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Archive for the ‘Gangtok’ Category

Gangtok is a cosmopolitan town which offers the tourist all possible amenities. Hotels are available in a range of prices along with a variety of eateries serving cuisine for all tastes. Shopping complexes, cyber cafes, night clubs and pool parlours abound for those so inclined.

The capital of the state of Sikkim, Gangtok is an attractive tourist destination, reflecting a unique ambience which derives from its happy blend of tradition and modernity. Alongside the deeply felt presence of stupas and monasteries, Gangtok also bustles like any other thriving town.

For a birds eye view of Gangtok take a ride on the bi-cable Zig-back ropeway. The one kilometre ride from Deorali to Tashiling Secretariat costs Rs. 30 one way and is completed in 7 minutes. Each cabin has the capacity to ferry 25 people at a time. The ropeway has been fitted with fully computerized modern safety mechanism of international standards. On clear weather the ride offers a great view of the Khangchendzonga range apart from an overview of Gangtok town and the valley below. After you get off at Tashiling Secretariat you can walk to the Ridge Park and soak in the beautiful surroundings as well as visit the ongoing Flower Festival held just below the park.

Hanuman Tok, a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, is situated at an altitude of 7200 feet at a distance of about nine kilometres uphill from Gangtok on a blissfully calm and quiet hilltop. The location is completely free from the pollution of city life. Apart from the clear view of the peaks surrounding Mount Khangchendzonga, some portions of Gangtok town, one also gets a bird’s eye view of the Selep water works, which supplies drinking water to Gangtok. Adjacent to this area is Lukshyama, the royal cremation ground having stupas and chortens. Here the mortal remains of the erst-while royal family members of Sikkim are cremated.

The capital of the state of Sikkim, Gangtok is an attractive tourist destination, reflecting a unique ambience which derives from its happy blend of tradition and modernity. Alongside the deeply felt presence of stupas and monasteries, Gangtok also bustles like any other thriving town. Some of the key places to visit include Rumtek Monastery, Do-Drul Chorten, Enchey Monastery, Tashi View Point and the local bazaar, Lal Bazaar.

It was an important trade centre between the British and Tibet during the 19th century. Gangtok was made the capital of Sikkim in 1894 by Thutob Namgyal, who was a monarch under the British Rule. When India gained independence in 1947, Sikkim chose to be an independent monarchy and Gangtok continued to be its capital.

However, in 1975, after a period of strife and struggle, Sikkim was finally made an Indian state and Gangtok was made its official capital. The city suffered a major setback in its trade relations with Tibet after the Nathu La Pass was closed following the Sino-Indian war of 1962. However, the Pass has been opened in 2006, and Gangtok has again started functioning as a major trade point between India and Tibet.

The best time to visit Gangtok is mid March to May and October to mid December. Gangtok tourism provides a beautiful tourist destination, designed with broad roads, flyovers, high-class markets, various fast food outlets, nightclubs, discos and all other kinds of modern amenities that one can ask for. Makemytrip.com offers satisfactory discounts on the online ticket booking services to the travelers.

Wreathed in clouds, Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim is located on a ridge at a height of 5500 feet. With a spectacular view of the Khangchendzonga, the town provides the perfect base for travel through the state. Once an important transit point for traders traveling between Tibet and India, it is today a busy administrative and business centre and presents an interesting mix of cultures and communities.

Gangtok is a city, which, till one sees it, one would believe exists only in picture-story books. In the mystery-laden mists prayer flags whip in the breeze; wheels spin in the hands of Lamas mumbling invocations to God, in the distance are the snows, on the streets amidst brightly painted pagoda roofed houses, lined with friendly smiling people are silver, silk and spice and jewellery to gladden an maiden’s heart, from across the seven seas are gadget and goods to delight the collector of “imported goods’, while directly overlooking the city is the hill Lukshyma, the ‘Mother of Pearl’ citadel of the magic mountain, Khang-Chen-Dzod-Nga.

