Gangtok Calling: Discovering Sikkim's Vibrant Capital

A place canvased with all the beautiful colours around you and the sun peaking from the top with its shiniest ray fluttering from the cold breeze, such is the beauty of Gangtok. It is indeed a jewel that offers you the beautiful places and also the cacophony from the valley. Gangtok is a perfect culmination of everything - markets, valleys, mountains, monasteries, and more. With its beauty, it also offers a side that has been appreciated for the longest time, namely, its spiritual and religious aspects. In the adventurous and mountainous areas, you can take a stroll and live a life away from what the city offers. As time passes, you will see cultures and traditions taking center stage and blending with the modernity that time brings. The city blooms with greenery all around, carrying a fresh fragrance with a dewy touch, along with the symphony of the monastery bells. You will feel just at home when you visit Gangtok. To discover the mesmerizing beauty of Gangtok and understand what the experience has to offer, use this post as your comprehensive guide.

Important Information About Gangtok

State: Sikkim, India

Population: More than 2 Lakhs

Languages: Hindi, English, Nepali, Sikkimese, and other local languages

Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)

Closest Airport: Pakyong Airport (PYG)

Top Things To Do in Gangtok

Gangtok is a fun place to be. It is better to plan your trip before it begins, so that when it starts, you don't miss out on any of the fun and adventurous activities. There are many places to visit and things to do, whether with your family and friends or for a solo experience. Therefore, you should be familiar with the most popular and attractive aspects. If you want to know all the things to do in Gangtok, then you should refer to the points written below:

• Visit Changu Lake: Changu Lake is situated at a high altitude and near the China border. You can expect snow and stunning views. You can plan a trip with your family and friends and take a yak ride to witness the beauty in person. It is covered in the vibrant colours as the spring season approaches. It will feel like a frozen wonderland that will be heavenly once you arrive.
• Take a Helicopter ride in Gangtok Valley: When visiting Gangtok, be sure to take a helicopter ride from Gangtok to Bagdogra. It will be a quick trip that will feel thrilling and adventurous at the same time. It will take 15 minutes to half an hour for a helicopter ride, but you will have the time of your life. You will get a bird's-eye view from the helicopter. It will cost around three thousand per person, and it is totally worth it.
• Trek to the Goechala Trek Base Camp: Yuksom, Sikkim, is a historic village where trekkers pass through dense forests and cross suspended bridges. It is a 10-day trekking plan that is usually done in a group, which is created in advance. You can pre-book your trek to witness Mt. Kanchenjunga and the other Himalayan peaks. It is essential to assess your fitness before embarking on a trek. After reaching the summit, you will be able to see lush forests, roaring rivers, and breathtaking waterfalls all around, making for a truly mesmerizing experience.
• Gondola Ride in Gangtok: The Gangtok Gondolas are renowned throughout the country, offering a unique experience that provides breathtaking aerial views and scenic vistas throughout the mountain range. These trips are comparatively cheaper than the helicopter rides and also much safer. You can take your family with you or experience it on your own. This will be a short and refreshing trip across the valley, offering a panoramic view. You will feel thrilled and refreshed at the same time.
• Hang Gliding at Yumthang: Yumthang offers a variety of activities, including hang gliding, paragliding, and trekking. The most famous of all is hang gliding, as it provides a breathtaking view of the rhododendrons and lush forests. The best time to visit Gangtok for hang gliding is from May to June and from September to November. The skies are clear during that time, and you will get to see the majestic Himalayan Peak; also, it is much safer.
• Enjoy the local experience in Lachen: Lachen is the ideal place to visit when seeking a blend of religious and spiritual vibes in Gangtok. There are multiple spots to see, including Lachen Gompa and Lachen Monastery. You will have the opportunity to learn about the culture and people here more than anywhere else in the world. There is a Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, which is home to a diverse array of species. This is a cozy place ideal for a family outing as well.
• Trek at Dzongri, Gangtok: This trek is comparatively easier than the Goechala base trek, as it takes 7-9 days and starts from Yuksom, which is less steep than the Goechala base camp. You should take note of your health and take the necessary medications. You will have the best time on the trek, as you will get to see the meadows, waterfalls, and lush greenery.
• Make a Wish at Khecheopalri Lake: It is a sacred activity to put a coin in the Khecheopalri Lake to make a wish. It is a holy lake that is bound by both Buddhist and Hindu traditions. You will see the people meditating around the lake and making heartfelt wishes. The place is decorated with prayer flags and local devotees. The atmosphere of the place is so pure that you will feel the beauty altogether.
• Religious rites in Namchi: Namchi is a spiritual hub that features Buddhist grounds, as well as Hindu, Kirat, and Christian sites. It is a significant spot that must be visited to offer respect to the deities. You can light up the butter lamps and take the blessing, and take a minute away from the hubbub to get the much-needed peace. You can also participate in the week-long meditation to feel at home and at peace.
• Zero Point Adventures at Yumthang Valley: The zero point of the Yumthang Valley is the ideal spot for an adventurous outing and to take in a panoramic scenic view. This place is a confluence of three rivers that also holds sacred value. You will get the breathtaking view at such a high altitude. You can also spot yaks in the snowy landscapes. 

Best Time to Visit Gangtok

It is always necessary to determine the best time to travel to a place, taking into account the season, time, and budget. When visiting Gangtok, you can expect to be surrounded by beauty at all times. If you want to escape city life, plan your trip according to your schedule. However, the peak season to visit Gangtok is from March to June, as the temperature range is between 12 degrees Celsius and 18 degrees Celsius. Tourists generally find this season to be ideal for visiting Gangtok. If you plan to visit Gangtok in October or February, expect torrential rainfall and temperatures ranging from 8 °C to 20 °C. You will find comparatively better stay options that will also fit into your budget. The months from July to September are chilly, with temperatures dropping as low as 4 degrees Celsius.

Foods to Eat in Gangtok

Gangtok is renowned for its exquisite blend of cultures, combining those of Nepal, Tibet, and Sikkim. There is a story behind all the food, and they are known worldwide for their spices. The local food is prepared in a distinctive style, incorporating fermentation and local herbs, resulting in a bold and fresh taste. Taste like this is authentic and is only available in Gangtok, so be sure to try the local food of Gangtok the next time you visit. To know some of the best local Gangtok food that you should not miss out, check out the list provided below:

• Momos
• Thukpa
• Gundruk
• Sinki
• Sel Roti
• Chhurpi
• Kinema
• Pork Chutney
• Curries and stir-fries in Bamboo Shoot
• Sisnoo
• Pork Chutney
• Soyabean Chutney
• Gundrukkojhol
• Phagshapa
• Sha Phaley
• Sausage and Noodle Breakfast

Things to Keep in Mind in Gangtok

Every place has a unique environment, and it should be both cared for and respected. When you are in Gangtok, it is wise to be prepared in advance for your travel experience. So, you can refer to the list of things to keep in mind when you are in Gangtok:

• Some areas in Gangtok are restricted, so it is advisable to arrange the necessary permits in advance.
• Carry your comfortable shoes with a tight grip to walk in the steep mountainous regions.
• Since Gangtok is a chilly place, it's advisable to carry thermals, jackets, woolen clothing, and caps to keep yourself warm.
• You should pack consciously and only bring the necessary things, as Gangtok offers some of the best trekking, which might hinder your travel.
• You should read the rules and regulations of the monasteries, as you must respect their culture and dress appropriately.
• Gangtok is prone to landslides, making travel during the rainy season particularly hazardous.