The name Gangtok stands for "hill cut". Gangtok is the most popular city and capital of North-eastern state Sikkim, situated in the Himalayan range at an height of almost 1500 m. Gangtok has a rich history and culture associated with Buddhism and hence you can see a number of monasteries and monks in the city. Tibetian cuisine, libraries, festivals, rituals are very common here and mark the initiation of Buddhism in Sikkim. Apart from cultural and spiritual significance, Gangtok is the center of Sikkim's tourism industry and it invites visitors in masses across the globe. The view of Himalayan peaks, Mount Kanchenjunga, lush green valleys and clouds from different points of the city is a memorable sight to behold. 

The Culture! 

1. Saga Dawa Festival:

The Saga Dawa Festival is very popular and important among the Buddhists which is celebrated as the anniversary of Buddha's Birth. The festival falls on the full moon day of the 4th month of the Buddhist Calendar and many rituals and customs are observed among the devotees in Gangtok.

2. Losar Festival: 

The Lepchas and Bhutias celebrate New year in January while the Tibetans celebrate the Tibetan New Year called as Losar in the month of January and February where you can spot the famous Devil Dance.  

3. International Flower Festival:

Every year in the month of May, the International Flower Show takes place in the Flower Exhibition Center or near the White Hall Complex of Gangtok consisting of large numbers of flowers such as orchids, roses, cacti, ferns, and herbs. A food place also takes place alongside the show to welcome people in masses. 

4. Cuisine: 

Momo, the steamed dumpling, is very popular in Gangtok and people across India eat the dish with awe. Wai-Wai is the packaged noodles eaten in dry or soupy format. Thukpa is another local dish containing noodles which is famous in the city. Shah-Phaley, Gack-Ko Soup are other popular recipes. Chhurpee is a hard cheese made from Yak's milk that one should definitely try. Chhang is the local millet bear. 

What to do when in Gangtok?

1. Yak Safari: 

Yak Safari in Gangtok is one of the activities you should never miss. There are many workers providing the ride on a yak starting at Dzongri or Tsomgo Lake. The slow movement of the mountain animal, passing through trees and meadows, between clouds and cold wind is such a fun activity to experience. 

2. Mountain Biking: 

If you want to involve yourself in adventure and adrenaline rushes, mountain biking would be the best choice for you. The uneven rides of hidden forests, valleys, waterfalls will introduce you to the calmer side of the city with which you will definitely fall in love. 

3. Ropeways: 

The ropeways of Gangtok give a proper and breathtaking bird's eye view of the city. The ropeway journey lasts for a good 20 minute having stations at Deorali, Tashling and Namnang. If you don't have a terrible fear from heights, this activity is a must in your list. 

4. Paragliding: 

Paragliding is an activity one should definitely try once in lifetime and Gangtok offers the best place for it. Many organizations give the opportunity to paraglide with a trainer where you can enjoy the view of the city from top and literally feel liberated. 

How to reach the city

Gangtok is an important part of the country and hence is connected with other major cities. 

1. Airways: 

Pakyong Airport is the nearest airport situated 35 km away from the city at Pakyong. It connects a number of flights to the main cities of India. 

2. Roadways: 

Both private and government bus services are available to reach the city from neighbouring cities via national and state highways. 

3. Railways: 

New Jalpaiguri Junction Railway Station is the nearest railway station at Siliguri and number of trains connect the city from across the country. 

Places to visit 

1. Mahatma Gandhi Road:

Mahatma Gandhi Road is the most happening place of Gangtok consisting of numerous restaurants, shopping stores, lighting, and hotels. The statue of Bhutia Chieftain Khye Bumsa brings peace and harmony. The green buildings on every side of the road are designed nicely and people come here in huge numbers when on a trip to Sikkim.

2. Nathula Pass:

Nathula Pass is a mountain pass in the Dongkya Himalayan Peaks, situated on the Indo-Tibetan border. It is one of the highest roads in the world and welcomes travelers across the globe. The picturesque spot offers proper views of mountains, curvy roads are a sight to behold. 

3. Tsomgo Lake:

Tsomgo Lake also called "Changu Lake" is often visited by the tourists for the natural beauty of the lake in a green valley surrounded by mountains. The travelers visit here on their way to Nathula Pass and it gives the perfect spot for your Instagram feed. 

4. Rumtek Monastery:

Rumtek Monastery is one of the largest and most prominent monasteries of Sikkim which gets a large number of visitors every year. As it is situated atop a hill, 23 km from the city, you can observe the wholesome view of Gangtok. 

5. Ganesh Tok:

Ganesh Tok is the small temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha which is very famous for offering breathtaking views of the valley. The place gives peace and tranquility among chaos and a must visit when in a trip to Sikkim. 

6. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology:

Namgyal Institute of Technology is one of the rarest institutes you will find in the country that contains a Buddhist museum and a library. The main motto of this place is to preserve the rich history and excellent Buddhist culture, 1000 m above the ground. The institute is designed in Tibetan Architecture. 

7. Kanchenjunga:

Kanchenjunga is regarded as the paradise on earth and people flock into the city to have a glimpse of the mountains. It is the 3rd highest peak in the world and from camp base Tiger Hill, you can trek. 

8. Himalayan Zoological Park:

Himalayan Zoological Park is located in Bulbulay, 3 km from Gangtok where you can see an amazing panoramic view of Mount Kanchenjunga. The park is admired by animal lovers and includes snow leopard cats, Himalayan Red Panda, crimson-horned pheasant, goral, etc. 

9. Reshi Hot Springs:

Reshi Hot Springs are very famous among people and are believed to contain spiritual values and medicinal qualities. The springs are located near the Rangit River Valley and people come here to spend weekends in winter. 

10. Kabi Longstok:

Kabi Longstok is one of the must visit places in Gangtok, 17 km away from it. The place possesses high level history about the beginning of Sikkim and you would see monasteries, libraries and Buddhist monks here.

11. Seven Sisters Waterfalls:

As the name suggests, you will see 7 waterfalls side by side flowing from a top cliff which is situated 32 km from Gangtok. The place has become a popular picnic spot for the picturesque streams, greenery and peaceful biodiversity.

12. Do Drul Chorten:

Do Drul Chorten is one among the peaceful places people seek for seclusion. It is one of the most important stupas of the state and possesses religious significance. It has 108 prayer wheels and matras can be chanted by rotating them.

13. Saramsa Garden:

Saramsa Garden is one of the popular places among tourists situated 14 km from the city. It consists of a large species of plants and flowers. The weekend escape place is also known as Ipecac Garden.

14. Banjhakri Falls:

The Banjhakri name comes from Ban meaning forest and Jhakri meaning traditional healer. It is one of the most relaxing places you will find in the city, situated almost 10 km away from Gangtok. 

15. Phodong Monastery:

The Phodong Monastery is a very important religious place, situated in Phodong. The location of the place is quite high at 4500 m and hence it provides the most picturesque spot of the mountains, the greens, the valleys. 

Best time to visit 

Gangtok falls in the lower Himalayan region and hence it is chilly throughout the year. 

1. Summer- March to June- 17°C to 27°C (pleasant weather)

2. Rainy- July to September- 15°C to 25°C (heavy rainfall)

3. Winter- November to January- 10°C to -2°C (very cold)