- Best time
- Mar–May, Oct–Dec
- How long
- 3–4 days
- Stay a night
- ₹1,200–8,000
- Food a day
- ₹400–1,600
- Nearest railhead
- 120 km away
- Nearest airport
- 125 km away
Plan Gangtok in a minute. Day-by-day plan, stays, budget and trains — free on JrnyLoop.
Plan this tripAbout Gangtok
MG Marg evenings, monasteries, and permits to glacial Tsomgo Lake and the Nathula pass on the China border.
Things to do in Gangtok
MG Marg
A spotless pedestrian boulevard in Gangtok, Sikkim, India. This vibrant market area is closed to vehicles, making it a great place for a relaxed stroll while shopping and dining.
Tip: Wear comfortable flat shoes as you will be exploring the entire stretch on foot.
Tsomgo Lake
A glacial lake situated at 3,753 m, featuring a surface that reflects different colours with the change of seasons. Held in great reverence by the local Sikkimese people, the lake remains frozen during the winter season.
Tip: Arrange your required permit in advance through a travel agent.
Nathula Pass
Nathula Pass is a high mountain pass in the Himalayas connecting Sikkim to Tibet. It serves as a historic transit point and offers striking views of rugged terrain and winding mountain roads.
Tip: Apply for the required travel permit well in advance through a registered tour agency
Rumtek Monastery
Rumtek Monastery, also known as the Dharma Chakra Centre, is a prominent gompa near Gangtok in Sikkim. It serves as the seat in exile of the Gyalwang Karmapa. Inaugurated in 1966, it is a major center of the Karma Kagyu school of Tibetan Buddhism.
Enchey Monastery
A 200-year-old solitary monastery belonging to the Nyingma order of Vajrayana Buddhism, located above Gangtok. The sacred site is dedicated to protecting deities believed to fulfil the wishes of devotees.
Hanuman Tok
A Hindu temple complex located in the upper reaches of Gangtok and dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The site is maintained by the Indian army and features a shrine built over a sacred stone.
Tip: Wear warm clothes as the upper reaches can get quite chilly
Banjhakri Falls
Banjhakri Falls features a waterfall alongside an energy park set in a forested area. The recreation centre includes statues and displays that document the traditional shamanic healers of the forest.
Tip: Look out for the displays explaining the local forest spirit traditions
Where to stay in Gangtok
MG Marg
Pedestrian centre with cafes.
Tadong
Cheaper, near the highway.
What to eat
Taste of Tibet
Momos on MG Marg.
Nimtho
Sikkimese thali with phagshapa.
Roll House
Kathi rolls off MG Marg.
Good to know
- Carry ID photos — permits are needed for most excursions.
- Plastic water bottles are discouraged; carry a reusable one.
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