The name Gangtok itself means ‘top of a hill’. It is the capital of Sikkim, built on the flank of a ridge, and stands at an elevation of 5600 feet. It is Sikkim’s largest town with a population roughly around 30000. Although known for its calmness and serenity, in recent times Gangtok has become significantly more crowded. This happens more in the summer season where people come searching for cool climate. But some people prefers the time between october to december as it is the time the where the weather is mostly clear. Sometimes you might land in to the middle of roadblocks, if you travel in the time of heavy weather.
see also: Hill Stations You Should Visit In Ooty
The nearest railway station to Gangtok is at Silguri, about 114 kilometres away. New Jalpaiguri is also close at 125 kilometres away. But if you prefer flying, the nearest airport is at Bagdogra in northBengal which is about 124 kilometres away. The other major hill stations like Darjeeling,Kalim pong, Dili guru and other centres are all connected to Gangtok via road. Nationalised transport does services through these roads frequently.
It rains here mostly in Gangtok although the rain doesn’t last long often. Carrying an umbrella would be wise but walking at the high altitude in the morning amidst the rain is an experience to be savoured. Gangtok gives you a lot of options to stay. But what’s advisable is to stay a little far from the main centre, where is is quieter and closer to the nature. Gangtok has many restaurants that provides chinese food. If you are a vegetarian, Gangtok won’t disappoint you either. Also you can collect interesting show pieces and souvenir from the many shops that runs along.
Tsongmo lake is one of the places that you should visit in Sikkim. It is about 35 kilometres from Gangtok. But be careful when you go there as it is very close to the border and straying off could land you in a new country !You will need to show your photo identity cards at many places to get permit. But Tsongmo lake is a beautiful place of unmatched ambience , especially with the reflection of the mountain. 7 kilometres from Tsongmo lake, you get to Baba mandir. It is constructed for Baba Harbhajan Singh, whom the people believe to be protecting the border,even after his death. Gangtok abounds with many monasteries. The silence and calmness you can experience here is quite incredible. Gonjang monastery is one among them.
The experience of Gangtok doesn’t end here. The place has ropeways, amazing view points,temples ,beautiful spots and much more. You really need to give it 2 or 3 days if you are visiting gangtok.
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