For a view of Gangtok and all its surrounding, one can got to Ganest Tok situated on a ridge at a distance of 7 kms from Gangtok. From this Spot one can get a view of sprawling Gangtok town, while across the hills Mt. Khang-chen-Dzonga and Mt. Siniolchu loom over the horizon. A cafeteria serves hot tea, coffee and snacks. The view from here is truly breathtaking with snow peaks providing the perfect backdrop for a panoramic view of Gangtok town.

Places Of Interest :

Dul-Dul Chorten

Duddul Chortenat Dotapu Chorten, Gangtok was built under the supervision of the late Most Venerable Trulshi Rinpoche after due preparations in 1945-46, in accordance with the prophecy made in 1944 by the Holiness the Dud-Zom Rinpoche.

Kechopari Lake

On bifurcation road between Gyalsing and Yoksum, is clear water Kechopari Lake (means – wishing lake). All around are mountains with dense forests and wild life. It is so placid, crystal clear that not a leaf can be seen floating over it, because it is immediately lifted by birds.

Pemayangtse Monastery

Around 6-km from Gyalsing town, this monastery originally built as a small temple in the last of 17th century by Latsun Chempo, later rebuilt the temple structure into a monastery.

State : Sikkim, in the north eastern state of India.

Best time for Gangtok Tourism : March to late May, October to Mid-December makes for the best time to visit Gangtok Sikkim.

Weather Conditions :

Summer : Max- 21°C, Min – 13°C;

Winter : Max -13°C, Min – 0.48°C; Rainfall : 325 cm per annum.

Gangtok is a city, which, till one sees it, one would believe exists only in picture-story books. In the mystery-laden mists prayer flags whip in the breeze; wheels spin in the hands of Lamas mumbling invocations to God, in the distance are the snows, on the streets amidst brightly painted pagoda roofed houses, lined with friendly smiling people are silver, silk and spice and jewellery to gladden an maiden’s heart, from across the seven seas are gadget and goods to delight the collector of “imported goods’, while directly overlooking the city is the hill Lukshyma, the ‘Mother of Pearl’ citadel of the magic mountain, Khang-Chen-Dzod-Nga.

Gangtok Sikkim has developed into a cosmopolitan delicacy where old-world charm and hospitality exist along with the modern age of Information Technology. One can find a harmonious blend of diverse culture and religion in Gangtok Sikkim. The people of Gangtok have a strong bonding with their age-old traditions and customs.

Language : Nepali, Sikkimese, Bhutia, Lepcha, Hindi, English

Best time to visit : October to March

STD Code : 03592

About The Place

Ensconced on a ridge flanking the Ranipool river, Gangtok at an altitude of 1870 m, is a destination that would lure anyone who has a taste for natural beauty and an inclination or interest in the Buddhist religion and culture. For it is a place that has beautiful monasteries, including the esteemed Rumtek – the head quarter of Kagyu order; vistas as breath taking as the awe-inspiring Khangchendzonga – the third highest mountain peak in the world. If you are flying to Bagdogra (nearest airport to Gangtok), opt for window seat on left for a glimpse of it.

But then, had it only been the monasteries and the natural beauty, Ladakh (another very popular Indian destination) would have easily stolen away a big chunk of tourists from Gangtok. So, there has to be something more to it. And that something is the glamour of this city and the easy accessibility. It’s a beautiful town with broad roads, flyovers, posh markets, fast food outlets, discotheques and all other modern amenities that one can ask for. Hotel ‘The Royal Plaza’ at Gangtok has India’s first land based live casino, and is the only place besides Goa to brag a casino in India. The tastefully lit and decorated and absolutely no traffic M.G Marg (street) is an ideal place to spend the evenings in the town.

Major Tourist Attractions In Gangtok

Himalayan Zoological Park : This Park exhibits a wide species of Himalayan fauna like the black beer, barking deer, snow leopard, civet cat, red pandas and the spotted deer.

Nathula : It is a mountain pass situated about 56 km from Gangtok at an altitude of about 14,200 ft and is covered with rich varieties of alpine flora and fauna. It is a calm place to visit and is open only for Indian Nationals.

Pemayangtse Monastery : It is one of the oldest monasteries in the state which was established by Lhatsun Chempo, the Lama who is said to have performed the consecration ceremony of the first Chogyal of Sikkim. This Monastery is located at the hill top and gives a wonderful view of the Himalayan ranges and the surrounding hills of the region.

