Gangtok is the capital of the small and beautiful state called Sikkim and located in the northeastern part of India. If you are planning for a Gangtok tour then this is the right time to explore the place which offers too many attractions and sightseeing experiences. Before packing your bags you might be concerned about preparing the itinerary to visit the popular tourist spots to meet your desires. One question might arise in your head that how many days are enough for Gangtok. Once you are sure about the number of days you want, you will become more confident about the tour and fixing the budget for it. So, here we come out with the answer by providing you detailed information about the Gangtok tour by exploring some of the exotic places.
Normally, two days are enough for exploring Gangtok where you can divide the days according to your choice of preferences. On the first day, you can do a local sightseeing tour and on the next day, you can visit the nearby places to satisfy your thirst. Let's zoom into the attractions to know more about those destinations and their importance.
What to do on the first day?
Reach Gangtok from Siliguri by renting a car from the airport or railway station which takes nearly four hours. After you reach the place, check-in at the hotel and enjoy your breakfast. If you plan your trip by hiring a travel agent then and the agent will guide you about the plan of action. Otherwise, you can contact the local drivers available in the taxi stand near MG Marg. The driver will guide you for exploring the local tourist spots.
List of the places you must visit
Rumtek Monastery
Rumtek Monastery is one of the popular monasteries in Gangtok which was built in 1740 and again renovated in 1779. The golden stupa and replicas of 16th Karmapa are the main attractions of this monastery along with the paintings of Buddha and various Buddhist artworks.
Ganesh Tok and Hanuman Tok
You can witness the panoramic view of the entire Gangtok city by visiting Ganesh Tok which is basically a temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Hanuman Tok is a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman where the orange colour statue of the monkey god attracts tourists all over the globe. If you are lucky then you can witness the amazing view of Mt. Kanchenjunga from Hanuman Tok.
Himalayan Zoological Park
Animal lovers must visit this zoological park which is spread over 230 hectares on the hillside and is the home of many animals rescued from traders. You will find Himalayan bears, snow leopards, Tibetan wolves, and red pandas.
Tashi Viewpoint
The beauty of Gangtok can be enjoyed by visiting this viewpoint from where you can enjoy the breathtaking view of Mt. Kanchenjunga along with layers of mountains. The Himalayan ranges look stunningly beautiful and make you amazed with its incomparable charm.
Flower Exhibition Centre
The best time to visit this place is April to June or September until the end of November. Beautiful blooming flowers of different species welcome you in this ridge park. Orchid of exotic varieties is the main attraction of this exhibition centre which will blow your mind in true sense.
Banjhakri Falls
Nature is beautiful and to witness its beauty you must visit this place where you can find roaring waterfall and greenery all around. Walk around the falls and take photographs to turn your tour into a sweet memory for the entire lifetime.
Get a return from the sightseeing expedition by evening and enjoy your time in MG Marg which is famous for get-together and shopping. You will find fancy restaurants, shops and so many options to pass on your time over there.
What to do on the second day?
Start your day with a cup of tea by watching the view of Kanchenjunga because you never get bored by watching this amazing creation of nature. Wake up early to enjoy the golden aroma of the mountain ranges just after the sunrise. Get ready for the expedition towards Tsomgo Lake, Nathu La Pass, and Baba Mandir. Your Gangtok tour will remain incomplete without visiting these places.
Tsomgo Lake
Tsomgo Lake is also known as ‘Changu Lake’ and is counted as one of the most beautiful places on earth for its amazing view and snow-capped mountains. At the elevation of 3,753 m, this lake remains frozen during the winter season. Enjoy playing with snow, Yak ride and enchanting views of the mountain ranges.
Nathu La Pass
Nathu La Pass is a mountain pass that connects Sikkim with China's Tibet Autonomous Region and located 4,310 m above sea level. You can witness the border and take a certificate issued there for your arrival at the place. This snow-covered area is known for its beauty and needs to be visited once in a lifetime.
Baba Mandir
In the memory of a great soldier from India Army, Baba Harbhajan Singh, this temple is built. Baba Harbhajan Singh is also known as ‘Hero of Nathu La’ and it is believed that he is still protecting the nation with the same dedication and ideology. You must visit this place during your Gangtok Tour.
After finishing your exploration you must feel tired. Take the rest of your hotel room by enjoying delicacies. Gangtok is known for its hospitality and culture which can be experienced by visiting this amazing place for two days or more.
