Sights

Explore Gangtok

Gangtok is the capital city of Sikkim, a northeastern state in India, and is located in the eastern Himalayas. It is a charming and scenic hill station known for its breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush green landscapes, vibrant culture, and serene atmosphere. Positioned at an altitude of about 1,650 meters (5,410 feet) above sea level, Gangtok serves as a gateway to various tourist attractions in Sikkim, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking peace, adventure, and a touch of spirituality.

Places You'll See

Tour Highlights

Tour Itinerary

Gangtok

5 Days 6 Nights
Gangtok: Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo Lake, Nathu La Pass, Bakthang Waterfall

Days Plan

Day 1: Arrival in Gangtok

  • Morning:
    • Arrival at Bagdogra Airport (or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station) and transfer to Gangtok (around 4-5 hours by road).
    • Check-in at the hotel.
    • Rest and freshen up.
  • Afternoon:
    • Local sightseeing:
      • Enchey Monastery: A serene Buddhist monastery offering panoramic views of Gangtok.
      • Flower Exhibition Centre: Enjoy the beautiful flowers and lush gardens.
    • Free time to explore the local markets, especially MG Road for shopping.
  • Evening:
    • Dinner at a local restaurant with traditional Sikkimese cuisine.

Day 2: Gangtok - Tsomgo Lake & Baba Mandir

  • Morning:
    • Breakfast at the hotel.
    • Depart for a full-day excursion to Tsomgo Lake (12,400 ft), a sacred glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
    • Baba Mandir: A temple dedicated to Baba Harbhajan Singh, a revered soldier.
  • Afternoon:
    • Enjoy a ride on a YAK or a walk around the lake.
    • Visit the nearby Nathu La Pass (if available), a border post connecting India and China.
  • Evening:
    • Return to Gangtok.
    • Free time to relax or explore more local attractions.
    • Dinner at the hotel.

Day 3: Gangtok - Rumtek Monastery & Namgyal Institute

  • Morning:
    • After breakfast, proceed for a visit to Rumtek Monastery: One of the largest monasteries in Sikkim, known for its Tibetan architecture and serenity.
    • Banjhakri Falls: A beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and forests.
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: Explore Tibetan culture, history, and artifacts.
    • Do-Drul Chorten: A stupa known for its spiritual significance and golden top.
  • Evening:
    • Free time for shopping or relaxing.
    • Optional: Visit the local markets for souvenirs.
    • Dinner at a local or hotel restaurant.

Day 4: Gangtok - Pelling (Excursion)

  • Morning:
    • Breakfast and transfer to Pelling (approximately 4-5 hours drive).
    • Check-in at the hotel in Pelling.
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim with a beautiful view of the Kanchenjunga range.
    • Rabdentse Ruins: Explore the historic ruins of the second capital of Sikkim.
    • Khecheopalri Lake: A sacred, serene lake believed to be wish-fulfilling.
  • Evening:
    • Return to the hotel for some relaxation.
    • Dinner at the hotel.

Day 5: Departure from Gangtok

  • Morning:
    • Breakfast and check-out.
    • Depending on your flight or train timings, you can visit:
      • Tashi Viewpoint for a stunning view of Kanchenjunga and surrounding ranges.
      • Gonjang Monastery for a peaceful farewell to Gangtok.
Notes:

    • 2 passport size photos
    • Adult – Original + photocopy of any of the ID proof i.e. Aadhar Card / Driving Licence /  Voters       ID / Passport
    • Child – Original + photocopy of any of the ID proof i.e. Aadhar Card / School ID / Passport
    • Infant – Aadhar Card / Birth certificate
    • NRI / Foreign nationals – Mandatory Passport + Valid Indian visa / OCI card / PIO card
    • Above mentioned ID proof is mandatory at the time of booking and carry the same ID proof on         tour as well

Gangtok

Tour Details


Hear from Our
Happy Travelers

"Our trip to Gangtok with Salt and Sea Adventure was beyond amazing! From the moment we booked our package, the team was incredibly helpful, providing us with all the details we needed to prepare for our trip. The itinerary was perfectly crafted, giving us the right balance of sightseeing, relaxation, and adventure. The local guides were knowledgeable, and the accommodations were top-notch. We loved exploring the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of Gangtok. I highly recommend Salt and Sea Adventure to anyone looking for a hassle-free and unforgettable experience in Gangtok!"

— Priya and Rajesh Mehra, New Delhi

"Salt and Sea Adventure truly made our Gangtok trip unforgettable. As a couple looking for a peaceful retreat, the customized package they offered was exactly what we needed. The trek to Tsomgo Lake was breathtaking, and the visits to the monasteries gave us a deep insight into the region's rich culture. We felt taken care of every step of the way, from airport pickups to guided tours. We couldn’t have asked for a better travel partner. Gangtok is a dream, and thanks to Salt and Sea, we experienced it to the fullest!"

— Ankita Sharma & Arjun Patel, Mumbai

"If you're planning to visit Gangtok, Salt and Sea Adventure is the only agency you need! Our family of four had an amazing time exploring this beautiful hill station. From the detailed trip planning to the excellent hotel choices, everything was handled perfectly. The kids loved the cable car ride and the visit to Baba Mandir, while my wife and I enjoyed the serenity of the Himalayan views. Their customer service was always available to answer questions, making everything so easy. I will definitely be booking my future travels with them!"

— Deepak Soni, Kolkata

Best Time to Visit Gangtok:

  1. March to June (Spring and Summer):

    • Ideal for pleasant weather and clear skies, making it perfect for sightseeing, trekking, and outdoor activities.
    • Temperature ranges from 10°C to 25°C, offering a comfortable climate for exploration.
  2. September to December (Autumn and Early Winter):

    • Excellent for trekking and experiencing beautiful landscapes as the skies remain clear.
    • Temperature ranges from 5°C to 20°C, and the chilly weather adds to the charm of the hill station.
    • This is also the time for festivals like Dasain and Tihar, which offer a peek into local culture.
  3. December to February (Winter):

    • Best for snow lovers and those looking for a winter getaway.
    • The temperature drops to below 5°C, and snow-capped mountains enhance the beauty of the region.
    • Be prepared for chilly conditions, but the winter scenery is truly magical.

How to Reach Gangtok:

  1. By Air:

    • Bagdogra Airport (IXB), located about 124 km from Gangtok, is the nearest airport.
    • Direct flights are available from major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai. From the airport, taxis or private vehicles are available to reach Gangtok.
  2. By Train:

    • The nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP), approximately 120 km away from Gangtok.
    • NJP is well-connected to major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati. From NJP, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Gangtok.
  3. By Road:

    • Gangtok is well-connected by road to other parts of Sikkim and neighboring states like West Bengal.
    • Private taxis, buses, and shared jeeps are available from Siliguri (West Bengal), Darjeeling, or other nearby towns to Gangtok.

Importance of Gangtok:

  1. Gateway to Sikkim:

    • Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim and serves as the central hub for exploring the state’s rich natural beauty, culture, and adventure activities.
  2. Cultural and Spiritual Hub:

    • The city is home to several Buddhist monasteries, including Rumtek Monastery and Enchey Monastery, offering a spiritual experience and insights into the region’s traditions.
  3. Scenic Beauty:

    • Nestled in the Eastern Himalayas, Gangtok offers spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga (the third-highest mountain in the world) and is surrounded by lush valleys, rivers, and alpine forests.