Best places to visit in Gangtok?
Wondering which places to visit in Gangtok? The capital of Sikkim is an amazing destination with its bounty of nature’s beauty, rich culture and vibrant modernity. It is the perfect place for anyone looking for peace, adventure, or simply an escape from monotonous everyday life.
So, when in Gangtok, here is a list of some places to visit in Gangtok that should be on your itinerary. Let’s check them out:
MG Marg, Gangtok
Starting it off with the most obvious, the heart of Gangtok, MG Marg, the pedestrian-only zone and mostly filled with local people & tourists. The best thing to do here is to take a stroll, being one with the crowd, shopping for souvenirs, or enjoying local delicacies. The vibrant atmosphere, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants makes it a favorite spot for both locals & tourists.
Picture: Mg Marg, Gangtok at evening
Rumtek Monastery, Gangtok
Next is one of the most important monasteries in Sikkim, the Rumtek Monastery, aka Dharma Chakra Center. Not just a spiritual hub but also an architectural marvel. It’s the seat of the Karma Kagyu lineage and houses some of the rarest Buddhist artworks, scriptures, and wall murals. The tranquil environment, along with the monastery’s cultural significance, makes it a definite must visit when you are gangtok.
Enchey Monastery, Gangtok
But visiting one monastery just isn’t enough right? So here’s another. A few minutes from the city center, Enchey Monastery is another important religious site for Buddhists. Established over 115 years ago, in 1909, the monastery was built in the architectural style of a Chinese Pagoda and is known for its vibrant religious festivals which includes the performance of Cham Dance(a lively masked and costumed dance) and prayer ceremonies. The peaceful ambiance, combined with the stunning views of Kanchenjunga, makes it a serene spot for visitors.
Banjhakri Waterfall, Gangtok
When in the mountains, catching a glimpse of some waterfalls cannot be missed. About 10 km from Gangtok city, Banjhakri Waterfalls is a popular spot surrounded by lush greenery. According to the folk tales of the Nepalese community, the name “Banjhakri” means jungle priest, shaman or healer. The cascading waters of the waterfall plunge from a height of 40 ft, creating a misty and refreshing ambiance. The park surrounding the falls is themed around Shamanistic traditions, with statues and sculptures depicting local myths and legends. It is a great place to be with family and friends, enjoying what nature has to offer.
Tashi Viewpoint, Gangtok
And after a waterfall visit, how can one miss out on some great mountain views? For panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga and the Siniolchu mountain peaks, Tashi Viewpoint is the place to visit in Gangtok. It’s a popular spot for photography enthusiasts who want to capture the stunning sunrise and the majestic beauty of the Himalayas. On a clear day, the sight of the snow-covered peaks is truly mesmerizing.
Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Gangtok
If you are interested in learning about Tibetan culture and Buddhis, paying a visit to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is a must for you then. The institute has a vast collection of rare manuscripts, statues, and thangkas (Tibetan paintings) that surely give you deep insights into Tibetan heritage. The building itself is an example of traditional Tibetan architecture and is surrounded by lush gardens.
Ganesh Tok and Hanuman Tok, Gangtok
The two small temples offer not just spiritual solace but also some of the best views of Gangtok and its surrounding mountains. As the name suggests, Ganesh Tok is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, while Hanuman Tok is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Both spots are popular among tourists for the scenic views they offer, especially on a clear day.
Flower Exhibition Center, Gangtok
Last but not least, if vivid colors and wonderful aromas are your thing, then the Flower Exhibition Center, located near the White Memorial Hall, is a treat for you. It displays a variety of flowers, including rare orchids, which are native to Sikkim. The center is especially vibrant during the annual flower show which mostly runs throughout May each year when the entire area is filled with colorful blooms. That’s the list of some places to visit in Gangtok. So now you know what to do and where to be when in Gangtok.
Picture: Flower Exhibition Center, Gangtok
But it’s going to be a long day exploring the city and all that it has to offer. After an entire day of exploring, wouldn’t it be nice to just return back to your luxurious room at the end of the day? Enter Udaan Hotels & Resorts, offering 3 exquisite properties in Gangtok for you to choose from. Two hotel properties namely Udaan Keepsa Hotel & Spa which is just a few minutes away from the MG Marg, Gangtok and Udaan Woodberry Hotel & Spa located in the Burtuk valley and closeby to Banjhakri waterfalls. The third is a resort property located away from the city, Udaan Alpine Resort. Any one of these could be your home away from home when you are in Gangtok exploring the city and making memories