MOUNTAIN ESCAPES
| GANGTOK |
 |
| Gangtok guide >>> Gangtok travel guide and tourist information on
Gangtok, how to get to Gangtok, also details on sightseeing in Gangtok, best time to visit
Gangtok and accommodation in Gangtok |
 |
Mesmerising, picturesque, colourful - Gangtok
is the exuberant capital of Sikkim that lures you for an unforgettable vacation. Cool
breezes blow over the lush mountainside and the air is fragrant with the profusion of wild
orchids and rhododendrons. Gangtok's bazaars bustle with the animation of trendy
youngsters, elderly matrons in their traditional bakus and lamas in colourful maroon and
mustard robes. Prayer flags flutter in front of pretty Buddhist shrines and pagoda-style
houses that cling to the hillside. At about 1,770 mt, Gangtok offers panoramic views of
the Himalayas, especially from Tashi Viewpoint. |
| Though you will be charmed by Gangtok's
serenity, for energetic moments make a trip to the famous Pemayangtse Monastery
to see its priceless antiques and idols, and to the nearby ruins of Rabdantse,
the 17th century capital of Sikkim. The Institute of Tibetology, the Enchey
Monastery, and the Rumtek Monastery are other interesting places
in Gangtok. The Do-Drul Chorten is a splendid temple capped by a golden
tower, with 108 prayer wheels. The sacred Changu Lake at 3,780 mt, 40 km
east of Gangtok remains frozen through the year and comes alive during summer when
rhododendrons, irises, primulas and poppies burst into bloom on its banks and on the
adjoining hill slopes. Getting to
Gangtok
Gangtok is 721 km from Kolkata, 589 km from Guwahati and 584 km from Patna. The airport
closest to Gangtok is at Bagdogra, 124 km and the nearest railhead is New Jalpaiguri (125
km), with connections to all the major cities of India. You can drive to Gangtok from
either of these West Bengal cities in 5 hours or from Siliguri 114 km away or Darjeeling,
139 km from Gangtok. The drive to Gangtok is facilitated by numerous taxis, shared jeeps
and hired cars with chauffeurs.
Best time to visit Gangtok
The best time to visit Gangtok is between October and mid-December when clear views of the
Himalayan peaks are guaranteed or again between March and May when the flowers are in
bloom. January and February means snow in the higher altitudes and visits to many of the
tourist spots are not possible. June to September brings heavy rains causing landslides
that often disrupt communication. Carry light woollens for summer and heavy woollens for
winter. Rainwear is a must in any season.
Accommodation in Gangtok
There is a wide variety of hotel accommodation available at Gangtok, ranging from luxury
and deluxe to standard and economy, depending on your budget. Prices are in the vicinity
of Rs 2,500 for luxury, Rs 1,300 for mid-rung and Rs 500 for basic accommodation. |
|
Back to India
|
