This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Gangtok.
Gangtok, Sikkim, India, is the largest town of Sikkim, a state in Northeast India bordering Tibet, Bhutan, and Nepal. With surreal views of the Himalayas, Gangtok is a place where you can enjoy slow traveling. The nearest functioning airport is Bagdogra, and the nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri. From Bagdogra or New Jalpaiguri, you need to take a taxi to Gangtok; individual taxis are expensive and so shared taxis have become the most popular mode of transport in the region. MG Marg is the center of Gangtok, home to restaurants offering Sikkimese and Tibetan cuisine, boutiques, and quirky cafes. For budget travelers, there are a few Gangtok, Sikkim, India hostels in the center.
In Gangtok, you can explore the nearby monasteries. Pemayangtse Monastery and Rumtek Monastery, located twenty-three kilometers away from Gangtok, are two popular options. You can also go on a cable-car ride over Gangtok city to get a bird's eye view of the quaint mountain town. Apart from these activities, going on yak safaris, paragliding, and trekking are popular activities in the area.
Gangtok is also the perfect base to explore other areas of Sikkim. You can organize day trips to Nathu La Pass and Tsomgo (Changu) Lake. Head to one of the travel agents located in MG Marg and organize your North Sikkim tour. Although individual trips can turn out to be pricey, you can take a shared taxi. There are no hostels in North Sikkim but budget travelers can opt for local-run homestays. They are an affordable way to explore Gangtok and other areas in Sikkim.
The best time to travel to Gangtok and Sikkim is the spring (March through May). October through November is also a fabulous time to explore the region. May through September is the monsoon season and should be avoided due to landslides and heavy rains. From December to March, the northeastern state is covered by a thick layer of snow.
Written by local enthusiast for Gangtok hostels
Zin