Banjhakri Waterfalls Gangtok: Everything You Need To Know

Situated at the foothills of the vibrant Gangtok, Sikkim, the Banjhakri Waterfalls is one of the most alluring natural attractions that spellbind visitors through its pristine beauty and cultural significance. About 7 kilometres from Gangtok city, this beautiful waterfall is a refreshing getaway amidst green and serene landscapes. Banjhakri Waterfalls is one of the most sought-after getaways where the tranquil ambience and mystique worldly atmosphere attract a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, and a culture freak alike.

Table of Contents

About

A view of a stunning waterfall in Gangtok surrounded by lush greenery during the daytime.

Photo: Ajay Kumar / Wikimedia Commons

Banjhakri Waterfalls offer a beautiful blend of natural beauty and cultural symbolism. This waterfall has its name, “Banjhakri,” after a traditional Shaman or healer who is believed to be inhabiting the area. According to the myth, it is a sacred site where Banjhakri performed rituals for rainfall and prosperity. This mystic association gives this spot a spiritual element to its natural beauty, which then turns it into a hub of culture and history. One finds traditional Sikkimese architecture and sculptures that depict local folklore and customs around the waterfalls.

How To Reach Banjhakri Waterfalls

A mesmerising aerial view of a winding road encircled by lush green trees during the day.

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By Air

The nearest airport to Banjhakri Waterfalls is the Bagdogra Airport, located about 125 kilometres from Gangtok. You can hire a taxi or take a shared cab from the airport to Gangtok. The journey takes around 4 to 5 hours, sometimes depending on the traffic and condition of the road.

By Train

The nearest major railway station from Gangtok would be the New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, about 120 kilometres away. You could hire a taxi or take a shared cab from the railway station to Gangtok. The drive from New Jalpaiguri to Gangtok takes about 4-5 hours.

By Road

Gangtok is excellent in terms of connectivity by road, and driving to Banjhakri Waterfalls is hardly any hassle. From Siliguri, the journey to Gangtok would take 4 hours to 5 hours via NH-10. If you are staying in Gangtok, local taxis and auto-rickshaws would be easily available for hire at Banjhakri Waterfalls, barely 20 minutes drive from the town centre.

Things To Do

1. Explore The Park Area

Photo: RajashreeTalukdar / Wikimedia Commons

The park surrounding the falls is further made more endearing with well-maintained paths and scenic spots, plus some featuring traditional Sikkimese sculptures and garden spaces.

2. Photography

Capturing stunning views around Banjhakri Waterfalls Gangtok is one of the best things.

Photo: Kaique Rocha / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

The stunning views of the waterfall and surroundings, lush green and gushing water, make up an excellent combination for photography.

3. Nature Walks

Walk around the lush green meadows of Banjhakri Waterfalls Gangtok to experience peace.

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Take leisurely walks around the park and have a feel of the rich flora and fauna. The area offers opportunities for nature walks and bird watching.

Suggested Read: Discovering The Best Food In Gangtok

4. Cultural Exploration

Cultural exploration is one of the best things to do around Banjhakri Waterfalls Gangtok.

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Know about the local traditions and folklore associated with Banjhakri Waterfalls. The surrounding park itself holds several displays and sculptures showcasing the cultural heritage of Sikkim.

Places To Visit Around

1. Enchey Monastery

Photo: Wingedtree / Wikimedia Commons

One of the major Buddhist monasteries in Gangtok, Enchey Monastery is about 5 kilometres from the Banjhakri Waterfalls. It is known for its serene environment and typical Tibetan architectural style making it a charming spot for a peaceful visit by tourists who would like to experience the spiritual life of Sikkim.

2. Tashi Viewpoint

Tashi View Point is one of the best places to visit around Banjhakri Waterfalls Gangtok.

Photo: Robin S Kishore / Wikimedia Commons

About 8 kilometres from the waterfall, Tashi Viewpoint commands breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga range. This has proved to be a very popular viewpoint to take photographs of the snow-capped peaks and the surrounding valleys.

3. Ganesh Tok

Ganesh Tok is one of the religious places to visit around Banjhakri Waterfalls Gangtok.

Photo: Anjan Kumar Kundu / Wikimedia Commons

About 7 kilometres from Banjhakri Waterfalls lies Ganesh Tok, a small temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha. Perched on top of a hill, the temple commands very beautiful views of Gangtok and its surroundings.

