Gangtok is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sikkim. It is the capital and largest city in the state. It is situated in the Shivalik Hills on the eastern part of the Great Himalayas. Gangtok is located at an elevation of 1,437 meters (4,715 ft).
The hills have always been a major attraction for tourist in India. Gangtok is said to be one of India's most naturally blessed towns. Places like Pelling and Changu Lake attract tourist from different corners of the world.
Where does Gangtok get its name from?
The meaning of the word Gangtok is not very clear. However historians stick with the popular meaning "hill top".
Climate of Gangtok
Gangtok experiences subtropical highland climate. Due to its geographical location it enjoys mild, temperate climate throughout the year. Gangtok witnesses five distinct seasons: summer, monsoons, autumn, winter and spring. During summers the temperatures ranges from 22 °C to 25 °C. The monsoon season begins from June and lasts till September. Monsoons are characterized by heavy and torrential rainfall. The winter season in Gangtok is really chilly with temperatures ranging from 4 °C to 7 °C.
Best Time to Visit Gangtok
Gangtok should be avoided during the monsoons as the heavy showers often cause landslides and road blockage.
Places to Visit in Gangtok
Gezing
Geyzing is a beautiful town nestled in the picturesque Himalayas. Gezing is located at distance of 110 km from Gangtok. This town is known for its busy market place. You can pick up numerous handmade items from the market at the main square.
Jorethang
Jorethang is a very popular tourist destination in Sikkim. It is a small town that is situated at an elevation of 300 m above sea level. The town lies on one of the tributaries of the Teesta River. The village is best suited for adventure sports such as River rafting and trekking.
Pelling
Pelling is a quaint little town situated in West Sikkim, India. It is nestled at an elevation of 2,150 m (7,200 feet). The place is one of the fastest developing tourist resorts in Gangtok. If you manage to wake up early don't forget to see the sunrise at the Kanchenjunga. However its best to avoid Pelling during the winter months as it is sometimes covered with thick snow.
Khechepari Lake
The Khechepari is ideal for trekkers. Situated in the midst of forested hills the Khechepari Lake is considered holy by the locals of the state. The hills that surround the Lake are believed to be idyllic for trekking.
Yumthang Valley
The Yumthang Valley is among the most promising visual sights in Gangtok. The Yumthang Valley is located at distance of 140 km from Gangtok. The valley is surrounded by the Himalayas and houses a variety of rhododendrons. There are also numerous hot springs that are covered by wooden shelters in the valley.
Tsongo Lake
Tsomgo Lake is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Gangtok. Also referred to as (Changu) lake, this tourist spot is situated at a distance of 20 km from the famous Nathula Pass. The lake is known for its pristine beauty and picturesque surroundings. Tourists are permitted to visit this place only during day time.
Where to Stay in Gangtok?
Since Gangtok is the major reason behind the success of the tourism industry of Sikkim it is but obvious that the town will have many hotels. The hotels in Gangtok range from luxury to budget. They are situated close to the many tourist attractions and also offer guided tours. The many hotels in Gangtok are reputed for their warm hospitality and friendly services.
| Hidden Forest Retreat Gangtok Middle Sichey, Gangtok, Sikkim, India - 737101 Hotel Blue Poppy Gangtok Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Marg, Near Paljor Stadium, Gangtok, Sikkim, India Rhenock House Gangtok Development Area, Gangtok -737101, Sikkim, India Hotel Ricasa Gangtok 3rd mile, near tashi view point, gangtok, East Sikkim (India) |
Hotel Tamarind Gangtok Upper Tathangechen, Near S S B Camp, Gangtok, Sikkim, India Hotel Hungry Jack Gangtok 31A, National Highway, Near Private Bus Stand, Gangtok - 737101, Sikkim (India) Hotel Marigold Gangtok 31/A, National Highway, Near Old Pvt. Bus Station, Gangtok - 727101, Sikkim Denzong Inn Gangtok Denzong Cinema Chowk, Near Lall Bazaar Road, Gangtok, Sikkim - 737101, India |
Where and what to eat in Gangtok?
Gangtok has several restaurants and bars that offer all types of cuisine and drinks. Ranging from pure vegetarian, organic to Thai food the restaurants in Gangtok offer a complete treat to your taste buds. However the specialties of the place include momo's and thukpa.| Restaurants and Bars
Blue Poppy/ Dragon Hall Hotel Tashi Delek Phone: 222038/222991 Buzz (Glenary's) New Market Phone: 221643/ 221650 China Palate New Market Phone: 227815 Dragon's Den M.G.Marg Phone: 224649 |
Dragon Restaurant, Green Hotel, M.G.Marg Phone:225057/ 224439 Eden Park Hotel Park Residency Phone: 228411/ 228410 House of Bamboo M.G.Marg Phone: 229390 Metro's Fast Food (Pure Veg.) 31A NH Phone: 223245 |
Shopping Destinations in Gangtok
Gangtok is not just restricted to natural beauty and breathtaking views. The hill station is also a great shopping destination. There are numerous shops in the town that are lined up after one another stocked with some of the finest collection of goods.
Important Shopping Zones betan woolen carpets
How to Reach Gangtok?
Gangtok might be situated in the mighty mountains but access to the town is not at all difficult. Most of the cities in india connect excellently to Gangtok via air road and rail.
By Air
Gangtok connects to most of the airports in India. Bagdogra near Siliguri, is the nearest airport which is situated at a distance of 124 km from Gangtok. There are regular flights from cities like Kolkata, Delhi and Guwahati to Gangtok.
By Train
Gangtok shares a strong railway network with most of the Indian cities. New Jalpaiguri, is the nearest railway station and is located 148 km away from Gangtok.
By Road
Gangtok shares good roadway connectivity with most of the cities in Sikkim and the nearby states. Numerous buses ply almost daily from Siliguri to Gangtok.
| Sikkim Images |
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| Football Uniting Sikkim | Ganesh Tok Temple | Himalayan Zoological Park |
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| Khecheopalri Monastery Village | Lal Bazaar | Rumtek Monastery |
Last Updated on 8/26/2011
