Top 9 Things Gangtok Is Famous For

1. Natural beauty

The natural beauty found throughout Gangtok is awe-inspiring. From majestic mountain ranges to picturesque valleys, Gangtok is one of the most pleasant parts of India and popular, too, attracting throngs of travelers from across the globe. Gangtok’s terrain is rich in colorful flora, with highlights including lush deep-green forested landscape and beautiful dainty orchids. If you arrive during the months of March to May, you’re rewarded with sights of stellar rhododendrons blanketing the expansive fields like a fabulous handwoven carpet. The weather is mild throughout the year, so enjoying the breathtaking outdoor scenery is bliss.

2. Lakes

Lakes are a standout feature of Gangtok. Various watery attractions like the 100-foot (30.4-meter) Ban Jhakri Falls boldly enhances Gangtok’s splendidness. The premier lake on every tourist’s list of sights to see is Tsomgo Lake - also known as Changu Lake. It is one of the most divine bodies of water nestled between towering snow-capped mountains, about 25 miles (40 kilometers) outside Gangtok. This glacial lake’s refreshing alpine setting lies 12,400 feet (3,779 meters) above sea level and the water is dazzling — a brilliant aquamarine hue. Pretty translucent ice covers the lake in wintertime and in the summer, the lake’s bank offers a multitude of blooming wildflowers. Be aware special permits are required to visit Tsomgo Lake.

3. Organic state

Sikkim emerged as the world’s first completely organic state in 2016. The goal was not only to achieve a healthier lifestyle for its people, but to preserve the fertile environment and delicate ecosystem. Toward that aim, Sikkim stopped the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers in 2003. Farmers were educated and trained to produce their crops organically and compost pits were established throughout Sikkim, including Gangtok.

Currently, every section of the 187,800 acres (76,000 hectares) of agricultural farmland in the area is considered certified organic. Needless to say, any imports or use of chemicals is strictly banned in Sikkim. As a result of these concentrated efforts, there’s an increase in wildlife and the bee population is flourishing, too.

4. Tourism

A popular destination with a whirlwind of tourist opportunities, Gangtok possesses some of the most intriguing historical areas, fantastical wildlife preserves, and of course, captivating natural splendors. Take in the beautiful surroundings from an elevated view while paragliding, or get a surge of adrenaline by biking around Gangtok’s rugged terrain. If you need to slow down the pace, check out Gangtok’s main shopping hub, MG Road. This place is known for its pretty European-inspired streets and is filled with tasty eateries and must-see shops.

The peak time to visit Gangtok is October to mid-December; visitors are guaranteed impeccable clear sights of the prominent Himalayan mountain range. If you want to avoid the monsoon season and mudslides that can hinder travel, avoid the months of June to September.

5. Village of Zuluk

Village of Zuluk is a tiny mountain hamlet that offers a rich and interesting past. Residing on the ancient Old Silk Route, which was once used for trading wool, fur, and silk between India and Tibet, Village of Zuluk stands at an elevation of 10,100 feet (3,078 meters) and is truly a remote gem of simple village life. The 500 inhabitants of Zuluk make their living through agriculture but with the increase in tourism, some villagers open their homes for lodging.

For the chance to see awesome views of the village of Zuluk, check out Thambi Viewpoint, about 8.69 miles (14 kilometers) from Zuluk. It offers not only sights of Village of Zuluk’s tranquil beauty, but fabulous sunrises over Mount Kanchenchunga.

Village of Zuluk

Address: Gangtok, India

Website: Village of Zuluk

6. Buddhist monasteries

Gangtok is at the heart of Tibetan Buddhist religion and culture. The home of numerous Buddhist monasteries and various religious teaching institutions, you can not stroll the streets of Gangtok without hearing the lively sound of drums, dramatic gongs, and the melodic chanting of solemn monks.

The peaceful Enchey Monastery is one of Gangtok’s most significant monasteries. Showcasing an eye-catching Chinese pagoda-style architecture, this monastery is a standout — displaying a massive collection of dynamic masks that are worn at a variety of festivals by the monks to perform the vibrant famed mask dance. Enchey Monastery is situated on a ridge overlooking Gangtok and provides excellent views of the hill station.

Enchey Monastery

Address: Gangtok, Sikkim 737103, India

Website: Enchey Monastery

Opening hours: 6am - 7pm (daily)

Price: Free

7. Natural views

Natural views abound in Gangtok and it’s no surprise. Perched at a height of 5,413 feet (1,650 meters), this high-altitude town gives you practically a bird’s-eye view of the spectacularly lush landscape with the magnificent Himalayas as a backdrop. When the skies are clear, you’re rewarded with phenomenal views of the snow-capped Mount Kanchenjunga, the third highest peak on earth. The sight of forested hillsides, majestic mountain ranges, deep valleys, and calm sounds of cascading waterfalls is commonplace in Gangtok. Have your camera ready because you’re sure to take many Instagram-worthy shots.

8. Black Cardamom

If you’ve eaten spicy Chinese braised meats, peppery Vietnamese pho noodle soup, or savory curries, then you’ve sampled black cardamom. This smoky-flavored herb offering a hint of mint is utilized in many Indian dishes such as hearty stews, saucy lentil plates, and fluffy rice pilafs. Known also as badi elaichi, black cardamom is grown in abundance in Gangtok. In fact, about 90 percent of India’s black cardamom comes from Gangtok. Aside from a food ingredient, Chinese and Indian home remedies use black cardamom for bothersome ailments such as constipation and dysentery - as well as relief from asthma symptoms.

9. Peace-loving people

With the ancient and enduring teachings of Tibetan Buddhism to guide them, the residents of Gangtok are famously known as peace-loving people. Exuding an amiable, gentle, and hospitable demeanor, Gangtok’s inhabitants are eager to welcome travelers and show off the unparalleled beauty of their prized land and long, cherished historical treasures. Spend any amount of time with Gangtok locals and you may never want to leave this irresistible town and its easy-going atmosphere.

Gorgeous Gangtok

Time spent in Gangtok is like walking in a dream of exquisite glee. If you desire an incredible mix of endless natural grandeur that is a feast for the eyes and spellbinding ancient customs and traditions that are a salve for the soul, then Gangtok should not be overlooked. Don’t hesitate to create lasting memories in this divine part of India.