreat ||| Zip by Spree ||| Rendezvous.
- Hostels/ Homestays suggestions: Mellow Fellow Hostel ||| Tag Along Backpackers Hostel ||| Zostel ||| Zemu ||| Aurahomes Homestay ||| House of Nomad.
How to get around:
Shared taxis ply all around the city from early morning till early evening. During late evenings, one has to hire taxis privately. In order to explore places within the main city, one can take shared taxis. But for nearby places, one has to hire a private taxi.
Shopping in Gangtok:
MG Marg, New Market and Lal Bazaar are great places for shopping. Things to shop: bamboo/ cane craft, Thangka painting, hand-made paper products, local jewelry, organic herbs/ spices.
Where/ What to eat:
For a good culinary experience, head to the restaurants and cafes at MG Marg/ New Market. One can have great Sikkimese, Tibetan, Nepalese and other north-east Indian food.
Some popular cafes/ restaurants:
- Best restaurants/ cafes in Gangtok: Lhasa Newar Kitchen ||| Shuffle Momos (MGM) ||| Lil’ Tibet (MGM) ||| The Local Cafe ||| Baker’s Cafe ||| The Square (MGM) ||| Nimtho (MGM) ||| Taste of Tibet ||| The Coffee Shop ||| Cafe Live & Loud ||| Cafe Fiction.
Final Thoughts
From a traveller’s perspective, it’s not about the best places in Gangtok, it’s about the right experiences. What’s best for me, may not be best for you. So, this article just reflects my perspective; do read about the places I mention here to assess whether they sound great to you.
The places that I loved the most spending time at are the Enchey Monastery, Lingdum Monastery, and MG Marg. Away from the city, I cherish the memories of visiting Ravangla and Nathu La Pass. I have not been able to visit Zuluk, a major silk route destination, some 160 kms from Gangtok. So, the next time, I’ll plan for that. In any case, I love the city as a whole and thus, don’t need an excuse to visit again. But yes, a winter trip to Gangtok is also pending!
If you want to know more while planning, do write to us/ text us.
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