Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim, tucked away in the lap of the magical Himalayas, though Sikkim is the second smallest state in the country, its prismatic beauty and mesmeric charm will make you wonder! Today it is one of the most visited cities in northeastern India thanks to its extraordinary natural beauty and religious significance.

Gangtok weather is pleasant from about the middle of September to around the middle of November, allowing tourists to relax and enjoy their Gangtok sightseeing. You can also explore Gangtok in the summer months, from March to June when the Gangtok temperature is mild.

 1. Tsomgo Lake

If you have enough time to visit only one place in Gangtok, this is Tsomgo lake!  Located at 12,400 feet above sea level, this high lake rises amid the mountains and draws water from its melting snow.  The incomparable beauty of the site is fascinating.  A striking feature of the lake is that it changes color every season.  It remains frozen during the winters, but the snow that surrounds it is replaced by flowers in the summer.  Legends reveal that Buddhist monks studied the color of the lake to predict the future in ancient times.

2. Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park

The first zoo in Sikkim, the Himalayan zoological park, offers the opportunity to explore the fauna of the region.  Home to snow leopards, Himalayan palm civets, red pandas, and Himalayan black bears, the place is different from most zoos in the country.  The animals are kept in open pens in reproduced natural habitats and are not caged, which makes the overall experience a little more pleasant. The zoo also offers a splendid view of Mount Kanchenjunga. 

3. Tashi View Point

Located a short distance from Gangtok, this viewpoint offers views of the Gangtok valley and is a good place to see the sunrise and sunset. It is also one of the favourite spot of the locals to enjoy the sunsets with a hot cup of coffee that complements the weather.

4. Hanuman Tok

This decades-long Hanuman temple is one of the most famous places to visit in Gangtok.  Offering breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga range, this sanctuary is visited by tourists throughout the year for its serene atmosphere and breathtaking views.  You can immerse yourself in the beauty of the lush vegetation, the picturesque hills, and valleys and a small part of the city by climbing the cobbled stairs that lead to this wonderfully peaceful divine place.

5. Rumtek Monastery

Perched on a hill near Gangtok, Rumtek monastery is one of the largest monasteries in the state of Sikkim. This glorious monastery is built in traditional Tibetan style and it was formerly known as the Dharma Chakra Center.  The three-story building includes a splendid prayer room with imposing tangka and statues and murals. The golden stupa of the 16th Karmapa and many other unique objects and religious scriptures. Belonging to the Kargyu Buddhist sect, this former monastery is known for one of the best architecture in the world. It stands beautifully against the backdrop of majestic hills and waterfalls.