Updated : 13/Sep/2022
Gangtok is an alluring destination in northeast India offering a variety of mesmerizing tourist attractions. Being the capital city of Sikkim and also the first 100% organic state, it is situated at an altitude of 5,500 feet with the scenic beauty of the majestic Himalayas offering a soothing view to the tourists. It is the getaway to several wondrous treks and mountain passes. Various ancient monasteries are situated here and the largest monastery named Rumtek Monastery is also located here in the capital city offering a breathtaking view of Mt. Kanchenjunga along with various Buddhist shrines, adventure, gushing waterfalls, rich biodiversity, pleasing climate, and a densely forested area to its visitors. Other pleasing attractions of Gangtok are the wondrous varieties of Orchid Sanctuary and the scenic beauty of the alluring mountainous capital. At the Namgyal Institute of Research, a huge collection of scriptures on Buddhist culture is displayed so that tourists get to know more and explore the Buddhist culture.
Best Time to Visit Gangtok
Visiting Gangtok any time of year will be a pleasant experience, but each season has its unique beauty and benefits.
Gangtok in winters (October to February)
Gangtok is a wonderful place to visit in the winter season as temperatures are generally over 4 degrees Celsius on most days of the year. Visitors can wander around at any time during the day without worrying about feeling hot because the weather is pleasant and comfortable. The Surroundings look picture perfect with the snow-capped mountain peaks soothing to the eyes. Also, December and January can be quite cold with temperatures as low as 0 degrees Celsius.
Gangtok in spring (March to April)
The Weather is wholesome and the skies are clear, it is one of the most favorable times to visit Gangtok. As spring approaches, Gangtok is adorned with a variety of colorful flowers making it look like a paradise. Embark on exciting adventure activities while enjoying views of the mighty mountains.
Gangtok in summer (May to June)
During summers, the weather in Gangtok is comparatively warm to other seasons. The Average temperatures during the day and the night time is 22 degrees Celsius and 7 degrees Celsius respectively. But, during summer many tourists can be seen due to summer vacation and the place becomes a bit crowded, this is because the North Sikkim and the West Sikkim parts are more pleasant. In the month of May, a wide range of exotic flora native to this region is celebrated at the wonderful International Flower Festival in Gangtok.
Gangtok in Monsoon (July to September)
Even though Gangtok has its own charm in monsoon, travelers need to be careful due to the possibility of landslides. Hence, before traveling to Gangtok during the monsoon season, visitors should stay updated with the news. Also, the temperature drops during the rainy season and it becomes quite cold.
How to Visit Gangtok
By Air:-
Gangtok city is well connected by Bagdogra Airport which is 124 km from Gangtok in West Bengal and is well connected with the major cities of India along with the facility of the cab. The Facility of TSA Helicopter is also available to reach Gangtok in just 20 minutes if the tourists are willing to spend more. However, the availability of helicopter services is dependent on weather conditions. Also, Sikkim has its own airport named Pakyong Airport which is around 35 km from south Gangtok but is under construction, once operational tourists can easily reach Gangtok thereby saving time.
By Train:-
New Jalpaiguri in West Bengal is the nearest railway station to Gangtok. It is well connected with the major cities of India and is around 148 km from Gangtok city. One can easily get a taxi or cab from Jalpaiguri to Gangtok.
By Road:-
Gangtok is very well connected with the other major cities and places in India via road. Tourists can hire private jeeps, taxis, or buses from Siliguri and Bagdogra. Also, tourists from nearby cities or states prefer driving. State-run buses are also available but they take usually a longer time around 6 to 7 hours.
