The capital of Sikkim is a unique hill resort in northeast India and undoubtedly one of the most visited. Perched on the ridge of a hill at an altitude of 1700 metres, Gangtok is famous for its scenic beauty and spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world. The town offers a mild temperate climate with a temperature of around 23 degrees centigrade in summer and around 6 degrees centigrade during winter.
Namgayal Institute of Tibetology
Built in 1958, this is a unique institute for research into Mahayana Buddhism and the language and traditions of Tibet. A renowned center for Buddhist study, the institute houses a rare collection of manuscripts, Thangkas and Buddhist icons.
Do-Drul Chorten (stupa)
The gold apex of this huge white Chorten, about 500m from the institute, is visible from many points in Gangtok and is surrounded by prayer flags and wheels.
Flower Exhibition Centre
Sikkim is famous for its orchids and other flowers that bloom at various times through the year. This is a great place to see those which are in bloom at the time of your visit.
Rumtek Monastery
The Rumtek Monastery is located on a hill opposite Gangtok, 24 km away. Rumtek was built in 1740 but rebuilt during the 1960s after an earthquake. Brightly painted wooden latticework decorates the facade. Inside are the beautiful murals and Thangkas. You are welcome to sit in on the prayer and chanting sessions. They'll even bring you a cup of salted butter tea when it's served to the monks.
Phodang & Labrang Monasteries
It is a winding and bumpy drive to Phodang monastery, 40 km north of Gangtok, a smaller and simpler monastery. The serene atmosphere here is timeless. Lying on a spur of the hill, there are tremendous views of the valley below. Labrang Monastery is about two kms uphill from Phodang and is an older and unusual octagonal structure. This site offers a vantage point from which to enjoy spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga.
