Tucked away in the folds of the Eastern Himalayas, Gangtok serves high-altitude charm with a dash of modern flair. Think postcard-perfect views, steaming plates of momo, and lanes buzzing with energy! A little bit city, a little bit sleepy hill town — this Sikkimese capital knows how to keep it cool without even trying. On one end, you've got majestic monasteries and snow-draped passes, and on the other, hip cafes and bustling bazaars. It's equal parts spiritual, scenic and spicy (yes, we're talking food), and the best bit? It manages to feel like a holiday without the tourist fatigue. We have curated the only Gangtok travel guide you'll ever need.
Here's A Handy Travel Guide To The City Of Gangtok:
Where To Go In Gangtok:
1. Rumtek Monastery
One of the largest and most significant monasteries in Sikkim, Rumtek is peaceful without being too precious about it. Located around 23 km from Gangtok, this Buddhist monastery is an architectural beauty and a spiritual centre for the Karma Kagyu sect. The intricate murals, golden stupa and the sound of monks chanting give the whole place a serene vibe, especially early in the morning.
Rumtek Monastery. Photo: Pexels
2. Seven Sisters Waterfall
This isn't your average trickle-down-the-rocks type of waterfall. During monsoon, Seven Sisters bursts into full drama mode with seven distinct streams cascading in sync. It's an easy stop on the way to North Sikkim and a great place to just sit with a cuppa and zone out to nature's playlist.
3. Nathu La Pass
Snow, patriotism, and breathtaking views — Nathu La, perched at 14,140 feet, packs all three. It's part of the ancient Silk Route and sits right on the Indo-China border. Indian nationals need a permit to visit, and it's only open to tourists on select days, but it's worth every bit of the paperwork. Pro tip: Dress like you're going to Antarctica and thank us later.
Nathu La Pass. Photo: Instagram/iflynfeast
4. Do Drul Chorten Stupa
Smack in the middle of Gangtok, this whitewashed stupa is surrounded by 108 prayer wheels and whispers of old-world calm. Built in 1945, it's a major spiritual site and often skipped in favour of flashier spots — but that's exactly why you should go. It's less about selfies and more about soaking in the stillness.
5. Tsomgo Lake
A glacial lake with shifting moods — Tsomgo is frozen blue in winter and mirror-clear in spring. Just 40 km from Gangtok, it sits at 12,400 feet and reflects the snowy peaks around like a watercolour painting. Yak rides are optional but undeniably fun, especially if it's your first time up close with one of these furry giants.
Tsomgo Lake. Photo: Pexels
Where To Stay In Gangtok:
1. Luxury Hotels
For a top-tier experience, The Elgin Nor-Khill is hard to beat. Once the royal guesthouse of the Sikkimese monarchy, it oozes colonial charm with wood-panelled rooms and sweeping mountain views. The Mayfair Spa Resort is another luxe pick — it's tucked into the forest and comes with a full-service spa and lavish interiors that make you feel like hill royalty.
Photo: Courtesy of The Elgin Nor-Khill
2. Boutique Hotels
If you're after character over chandelier, boutique spots like Netuk House and Denzong Regency deliver with local charm and personalised service. Netuk House is a heritage home turned homestay that gives you a peek into traditional Sikkimese living, minus any touristy gimmicks.
3. Budget Stays
Don't worry, Gangtok's got your back if you're travelling light on the wallet. Hostels like Tag Along and Zostel Gangtok offer clean dorms, community vibes and central locations-perfect for solo travellers or groups. For budget hotels, The Royal Oaks is a popular pick with decent amenities and stunning views that go above its price tag.
Also Read: Darjeeling Travel Guide: Where To Eat, Stay, Shop, And Roam In The 'Queen Of The Hills'
Where To Eat In Gangtok:
1. Regional Cuisine
Gangtok does traditional food right. Try Nimtho for a full-blown Sikkimese thali — think rice, gundruk (fermented leafy greens), pork curry, and chhurpi (hard yak cheese). Another favourite is The Local Cafe, which offers authentic bites like phagshapa (pork stew) and sel roti (rice doughnuts) without diluting flavours for tourists.
