If you are an adventure seeker and looking for the best destination to include in your bucket list then Gangtok is the one. With a variety of things to do in Gangtok, one can indulge in the magical side of Sikkim’s capital city. It’s for a reason the place is preferred by many nature enthusiasts and tourists as it offers a relaxed chill vibe among the scenic Himalayas and picturesque valleys. Get ready as we have curated some of the best outdoor activities to add to your next trip.
Top 10 Things To Do In Gangtok
From River rafting to Goechala Trek, here is a list of things to do in Gangtok to make your vacation the most exciting one.
1. Cable Car Ride
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If you are in the capital city of Sikkim, then the list of things to do in Gangtok must include a cable car ride. This car ride offers a bird’s eye view of the city which lets you witness the scenic landscape along with the valleys. It is a 1km ride within three stations Deorali, Namnang, and Tashiling. It’s suggested to take the two-way ride for a better experience. One can also capture beauty through photography but there are additional camera charges included.
Location: Deorali, Gangtok
Timings: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Cost/Person: ₹110 per adult, ₹70 for child below 6 years
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2. River Rafting
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Try river rafting in Teesta River, one of the best things to do in Gangtok if you are a real adventure seeker. You can raft through the turbulent waters of this river which gives you a perfect unforgettable experience. You can relax afterwards by camping by a bonfire near the river Rangeet. The best time for river rafting in Gangtok is from March to May as the weather gives you a combination of warm days and chilly nights.
Location: Teesta River
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM
Cost/Person: ₹3500 onwards
3. Paragliding
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Paragliding is another exciting thing to do in Gangtok, Sikkim as it provides spectacular views of the majestic Himalayan ranges. Those willing to try this adventure sport out can choose among the two options of gliding either from an elevation of 1400m or 2000m. One doesn’t have to be a pro at paragliding, as skilled operators will guide you through this process. But this activity is not suitable for people who weigh over 90 kg or who are physically unfit.
Location: Medium Fly: Baliman Dara, High Fly: Reshithang village
Timings: 9 AM – 4 PM
Cost/Person: ₹2500 onwards
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4. Mountain Biking
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Mountain biking on rugged terrain provides views of the surrounding spectacular landscapes, the variety of flora and fauna, and lush green mountains and is one of the best experiences. Hence it is a perfect reason to include it in the list of things to do in Gangtok. Enjoy a ride through the deodar and pine trees with the refreshing smell of cardamom plants and witness the breathtaking view of the mountains manifesting the energy of this outdoor activity.
Cost/Person: ₹8000 onwards
5. Skiing
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If you love snow and its outdoor activities then skiing is a must for you. There are many spots like Yumthang Valley and Mt Katao which offer the advantage of skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing and more. With indulging in skiing one can experience scenic landscapes of snow-capped mountains. These spots are a treat to view in summer too with gorgeous flora such as rhododendron, poppy, primula and more. The locations are appealing for nature enthusiasts as you can capture these landscapes in stunning photographs. It is worth including these activities in the things to do in Gangtok.
Location: Lachung, Gangtok and Yumthang Valley
Cost/Person: ₹5000 onwards
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6. Hang Gliding
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If you enjoy gliding over snow capped mountains and colourful towns, then this activity is for you. Hang gliding is one of the best things to do in Gangtok for some adventure. This is a major tourist attraction in the city. During this activity, you have to hold onto a bar that is attached to the wings and glide. One can also rent a GoPro camera to record the entire flight to make the experience more memorable.
Location: Yumthang and Jorethang
Cost/Person: ₹2500 (video recording excluded)
7. Cycling On Silk Route
Photo: Madhumita Das / Wikimedia Commons
Exploring the Silk Route is one of the top things to do in Gangtok. The best part about this activity is the view of the Kanchenjunga and Himalayan ranges throughout the journey. For your enjoyment, the operators will guide you and will arrange necessities like a cycle, helmet, cap and more. During the trip, one can also take a break at places like Zuluk, Rishikhola, Nathang Valley etc. You can travel to this Silk Route via the Jalpaiguri Railway Station.
Location: Old Silk Route, East Sikkim
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8. Goechala Trek
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The Goechala Trek helps you romanticise the majestic mountains, deep valleys and geometrical landscapes, and it is one of the most romantic treks in Gangtok. So if you love trekking then don’t get confused with what to do in Gangtok. This trek will take you through the wide Dzongri and Thansing meadows along with the serene Samiti Lake as well as the route between the Kanchenjunga and Pandim ranges.
Location: Yuksom, Gyalshing district, Sikkim
9. Witness The Seven Sisters Waterfall
Photo: Rohan Mahanta / Wikimedia Commons
Watching the awe-inspiring Seven Sister Waterfalls is an unforgettable experience. This natural wonder consists of seven cascades of different sizes flowing side by side giving you a spectacular view. During the monsoon season, the waterfall offers another level of harmony with high levels of water gushing down. One can spend hours looking at it and relaxing with a scene of mountain shadows after the setting sun. The spot has become popular due to its natural beauty.
Location: National Highway, 32 km from Gangtok
Suggested Read: Go Trekking In Sikkim For A Soulful And Exhilarating Scenic Journey
10. Savour The Local Cuisine
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M.G. Marg in Gangtok is the spot where many people stop by to taste the popular cuisines. It is at the centre of the town and is easily accessible. Some of the famous cuisines of Gangtok one can try are Dim Sums, Fermented Soybean, Momos, and Mushroom Kachi, Sikkimese Set Meal with Chicken. You can also try some Asian, Nepali, and Tibetan cuisines while watching the perfect view of picturesque valleys through your window.
Location: M.G Marg, Gangtok
From witnessing the majestic seven-sister waterfalls to paragliding across the scenic landscapes, there are a diversity of things to do in Gangtok. So, don’t wait any further and plan a trip with TripXL, to enjoy your most awaited escapade with these options. Avail the best deals as you pack your bags and embark on an adventure.
Cover Photo: Subhrajyoti07 / Wikimedia Commons