Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass, Rumtek Monastery, Tashi Viewpoint, Baba Harbhajan Singh Temple, MG marg, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Phodong Monastery, Do Drul Chorten, Ganesh Tok, Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial Temple, and many more places. Gangtok is a place that is brimming over with natural wonders of which the Kanchenjunga mountain is the most imposing. This mountain stands tall over the other magnificent peaks of the Sikkim Himalayas and can be glimpsed from most places around Gangtok.
Tsomgo Lake, Gangtok
If you have enough time to visit just one place in Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake it is! Located at 12,400 ft. above sea level, this high altitude lake sits amidst mountains and derives its water from their melting snow. The unparalleled beauty of the site is absolutely mesmerizing. A striking feature of the lake is that it changes color with every season. It remains frozen during winters, but the snow around is replaced by blooming flowers in summers. Legends reveal that Buddhist monks used to study the lake’s color to forecast the future in olden times.
Nathula Pass
A part of the ancient Silk Route between India and Tibet, Nathula Pass is bestowed with natural beauty and stunning scenic views. Driving through its steep, slippery slopes, up to an altitude of 14,140 ft., will make for quite an adventure. Nathula Pass sees a large number of tourists during summer and autumn. Winters might not be the best time to visit as the temperatures are quite low, and the route is often closed due to heavy snowfall. The road remains closed for public on Mondays and Tuesdays, so make sure you plan your itinerary accordingly.
Hanuman Tok
Located at an altitude of 7,200 ft., this decades-old Hanuman temple is one of the most popular places to visit in Gangtok. Offering uninterrupted views of the Kanchenjunga range, this shrine is visited by tourists throughout the year for its serene ambience and stunning views. You can soak in the beauty of the lush greenery, the scenic hills and valleys and a small part of the town while climbing the paved stairs that lead to this blissfully calm divine site.
Himalayan Zoological Park
The first zoo in Sikkim, Himalayan Zoological Park offers an opportunity to explore the fauna in the region. Home to Snow Leopards, Himalayan Palm Civets, Red Pandas and Himalayan Black Bears, the place is unlike most of the zoos in the country. Animals are kept in open enclosures in replicated natural habitat and are not caged, which makes the overall experience a bit more pleasant. Situated at an altitude of 1,780 meters, the zoo also offers splendid views of Mount Kanchenjunga. Set aside at least 3 to 4 hours for the zoo, especially if travelling with children.
MG Marg
MG Marg is the center of all activity in Gangtok, and it’s on your itinerary by default! However, if you have an extra day or a couple of hours to spare, do spend time in this vehicle-free zone to learn and explore the way of life in Gangtok. This buzzing market is home to a number of shops, some of which have been there since decades along with many restaurants, cafes and souvenir stores. Do try the Hungry Heads for yum cold coffee and sandwiches.