Things To Do
in Gangtok
Gangtok is the capital city of the Indian state of Sikkim. It is known for its breathtaking landscapes with the majestic Himalayan mountains in the backdrop. The city is a popular tourist destination offering a mix of vibrant culture, Buddhist monasteries, and adventure activities like trekking and paragliding.
Gangtok is also famous for its cleanliness and well-preserved natural beauty.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $75
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Tsomgo Lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Enjoy a yak ride and capture some beautiful photographs.
After lunch, explore the beautiful Baba Mandir, a shrine honoring a soldier. Enjoy the scenic drive as you soak in the breathtaking views.
Return to Gangtok and stroll around Mall Road for some shopping. Enjoy local cuisine at one of the cozy restaurants.
Begin your day visiting the Enchey Monastery, a serene place with beautiful architecture. Spend time appreciating the peaceful surroundings.
Next, head to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology to learn about Tibetan culture and history. Don't miss the impressive collection of artifacts.
Enjoy the local street food at MG Marg as the sun sets. Experience the vibrant atmosphere and friendly locals.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Breathtaking natural beauty with stunning views of the Himalayas.
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse ethnic communities.
- Pleasant climate throughout the year.
- Gateway to several trekking and adventure activities.
- Well-connected to other parts of Northeast India.
- Vibrant local markets and delicious cuisine.
- Limited accommodation options during peak tourist seasons.
- Traffic congestion, especially in the city center.
- Restricted entry for non-Indians in some areas due to security reasons.
- Lack of extensive public transportation options.
- Occasional landslides and roadblocks during the monsoon season.
- May be expensive compared to other destinations in India.
Best Activities in Gangtok
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful Himalayan treks surrounding Gangtok such as the Goecha La Trek or the Dzongri Trek.
Experience the thrill of paragliding and enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.
Go for an adventurous river rafting experience on the Teesta River or the Rangeet River.
Take a cable car ride to get panoramic views of Gangtok and its surrounding landscapes.
Places to Visit in Gangtok
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers majestic views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range and the city of Gangtok
Provides breathtaking panoramic views of the snow-capped mountains and the valley
Provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the Gangtok cityscape
Offers picturesque views of the cascading waterfalls and lush green surroundings, ideal for photography
Food in Gangtok
Gangtok Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed dumplings with a variety of fillings such as chicken, pork, or vegetables, served with spicy dipping sauce. Must-try at Taste of Tibet and Roll House.
Must-Try!
A hearty noodle soup with vegetables or meat, flavored with Sikkimese spices. Recommended at M.G. Marg and Taste of Tibet.
A popular pork dish cooked with radishes, dried chilies, and local spices. Best savored at The Square Restaurant and Roll House.
Fried bread stuffed with seasoned beef or pork, a flavorful street food available at various local stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The lively street is lined with stalls and vendors offering a variety of street food, including momos, thukpa, and other local delights.
An authentic food market where one can explore a wide range of fresh produce, local snacks, and exotic ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Gangtok, it is important to show respect for elders by addressing them using appropriate titles and showing deference in conversations and interactions.
It is respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or interacting with locals, to adhere to the conservative cultural norms in Gangtok.
Greetings are an essential part of respectful behavior in Gangtok. It is customary to greet people with a traditional 'Namaste' and show courtesy in interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Gangtok
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Gangtok, India, but it is appreciated in restaurants, hotels, and for other services. It is common to leave a small tip, typically around 5-10% of the bill, for good service.
In Gangtok, India, cash is widely used for transactions, especially in smaller establishments. However, credit and debit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. It's advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting local markets and smaller shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Gangtok with pleasant weather, blooming rhododendrons and clear views of the Himalayas.
Expect monsoon season with heavy rainfall, lush green landscapes, and occasional landslides. Trekking and adventure activities might be limited.
Excellent time to visit Gangtok with clear skies, favorable weather for outdoor activities, and beautiful autumn foliage.
Cold weather with occasional snowfall, ideal for experiencing snow-covered landscapes and winter festivals.
Gangtok at Night
Hiking in Gangtok
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A spiritual trek that leads to the serene Khecheopalri Lake, surrounded by lush greenery and the majestic mountains of Sikkim.
A trek that takes you to the beautiful glacial Tsomgo Lake, located at an altitude of 3,753 meters, and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
A high-altitude trek that leads to the Nathu La Pass, an important historical site on the Indo-China border with breathtaking views.
A popular trek that starts from Yuksom and offers spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga range, passing through beautiful landscapes and rhododendron forests.
A challenging yet rewarding trek that takes you to Goecha La, offering stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga and its surrounding peaks.
A trek through the Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its diverse flora and fauna and beautiful trails surrounded by dense forests.
Aiports
How to reach Gangtok by plane.
The nearest major airport to Gangtok, located approximately 124 kilometers away. It serves as a gateway for tourists traveling to Sikkim and offers domestic flights and limited international services.
Located about 560 kilometers from Gangtok, it is one of the busiest airports in India, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.
About 600 kilometers from Gangtok, this airport serves Patna and offers domestic flights. It is another potential stopover for travelers heading to Sikkim.
Located in Paro, Bhutan, approximately 150 kilometers from Gangtok. Although it primarily serves flights to and from Bhutan, it can be an alternative for international travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Gangtok, primarily speaking Nepali and following Hinduism and Buddhism.
An indigenous ethnic group known for their Tibetan descent, predominantly practicing Buddhism.
The earliest inhabitants of Sikkim, often practicing animism alongside Buddhism and known for their unique culture.
A term encompassing various ethnic groups, including Nepalese, Bhutia, and Lepcha, reflecting the cultural diversity of the region.
A smaller but significant demographic primarily composed of people from the state of Bihar, often involved in trade and commerce.
A business community originating from Rajasthan, that has a presence in Gangtok for trade and industry.
An ethnic group with Tibetan roots, primarily practicing Buddhism and residing in various regions around Gangtok.
Includes various other communities and groups from different states and backgrounds residing in Gangtok.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Gangtok, attracting many enthusiasts and local clubs. Matches are often organized in various local grounds.
Basketball is widely played among the youth in Gangtok, with several courts available for practice and competitions.
Cricket enjoys a significant following in Gangtok, with many local teams and tournaments held in the area.
While not a traditional sport, trekking is immensely popular in Gangtok, with many visitors and locals exploring the scenic trails in and around the region.
Various forms of martial arts, including traditional forms, are practiced in Gangtok, with schools and dojos promoting physical fitness and self-defense.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gangtok.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Gangtok offer an array of vegetarian dishes such as vegetable thukpa, fried momos, and stir-fried noodles.
While options are limited, some restaurants can accommodate vegan preferences with dishes like vegetable momos and tofu stir-fry.
It's advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly, but some places offer gluten-free versions of certain dishes like buckwheat momos and rice-based thukpa.