Gangtok, which is the capital city of Sikkim, is an idyllic Himalayan city famous for offering mountain views, monasteries, waterfalls, and marketplaces. No matter whether you come here alone, with your family, or with friends, there is no dearth of things to do in Gangtok.
Renting a vehicle for sightseeing purposes will make it easier to move around to different attractions in the city, especially if you wish to explore many places in one single day. You will be able to go on a scenic drive, spend some time at the place that interests you the most and plan your itinerary accordingly.
If you wish to find out about the best sightseeing places in Gangtok, this guide will help you find information about the various attractions, interesting things about them, how to plan your visit to them and tips on sightseeing in the city using a car.
1. Tashi Viewpoint
Tashi Viewpoint is one of the popular tourist spots in Gangtok from where one can get a panoramic view of the mountains.
On a clear day, visitors are lucky enough to get a glimpse of the surrounding Himalayan peaks, even Mount Kanchenjunga.
This viewpoint offers particular charm for photography lovers and tourists looking for a calm environment.
Things you should know:
- Panoramic view of the surrounding mountains
- Photography spot
- Refreshing pit stop while sightseeing in the area
Travel Tip: You need to start early if you wish to experience the morning mood.
2. Ganesh Tok
Ganesh Tok is a small temple built in reverence to Lord Ganesha. Located atop a hill overlooking Gangtok, the place has a spiritual and tourist interest owing to the views available from the site.
The temple is a suitable destination for both family and couples looking for a combination of cultural and scenic experience at the same time.
Having a vehicle can make the travel up the hill easy, especially if the tourists do not want to walk all the way to the top.
3. Hanuman Tok
Hanuman Tok is a famous temple that is devoted to Lord Hanuman. Being situated in a tranquil area far from the more crowded areas of Gangtok, it draws both pilgrims and tourists alike.
The scenery around allows you to get acquainted with the mountains and to have a peaceful sightseeing experience.
Why should you visit Hanuman Tok?
- Get a chance to explore a tranquil place of worship.
- Get to see the nature surrounding it.
Have one more stop for sightseeing on your Gangtok tour.
4. Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park
Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park is a good spot for tourists who are fond of natural surroundings and places. The falls, landscaped garden, sculptures and walks make it an ideal place for family and group visits.
The area becomes even more beautiful when there is a lot of water flowing through the falls. But the walkways become slippery when it rains, so be careful while walking.
Banjhakri Falls can be included in your half day or full day sightseeing tour based on your schedule.
Best for: Families, nature lovers, photographers and travelers who wish to have an outing place.
5. Enchey Monastery
Enchey Monastery is an important Buddhist religious site in Gangtok. Its traditional architecture and peaceful surroundings offer visitors an opportunity to learn more about Sikkim’s Buddhist heritage.
The monastery is a good choice for travellers who prefer cultural sightseeing alongside natural attractions. Spend some time appreciating the architecture and atmosphere while respecting local religious customs.
A car can help you combine Enchey Monastery with nearby viewpoints and other attractions without spending too much time arranging separate transport.
6. Namgyal Institute of Tibetology
The Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is a vital research centre for Tibetan culture, Buddhism, and Himalayan heritage. It attracts tourists as well because one gets to understand its traditions apart from the natural beauty of the region.
According to the access of the place at the time of your visit, you may see some of its museum collections and learn about Tibetan Buddhism, manuscripts, and artefacts.
This could be a good idea for cultural tourism lovers to put this site in their plan along with Do Drul Chorten.
Things to keep in mind: Check the current opening hours and visitor arrangements before going to the institute, as access might differ.
7. Do Drul Chorten
In Gangtok, there is an important Buddhist stupa called Do Drul Chorten that is known for its religious importance and prayer wheels. It is a great place for people wishing to experience Buddhist culture.
Compared to the bustling shopping areas of the city, this site is calm and peaceful. People visiting the site should wear modest clothing, respect the traditions, and behave appropriately.
It would be a good idea to combine a visit to Do Drul Chorten with a visit to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, which will make your itinerary more logical.
8. Himalayan Zoological Park
The Himalayan Zoological Park, referred to as Gangtok Zoo, is regarded as an attractive place for wildlife lovers and families with kids. Its location is in a wooded area, allowing people to gain knowledge about the wildlife in the Himalayas and preserving its wildlife.
When visiting the park, you will not go through traditional activities of city attractions, walking on slopes and spending enough time in the open air. If you travel on the behalf of your kids or elderly relatives, plan your visit carefully.
Before leaving home, make sure the park is open and give proper time for walking. Bring your own drinking water and wear proper shoes.
9. Gangtok Ropeway
The Gangtok Ropeway offers a different perspective of the city from above. The cable-car experience allows visitors to appreciate Gangtok’s hillside setting and surrounding urban landscape.
It is a popular option for families, couples and first-time visitors looking for something different from conventional road sightseeing.
Because operating schedules and weather conditions can affect service, confirm availability before planning your visit. You can arrange your car itinerary around the ropeway rather than relying on it as your main mode of transport.
10. Rumtek Monastery
Rumtek Monastery is an important Buddhist monastery closely affiliated with the Kagyu school of Buddhism. Situated a little out of central Gangtok, it is definitely worth visiting if you have spare time and want to learn more about the area’s rich religious and architectural history.
The beauty of Rumtek lies in its conventional designs as well as its serene surroundings.
As Rumtek is located at a farther distance than other places of interest in Gangtok, it requires extra driving time. Make sure to check just in case any access to the region has to be arranged prior to making the trip.
