Must‑Try Experiences in Gangtok

 

1. River Rafting on the Teesta River

Experience the thrill of navigating rapids (grades I–IV) with guided river rafting sessions amid lush valleys and forests—ideal for both beginners and seasoned adventurers

2. Gangtok Ropeway (Cable Car Ride)

Soar above the city on the zigzag ropeway from Deorali to Tashiling (and stop at Namnang) for stunning aerial views of Gangtok and, if clear, the Kanchenjunga range

3. Paragliding (Baliman Dara / Bulbuley Dara)

Take a tandem flight through the sky over verdant hills, forests, and Gangtok town.

4. Silk Route Cycling

Explore the historic Silk Route (Zuluk, Thambi Viewpoint) by bicycle, combining breathtaking Himalayan scenery and cultural discovery along what was once a major trade path

5. Yak Safari at Tsomgo (Changu) Lake

Take a gentle yak ride across high-altitude terrain near the turquoise glacial lake (~40 km from Gangtok), capturing a once-in-a-lifetime moment with beautiful mountain vistas

6. Visit Tsomgo Lake & Optional Nathula Pass Excursion

Marvel at the sacred glacial Tsomgo Lake surrounded by alpine flowers and towering peaks. For adventure seekers, a permit-based trip to Nathula Pass (~4,400 m) adds cross-border views into Tibet

7. Explore Buddhist Monasteries

  • Rumtek Monastery (23 km away): The principal seat of the Karma Kagyu lineage, awe‑inspiring architecture and panoramic views

  • Tsuklakhang Palace: Royal chapel featuring ancient Buddhist scripture, festivals and vibrant religious ceremonies
  • Also consider Phodong Monastery (~28 km), known for its historic murals and serene ambiance

8. Do-Drul Chorten & Namgyal Institute of Tibetology

Visit a stunning gilded stupa encircled by 108 prayer wheels at Do-Drul Chorten, right beside the Namgyal Institute that houses rare Tibetan manuscripts, art, and spiritual relics

9. Seven Sisters Waterfall & Banjhakri Falls Park

Enjoy the serene beauty of Seven Sisters cascade (~32 km away), best seen during monsoon. Close by, Banjhakri Falls Park offers a magical setting with sculptural art, forest walks and cultural storytelling installations

10. Tashi View Point, Ganesh Tok & Hanuman Tok

Head just outside of Gangtok to Tashi View Point for spectacular sunrise/sunset panoramas. Visit Ganesh Tok and Hanuman Tok temples, both perched for stunning views of snow-capped peaks and valleys

Lhonark Residency

Lhonark Residency, Lal Bazar Road, near Denzong Cinema Hall, Vishal Gaon, Gangtok, Sikkim, India

SNOW DROP GUEST HOUSE

UPPER, Arithang, Gangtok, Sikkim 737101

Happy Heart Stayover

Tibet Road, Arithang, Gangtok, Sikkim 737101, India

Valley Vista Resort

Valley Vista Resort, 3rd Mile, Bojoghari, Gangtok, Sikkim 737101, India

Sleepy Sam -The Traveller’s Hostel

Deorali Road, Deorali Bazar, Gangtok, Sikkim, India

The Crown Inn

The Crown Inn - Best hotel in Gangtok, Lower Burtuk Rd, Sungava, Gangtok, Sikkim 737101, India