Gangtok : The state of Sikkim lies in the
shadow of the mighty Kanchenjunga.
Gangtok or ‘High Hill’ the
capital sits on a ridge overlooking the Ranipul River. The setting
is spectacular with fine views of the River. The setting is
spectacular with fine views of the Kanchenjunga range but the town
itself has lost some of its quaint charm. It is a picturesque
mountain clinging town with monasteries, parks, pagoda style houses
and colourful bazaars. The scenery is truly spectacular especially
from the area known as ‘the ridge’ and many points in the city offer
excellent views of the entire Kanchenjunga range.
Gangtok has undergone a rapid and rather unattractive modernization
in recent years but it’s still a pleasant place with good facilities
for visitors. In late December Gangtok co-hosts (with Armtek) the
Tista-Tea-Tourism-Festival which features music food and flowers. In
April or May Buddha Jayanthi is celebrated when monks carry sacred
scriptures through the streets.
