Top 10 Places to Visit in Gangtok – Nathu la Gangtok
Snow-capped mountains, colourful streets, and an ambiance that is both calm and exciting. Whether you love nature, culture, or simply enjoy new experiences, this hill station has something for you. Here are top 10 places to visit in Gangtok that you should absolutely not miss.
The nearest airport to Gangtok is Pakyong Airport (PYG), located in Pakyong, Sikkim, about 31 km (19 miles) south of Gangtok.
1. Tsomgo Lake / Places to Visit in Gangtok
About an hour’s drive (40 km) from Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake is a total stunner at 12,400 feet. Locals call it Changu Lake, and it’s this gorgeous glacial lake that seems to change colors with the light—sometimes turquoise, sometimes emerald. It’s surrounded by snowy peaks and feels almost magical. In winter, it freezes over, and in summer, wildflowers bloom all around. You can take a yak ride or hop on a ropeway for a cool view. It’s a sacred spot for locals, so there’s a spiritual vibe too. You’ll need a permit (around INR 200 for Indians), and the best months to visit are March to May or October to December when the skies are clear.
Tip: Head out early to beat the crowds and pack a jacket—it gets chilly up there!
2. Nathu la Gangtok
If you’re up for an adventure, Nathu la Gangtok Pass is a must. It’s 56 km from Gangtok, sitting at a jaw-dropping 14,140 feet. This is where India meets China along the old Silk Route, and you can literally stand at the border, with the Indian flag waving proudly. The views of the Himalayas are unreal, but the wind is super cold, so bundle up! You’ll need a permit arranged a day ahead through a tour operator or driver, and it’s closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. March to June or September to October are the best times to go since snow can block the pass in winter.
Tip: Book a private taxi for easier permit handling, and bring snacks—there aren’t many food options up there.
3. Rumtek Monastery
Just 23 km from Gangtok, Rumtek Monastery is a peaceful spot that’s also one of Sikkim’s biggest. It’s part of the Kagyu Buddhist sect and has this beautiful Tibetan-style building with golden prayer wheels and colorful murals. The surrounding hills make it feel like you’re in a different world, perfect for some quiet reflection. They host cool festivals like Phang Lhabsol with traditional mask dances. There’s a small museum too, and the views of Gangtok from here are awesome. It’s open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and entry is INR 30. Best time? March to June or October to December.
Tip: Dress respectfully (cover shoulders and knees) and visit nearby Ban Jhakri Falls while you’re in the area.
4. Tashi Viewpoint / Best Places to Visit in Gangtok
Want to see Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world? Head to Tashi Viewpoint, just 8 km from Gangtok. It’s the perfect spot to catch a sunrise or sunset with those epic snow-covered peaks in the background. You can also see Mount Siniolchu and the whole Gangtok valley below. There’s no entry fee, but you might pay a bit for binoculars. It’s a short climb up some stairs, but the view is so worth it. March to June is ideal for clear skies.
Tip: Get there early in the morning for the best light and fewer people. Check out Bakthang Waterfalls nearby too.
5. MG Marg Gangtok
MG Marg is the heart of Gangtok- a lively, car-free street packed with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s where you go to feel the city’s pulse. You can shop for Sikkimese handicrafts, grab some steaming momos or thukpa, or just people-watch from a bench. The street is super clean, with flowers everywhere, and it gets even more fun at night with live music. It’s open all day, and you can’t miss it if you want a taste of local life.
Tip: Swing by in the evening for the vibe and try places like Taste of Tibet for authentic food.
6. Ban Jhakri Falls
About 7 km from Gangtok, Ban Jhakri Falls is a beautiful 100-foot waterfall in a lush park. The name comes from a shaman myth, and the whole area feels like a nature escape. There’s a lake for paddle boating, a footbridge with great views, and even zip-lining for some fun. It’s awesome for families or anyone who loves greenery. Entry is free, and it’s open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Visit after the monsoon (October to December) when the falls are at their best.
Tip: Wear comfy shoes for walking around, and bring a camera for those Insta-worthy shots.
7. Hanuman Tok
Hanuman Tok, 11 km from Gangtok at 7,200 feet, is a small temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, run by the Indian Army. It’s got this calm, spiritual vibe and killer views of the Kanchenjunga range. The short climb up paved stairs through greenery feels refreshing, and it’s a great spot to just sit and soak in the peace. Entry is free, and it’s open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. March to June or October to December are the best times for clear views.
Tip: Visit early to enjoy the quiet and avoid any crowds.
8. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
Just 2 km from the city center, this place is a gem for anyone curious about Tibetan culture. It’s a museum and research center with a cool collection of Buddhist artifacts, thangka paintings, and old manuscripts. The building itself looks like a traditional Sikkimese house, and the gardens around it are super peaceful. It’s open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Monday to Saturday) for just INR 10. You can visit any time of year, but spring and autumn are especially nice.
Tip: Spend about an hour here to really take in the history, and maybe pair it with a visit to MG Marg since it’s so close.
9. Phodong Monastery
Phodong Monastery, 28 km from Gangtok, is one of Sikkim’s oldest and most beautiful monasteries. Built in the 18th century, it’s got vibrant murals and a serene vibe that’s perfect for unwinding. It’s part of the Kagyu sect and hosts a cool Cham dance festival if you time your visit right. The hills around it are gorgeous, especially in spring (March to May) or autumn (October to December). It’s open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and there’s no entry fee.
Tip: Keep it respectful by dressing modestly and staying quiet while you explore.
10. Seven Sisters Waterfall
About 32 km from Gangtok, on the road to North Sikkim, Seven Sisters Waterfall is a beauty with seven tiers of cascading water. Surrounded by misty mountains and greenery, it’s a great spot to relax and snap some photos, especially after the monsoon (October to November) when it’s in full flow. It’s open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and there’s no entry fee.
Tip: Bring a raincoat if you visit during or right after the rainy season, and pack some snacks for a picnic vibe.
Planning Your Trip
Gangtok is best visited from March to June or September to December when the weather’s nice and the views are clear. Skip the monsoon (July to August) to avoid slippery roads or landslides. You can get around by taxis, shared jeeps, or buses, but private vehicles are easiest for places like Nathula Pass or Tsomgo Lake, where permits are needed. A 5-7 day trip is perfect to cover Gangtok and nearby spots like Pelling or Lachung.
Pro Tip: Book a tour package to handle permits and transport smoothly, especially for restricted areas. Always check the weather before heading to high-altitude spots like Nathula.