Things to do in Gangtok

The best things to do in Gangtok are riding the Deorali ropeway, walking MG Marg for food and cafes in the evening, and a day trip to Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass (Protected Area Permit needed, closed Monday and Tuesday). For adventure, add Teesta river rafting and paragliding at Baliman Dara. Prices and permit rules as of 2026.

Activity	Location & distance	Cost (approx, 2026)	Permit	Best time
Ropeway (cable car)	Deorali, Gangtok city	About Rs 170 round trip per adult	No	9:30 am to 4:30 pm daily
MG Marg walk & food	City centre	Free to walk	No	Evening, year round
Teesta river rafting	Triveni, near Teesta Bazaar	From about Rs 900 per person	No	Oct to Jun (drier flow)
Paragliding	Baliman Dara	Rs 2,500 medium, Rs 4,500 high	No	May to Oct
Tsomgo Lake day trip	About 40 km, 3,780 m	Shared cab Rs 800 to 1,000 (permit incl.)	Yes, PAP	Year round; snow in winter
Nathula Pass	About 52 km, 4,310 m	PAP Rs 200 per person	Yes, PAP	Wed to Sun; closed Mon, Tue
Yak safari	At Tsomgo Lake, about 40 km	Paid, rate by ride length	Via lake permit	Winter for snow
Rumtek Monastery	About 24 km from Gangtok	Nominal entry	No	Year round
Tashi View Point	About 8 km from Gangtok	Free	No	Early morning
Seven Sisters Waterfall	About 32 km on NH10 (day trip)	Free	No	May to Jul (fullest flow)
Goecha La Trek (add-on)	West Sikkim, from Yuksom	Guided package, varies	ILP + trek permit	Apr-May, Oct-Nov

Gangtok Activities: At a Glance

Activity	Location & distance	Cost (approx, 2026)	Permit	Best time
Ropeway (cable car)	Deorali, Gangtok city	About Rs 170 round trip per adult	No	9:30 am to 4:30 pm daily
MG Marg walk & food	City centre	Free to walk	No	Evening, year round
Teesta river rafting	Triveni, near Teesta Bazaar	From about Rs 900 per person	No	Oct to Jun (drier flow)
Paragliding	Baliman Dara	Rs 2,500 medium, Rs 4,500 high	No	May to Oct
Tsomgo Lake day trip	About 40 km, 3,780 m	Shared cab Rs 800 to 1,000 (permit incl.)	Yes, PAP	Year round; snow in winter
Nathula Pass	About 52 km, 4,310 m	PAP Rs 200 per person	Yes, PAP	Wed to Sun; closed Mon, Tue
Yak safari	At Tsomgo Lake, about 40 km	Paid, rate by ride length	Via lake permit	Winter for snow
Rumtek Monastery	About 24 km from Gangtok	Nominal entry	No	Year round
Tashi View Point	About 8 km from Gangtok	Free	No	Early morning
Seven Sisters Waterfall	About 32 km on NH10 (day trip)	Free	No	May to Jul (fullest flow)
Goecha La Trek (add-on)	West Sikkim, from Yuksom	Guided package, varies	ILP + trek permit	Apr-May, Oct-Nov

1. Goecha La Trek

This is one of the Himalayan romantic treks where you may genuinely romance the high mountains, valleys, and beautiful weather conditions! The habitat, as well as the culture of the people who live here, is in stark contrast to the rest of the country.

As you stroll through the woodlands full of Rhododendron trees that radiate exquisite pristine-ness, you are always enchanted. There is a growing feeling of delight when you are here, whether you are trekking across the wide Dzongri and Thansing meadows or admiring the gorgeous scenery of the Samiti Lake. The Kanchejunga and Pandim ranges surround you the entire way. To say the least, the walk through such a wonderful area is irresistibly bizarre and magical!

2. Go For River Rafting

Quick answer: Raft the Teesta near Triveni, about 30 km from Gangtok, from around Rs 900 per person. Grades suit both beginners and experienced rafters. Best from October to June when the flow is safer. Book through a registered operator; life jackets and a guide are included.

The Teesta River is the most important river in the state of Sikkim, not just in Gangtok. The river has a lengthy stretch, and some sections provide the best rafting opportunities. Teesta is ideal for both experienced and novice rafters because to the variety of swirls and twists generated by the ever-changing terrains. There are some tough sections, but there are other sections where you can float in solitude.

You can purchase a ticket and embark on the exciting journey once you’ve decided if you’re comfortable with little waves or would like to take on the larger ones.

Triveni is located near Teesta Bazar.

The cost is Rs. 900 per person.

The greatest season to go rafting is from December through June.

3. Try Paragliding

Paragliding is perhaps one of the most amazing activities available in Gangtok. It’s quickly becoming Gangtok’s most popular adventure activity, and for good reason. Imagine having wings and flying over a beautiful panorama of snow-capped mountains, rivers, meadows, and woods. When you go paragliding in Gangtok, you get just that. It’s also not necessary to be an expert to enjoy paragliding in Gangtok. Paraglide pilots who have been trained by the operation centres will join you on the ride and control the flying for you. All you have to do now is unwind and take in the breathtaking scenery.

People who weigh more than 90 kg or who are physically unable to take off and land are not permitted to participate in the ride. Those are the two moments when you must follow your pilot’s directions and complete the task. However, if you know what to do, it’s fairly straightforward. You can choose between a medium flight, which takes you up to 1400 metres, and a high flight, which takes you up to 2000 metres.

Baliman Dara is the location.

