Rumtek Monastery, also known as the Dharma Chakra Centre, is one of the most significant monasteries for the Tibetan Buddhists. This peaceful place provides a unique insight into the rich Buddhist culture and architecture, with a mesmerizing large prayer hall, statues of religious icons, murals and thangkas, and a beautiful garden.
Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park is a popular family-friendly attraction that features a picturesque waterfall, lush greenery, a small lake, and several statues of local mythological figures. Visitors can also learn about traditional healing practices and energy conservation efforts in the park.
Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass are two natural wonders that are a must-visit in Gangtok. Tsomgo is a serene high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains, and Nathula Pass is a mountain pass that connects India with Tibet at an elevation of 4,310 meters. Visitors need permits from the tourism department to visit Nathula Pass, but it's worth the extra effort to witness the stunning panoramic view of the Himalayas.
Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park and Research Centre, also known as the Bulbuley Zoo, is an ideal spot for animal lovers and families with children. The park provides a natural habitat for several endemic species, such as red pandas, snow leopards, Himalayan tahr, and Himalayan black bear, and it also acts as a research center for conservation and education programs.
The most convenient way to explore the Gangtok and its surroundings is to hire a shared taxi or a private car. Public transportation options are limited, and the roads can be challenging to navigate for first-time visitors. Shared taxi services are reasonably priced, and taxis are available for hire at popular tourist spots or through local travel agents. The rates may vary from INR 300-500 per person for a shared taxi, depending on the location.
If you have more time, you might want to explore other popular attractions in Gangtok, such as the Tashi View Point, Enchey Monastery, or the Hanuman Tok. On the other hand, visitors with limited time can skip Nathula Pass and focus on other sights to explore the city at a more relaxed pace.
Pakyong Airport (PYG) is the nearest airport to Gangtok located 31 km away, with limited connectivity to other cities. The closest major airports are Bagdogra Airport (IXB), which is 124 km away and has daily flights connecting to major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati. Another option is the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) in Kolkata, which is 675 km from Gangtok, but offers more international and domestic connectivity.