4. Namgyal Institute Of Tibetology

A stunning frontal view Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, which is a must-visit in Gangtok.

Photo: Subhrajyoti07 / Wikimedia Commons

Located about 6 km from the waterfall is the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, which ranks among the famous research centres for Tibetan studies. This institute depicts most of the Tibetan manuscripts, artefacts, and religious relics that represent the region and its cultural-historical background.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Banjhakri Waterfalls is from March to June and September to November. In this season, the climate remains pleasant, with the falls looking their best, crystal clear skies, and temperatures that are neither very hot nor cold. From June to September, the monsoon season comes with heavy rainfall, which might make the waterfall area a bit slippery and hard to move around in. From December to February, winters can get cold with clear views and fewer crowds.

Where To Stay

A stunning aerial view of a town with a lot of colourful buildings and a road passing.

Photo: Jyoti Singh / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

Gangtok offers all sorts of accommodations, from budget to luxury resorts. Gangtok is well connected to falls and other places of interest. Located about 50 km from Gangtok, Mangan has a few guesthouses and lodges. It’s much quieter if one is looking for a more peaceful retreat. About 24 kilometres from Gangtok, Rumtek is famous for the Rumtek Monastery and has a lot of hotels and guesthouses situated amidst calm surroundings.

Where To Eat

A tempting view of a bowl served with noodle soup kept on a white table beside a spoon.

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Options to eat out near Banjhakri Waterfalls are very limited, and Gangtok itself has enough restaurants and cafes. The local eateries are great for sampling Sikkimese and Tibetan food like momos, thukpa and traditional curries. For greater variety, look out for restaurants in Gangtok that appeal to many tastes.

Suggested Read: Your Complete Guide For Trekking In Gangtok

Other Factors To Consider

A focused view of a notebook with a black pen on it kept on a table during the day.

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Tips For Travellers

Always carry water, snacks, and a light jacket along with you. There are small shops around the site, but it is always good to be prepared.
Wear comfortable shoes or sandals as the ground, in places, is uneven and can get muddy.
Be respectful of the cultural value of the site. Obey local customs and respect the spirituality of the place.
Check the weather forecast before heading out to find good visiting conditions. Avoid visiting in heavy rain.
If you want to explore the cultural and historical aspects of the site, then hire a local guide.

Banjhakri Waterfalls is an enthralling destination where natural beauty and cultural richness combine. Its serene environment, green surroundings, and the mystic charm associated with it make this waterfall a refreshing getaway from city life. Be it for a park excursion, picnic, or even learning about local culture, Banjhakri Waterfalls offers an experience that is enriching in its way. Respect the local customs and traditions; be prepared to enjoy this breathtaking site to the fullest, and help conserve it for future visitors.

Cover Photo: Indrajit Das / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

How to reach Banjhakri Waterfalls from Gangtok?

The waterfall is located approximately 7 kilometres away from Gangtok. One can easily reach the waterfalls by hiring a local taxi or auto-rickshaw from Gangtok; it's a 20-minute drive from the town centre.

What are the entrance fees for visiting Banjhakri Waterfalls?

There is a nominal entry fee to enter the Banjhakri Waterfalls, including the waterfall itself and the adjacent park with its traditional Sikkimese cultural displays and sculptures. So, it would be advisable to check the entrance fee and current times before visiting.

What are the best seasons to view the Banjhakri Waterfalls?

The best time to visit would be in the spring and autumn seasons, starting from March to June and September to November. The weather is fine, and the waterfall looks the best in these months.

What are the activities one can do within Banjhakri Waterfalls?

Activities visitors can do at Banjhakri Waterfalls include visiting the park, taking photographs, picnicking, nature walks, and studying the culture. Inside the park, there are several traditional Sikkimese sculptures and garden spaces that make the place ideal for a leisure visit.

Are there dining and accommodation options near Banjhakri Waterfalls?

Options to eat out near Banjhakri Waterfalls are few in number. Gangtok is pretty close, with loads of restaurants and cafes that offer Sikkimese and Tibetan cuisine. Gangtok has different categories, from budget hotels to luxury resorts, that suit every pocket. Places like Mangan and Rumtek have guesthouses and lodges, which are also nearby.

Banjhakri Waterfalls Gangtok: Every Essential Thing You Need To Know