Extremely alluring, pleasantly exuberant, and enveloped in misty clouds - Gangtok, the capital city of the Sikkim is a pristine hill station nestled in mountains and clouds. It serves as a base for a whole lot of trekkers to the Himalayan mountain ranges, and one can get the magnificent views of the Kanchenjunga peak, at a distant skyline. Offering some of the best tourist attractions, this place is also famous for its distinct cuisine. Gangtok is a city of great food, vibrant traditions, stunning sceneries, and beautiful Buddhist monasteries. The city is the perfect blend of modern, resort town-style feel infused with ancient spiritual beliefs and impressive natural heritage.
Top Attractions In Gangtok
Gangtok has a lot to offer a discerning traveler. There are several lakes and monasteries which make the hill station vibrant and lively. Some of the famous places to visit here include:
1. Rumtek Monastery
This beautiful monastery is extremely popular among Tibetan Buddhists. Touted to be one of the largest in Sikkim, it belongs to the Kargyu sect of Buddhists which originated in the 12th century in Tibet. It features mesmerizing Tibetan architecture, perhaps one of the finest in the world, and the huge prayer hall inside the monastery is decorated with splendid murals, paintings, and statues. From the top of the monastery, one can get a beautiful view of the surrounding majestic hills and beautiful waterfalls.
2. Seven Sisters Waterfall
This set of 7 waterfalls cascades down the mountains with clear blue, pristine waters. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions here, and a famed stopover on the Gangtok - Lachung route. It provides amazing photographic opportunities dues to its location, surrounding forests, and scenic beauty.
3. Nathu La Pass
Located at an astonishing altitude of 4,300 meters, the might Nathu La Pass serves as one of the 3 links between India and China, and you can spot both Indian and Chinese soldiers guarding the border. It is considered to be one of the highest motorable mountain passes in the world. The place also has historical importance as it was the place through which the ancient silk route used to operate until 1962. The pass is closed on Monday and Tuesday, so plan your visit accordingly.
4. Cable Ride
One of the top attractions in Gangtok, the double-cable zig back ropeway offers a panoramic view of the city. The joy ride gives you an amazing view of the Kanchenjunga snow peaks and is the best way to take pictures of the high valley and hill area. Visitors can have a bird's eye view of the Gangtok city with its scenic landscape, gurgling Teesta river, and snow-capped mountains while taking a ride in this ropeway.
5. River Rafting
Whether you are an adventure junkie or not, indulge in one of the most thrilling recreational water activities at Teesta river. River rafting in Teesta river is one of the many exhilarating things to do in Gangtok. The river channels through gorges and valleys that offer spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and make rafting a truly memorable experience. Get your adrenaline pumping with the thrill of river rafting in Teesta river for about 7 kilometers.
There are multiple things that Gangtok has to offer, which makes it a haven for tourists and adventure enthusiasts to plan an unforgettable trip. Whether you're visiting with your family or friends, each of these places will ensure you undergo a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
