East Sikkim
 

Gangtok : Gangtok is the capital of the state of Sikkim, situated at an altitude of 5,800 feet. Being the capital of Sikkim, Gangtok is geared to provide all modern facilities promising of the best monasteries and landscapes.

Rumtek Monastery & Dharma Chakra Centre : The largest monastery of Eastern Himalayas, located 24 kilometers from Gangtok and about an hour drive. It was constructed by His Holiness the late 16th Gyalwa Karmapa in 1960. It is believed that the monastery is an excellent replica of the original Kagyurpa Monastery in Tsurphu, Tibet. Traditional in design, it is almost a replica of the original Kagyu Headquarters in Tibet. It has over 300 centres overseas.

Tsomgo Lake : The literal meaning of TSOMGO is the source of the lake in Bhutia language. TSO means lake and MGO means head. This unforgettable lake is located at an altitude of 3780m. A 40 km drive from Gangtok will take you to the lake. The lake is about 1 km long. Oval in shape, 15 mtr deep and is considered extremely sacred by the local people. You can see water in the lake from May to October. The lake remains frozen between November and May. One can have an experience of Rhododendrons, Primulas, Red Pandas, Blue and Yellow Poppies. A Yak Safari is also possible there.

Sikkim Research Institute of Tibetology, (SRIT) : It is a treasure house of rare Tibetan, Sanskrit & Lepcha Manuscript, Statues, Thankas, more than 200 Buddhist Icon. It is a renowned centre for the study of Buddhist philosophy and religion.

Government Institute of Cottage Industries, (GICI) : It is located at about a kilometre uphill from the main market of Gangtok. It was established, in 1957 with the purpose of promoting the manufacture and sell of local handicrafts, carpets and furniture. Apart from the shops, there is a small display of the craftwork on the ground floor of the tourist office, which is worth a visit. It helps to preserve traditional art and craft producing cottage crafts of authentic Sikkimese designs and promotes and teaches the ancient crafts of Sikkim (like painting, mask making, weaving, wood carving), to keep them alive. It was started during the time of the Chogyals of Sikkim, as a venture to protect and propagate the craft and skills of local and village artisans. Timing : Monday to Saturday from 9.30 a.m. - 12.30 and 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. (Sales Emporium remains open throughout the year)

Tashi View Point : Situated along the North Sikkim Highway, it is only 8 kms from Gangtok. Sunrise Point from here you could have a view of Khangchendzonga and Mt. Siniolchu, one of the most graceful peaks in the world. One can have an experience of the changes of colour of snow of mountain there.

White Hall Complex : The White Hall only has historical value and is situated on the Ridge. It is a two storeyed structure and has typical British architecture and was built in 1932. Till the 1960s, all important functions used to be held in this hall. It is so called not because it is painted white but because it was built in memory of the first Political Officer of Sikkim, Claude who is amous fornururing a unique orchid garden.

Ganesh Tok: It is situated on a ridge and is only 7 kms from Gangtok. From this spot one gets bird's eye view of sprawling Gangtok town down below, while across the hills like Mt. Khangchendzonga and Mt. Siniochu loom over the horizon.

Hanuman Tok : It is 11 kms away from Gangtok town, above Ganesh Tok with a Hindu Temple where the devotees come and offer prayers. Because of its locational advantage the view of the mountains along with the horizon is just magnificent, especially in a sunny clear morning.

Enchey Monastery : An important seat of the Nyingma border, the Enchey Monastery is built on the site blessed by Lama Druptob Karpo, a tantric master known for his power of flying. This 200-year-old Monastery has in its premises images of Gods, Goddesses and other religious objects. Every year around January 'Chaam' or religious masked dance is performed with great fanfare for two days. It is situated adjoining the Siniolhu Tourist Lodge, 3 kms from Gangtok town.

Do-Drul Chorten (Stupa) : Built in 1945. Inside Chorten there are complete mandals sets of Darjee Phurba a set of Kangyar relics (Holy books), complete Zung (mantras) etc. Around this Chorten which is one of the most important Stupas in Sikkim, are 108 Mani-Lhakor (Prayer wheels).

Saramsa Garden : About 14 kms from Gangtok is the Saramsa Garden, the home of Sikkim's many exotic orchids and other rare tropical and temperate plants. Established and maintained by the Department of Forest, it is an excellent recreation and picnic spot and a leisure spot.

Fambong La Wild Life Sanctuary (WLS) : This Wild Life Sanctuary is located at a distance of 25 kms from Gangtok and has an area of 51.76 sq. km. The main vegetation is Oak, Katus, Kimbu, Champ, Bamboo, Wild orchids, Rhododendrons etc. The best season for visit is between October and April.

Deer Park : This park provides a commanding view of the expansive valleys surrounding the city of Gangtok. The charming Himalayan spotted and musk deer may be seen here. It is a heaven for nature lovers. One can view the Red Panda and fleet footed deer in their natural habitat. It is maintained by the Forest Department and is not a part of city-town. Quite often travellers on the highway can see through the wire netting, little groups of deer. Visitors can take a ride inside the park sitting inside a van and get quite close to the deer, but then a small amount of fee is collected if one goes in by van or car. As such there is no entry fee. They can climb a tower and look at the animals. Timings: 9 a.m to 5.30 p.m, daily except Monday. Safari rides 9.30 a.m to 5.00 p.m.