Planning A Trip to Gangtok? This is What You Must Know

Gangtok has a sophisticated beauty and one of the best hill destinations in India. With its mesmerizing beauty and adventurous spirit, Gangtok offers both tranquility and a unique taste of travelling. With Instagram perfect background the place is gorgeous and will give you many stupendous memories to cherish.



The urban capital of Sikkim homes many beautiful assets to adore. The place meets all kind of expectations, be for a spiritual seeker, adventure crazy or tranquility lover.  You must do some prior work before you start your journey and here we share some tips that will help you with your travel spree.
  • Love for the Snow
Many of us love the snow and we visit hill stations to witness the snow beauty. If you are one of us, then Gangtok is a must-visit the place.  But you must know that all places in Gangtok don't see snow throughout the year. In a few places like Nathula, Yumthang and the Tsomgo Lake there is snow through Situated at a very high altitude, Gangtok got its name from the word Gangtok which means ‘Top of the Ridge’.

The place witnesses extreme seasons of winter and summer. Also, there are occurrences of landslides depending on seasons. So, it is wise to plan your Gangtok tour accordingly and the best time happens to be during the Autumns (i.e. October and November). The months of December and January also are feasible, but most tourist attractions will be snowclad and you get to just enjoy the season and its chill.
  • Concern on Internet Connection
Internet connectivity is not a problem when in Gangtok. But you may not find a mobile network in the Northern part of Sikkim and some places like the Nathula area. The mobile network is not at all good for phone calls. If luck supports, BSNL may work for you.
  • Gangtok is An Urban Town
Amidst its Victorian looks, Gangtok is an urban town and you can comfortably stay. There are hotels, shops, bars, restaurants, malls, and ATMs at your service. The town may close down by 9 pm but there a few places which will enchant you with its nightlife. In the evenings you can enjoy your drinks as you witness the beauty of the place.
  • Hotels in Gangtok
With the development of the city and tourism, Sikkim witnesses good tourist flow and with this has come up numerous hotels, to suit various budget preferences. 

MG road is a central place, where both locals and tourists flock to, has some of the best hotels in its surroundings. Before you plan your trip, learn about the rates and compare the same to avail the best deal.
  • What You Must Not Carry?
When you plan your trip, you must know what to pack and what not to carry for your Gangtok trip.  You can avoid jackets and boots, as they are available on rent. So why to carry extra baggage when you get the things at the cheapest rates. Just you must carry woolen clothes and socks to keep you warm.


  • Times and Travelling
When you are in a hilly location, you must know that you have to travel to places a little far from the prime towns. The average speed expected on Gangtok road is about 20 to 25 km/hrs, so you must keep buffer time in your hand.
  • Shared Taxi
When you have a choice to rent a private car, but sharing a taxi is cheaper and a wiser consideration. Also, you get to come across new people and have a wonderful experience throughout your journey.  It is advisable to hire a local guide and get your permits for vehicle driving and also your Inner Line Permits if you want to take a vehicle on rent and travel on your own.
  • Confusion with Permits
Gangtok being the capital of a border state, it has certain areas which require a special kind of permit called PAP or Protected Area Permit for visitors. People of every nationality, also of Indian origin must get the permits.  Restricted Area Permit or Inner Liner Permit is needed just for foreigners. And it doesn't cost anything. But you have to get it only from a local tour operator.  For this, you must submit your passport, photo, visa details, and tour date. Just a reminder, once the permit is confirmed, it cannot be changed.
  • Carry your documents
Documents are very essential when you travel. It is essential to carry numerous copies of your photo and Photo ID Proof like Voter ID Card, Passport and Driving License. Ensure that you carry the documents of the Xerox copies that are submitted for your permit.

What Are the Areas that Require Permits?

The restricted areas for tourists from outside India are Gurudongmar Lake and Nathulla Pass. The areas that will need PAP by both foreigners and Indians are Tsomgo Lake, Dzongri, Baba Mandir, Goecahala Trek, Yumesamdong, Yumthang, Thangu Valley and Gurudongmar Lake.



Wrapping Up

Well, now you know what you must keep in mind as you plan your Gangtok trip. Also, do some online survey and find the Sikkim and Gangtok hotel price and procure the deal that suits your budget.

Have a wonderful travel experience. Enjoy the hills!

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