Gangtok is nestled among the high peaks of the Himalayas, with a pleasant climate all year. The location is regarded as an excellent vacation destination. The area is home to people of various ethnicities, including Nepali, Lepcha, and Bhutia, and is located in the eastern Himalayan range at an elevation of 5410 feet.
Gangtok, Sikkim's capital is nestled in the Himalayan ranges. It is also one of the least populated states in India, trailing only Goa. Gangtok has some spectacular geographical terrain and locations.
Gangtok's early history remains a mystery. The first record is from 1716 when the hermetic Gangtok monastery was built. The area remained a small hamlet until the Enchey Monastery was built in 1840 when it became a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
1. Rumtek Monastery
The 9th Karmapa Wangchuk built this beautiful Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the 16th century, and it was later renovated by the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa. The monastery embodies the vision of the 16th century Karmapa, Rangjung Rigpe Dorje, and was constructed to serve as his seat in exile as well as to spread Buddhism throughout the world. The images of the Dalai Lama and Ganesha at the monastery's entrance represent the connection between Buddhism and Hinduism.
2. Enchey Monastery
The 200-year-old monastery is built atop a hill and was blessed by Lama Dhrupthob Karpo, a renowned saint with flying abilities. The monastery's sacredness is associated with two protecting deities, Khangchedzonga and Yabdean, who reside there.
3. Hanuman Tok
Tok translates as "temple." Hanuman Tok is a well-known Hanuman-dedicated temple. The temple is located at an elevation of about 7200 feet and is well known for its peaceful atmosphere and magical views of the mighty Kanchenjunga.
Hanuman is said to have rested here while carrying the Sanjeevini mountain to Sri Lanka, according to local legend. The Hanuman idol was erected here in 1950 after an officer named Appaji Pant had a divine dream here.
4. Tsomgo Lake
Tsomgo Lake is one of the most well-known and holy places in the area. The lake is considered holy by the locals, who have worshipped it since time immemorial. On the lake's shore, there is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, which adds to the tranquility.
5. Do Drul Chorten
The stupa was built in 1945 by Trullshi Rimpoche, the head of the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism. Inside the stupa, one can see the entire collection of Dorjee phurba, Zungm, Kang Gyur relics, and other religious objects.
Around the stupa are 108 prayer wheels, or Mani Lhakor, which are turned by devout Buddhists while chanting 'Om Mani Padme Hum.'
Best Time to Visit Gangtok
Gangtok is a year-round destination that can be visited at any time of year. Temperatures do, however, drop significantly during the winter season, which begins in December and ends in February. Summers, on the other hand, are one of the best times to visit.
How to Reach Gangtok
By Air: The nearest airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal, which is 125 kilometres away. The airport provides flights to all major cities in the country as well as helicopter services to Gangtok.
By Train: The nearest railway station to Gangtok is the New Jalpaiguri railway station, which is 117 kilometres away. The station is well connected to all of the country's major towns and cities.
By Road: Gangtok is well-connected by road, and there are frequent bus services from Siliguri. Siliguri is 117 kilometres away, and Darjeeling is about 97 kilometres away.