11. MG Marg
MG Marg is one of the well-known shopping and entertainment spots of Gangtok. It differs from other sites in the sense that it gives you a chance to experience the mundane life of Gangtok by shopping around and having a taste of the local food available there.
The area is especially fun to visit in the evening after a long day of exploring.
Do remember that MG Marg is a no vehicular traffic area. The driver will drop you off at the right place where you can explore on foot.
Activities in MG Marg:
- Shopping at local shops and souvenir stalls.
- Visiting cafés and restaurants.
- Having local food.
- Walking in the busy downtown area during the evening hours.
12. Bakthang Waterfall
Another tourist destination which can be explored is Bakthang Waterfall. Set amidst green surroundings, it is quite a refreshing place to visit and gives you chances to click photos.
Usually it makes sense to take Bakthang Waterfall on the same trip as the other northern Gangtok destinations, but again it all depends on how good the roads are and where you start from.
Just remember to watch out while walking around as there may be slippery rocks.
Suggested Gangtok Sightseeing Itinerary by Car
If you want to cover several attractions without rushing, divide your sightseeing according to location.
- Half day: Tashi Viewpoint, Ganesh Tok, Hanuman Tok and Bakthang Waterfall
- Full day: Tashi Viewpoint, Ganesh Tok, Hanuman Tok, Himalayan Zoological Park, Enchey Monastery, Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, Do Drul Chorten and Banjhakri Falls
- Extended sightseeing: Add Rumtek Monastery, subject to available time and road conditions
- Evening: Explore MG Marg on foot
This is a suggested itinerary, not a guarantee that every attraction can be covered within the stated duration. Opening hours, traffic, weather and the time spent at each location can affect your schedule.
Why Explore Gangtok by Car?
Hiring a car can make local sightseeing more convenient, particularly if your itinerary includes multiple viewpoints, monasteries and attractions outside the town centre.
Flexible sightseeing
A private car gives you more control over your schedule. You can discuss preferred stops, spend additional time at selected attractions and plan breaks according to your needs.
Convenient for families and groups
Travelling together in an appropriate vehicle can be more practical than arranging separate transport for different members of your group.
Easier access to attractions
Gangtok’s hilly terrain and winding roads can make moving between attractions tiring. A suitable vehicle helps reduce the effort involved in travelling between locations.
Better use of your time
Planning stops by location can reduce unnecessary backtracking. A local driver familiar with the roads can help you organise a practical route.
For more information, explore Jai Cab Trips.
How to Choose a Car for Gangtok Sightseeing
Your transportation mode needs to be based on the size of your party as well as your baggage and preferences.
- Hatchback: A good choice if you travel in small groups with light luggage, subject to availability and suitability of the road.
- Sedan: A suitable choice for couples or small family groups.
- SUV or MUV: A good choice if you travel in large groups or want extra room.
- Innova or bigger cars: Could be the right choice for families or groups requiring more seats.
Ask about the seating capacity of the car, the sightseeing route, number of stops permitted, waiting time and total cost before finalizing the deal. Ask also whether parking charges, entry tickets or extra costs are charged.
For trips starting outside Gangtok, take advantage of Jai Cab Trips taxi from Siliguri to Gangtok.
Best Time to Visit Gangtok for Sightseeing
March to May: Spring offers sightseeing experience with pleasant weather, blooming landscapes and relatively comfortable temperature during the day, but weather changes can happen fast.
October to November: This period is preferred for better visibility of the mountains and other sights because of better weather conditions.
June to September: Monsoon season may offer plenty of rain, slippery roads and poor visibility due to possible landslides. You should find out current weather conditions.
December to February: Winter provides nice weather and a good view of the mountains, but it also has low temperatures. So, it is necessary to take warm clothes.
It all depends on your preferences, weather and your sights.
Important Tips for Gangtok Sightseeing by Car
Remember these tips before embarking on your trip:
- Start early morning: You get more hours to spend at each place if you leave in the morning.
- Check the weather: Visibility in the mountains and road conditions are subject to change as the day goes on.
- Plan attractions by location: Plan your itinerary keeping in mind the geographical location of each attraction to minimize driving.
- Know opening timings: Monasteries, museums and parks may have different visiting timings.
- Carry necessary items: Keep water, appropriate walking shoes and medicine handy.
- Follow the traditions: Make sure to respect their traditions regarding photography and dress codes.
- Arrange taxi in advance: Before leaving, discuss the price including the waiting charges and the duration of the drive.
- Book the permits for excursion: Places like Tsomgo lake and Nathula Pass are excursions outside the Gangtok city sightseeing and need to be planned separately.
Book Gangtok Sightseeing with Jai Cab Trips
When your transportation is all set, discovering Gangtok becomes so much easier. Jai Cab Trips offers taxi and car rentals to people visiting Sikkim and its surroundings. Selecting the vehicle you need and mapping out your route will allow you to make the most out of your vacation.
Regardless of whether you would like to visit temples, enjoy magnificent mountain views, find waterfalls or have fun at MG Marg, plan your sightseeing according to the time you have and your personal preferences.
If you are coming from the plains, you might want to combine your itinerary with the Siliguri to Gangtok taxi service. For more information about obtaining a taxi, just visit the Jai Cab Trips website.
Contact Jai Cab Trips for more information about your travel plans prior to your booking.
Conclusion
Gangtok has a perfect combination of mountain views, Buddhist culture, waterfalls, wildlife, and bustling city life. Visiting the best places to see in and around Gangtok by car makes picking the spots to visit for the day much easier.
Choose a vehicle that suits your budget and group size by making a detailed itinerary beforehand. Having planned the day in terms of route and destinations you are sure to be able to see more beautiful places in Gangtok.