1. Tsomgo Lake (Changu Lake): The Glacial Beauty
From Avianna Group Hotels: Distance of 38 km (about 1.5 to 2 hours by car)
Tsomgo Lake, often called Changu Lake, is synonymous with serene, high-altitude beauty. This is an experience not to be missed as you witness the pristine glacial waters, sacred to the locals, surrounded by towering snowy peaks. The lake changes colors with the seasons, from a frozen white expanse in winter to a vibrant blue in the warmer months. This is nature at its very best, and the slightly longer morning effort to get there from Avianna Group Hotels will well be worth it.
Tsomgo Lake is further claimed to provide an all-around tranquil experience, with surrounding alpine forests and the opportunity for yak rides. Do not forget to dress warmly as the high-altitude chill can be pretty extreme, especially in the cold season. (Permits required for visiting this lake).
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2. Rumtek Monastery: A Spiritual Core
Distance from Avianna Group Hotels: 24 km
Another popular term for the Rumtek Monastery is the Dharma Chakra Centre. It has been a seat of the Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism. Always a must for every traveller, this massive Buddhist monastery offers marvellous insights into Buddhist architecture and culture. Even if you cannot spare much time, try to witness the prayer ceremonies to feel the spiritual energy.
Among the most prominent attractions for the monastery is its main shrine, a stunning example of traditional Tibetan monastic art, which houses rare murals and thangkas. It offers a journey one would never pass through, with prayer wheels, colourful prayer flags, and the soothing chants of monks.
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3. MG Marg: The Heart of Gangtok
500 meters from Avianna Group Hotels
MG Marg is one of the most scenic and vibrant places to visit in Gangtok, located right in the heart of the city. This pedestrian-only road is where you'll find the central hub of activity, providing spectacular views and a clean, relaxed atmosphere. In the middle of the marg, there lies a comfortable space for strolling and shopping, raised as a model of civic cleanliness and order.
A beautifully arranged seating area at MG Marg is an ideal place to take a stroll and enjoy the local shops and cafes. It is considered the Mall Road of Gangtok.
The lively street life, the quaint town atmosphere, and the distant mountain views will remain etched long after you leave.
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4. Ganesh Tok: Panoramic Viewpoint
Distance from Avianna Group Hotels: 7 km
A must-visit temple and viewpoint, it should be said that for view seekers, housing a small temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha, this spot is a conservationist in nature, aiming at providing unobstructed views of the city.
The viewpoint stands at an elevation of 6,500 feet. Thus, a cool and refreshing environment greets visitors. The sprawling Gangtok city, the Raj Bhavan, and the majestic Kanchenjunga range also have a home in the view. If you're travelling as a family, this can be a great destination for children to learn about the geography of the local area.
5. Enchey Monastery: The Solitary Temple
Distance from Avianna Group Hotels: 3 km
The Enchey Monastery reminds one of the deep spiritual roots of the region. It was established in the year 1909 and belongs to the Nyingma order of Vajrayana Buddhism. The monastery is considered one of the most sacred monasteries in Sikkim.
The institute conducts prayers and houses images of gods, goddesses, and other religious objects. However, even if you are not looking to participate, the monastery's architecture and the serene environment would be interesting enough just to view mounts of Buddhist history and culture.
6. Do-Drul Chorten and Sikkim Research Institute of Tibetology
Distance from Avianna Group Hotels: 2 km
The Do-Drul Chorten in Gangtok is one of the most sacred and peaceful places in town. Erected in 1945, the chorten (stupa) is part of a complex that houses 108 prayer wheels. Its white edifice sharp against the green hillside makes it an ideal meditation and reflection spot.
Situated just a few yards away is the Sikkim Research Institute of Tibetology (SRIT), in which one can participate in the exploration of Tibetan culture. The place exudes peace, and the scholarly atmosphere creates a serenity one can rarely experience elsewhere.
7. Himalayan Zoological Park and Ropeway
Distance from Avianna Group Hotels: 6 km
The Himalayan Zoological Park, more commonly known for its focus on regional fauna, is a natural habitat-style zoo. Winding paths lead you to enclosures of animals like the Himalayan Black Bear and Red Panda, an ideal location for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
The Gangtok Ropeway is a short detour away and another well-maintained tourist attraction with cable car facilities and spectacular aerial views. Both of the places are great for experiencing nature and enjoying more peaceful surroundings where one can relax in nature.
8. Hanuman Tok
Distance from Avianna Group Hotels: 11 km
One of the best ways to soak in the panoramic beauty of Gangtok is by visiting Hanuman Tok. It would take you to a temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, perched atop a hill. The views of the Kanchenjunga range and the surrounding hills are simply unmatched.
The temple, managed by the Indian Army, offers a serene and spiritual experience, with a calm atmosphere and magnificent views of lush greens and snow-white ranges in the distance.
The ride, 5 km long from Singamari takes one across the Ropeway and over to the grand Rangeet Valley. The tour ride is almost 45 minutes, not something one forgets so soon, with aerial views of lush greens and snow-white ranges in the distance.
9. Flower Exhibition Centre
1 km from Avianna Group Hotels
A tour to Gangtok would be complete with a visit to the city's beautiful flora. One of the most colourful and picturesque spots in Gangtok is the Flower Exhibition Centre. Visitors can walk through the vibrant displays of seasonal flowers, including a vast array of orchids.
The centre is a highlight of the tour, especially during flower shows. One can see various kinds of Himalayan flora. Fresh saplings and plants from the centre are also available to take home as a souvenir after your trip.
10. Bakthang Waterfalls
Distance from Avianna Group Hotels: 3 km
Bakthang Waterfalls is one of the most rejuvenating natural spots near Gangtok. It is a natural waterfall, which is fed by the surrounding mountains. People of both local and tourist communities believe in the invigorating nature of the falls, marked by the refreshing mist and the sound of cascading water all day long.
Apart from its natural beauty, Bakthang Waterfalls is one of the excellent places for a quick stop and photography. The walk up to the viewing spot is relatively easy but fully rewarding.
