Gangtok Travel Information

Hereโ€™s a comprehensive guide to visiting Gangtok, including sightseeing, accommodation, dining, activities, entry fees, timings, souvenirs, and authentic Chinese food options:

Enchey Monastery

  • Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: Free
  • Description: A beautiful monastery offering scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere. It is an important religious site for the locals.

Rumtek Monastery

  • Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: โ‚น100 per person (for foreigners)
  • Description: One of the most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries, known for its stunning architecture and serene environment.

Tsomgo Lake

  • Timings: 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: โ‚น150 per person (for foreigners)
  • Description: A picturesque glacial lake located at an altitude of 3,753 meters. Permits are required, and itโ€™s a popular spot for nature lovers and photographers.

MG Road

  • Timings: Open throughout the day
  • Entry Fee: Free
  • Description: The main shopping street of Gangtok, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Itโ€™s ideal for leisurely walks and shopping.

Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

  • Timings: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Closed on Sundays)
  • Entry Fee: โ‚น10 per person (for Indians), โ‚น100 per person (for foreigners)
  • Description: A museum dedicated to Tibetan culture and artifacts, showcasing ancient manuscripts, statues, and religious texts.

Tashi Viewpoint

  • Timings: 4:00 AM to 6:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: Free
  • Description: Offers panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga and the surrounding mountains. Itโ€™s a great spot for sunrise and sunset views.

Where to Stay in Gangtok

Hotel Tibet

  • Location: MG Road
  • Description: A mid-range hotel offering comfortable rooms and modern amenities. Conveniently located for easy access to major attractions.

Hotel Golden Star Continental & Suites

  • Location: Near MG Road
  • Description: Offers comfortable rooms, good dining options, and a convenient location for exploring the city.

      The Elgin Nor-Khill

  • Location: Near MG Road
  • Description: A luxury heritage hotel with beautiful views, traditional dรฉcor, and excellent service. Ideal for a luxurious stay.

Hotel Gangtok Guest House

  • Location: Near MG Road
  • Description: A budget-friendly option with basic amenities and a central location.

Where to Eat in Gangtok

Gangtok Kitchen

  • Location: MG Road
  • Cuisine: North Indian, Tibetan, Chinese
  • Description: Popular for its variety of Indian and Tibetan dishes, including momos and thukpa.

Taste of Tibet

  • Location: Near MG Road
  • Cuisine: Tibetan
  • Description: Known for authentic Tibetan cuisine, including momos, thukpa, and yak meat dishes.

Bakerโ€™s Cafรฉ

  • Location: MG Road
  • Cuisine: Bakery, Cafรฉ
  • Description: A great spot for pastries, cakes, and light snacks. Offers a cozy atmosphere and a range of beverages.

The Dragon Wok

  • Location: Near MG Road
  • Cuisine: Chinese
  • Description: Offers authentic Chinese dishes such as dumplings, fried rice, and noodles. Known for its quality and flavor.

Nimtho

  • Location: Near MG Road
  • Cuisine: Local and Tibetan
  • Description: Offers traditional Sikkimese cuisine, including local delicacies and Tibetan dishes.

Tips for Enjoying Tibetan/Chinese Food in Gangtok

  • Try Local Specialties: Donโ€™t miss local Tibetan and Sikkimese dishes such as momos, thukpa, and gundruk.
  • Check for Authenticity: For authentic Chinese food, choose reputed places like The Dragon Wok.
  • Be Adventurous: Explore street food stalls for local snacks and delicacies.
  • Ask for Recommendations: Local residents and hotel staff can provide suggestions for the best eateries.
  • Mind the Spice Levels: Some local dishes can be quite spicy. Adjust according to your preference.

Adventure and Relaxation Activities for First-Time Foreign Tourists

Paragliding

  • Description: Experience flying over the scenic landscapes of Gangtok.
  • Location: Ganesh Tok and other designated spots.
  • Booking: Available through local adventure sports operators.

