Gangtok Important information

Gangtok

Gangtok, literally meaning a 'High Hill' is a charming hill resort perched on a ridge at a height of 5 ,400 ft. It affords magnificent views of the snow clad Kanchenjunga peak.

Tourist Acctration in Gangtok

• Govt. Cottage Industries Institute
• Research Institute of Tibetology
• Dodrul Chorten (Stupa)
• Orchid Sanctuary
• Tsuklakhang (Palace Monastery)
• Permanent Flower Show Hall

Govt. Cottage Industries Institute : Women weaving colourful woollen carpets, shawls and blankets and men carving beautiful, multi-hued wooden tables called as 'Choktses' can be seen here. Exquisite handloom and handicrafts items can also be purchased here.

Research Institute of Tibetology : This world-renowned centre for Buddhist1 philosophy and religion has a rich collection of Tibetan Books, over 200 icons, tangkha tapestries and many rare objects of Buddhist art. Nearby is the Dotrabu Chorten of Guru Padmasambhava and a small temple of Guru Rimpoche, which houses a 60 feet statue of Guru Padmasambhava, the patron saint of Sikkim.

Dodrul Chorten (Stupa) : It was built in 1945, by the Ven Trulshi Rinpoche to invoke the gods to keep peace and tranquillity in the State. The beautiful structure rises like a great white bell surmounted by a golden pinnacle and houses holy books, relics, mantras and other objects of religious importance.

Orchid Sanctuary : The sanctuary houses over 250 species of exotic orchids. The blooming season of orchids is from April-May, July -August and December- January.

Tsuklakhang (Palace Monastery) : The monastery  palace of the Chogyals, the former rulers of Sikkim. It is the most accessible monastery from Gangtok and it is   known   for   numerous   festivals   and   grand ceremonies.

Permanent Flower Show Hall : It is located near the White Memorial Hall and just below the Palace Ridge ark. The flower shows and exhibitions held here ound the year are very popular.

REACHING THERE :

Air Port : Bagdogra(124kms.)in W. Bengal. Helicopter services for Gangtok are available

Railheads : Siliguri (144 kms.) and New Jalpaiguri (125 kms.)

Road . Gangtok is connected to Siliguri by NH 31 A. It can also be reached from Darjeeling (90 km.)andKalimpong(70km.).