Gangtok
Gangtok
is a charming hill station located in the northeastern state of Sikkim, India. It
is situated at an altitude of 1,650 meters above sea level and is the capital
city of Sikkim. It is surrounded by the Eastern Himalayas, this quaint town is
known for its serene ambiance, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.
History
The early
history of Gangtok is not well documented. However, it is believed that the
area was originally inhabited by the Lepcha tribe, who were the indigenous
people of Sikkim. In the 1840s, Gangtok became the capital of the kingdom of
Sikkim, which was ruled by the Namgyal dynasty.
During
the British colonial era, Gangtok became an important town due to its strategic
location. It served as a major stopover point for trade caravans traveling
between India and Tibet. The British also established a political agency in
Gangtok, which helped them maintain their influence in the region.
After
India gained independence in 1947, Sikkim remained an independent kingdom until
1975, when it merged with India and became a state. Gangtok continued to serve
as the capital of Sikkim.
In the
decades since Sikkim became a state, Gangtok has undergone significant
development. The city has seen the construction of new roads, buildings, and
other infrastructure. It has also become a popular tourist destination,
attracting visitors from all over India and beyond.
Today,
Gangtok is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including its stunning
views of the Himalayas. It is also home to several important Buddhist
monasteries and other cultural attractions, making it a popular destination for
those interested in history and religion.
Gangtok
is closely tied to the history of Sikkim and the wider region of north-eastern
India. From its origins as a small village, it has grown to become an important
city and tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Culture
The city
has a unique culture that is heavily influenced by its Tibetan and Nepalese
heritage, as well as its history as a former independent kingdom. Here are some
details about the culture of Gangtok.
1.
Religion: Gangtok has a diverse population of Hindus,
Buddhists, and Christians. However, Buddhism is the predominant religion, and
there are several important Buddhist monasteries in and around the city,
including Rumtek Monastery, Enchey Monastery, and Lingdum Monastery.
2.
Festivals: Gangtok celebrates a number of festivals
throughout the year, including Losar (Tibetan New Year), Saga Dawa (Buddha’s
birthday), and Bhumchu (a festival celebrating the consecration of the
Tashiding Monastery). The city also celebrates major Indian festivals such as
Diwali, Holi, and Durga Puja.
3.
Cuisine: The cuisine of Gangtok is a mix of Tibetan, Nepalese, and
Indian influences. Momos (steamed dumplings) are a popular snack, and thukpa (a
hearty noodle soup) is a common meal. Other popular dishes include churpee (a
hard cheese), gundruk (fermented leafy greens), and phagshapa (pork cooked with
radishes and chilies).
4.
Traditional attire: The traditional attire of the people of
Gangtok is heavily influenced by Tibetan and Nepalese culture. Men typically
wear a chuba (a long, loose robe) and a bhaku (a shorter, tighter-fitting
jacket), while women wear a honju (a blouse) and a pangden (a wraparound
skirt).
5.
Music and dance: Gangtok has a vibrant music and dance scene,
with traditional folk dances such as the Maruni and the Tamang Selo being
performed at festivals and other events. The city also has a thriving rock and
pop music scene, with local bands performing at venues such as Café Live &
Loud and The Mughal.
6.
Art and handicrafts: Gangtok is home to a number of talented
artists and artisans who produce a range of handicrafts, including thangka
paintings (traditional Buddhist paintings on cotton or silk), woodcarvings, and
handwoven carpets. There are also several art galleries in the city, including
the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology and the Lalit Kala Akademi.
Overall,
the culture of Gangtok is a rich and diverse blend of Tibetan, Nepalese, and
Indian influences, and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the Himalayan way
of life.
How
to reach
If you
are planning to visit Gangtok, here is a detailed guide on how to reach Gangtok
hill station:
1.
By Air: The nearest airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra Airport,
located in the nearby city of Siliguri, West Bengal. From there, you can take a
taxi or a bus to Gangtok, which is about 124 kilometres away. The journey takes
about 4-5 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.
2.
By Train: The nearest major railway station to Gangtok
is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, located in the city of Siliguri. From there,
you can take a taxi or a bus to Gangtok, which is about 148 kilometers away.
The journey takes about 4-5 hours, depending on the traffic and road
conditions.
3.
By Road: Gangtok is well-connected by road to major cities and
towns in the region. You can take a taxi, a bus or a shared jeep from nearby
cities like Siliguri, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Bagdogra to reach Gangtok. The
journey time varies depending on the starting point, but it usually takes about
4-5 hours.
Once you
reach Gangtok, there are several places of interest that you can explore. Don’t
forget to try out the local cuisine, which includes momos, thukpa, and other
Tibetan and Sikkimese delicacies.
