Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, sits on a ridge at around 1,650 metres with views across the valleys to Kanchenjunga. It is clean, friendly and the natural base for exploring East and North Sikkim. Here is how to spend your time.
How to Reach Gangtok
- Pakyong Airport: about 30 km away (flights can be affected by weather).
- Bagdogra Airport (West Bengal): about 125 km, 4–5 hours by road.
- New Jalpaiguri (NJP) railway station: about 120 km, 4–5 hours.
Shared and private taxis run from Siliguri, Bagdogra and NJP.
Top Things to Do in Gangtok
MG Marg
A pedestrian-only boulevard with shops, cafés and benches – the heart of the city in the evening. No smoking or littering is allowed.
Rumtek Monastery
About 24 km away, one of the most important monasteries of the Karma Kagyu lineage, with beautiful architecture. ID checks may be required.
Enchey Monastery
A peaceful 19th-century monastery above the city.
Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
A museum and research centre with rare manuscripts, thangkas and artefacts.
Hanuman Tok and Ganesh Tok
Hilltop temples with panoramic views; Hanuman Tok offers great views of Kanchenjunga on clear mornings.
Tashi Viewpoint
Another spot for sunrise mountain views.
Gangtok Ropeway
A short cable car ride with views over the city.
Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park
A landscaped park with a waterfall and statues depicting shamanic legends.
Do Drul Chorten
A large stupa surrounded by prayer wheels.
Flower Exhibition Centre
Displays of orchids and seasonal flowers.
Day Trips from Gangtok
- Tsomgo (Changu) Lake and Baba Mandir: about 40 km, permit required.
- Nathula Pass: on the India–China border, permit and specific days only (Indian nationals).
- Rumtek and Lingdum monasteries.
- Ravangla and Namchi: Buddha Park and Char Dham complex.
Food to Try
Momos, thukpa, thenthuk, phagshapa (pork with radish), gundruk (fermented greens), sel roti, churpi and local tea. MG Marg has excellent cafés and bakeries.
Shopping
Prayer flags, thangka paintings, Tibetan handicrafts, woollens, Temi tea and local pickles at Lal Bazaar and MG Marg shops.
Where to Stay
- Near MG Marg: walkable to cafés and shops.
- Upper Gangtok / Tadong: quieter with views.
- Boutique and heritage hotels: for couples.
Choose a room facing Kanchenjunga for clear-morning views.
Sample 3-Day Plan
- Day 1: Arrive; evening on MG Marg.
- Day 2: Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir (and Nathula if permitted).
- Day 3: Rumtek, Enchey, Tibetology, Hanuman Tok, ropeway and Banjhakri Falls.
Tips
- Carry ID at all times; permits are needed for several excursions.
- Local taxis follow fixed routes and rates.
- Weather changes fast; carry layers.
- Respect monastery etiquette – walk clockwise and ask before photographing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days are enough for Gangtok?
Two to three days including a Tsomgo Lake excursion.
How far is Gangtok from Bagdogra?
About 125 km, roughly 4–5 hours by road.
Do I need a permit for Tsomgo Lake?
Yes, permits are arranged through registered agents in Gangtok.
What is MG Marg?
A pedestrian-only shopping and café street, the heart of Gangtok.
Can I see Kanchenjunga from Gangtok?
Yes, on clear mornings from viewpoints like Hanuman Tok and Tashi Viewpoint.
Plan Your Trip with On Travel
Our Sikkim tours include Gangtok stays, local sightseeing and permits for Tsomgo, Nathula and North Sikkim.
- Phone / WhatsApp: +91 9220564155
- Email: info@ontravel.in
Plan Your Trip with On Travel
Ready to go? These itineraries cover the places in this guide and can be customised to your dates and budget:
- Darjeeling & Gangtok Hills – 5 Nights / 6 Days from Siliguri
- Gangtok, Lachung & Yumthang Valley – 5 Nights / 6 Days
- Gangtok & Darjeeling Heritage Tour – 4 Nights / 5 Days
- Darjeeling, Gangtok & Lachung – 5 Nights / 6 Days
Browse all Sikkim tour packages.
Related reading: Sikkim Trip Cost · How to Reach Sikkim · Sikkim Food Guide
Make the journey your own.
Explore itineraries inspired by the places in this guide.
Explore tour packages
