A place where Tibetan Buddhism is studied and preserved in-depth, the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is a popular attraction in Gangtok. Since the region is heavily influenced by Tibetan Buddhism, understanding it is a great way to understand the motivations of the local population Namgyal Institute of Tibetology allows visitors to do just this.

The building's museum contains a number of sculptures, coins, scrolls with hand paintings and embroidery work (thangkas), Tibetan artworks and artifacts, as well as old manuscripts in Sanskrit, Tibetan, Chinese, and Lepcha. It is defined by beautiful Tibetan architecture. The original teachings of Lord Buddha are among the roughly 60,000 books in the Institute's library. The halls of this institute also house a sizable statue of Manjushri, the bodhisattva of wisdom and understanding.

Location: Deorali, Gangtok, Sikkim

A landmark sight in Gangtok, the Do Drul Chorten Stupa is a good place to visit in the city. Built in 1945-46 by Trulshik Rinpoche, head of the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism, this stupa holds significance in the city because of its said ability to drive away evil spirits. It features the traditional 108 Mani Lhakor or prayer wheels of Buddhism which are supposed to have wish-granting properties.

The golden top of the stupa enshrines the figure of Dorjee Phurpa or Vajra Kilaya. If you are interested in understanding the cultural pulse of Gangtok, a visit to this Chorten, which is among the most important chores in Sikkim, is a must. The climb to the top is slightly exhausting because of its steep nature, but the views from the top are rewarding.

Location: Near Gangtok Centre, Gangtok, Sikkim

If you wish to enjoy some delightful sightseeing and memorable picnicking in Gangtok, the Ban Jhakri falls are a great place to do so. Located inside the landscaped Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park, the 100-foot Ban Jhakri Waterfall is a beautiful spot. Nature reigns supreme here, and a still silence hangs all around, only punctuated by the powerful gushing of the water falling with force on the rocks.

Since they are thought to have a power that can drive away evil spirits, the Ban Jhakri Falls holds a significant place in local mythology. Visit the artificial lake in the park while you are there, which has an intimidating dragon monument in the center. A visit to the park's natural energy generation sites is highly recommended.

Location: Banjhakri Falls and Energy Park, Gangtok, Sikkim

One of the top tourist destinations in Gangtok is the Himalayan Zoological Park, which is nearby. Although Gangtok is filled with natural beauty, this zoological park's focused natural variety offers a unique perspective on Sikkim's abundant natural resources. This park offers a wealth of attractions, including a stunning array of flora and fauna. Here you may find animals like Red Pandas, Himalayan Black Bears, Snow Leopards, Clouded Leopards, and Barking Deer, as well as birds like Lady Amherst Pheasants, Kalij, and Satyr Tragopan.

Trekking through the park is the best way to enjoy the minute details of the park but doing so will not allow you to enjoy all the areas of the 260-acre park. If you wish to enjoy the entire length and breadth of the ark, booking a jeep safari is a good idea. The park is well-maintained and provides a truly enjoyable experience to its visitors.

Location: Bulbulay, Gangtok, Sikkim

Hanuman Tok is one of the most revered places to visit in Gangtok, where troops of tourists and devotees flock every year. It is essentially a tribute to the Hindu God Hanuman, who is believed by the natives to have halted here while making his journey to Lanka, carrying the mountain of Sanjeevani.

Besides the beautiful mythological tale, the soothing melodies and music that fills the temple’s atmosphere also entrance those who pay homage here. The temple is looked after and maintained meticulously by the Indian Army. If you’re blessed with clear skies, you can also treat yourself to mesmerizing views of the surrounding Himalayan massifs, dominated by the magnificent Mt. Kanchenjunga!

Location: Gangtok, Sikkim

Nathang Valley is the best-kept secret of Gangtok! Sitting at an elevation of 13,500 ft., the valley is fondly known as ‘Ladakh of East Sikkim’. Nathang is a lovely little village, which has been off the beaten path of tourism for a long. The village falls on the Old Silk Route, which links India and China via a trade route.

Nathang, a secluded Tibetan village in the Eastern Himalayas, offers amazing prospects for skiing and other winter sports since it is perpetually wrapped in a heavy blanket of snow. The Brahmin Duck can frequently be found in a lovely frozen pond close to the Durga Temple. In the far right of the valley, shaded and unvisited, there is a little Buddhist monastery as well. Nathang Valley is paradise if you're an explorer at heart.

Location: Gangtok, Sikkim

One of the most beautiful, yet least explored places to visit in Gangtok, Bakthang Waterfall is spread against a backdrop of the Eastern Himalayas. It is an hour’s drive from the main town of Gangtok, and perfect if you’re an explorer seeking untrodden paths and some peaceful quiet.

The fall waters originate from the river Ratey Chu, and cascade down as beautiful silver threads, the roaring of which can be heard even from a distance. It is frequently haunted by nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts every year. The melodious gushing of waters, coupled with the forested beauty and the beautiful Himalayan background is a captivating experience.

Location: the North Sikkim Highway, Gangtok, Sikkim