Khecheopalri Lake : This Lake located at East Sikkim is considered to be one of the most sacred lakes in the city both for Hindus and Buddhists. This lake lies in the rich forest cover and is believed that the birds in the region never allow a single leaf to keep afloat on the water of the lake.

Menam Hill : This hill situated at an altitude of about 10300 ft gives a wonderful view of the scenic beauty of the Kanchenjunga Hills and its surrounding ranges. On a sunny day, one can even see the plains of Bengal spanning across Kalimpong and Darjeeling Hills in the South.

Ropeway : To capture the most stupendous scenes of the city, an easy way out here in Gangtok is to take a cable car ride that brings to your view Gangtok market, valley and assembly hall of state of Sikkim on its 15 to 20 minutes journey. There are 3 stop points on the journey. The lowest point is at Deorali market and the highest point is at Tashiling. There is a mid point stop at Nam-Nang. One can enter from any point and return to same point after touching other two points.

Gangtok, the “Lofty Hill” or the “Hill made flat to build the Gangtok monastery in 1716″. Gangtok is a city, which, till one sees it, one would believe exists only in picture-story books. In the mystery-laden mists prayer flags whip in the breeze; wheels spin in the hands of Lamas mumbling invocations to God, in the distance are the snows, on the streets amidst brightly painted pagoda roofed houses, lined with friendly smiling people are silver, silk and spice and jewellery to gladden an maiden’s heart, from across the seven seas are gadget and goods to delight the collector of “imported goods’, while directly overlooking the city is the hill Lukshyma, the ‘Mother of Pearl’ citadel of the magic mountain, Khang-Chen-Dzod-Nga.

Excursions can be made from Gangtok to Changu Lake, 35 kms away famous for its cool and placid waters and the picturesque locale. Chungthang is also worth a visit because of its religious significance, which is interesting. The Sikkimese and the Hindu soldiers in the Indian Army believe that guru Padmasabhava had rested in this place and left three footprints for his devotees on a solid piece of rock. The Sikh members of the Indian army believe that the footprints are those of Guru Nanak.

Places to Visit in Gangtok

Deer Park
Adjacent to the new secretariat and also called the Rustomji Park named after one of the Dewans of the Chogyal of Sikkim, the park has a big open enclosure in which animals native to Sikkim like the red panda and the Himalayan Bear are kept. A big statue of Lord Buddha commemorating his preachings of the noble truths in the Deer Park at Sarnath adorns the park premises. A butter lamp perpetually burns in front of the statue, which is surrounded with flowers of exotic variety. The park commands a fantastic view of the hills, surrounding Gangtok and thus commands a significant position in the list of places to visit in Gangtok.

Kabi Longstok
25-km from Gangtok, just before Phodong is Kabi Longstok. There is a spot amidst tall trees, where the treaty of brotherhood between, the Lepcha Chieftan – Tetong Tek and the Tibetan chief Khye Bhumsa was signed.

Kangchendzonga National Park
Crossing a check gate where visitors entry permits was checked, one enters the Kangchendzonga National Park. The climb is gradual but very interesting as soon one is greeted by snow, lying white and pristine over the green forest floor and covering a few treetops. The jagged, rocky slopes to our left glistened in the sunlight at places forming glaciers where the gradient was right. The mountains to right are covered with dark green pines; the snow line being much higher.

Lachung
Another significant entry in the list of top places to visit in Gangtok is Lachung. The road from Chungthang toward Lachung takes one into another world. This is the area inhabited by the Lachungpas, a hardy mountain people who consider themselves quite different from the Bhutias and the Tibetans. The lush green, terraced hillsides, even in winter, were a testimony to the grit and determination of these people. Lachung is the last habitation on the road to Yumthang a monastery; hidden high on the hillside overlooked a settlement of Lachungpas and barracks of the Indian army. The mountains on the other side of the valley rose up to snowy heights. In the distance, one could see the impressions of a track that was once used by traders to cross over from Tibet with their mules laden with Chinese silk.