Thakali thali at Nimtho. Photo: Courtesy of Nimtho.
2. Fine-Dining
For a dressed-up dinner, head to The Square at Novotel. It offers global cuisine with an Indian twist, and a great wine list to match. If you're in the mood for a five-star setting with a side of Sikkimese warmth, The Dragon Wok at Mayfair does elegant Asian fare with great service.
3. Cosy Cafes
Cafe culture is strong here. Baker's Cafe has front-row seats to the mountains, perfect for slow mornings with a hot chocolate and a slice of carrot cake. Cafe Fiction is a haven for bookworms, offering locally-sourced coffee and shelves of indie reads. Both spots serve more than just vibes — they're ideal for refuelling between hill walks.
Photo: Instagram/indianfoodpraise
4. Lounges & Bars
After sundown, it's all about Gatsby's or Lounge 31A. Gatsby's has got a retro theme going on, while 31A offers rooftop views and live music on weekends. They're perfect for winding down with a cocktail or catching local acts over a beer. Casual, cosy, and just the right amount of buzz.
Where To Shop In Gangtok:
1. Local Markets
MG Marg is Gangtok's beating heart when it comes to shopping. Lined with shops and cafes, this pedestrian — only stretch is perfect for picking up prayer flags, local teas, and woollen shawls. The atmosphere here is as big a draw as the shopping itself — clean, vibrant, and totally walkable.
2. Art & Handicrafts
The Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom is your one-stop shop for authentic souvenirs. From wood carvings to thangka paintings and handwoven carpets, everything here is made by local artisans. It's a great place to pick up meaningful gifts that go beyond fridge magnets.
3. Luxury Malls
Vishal Mega Mart and Lal Bazaar Mall offer a more conventional experience. While you won't find high fashion, they're handy for essentials or a quick snack stop. If you're travelling with kids or just need a break from street stalls, these malls offer an easy pit stop.
View of Mount Kanchenjunga. Photo: Pexels
Weather In Gangtok (Best Time To Visit Gangtok):
Gangtok wears every season differently, but the sweet spots are spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November). Expect clear skies, pleasant days, and chilly evenings-perfect for sightseeing without turning into a human icicle. Winters (December to February) are beautiful but biting cold, while monsoon (June to September) sees frequent landslides, so maybe skip that if you're not into spontaneous detours.
How To Reach Gangtok:
By Air
The nearest airport is Pakyong Airport, around 30 km away, but it has limited flights. Most travellers opt for Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal, which is better connected and about 125 km from Gangtok. From there, taxis and shared cabs are readily available.
Also Read: 8 Incredible Treks In Northeast India That Feel Almost Unreal
By Rail
There's no direct train to Gangtok, but New Jalpaiguri (NJP) in Siliguri is the closest major railhead. It's about a 4-5 hour drive to Gangtok and well-serviced by taxis and jeeps. NJP is connected to most major cities in India, making it the most convenient rail option.
By Road
Whether you're coming from Siliguri, Darjeeling, or Kalimpong, the roads to Gangtok are scenic, albeit winding. Buses and shared jeeps run frequently, or you can hire a private cab for more comfort. The ride comes with panoramic views and the occasional roadside momo stall — win-win.
Getting Around In Gangtok:
Local taxis are the main mode of transport and are generally shared unless booked privately. Most sightseeing spots have fixed rates, so don't stress about haggling too much. Self-drive cars aren't a big thing here, and two-wheelers are hard to rent, so best stick to cabs or walk — MG Marg and its surroundings are pedestrian-friendly and perfect for strolls.
Let Gangtok do what it does best — surprise you in all the right ways. Whether you're here for the food, the silence, or the selfies, this hill town serves it all, no filter needed.
