Gangtok is the capital of the mountainous northern Indian state of Sikkim. Established as a Buddhist pilgrimage site in the 1840s, the city became capital of an independent monarchy after British rule ended, but joined India in 1975. Today, it remains a Tibetan Buddhist center and a base for hikers organizing permits and transport for treks through Sikkimâs Himalayan mountain ranges.
The nearest well-connected airport from Gangtok is in Bagdogra in West Bengal which lies at a distance of 126 Kms. One can hail a cab or taxi from there to Gangtok. The nearest railway station from Gangtok is in Siliguri, which is directly connected to the major cities of the country. Taxi and state bus services are available from Siliguri to Gangtok.
The best time to visit Gangtok is during the months of late September to mid-December and from March to May. These autumn and spring-summer months experience a pleasant climate which is ideal for sightseeing. The period of late September to mid-December is when the days are sunny with unobstructed views of the Himalayas. Between March to May, the bloom of Rhododendron flowers is a sight worth its weight in gold. It is best to avoid a visit t Gangtok and the state of Sikkim during the monsoon months of July to early September since the heavy rainfall leads to landslides which may cause a lot of inconveniences.
Incredibly alluring, pleasantly boisterous and wreathed in clouds - Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is one of the most popular hill stations in India. Lying at the height of 1650 m above sea level, the town during its bright sunny days offers spectacular views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Gangtok is a base for adventure enthusiasts comprising of trekkers and campers to the Himalayan mountain ranges. During the months of March to Mid-May, blooming of wild Rhododendrons transform the surrounding regions in vast fields of colourful carpets.
Its name meaning hill-top, Gangtok can be safely said to be one of the most beautiful hill stations in the country. With everything in just the right amount from a blend of cultural identities to urbanisation, Gangtok is a breathing and dynamic bit of paradise of the northeast. Gangtok and its surrounding regions are abundant in natural beauty and have various natural attractions such as the Tsomgo Lake, Ban Jhakri falls, Tashi viewpoint and more. Other places to visit include many famous religious sites such as the Enchey Monastery, Ganesh Tok, Do Drul Chorten Rumtek Monastery, etc. Also, river Teesta is one of the best spots for white water rafting in North East India.