Gangtok: A Quick and Handy Travel Guide

They say good things in life come in small packages and there’s no better place to prove that rule than Gangtok. Nestled between the borders of Nepal and Bhutan, the capital city of the tiny state of Sikkim proves that size doesn’t matter when it comes to a destination that’s rich in history, culture and scenic beauty.

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Don’t leave Gangtok before you:

See:

Nathula

At 4310 metres, this is the second highest mountain pass in India, and the view from the topis absolutely breathtaking. And what’s more, this was the very same pass used on the old Silk Route! Be sure to carry proper identification when you go, as this isa high-security area because of tis proximity to the Chinese border.

Ban Jhakri Waterfall and Tsomgo Lake

En route to Nathula, stop by at Ban Jhakri Waterfall.A popular picnic spot, this is a 100-feet waterfall located within aforested area.Then take a trip to Gangtok’s most famous tourist destination, Tsomgo Lake, also called ChanguLake. A kilometer long and about fifty metres deep, the beauty of this lakelies in the fact that it is mostly frozen. Its resplendent beauty makes the two-hour trip from Gangtok worthwhile.

Rumtek Monastery

Around 24 kilometres from Gangtok, Rumtek is the largest monastery in Sikkim containing historical relics and sacred Buddhist documents and remains.

Do:

Play shutterbug at the Himalayan Zoological Park

Overlooking the famous Khangchendzonga range, the Himalayan Zoological Park is a safe environment for endangered animals and is well known for its Red Panda and Snow Leopard breeding programmes. An absolute treat for wildlife photographers!

Go rafting on the Teesta River

River Rangeet, the tributary of Teesta River, is an upcoming campsite. This free flowing river has rapids which prove to be a great rafting site. Spend a night in the camps here for a wonderful rafting adventure.

Admire the flowers at Gangtok’s famous Horticultural Show

 As spring approaches, the month of March brings with it the one-of-a-kind Gangtok Flower Show. The variety of flora, from orchids in myriad colours to oaks and medicinal plants will leave you amazed. With over 500 types of plants and flowers on display, this show is well worth your time.

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Eat

Chhurpi

A kind of hard cheese made from Yak milk. (It might be hard to stomach at first try, though!)

Chhaang

A local fizzy millet beer drunk in bamboo containers with bamboo and cane straws.

Shaphaley

A traditional Tbetan meat pie made with spiced minced meat wrapped in a crispy samosa-like casing.

When to Go

October- June is the best time to visit. While the summer months of April, May, June experience a relatively warmer 22 degrees, winter temperatures can drop to about 4 degrees. Yet the skies stay clear and the frequent winter sunshine makes it one of the best times to travel to Gangtok.

Getting There

By Air

The closest Airport is Bagdogra in West Bengal, about 124 kilometers away. If you’re lucky and there happens to be a chopper available you could reach in 20 minutes from the airport!

By Train

New Jalpaiuri in Siliguri is the nearest railway station and iswell-connected to cities like Kolkata and Delhi. From Siliguri, a bus or car ride to Gangtok is about a 5 to 6-hour journey.

Getting Around

Taxis will be your main mode of transport and can be be quite cheap if you opt for a shared one.

What to Pack

• Carry warm jackets, gloves and thermals, especially if you plan on going up to Nathula or Tsomgo
• Walking shoes are a must since the best way to see the city is by walking

Essentials like medicine, mosquito repellents and sunglasses. 

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