Mountain Biking

  • Description: Explore the rugged terrain and beautiful landscapes around Gangtok on a mountain bike.
  • Location: Various trails around the city.
  • Booking: Can be arranged through local tour operators.

Trekking

  • Description: Embark on treks to explore the natural beauty and diverse flora and fauna.
  • Popular Treks:
    • Singalila Ridge Trek: Offers panoramic views of the Himalayas.
    • Goechala Trek: Known for stunning views of Kanchenjunga.
  • Booking: Through trekking agencies.

Spa and Wellness

  • Description: Enjoy relaxing spa treatments and wellness therapies.
  • Locations: Various hotels and wellness centers in Gangtok.

Yoga and Meditation

  • Description: Join yoga and meditation sessions to rejuvenate both body and mind.
  • Locations: Available at wellness centers and some hotels.

 

Tips for First-Time Foreign Tourists

  • Permits: For visiting places like Tsomgo Lake, youโ€™ll need a special permit, which can be arranged through your hotel or a travel agency.
  • Local Transport: Taxis and shared cabs are common for local transport. Renting a bike or car is also an option for exploring nearby areas.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your visit to Gangtok, enjoying its rich culture, diverse food options, and beautiful landscapes.

Popular Souvenirs to Buy in Gangtok

Tibetan Handicrafts

  • Items:
    • Thangkas: Traditional Tibetan scroll paintings.
    • Prayer Flags: Colorful flags with religious inscriptions.
    • Tibetan Jewelry: Handcrafted necklaces, bracelets, and rings.
    • Wooden Carvings: Intricate carvings depicting Buddhist symbols.

  Local Textiles

  • Items:
    • Handwoven Shawls: Beautifully crafted shawls in traditional designs.
    • Carpets: Handmade woolen carpets with intricate patterns.
    • Traditional Clothing: Sikkimese attire, including scarves and jackets.

Tea

  • Items:
    • Darjeeling Tea: Renowned for its distinctive flavor, available in various blends.
    • Sikkim Tea: Local teas with unique tastes and aromas.

Handmade Crafts

  • Items:
    • Pottery: Handcrafted pottery items, including mugs and vases.
    • Metal Artifacts: Decorative metal pieces and small statues.

Jewelry

  • Items:
    • Semi-Precious Stones: Jewelry featuring locally sourced semi-precious stones.
    • Silver Jewelry: Traditional designs with intricate detailing.

 

Where to Shop in Gangtok

MG Road

  • Description: The main commercial street in Gangtok, bustling with shops, cafes, and local vendors. Itโ€™s the most popular spot for shopping.
  • What to Buy: Souvenirs, local handicrafts, Tibetan jewelry, clothing, and local products.
  • Notable Stores:
    • Shree Ganesh Emporium: Known for Tibetan handicrafts and souvenirs.
    • Tashi Delek: Offers traditional Tibetan and Sikkimese products.

Lal Market

  • Description: A vibrant local market offering fresh produce, spices, and various household items.
  • What to Buy: Fresh vegetables, fruits, local spices, and daily essentials.
  • Location: Near the main market area.

Tibet Handicrafts

  • Description: A specialty store offering a variety of Tibetan handicrafts and artifacts.
  • What to Buy: Thangkas (Tibetan scroll paintings), prayer flags, Tibetan jewelry, and wooden carvings.
  • Location: Near MG Road.

Ranka Monastery Market

  • Description: A smaller market located near Ranka Monastery, featuring local goods and crafts.
  • What to Buy: Local crafts, Buddhist artifacts, and traditional Sikkimese clothing.
  • Location: Ranka Monastery area.

The Mall

  • Description: A shopping area with various stores offering clothing, accessories, and souvenirs.
  • What to Buy: Clothing, accessories, local souvenirs, and gifts.
  • Location: Near MG Road.

 

Handicraft Emporiums

  • Description: Various emporiums in Gangtok provide a wide range of traditional Sikkimese and Tibetan handicrafts.
  • What to Buy: Handwoven textiles, traditional Sikkimese jewelry, and unique crafts.
  • Locations: Multiple locations around MG Road and the city center.