Places
to visit
It is
known for its stunning scenery, colourful culture, and vibrant markets. If you
are planning a trip to Gangtok and looking for places to visit, here are some
of the best tourist spots that you can explore:
1.
Rumtek Monastery: Rumtek Monastery is a popular attraction in
Gangtok. It is one of the largest and most significant monasteries in Sikkim.
The monastery is known for its intricate architecture, beautiful wall murals,
and Buddhist artifacts.
2.
Tsomgo Lake: Tsomgo Lake is a stunning glacial lake
located at an altitude of 12,400 feet above sea level. The lake is surrounded
by snow-capped mountains and offers breath-taking views. You can take a yak
ride around the lake or enjoy a picnic by the shore.
3.
Nathula Pass: Nathula Pass is a mountain pass located on
the Indo-China border. It is a popular tourist destination in Gangtok, known
for its scenic beauty and historical significance. Visitors can enjoy a panoramic
view of the surrounding mountains and valleys from the pass.
4.
Tashi Viewpoint: Tashi Viewpoint is a popular tourist spot
located on the outskirts of Gangtok. It offers stunning views of the
Kanchenjunga Mountain range and the surrounding valleys. The viewpoint is a
perfect spot for photography and bird watching.
5.
Ganesh Tok: Ganesh Tok is a small temple located on a
hilltop near Gangtok. It offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding
hills. The temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and is a popular pilgrimage site
for Hindus.
6.
Hanuman Tok: Hanuman Tok is another popular temple located
in Gangtok. It is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is situated at an altitude of
7,200 feet above sea level. The temple offers stunning views of the surrounding
mountains and valleys.
7.
Enchey Monastery: Enchey Monastery is a 200-year-old Buddhist
monastery located in Gangtok. It is known for its beautiful architecture,
vibrant wall murals, and religious artifacts. The monastery is a popular
pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
8.
MG Road: MG Road is a popular shopping and dining destination in
Gangtok. The road is lined with shops selling traditional handicrafts,
clothing, and souvenirs. Visitors can also enjoy local cuisine at the many
restaurants and cafes located along the road.
9.
Himalayan Zoological Park: The Himalayan Zoological Park is a
popular attraction in Gangtok. It is home to a wide range of Himalayan animals,
including the red panda, snow leopard, and Himalayan black bear. Visitors can
also enjoy a cable car ride over the park.
10.Khecheopalri Lake: Khecheopalri Lake is a sacred lake located
near Gangtok. It is believed to be a wish-fulfilling lake and is surrounded by
dense forests and mountains. Visitors can take a walk around the lake and enjoy
the serene surroundings.
These are
some of the best tourist spots to visit in Gangtok. Each of these places offers
a unique experience and is a must-visit when in Gangtok.
Accommodation
we will
take a closer look at the different types of accommodation in Gangtok.
1.
Hotels: Gangtok has many hotels that cater to the needs of travellers.
These hotels range from budget to luxury, and they offer various amenities such
as room service, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary breakfast. Some popular hotels
in Gangtok include the Mayfair Spa Resort & Casino, The Elgin Nor-Khill
Hotel, and the Royal Plaza Hotel.
2.
Resorts: Gangtok also has many resorts that offer a tranquil and
serene environment for guests. These resorts are located in the outskirts of
the city and offer stunning views of the Himalayan mountains. Some popular
resorts in Gangtok include the Sterling Gangtok Resort, the Club Mahindra
Gangtok Resort, and the Lemon Tree Hotel Gangtok.
3.
Homestays: For travellers who want to experience the
local culture and hospitality of Gangtok, homestays are a great option.
Homestays offer guests the opportunity to stay with a local family and
experience their way of life. These accommodations are usually simple and
affordable, and guests can enjoy home-cooked meals and learn about the local
customs and traditions.
4.
Guesthouses: Guesthouses in Gangtok are a great option for
budget travellers who want to save money on accommodation. These accommodations
are usually basic but comfortable, and they offer a shared kitchen and living
room. Some popular guesthouses in Gangtok include the Greenery Guest House, the
Hotel Red Cherry Residency, and the Tibet Guest House.
5.
Hostels: Hostels are a great option for solo travellers or
backpackers who want to meet new people and save money on accommodation. Gangtok
has many hostels that offer dormitory-style rooms and shared bathrooms. Some
popular hostels in Gangtok include the Zostel Gangtok, the Gohills Backpackers
Hostel, and the Sleepy Pineapple Hostel.
Gangtok
offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors, from luxury hotels
to budget-friendly hostels. Whether you’re traveling alone or with a group,
you’ll find something to suit your needs and budget in this beautiful hill
station.
Conclusion
Gangtok
is a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful vacation amidst nature.
The town offers mesmerizing views of the Himalayas, adventure activities,
delicious food, shopping, and rich culture. Visiting Gangtok is an experience
that you will cherish for a lifetime.