Explore Gangtok in Under Rs 10,000

Why Gangtok?

Rolling hills, rhododendron valleys, glacial lakes and tons of Buddhist monasteries; these are just a few reasons to visit Gangtok. And if you thought Gangtok was one of those destinations you’ll need to save big for, think again! This handy guide will help you plan that dream holiday without a strain on your pocket.

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Getting There

Train to Siliguri > Bus from Siliguri to Gangtok

Train to Siliguri: One of the most economical ways of reaching Gangtok is by train. The nearest railway station is about 148 kilometres away, in New Jalpaiguri, Siliguri. It is well-connected to major cities like Kolkata and New Delhi. Here is the return train fare to Siliguri:

Train	AC 3-tier	Sleeper
Delhi to Siliguri	Rs 3,220*	Rs 1,220*
Kolkata to Siliguri	Rs 1,730*	Rs 640*

Bus to Gangtok: From New Jalpaiguri, you can catch a state-run bus to Gangtok, which will take you about 5-6 hours. A return bus ticket from New Jalpaiguri to Gangtok will cost you about Rs 360.

Read more: Gangtok: A Quick and Handy Travel Guide

Where to Stay

The Maplewood Resort: This boutique resort is located close to Tashi View Point and offers stunning views of the hills. It has facilities like free Wi-Fi, an in-house restaurant and they can even arrange a bonfire for you in the winter!

Tariff: Rs 2,000 per night*

Amenities: Airport Transfer | Car Rental | Free Wi-Fi

Book Your Stay at The Maplewood Resort

The Hill Castle: Just a kilometre away from Tashi View Point, the Hill Castle is a boutique hotel in close proximity to other tourist attractions like Banjhakri Fall (5 kilometres), Ganesh Tok (3 kilometres) and the Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park (4 kilometres).

Tariff: Rs 750 per night*

Amenities: Free Wi-Fi | Doctor on Call | Parking

Book Your Stay at The Hill Castle

What to Do

Explore the ancient Rumtek Monastery: About 25 kilometres east of Gangtok, and at an altitude of 5,800 feet, is Sikkim’s biggest monastery, Rumtek. Built in 1740 and rebuilt in 1979, it has a golden stupa containing the relics of the 16th Karmapa, along with several other sacred Buddhist artefacts. You can join the monks in their prayers and even enjoy a meal with them. 

Go on an excursion to Nathu La Pass: At 4,310 metres, this is one of the highest motorable roads in India. En route, you'll come across two beautiful sights; the Jhakri Waterfalls and the glacial lake called Changu (Tsomgo Lake). Keep in mind that you need permits for visiting Tsomgo Lake and Nathu La Pass so plan accordingly.

Ride a yak at Tsomgo Lake: Located on the on the Gangtok-Nathu La highway, Tsomgo Lake is a two-hour drive from Gangtok. About a kilometer long and 50 metres deep, the picturesque lake is also one of the most popular selfie spots in India. While you’re here, don’t miss the once-in-a-lifetime experience of a yak ride around the lake!

Baba Harbhajan Singh ka Mandir: This memorial is a shrine lying on the road leading to Kupup Valley and Tukla. This shrine was made to pay a homage to a great warrior Baba harbhajan Singh who died during Anglo-Chinese War at Nathula-Darra. it is believed that the spirit of this warrior is guarding the Indo-China border and in reference to that thousands of people come to pay their homage.

Read more: Gangtok: A Quick and Handy Travel Guide​

Where to Eat

9'INE Native Cuisine: This is the best place in Gangtok for sampling local Tibetan cuisine. Don't forget to try their chicken momos, hunan chicken and thukpa.

Address: New Market, M G Marg, Namnam Area, Gangtok

Opening Hours: 11 am to 9 pm

Cost: Meal for two costs Rs 300 approx.

Baker’s Café: Gangtok is rightfully famous for its baked goods and there is no better place to sample some cakes, pastries and patties than at the Baker’s Café.

Address: MG Marg, Arithang, Gangtok

Opening Hours: 9 am to 8 pm

Cost: Pastries from Rs 20, mains from Rs 80

Golden Tips Tea Shop: This popular tea boutique serves over 100 different types of tea including single estate and blends, iced, flavoured, spiced and tea mocktails. Don’t forget to buy some souvenirs here, anything from book to tea pot sets, tea boxes and infusers.

Address: Yangthang House, Sonam Tshering Marg, Gangtok

Opening Hours: 10 am to 10 pm

Total Cost of the Trip*:

Expenses	Cost for 2 Nights (per person)
Train (From Delhi)	Rs 3,220 (return, AC 3-tier)*
Bus (Siliguri to Gangtok)	Rs 360*
Hotels	Rs 2,300 *
Food	Rs 2,500*
Miscellaneous	Rs 1,500*
Total	Rs 9,880*

*All tariffs and costs are subject to change.

Tempted to spend some more?

Shopping: MG Marg is a great place to shop for Tibetan jackets, thangkas (traditional Tibetan artwork), prayer wheels and flags. You can also test your bargaining skills at Laal Bazaar and take home beautiful choksees (folding wooden tables), wall hangings and carpets.

Plan a getaway to Pelling: The beautiful hill town of Pelling is a 125-kilometre drive away from Gangtok and makes for a perfect overnight trip. Himalayan Retreat and Resort and Hotel Sunrise Regency are two decent budget stay options and will cost around Rs 1,500 per night.

Sneaky Tips

Walk around the city: Gangtok is a great city for walking and there’s no better way to explore the beauty. If you opt for a cab, get a shared taxi (Rs 10), which is considerably cheaper compared to an exclusive ride (starting at Rs 40 to Rs 50 for main areas).

Pick your hotel carefully: Book a hotel which is close to major tourist attractions to save time and money while commuting. 

Gangtok offers a variety of experiences for every kind of traveller—from a fun-filled yak ride near the spectacular Tsomgo Lake to biking on Nathu La, the second highest mountain pass in the world. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags now!

Book Your Flight to Bagdogra (nearest airport)