An
Overview :
Gangtok, the capital city of the state Sikkim is one of the major tourist
centre in the north eastern part of India. Its picturesque mountain range
with several beautiful monasteries attracts thousands of tourists from all
parts of India. This hilly town offers an enchanting views of the mighty
Kanchenjunga range. In Gangtok one can both experience the age old tradition
and culture along with its urbanization in terms of modern facilities.
Climate of Gangtok :
Located at the laps of the Himalayan mountain range, Gangtok experiences a
pleasant climate throughout the year. Its average summer temperature varies
between 21 and 13 degrees C while during winters, the minimum temperature
can drop below freezing point. The city receives an average annual rainfall
of 3894mm. The best tourist season to visit the city is between April to
mid-June and mid-September to November.
Tourist Attractions of Gangtok :
» Enchey Monastery - Located on a hilltop, it was
built during the rule of Thutob Namgyal. This 200 year old monastery houses
many images of god and goddesses and religious texts within its complex. A
religious masked dance known as Chaam held every year in the month of
January and the annual festival are prime sources of tourist attractions.
»
Government Institute of Cottage Industry - Also known as the
Directorates of Handicrafts and Handlooms, the institute was established in
1957 to preserve, protect and propagate the traditional art and craft of
Sikkim. Handloom carpets, furniture, hand carved foldable tables(Choktsees),
exquisite dolls, hand painted masks, lamp stands are some items which
tourist can purchase while visiting this industry.
» Sikkim Research Institute of Tibetology - It is
an world famous centre for Tibetan studies and research. The foundation
stone of the institute was laid by Dalai Lama in February 1957 and was later
inaugurated by Jawaharal Nehru in October 1958. The institute has a large
collection of some old Tibetan literature, manuscripts, paintings, statues
and other historic objects. The institute was established with an soul aim
to promote research on Tibetan language and culture. The institute also has
a library, which is open to public all day in the weak with an entry fee of
Rs 2.
» Deer Park - Located near the new secretariat, the
park was established in the late 50s. It is home to different types of deer
along with some other animals like Red Panda, Himalayan Bear. There is also
a big statue of Lord Buddha inside the park, which is a replica of that in
Sarnath.
Getting to Gangtok :
» By Air - The nearest airport is Bagadora(124km)
in West Bengal from where one can take flights to Kolkata, Delhi and
Guwahati.
» By Rail - Siliguri(114km) and New
Jalpaiguri(125km) are the two nearest major railheads. These two are
connected to some of the important cities of India including Delhi,
Calcutta, Guwahati and Lucknow.
» By Road - A good network of roads links Gangtok
with all major cities of Sikkim and neighboring states. Private taxis, jeeps
are main modes of local transport.
