Gangtok

Gangtok, situated right in the middle of the Himalayan range, has thrilled nature lovers for a very long time. In the lap of Mother Nature, its hilly beauty is an idyllic combination of natural serenity and modern city life. It is one of the most popular tourist places in North East India not just for relaxation, but also for those who love trekking.Gangtok draws innumerable tourists because of the snow-capped Kanchenjunga, the beautiful monasteries, the wooden pagoda like houses, the colourful flags, the Lamas and the smiling Nepalese children

Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim and is often referred to as the Switzerland of the east. It is situated about 5300 feet above sea level. The city gained prominence as a resting place for traders conducting business between Lhasa in Tibet and Calcutta (now known as Kolkatta) during the British rule. It has a monsoon dominated climate; therefore it is better not to visit Gangtok during the monsoons or the biting cold months.

Winter

Gangtok, situated right in the middle of the Himalayan range, has thrilled nature lovers for a very long time.

The traditional food in Gangtok is a mixture of Tibetan, Nepalese, and Indian cuisine. Here rice is the staple food with several interesting local delicacies like ningro (fern rings), churpi (yak cheese) cooked with a lot of chillies, phing (glass noodles), and shisnu (nettle soup). Experience the authentic taste of Gangtok in restaurants like 9'INE Native Cuisine or Cafe Culture. Momos and fast food joints are seen in almost every corner and there are several restaurants that serve Continental,

People who visit Gangtok are generally attracted to the elaborate masks, wall hangings, leather goods, carpets, the vibrant and colourful woollens, paintings on silk, thankas, Tibetan jewellery and the famous prayer wheels. A travel guide of Sikkim will mention the shops on M.G. Road, those near Lal Bazaar and the government emporium at Zero point as the suitable spots for shopping.

By Airways: The airport nearest to Gangtok is in Bagdogra, which is about 124 km. away. This airport is situated in Siliguri, West Bengal. Flights from Kolkata, Delhi and Guwahati, arrive on this airport. There is a helicopter service from Bagdogra to Gangtok run by the Sikkim Tourism Development Corporation. The fare is Rs. 2200 for a ride. By Railways: The nearest railway station is at New Jalpaiguri that is 116 km. away. Other major Indian railway stations are connected to New Jalpaiguri. People can take taxis from Siliguri, New Jalpaiguri, Darjeeling and Kalimpong by road. Shared taxis are available for such journeys. By Roadways: There are state run buses that ply on NH-31A to reach Gangtok. Travelling within the city is simple as there are SNT buses. You can even travel to Peling, Tashiding and Yuksom in these buses. There are shared taxis that you can commute in. Taxi fares are negotiable.

Tashi View Point: Situated at a distance of about 7 km. from Gangtok, this spot lies on the way to North Sikkim. From here, you can view the Kanchenjunga range and Mt. Siniolchu, and these views are breathtaking, especially if visited early morning. Hanuman Tok: About 16 km. away from Gangtok, this is a Hindu temple. However, this spot is also considered to be good for enjoying a vermilion red sunrise over the mountain ranges. Ganesh Tok: This renowned Hindu temple is located about 12 km. away from the city, and gives you a bird's eye view of theentire Gangtok city. Saramsa Garden: Approximately 14 km. away from Gangtok, situated on the banks of the Ranipul river bank is SaramsaPark. This garden is maintained by the Department of Forest. It has a collection of different types of orchids and rare plants found in Sikkim. This is also a famous picnic spot.