Welcome to Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim! After your arrival, settle into your hotel and take some time to freshen up. In the morning, head to Tashi Viewpoint to catch breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga range. In the afternoon, visit the Enchey Monastery, a serene Buddhist monastery known for its intricate architecture. In the evening, explore the bustling MG Marg, a pedestrian-only street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Tashi Viewpoint: Free, 1 hour
Enchey Monastery: Free, 1-2 hours
MG Marg: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Park Café: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Park Café, located near MG Marg. This cozy café offers a variety of options including pancakes, omelettes, and traditional Tibetan bread. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Roll House: For a delicious and quick lunch, head to Roll House, a popular local eatery famous for its mouth-watering rolls. Choose from a range of fillings like chicken, paneer, or mixed vegetables. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
The Square: Indulge in a delightful dinner at The Square, an elegant restaurant located on MG Marg. The restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday, February 10: Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir
Today, embark on a full-day excursion to Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir. Start your morning with a scenic drive to Tsomgo Lake, a glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Spend some time appreciating the beauty of nature and taking picturesque photos. Then, continue your journey to Baba Mandir, a revered temple dedicated to an Indian army soldier. Return to Gangtok in the evening and relax at your hotel.
Tsomgo Lake: INR 300 (entry fee), 6-8 hours
Baba Mandir: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Cafe Fiction, a cozy cafe known for its delicious continental and local breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, try Taste of Tibet, a popular restaurant serving authentic Tibetan cuisine. Don't miss their momos and thukpa. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
For dinner, visit The Square, a multi-cuisine restaurant offering a wide range of options from Indian to Chinese and Continental dishes. Enjoy the elegant ambiance and delectable food. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Sunday, February 11: Rumtek Monastery and Hanuman Tok
After breakfast, visit the Rumtek Monastery, one of the largest monasteries in Sikkim. Admire the stunning architecture and immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance. In the afternoon, make your way to Hanuman Tok, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Enjoy panoramic views of Gangtok and its surrounding hills from this hilltop location. Spend the evening at leisure, exploring the local markets or relaxing at a nearby cafe.
Rumtek Monastery: Free, 1-2 hours
Hanuman Tok: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
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Monday, February 12: Nathu La Pass and Changu Lake
Today, prepare for a thrilling trip to Nathu La Pass and Changu Lake. Note that Nathu La Pass requires special permits, so make sure to arrange them in advance. Explore this high-altitude mountain pass, which serves as a trade link between India and China. Enjoy the breathtaking views and the unique cultural blend in the area. Afterward, visit the captivating Changu Lake, also known as Tsomgo Lake, known for its serene beauty. Return to Gangtok in the evening and unwind.
Nathu La Pass: Free (special permit required), 6-8 hours
Changu Lake: INR 200 (entry fee), 2-3 hours
Restaurants
The Coffee Shop: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Coffee Shop, located in the heart of Gangtok. They offer a wide variety of breakfast options, from freshly baked pastries to hearty English breakfasts. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Thali Express: For a flavorful and affordable lunch, head to Thali Express. They serve authentic Indian thalis with a variety of regional dishes. Enjoy a wholesome meal with unlimited refills. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Deck'd: Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Deck'd, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city. They offer a mix of Indian and international cuisines, with delectable dishes like grilled seafood and sizzlers. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, February 13: Gangtok Ropeway and Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
Start your day with a ride on the Gangtok Ropeway, also known as the cable car, offering panoramic views of Gangtok cityscape. Afterward, visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, a renowned research center dedicated to the study of Tibetan culture and history. Explore the museum and its vast collection of ancient artifacts and Buddhist artworks. In the evening, take a leisurely walk around the beautiful Flower Exhibition Center, showcasing a variety of exotic flowers.
Gangtok Ropeway: INR 110 (round trip), 1-2 hours
Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: INR 20 (entry fee), 1-2 hours
For breakfast, head to Cafe Culture, a cozy cafe known for its delicious freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For lunch, try out The Local Taste, a popular restaurant serving authentic Sikkimese cuisine. Don't miss their mouthwatering momos and thukpa. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For dinner, indulge in a fine dining experience at Taste of Tibet, offering a variety of Tibetan and Nepali dishes. The restaurant has a warm ambiance and friendly staff. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Wednesday, February 14: Gangtok Local Sightseeing
Spend the day exploring some of Gangtok's local attractions. Start with a visit to the Directorate of Handicrafts and Handlooms, where you can witness the intricate craftsmanship of local artisans. Continue to the Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park, a serene park with waterfalls and traditional sculptures. Afterward, explore the beautiful Nam Nang Viewpoint, offering panoramic views of the city. In the evening, indulge in a candlelit dinner at a romantic restaurant.
Directorate of Handicrafts and Handlooms: Free, 1-2 hours
Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park: Free, 1-2 hours
Nam Nang Viewpoint: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Baker's Cafe, a cozy cafe known for their delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Enjoy a satisfying lunch at The Square, a rooftop restaurant that offers a wide variety of cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Indulge in a romantic dinner at Parivar Restaurant, known for its serene ambiance and mouthwatering Sikkimese cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Thursday, February 15: Departure from Gangtok
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and bid farewell to the charming city of Gangtok. If time permits, you may visit the Gonjang Monastery, located on a hilltop and offering serene views as a perfect ending to your trip. Depart from Gangtok with beautiful memories of your honeymoon in Sikkim.
Gonjang Monastery: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Cafe Live & Loud. This cozy cafe offers a wide range of breakfast options including pancakes, omelettes, and sandwiches. The average cost for a meal here is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, visit The Roll House. This popular eatery is known for its mouthwatering rolls stuffed with a variety of fillings such as chicken, paneer, and vegetables. The average cost for a meal here is about 150 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, dine at The Square. This upscale restaurant offers a sophisticated ambiance and serves a delectable menu featuring Indian, Chinese, and Continental dishes. The average cost for a meal here is about 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a truly unique and off the beaten path experience, consider visiting the Phodong Monastery, situated in a picturesque location and less crowded than other monasteries. Another hidden gem is the Rumtek Cafeteria, a cozy place near Rumtek Monastery that offers delicious local snacks and stunning panoramic views. Locals also highly recommend a visit to Saramsa Garden, a peaceful retreat with beautifully manicured landscapes and a variety of flora.