Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim, a garden state lying at the foot of the Kanchenjunga Mountains. Rish in thick green forests, Sikkim abounds in birds & butterflies, varieties of orchids, rhodoendrons & wild flowers & magnificent view of the Himalayas. Gangtok is literally the “lofty hill” set amidst the clouds & mists of splendorous Himalayas. The culture of Sikkim is rich in mythology &legends – one is the abominable snowman, the legendary Yeti.

WHAT TO SEE:

The scenic beauty of the surroundings of Gangtok havery few parallels. Lush green valleys & mightly mountains form an enhancing landscape.

THE DEE PARK near the secretariat building preserves the flora & fauna of Sikkim & also has an image of Buddha.

DO DRUL CHORTEN is yet another attraction which was built in 1945. 108 prayer wheels surround it & it is considered a scared Stupa by the Buddhists. The Stupa contains a set of holy books, relics many mantras.

NAMGYAL INSTITUTE OF TIBETOLOGY has more than 30,000 books relating to diverse fields like philosophy, medicine & Buddhism in addition to silk embroided thankas.

ORCHID SANCTUARY is just below the Institute & has more than 200 species of orchids most of which bloom during April-May.

Another not to be missed tourist attraction is Enchey Monastery which is more than 200 year old. Its about 3 Km from downtown.

EXCURSIONS:

RUMEK MONASTERY:
visible from Gangtok, through 23 Km away, Rumtek is the seat of the Kagyu-pa-sect of Tibetan Buddhism since the members of the sect fled Tibet in the wake of Chinese occupation. The beautiful monastery is virtually a replica of the original in Tibet & is of special interest to anyone interested in Tibetan religious painting.

STANDARD SIGHTSEEING TOURS:
Half day sightseeing visiting the Enchey Monastery. The Residency for excellent view of the mountains, the white Memorial hall, Tibetology Institute, Deer park & the Orchid farm.