Rumtek Monastery
A 24-km drive from Gangtok, through the beautiful, bewitching countryside leads one to Rumtek. Rumtek, is the seat of the Karmapa Lama who heads the Kagyupa Sect of Buddhism. It is amongst the best places to visit in Gangtok if you want to know more about Buddhism.

There is a wide variety of hotel accommodation available at Gangtok, ranging from luxury and deluxe to standard and economy, depending on your budget. Prices are in the vicinity of Rs 2500 for luxury, Rs 1300 for mid-rung and Rs 500 for basic accommodation.

Nor-Khill Hotel

Hotel Nor-Khill known for its traditions, unchanged characteristics and ethnic Sikkimese ambiance. You are welcome as royal guests at Nor-Khill or in Sikkimese, the abode of jewels. What is now the Kanchan Garden used to be a favourite vantage point of the Chogyal of Sikkim. The panoramic view of the lush green hills dotted by picturesque settlements, with the Kanchenjunga reaching for the skies in the background, inspired him to sit up with a canvas set up on an easel and paint for hours.

Services

Once it was the royal guest house of the Chogyal dynasty. Traditional decor, excellent cuisine and unique ambiance and with all the comforts of modern day living. Hospitality is the Nor-Khill’s heritage.
It comprises of “The Dragon Bar” which is a cozy little room in one corner with just the right atmosphere for settling down with your favourite drink.

Whether it is a hearty meal at midday with sunlight streaming in through the glass windows or the finest traditional cuisine for dinner with the barely discernible aroma of exotic spices in the air, the Shangri La restaurant is the place for eating out in style at Gangtok.

Amenities

Attached private bath with showers.
Running hot and cold water – 24 hrs.
Telephone with International dialing and Net-connectivity.
Colour television with satellite channels.
Multi-channel music in public areas.
Round the clock room service.
Laundry and dry cleaning service.
Currency exchange.
Safe deposit lockers.
Baby sitting arrangements.
Travel desk.
Doctor on call.
Car parking area.
Banquet and conference facilities.
Communication : fax and e-mail.

For more Details go to site

http://www.travelmasti.com/nor_khill.htm

Hotel Tashi Delek ( 4 Star Hotel )

Address: Mahatma Gandhi Marg, , Gangtok

Location: City Center

Property Type: Business And Leisure Hotel

Centrally located in the heart of Gangtok, Hotel Tashi Delek provide guests with a complete experience of luxury. Unique in its historical and cultural background, everything is designed so as to reflect the co-existence of culture, age-old traditions and urbanization of Gangtok.

Accessibility: Airport: 124KM., Railway Station: 114KM.

For more Details And Booking Visit The Following Site

http://www.travel-himalayas.com/hotels-himalayas/hotels-in-gangtok.html

Spending time in Gangtok is no problem. One can easily spend 3 days in Gangtok.

Gangtok is a beautiful place whcih attracts lots of tourism to visit.

For Honeymoon couple its a fabulous place. Its nature attracts them to stay over there for couple of days.

Mesmerising, picturesque, colourful – Gangtok is the exuberant capital of Sikkim that lures you for an unforgettable honeymoon. Cool breezes blow over the lush mountainside and the air is fragrant with the profusion of wild orchids and rhododendrons. The bazaars bustle with the animation of trendy youngsters, elderly matrons in their traditional bakus and lamas in colourful maroon and mustard robes. Prayer flags flutter in front of pretty Buddhist shrines and pagoda-style houses that cling to the hillside.

SHOPPING

Hand-woven woolen carpets, blankets and shawls, Lepcha woven bags, choksies (tables) exquisitely carved and painted, hand-made dolls, painted masks, bamboo artifacts and hand-made paper. Sikkim also makes its local liqueur out of paan (betel leaf).

Chorten, a stupa built in 1945, is a great religious centre with valuable relics and two huge statues of Guru Rimpoche (Padmasambhava).

» Deer Park with an image of the preaching Buddha.

» Orchid Sanctuary with over 200 species of orchids.

» Tsukla-Khang, the royal monastery of the former Chogyals or rulers of Sikkim. Has priceless Buddhist treasures.

» Enchey Monastery with its exhibits of images and religious objects.

» Research Institute of Tibetology which has a large collection of icons, tankhas (tapestries) and rare books.