Price per person: Rs. 4500 for a high altitude flight and Rs. 2500 for a medium altitude flight.

May to October is the best time to visit.

4. Cycling on Silk Route

This is undoubtedly one of the Gangtok Activities that adventure seekers would like. The Kanchenjunga and Himalayan mountains will accompany you throughout the journey, which is undoubtedly one of the reasons why this cycling trip is inescapable. Many tour providers plan the Silk Route adventure and will equip you with the necessary bicycles, helmets, and other gear. They plan the camping and touring portion of the vacation. It begins in Sillery Gaon. From the New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, you can drive there. Rishikhola, Zuluk, Nathang Valley, and other well-known locations are ideal for a break.

During the journey, you will be accompanied by professionals who will arrange for all necessary permissions and assist you with your technical knowledge of long-distance cycling. Make sure you have enough water, food, and any medications you might need during the journey. If you’re going on a Silk Route bicycle tour, it’s a good idea to get some practise done before you go. This will ensure that you are healthy enough to enjoy the excursion.

East Sikkim, along the old Silk Route.

The cost per participant is Rs. 20,800.

It takes 7 days to complete.

5. Enjoy at Seven Sisters Waterfall

The stunning Seven Sisters Waterfall is one of the must-see attractions in Gangtok. There are seven waterfalls of varying sizes that run side by side, as the name implies. The sight is breathtakingly captivating. During the monsoons, all seven waterfalls erupt from the mountain, crashing down and causing massive waves below. This deadly occurrence should not be missed on your visit to Gangtok. This has made the area a favourite tourist and local destination, particularly for those with cameras. It is, without a doubt, a marvel to behold.

The seven waterfalls cascading down through the forested mountains are in perfect harmony, and you may gaze at them for hours. The location is ideal for unwinding and taking in the scenery. The long shadows of the mountains and the orange sky reflect on the Seven Sisters Waterfall as the sun sets, making them even more magnificent. You can plan a little picnic with your family and friends to spend a relaxing day in the great outdoors.

The National Highway is 32 kilometres from Gangtok.

The cost is nothing.

The greatest time to visit is between May and July, when the waterfalls are at their most spectacular.

6. Explore Nathu La Pass

If you’re looking for daring things to do in Gangtok, a journey to the legendary Nathu La Pass is perhaps the greatest option. When it was active, the Nathu La Pass, at a height of 14150 feet, served as a gateway to the Silk Route. The location provides a breathtaking view of the snowy mountains, and the trek itself is an unforgettable adventure. The India-China border is only a few feet away from the Nathu La Pass, and soldiers from both nations are stationed there. On your tour, you may stop by the Sherathang Market and the cloud-covered Kupup.

The Nathu La Pass has a reduced oxygen level due to its elevation. Don’t let this deter you from participating in Gangtok Adventure Activities; you can simply transport a little oxygen cylinder. Aside from a Sikkim Tourism Department-issued Protected Area Permit, you’ll need to bring an ID proof and two passport-size pictures with you. Without these, you won’t be able to pass via the Nathu La Pass.

Gangtok is 52 kilometres away.

Per person, a Protected Area Permit costs Rs. 200.

Open Wednesday to Sunday; closed Monday and Tuesday. It can also shut at short notice for snow or security, and exact timings depend on your permit, so keep the day flexible.

7. Admire Tsomgo Lake

Quick answer: Tsomgo Lake (about 40 km, 3,780 m) and Nathula Pass (about 52 km) are done as one day trip on the road to the China border. You need a Protected Area Permit, arranged by a registered operator with your ID and passport photos. Nathula stays closed on Monday and Tuesday. Foreign nationals face extra restrictions.

Tsomgo Lake, also known as Changku Lake, is located in East Sikkim at an elevation of 3,780 metres. This appealing lake is located on the Gangtok Nathu La Highway, near to the Chinese border, and is associated with countless tales and legends.

Whether it’s winter or summer, the weather surrounding this beautiful reservoir ranges from frigid to mild. This lake is a remarkable sight in Gangtok, with stunning views of the adjacent snow-capped mountains, reflections of soaring clouds on the crystal blue water surface, and seductive vistas of the surrounds.

Non-Indian people may be required to get special authorization to visit this lake due to its closeness to the Indo-China International Border.

8. Enjoy Yak Safari

When visiting Changu Lake, also known as Tsomgo Lake, a yak safari is one of the most relaxing things to do in Gangtok. The lake is about 40 kilometres from Gangtok. On one side, there is a market, while on the other, there are snow-covered mountains. Yak safari is absolutely a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that you must not miss. These kind and quiet creatures have lengthy hair that protects them from the chilly environments in which they live. Yaks are draped in colourful carpets and have ribbons wrapped over their horns. When you ride a Yak, you will be accompanied by a trainer who will keep the animal under control.

Seeing the gorgeous mountains and lake from the back of a Yak is undoubtedly an unforgettable experience. You may rent a Yak from the market area and embark on a once-in-a-lifetime safari excursion.

Tsomgo Lake is roughly 40 kilometres from Gangtok.

A yak ride by Tsomgo Lake is charged by distance, roughly a few hundred rupees for a short ride to the bridge and more for the longer viewpoint route. Agree the price before you climb on.

The greatest time to visit is during the winter months.

9. Go For Cable Ride

Quick answer: The Gangtok ropeway runs about 1 km over the city from Deorali station, roughly 9:30 am to 4:30 pm daily. A round trip is about Rs 170 per adult. No permit needed. Great for first-timers and families; go early to skip the queue.

Riding the 24-passengers-carrying cable cars is one of the must-do activities in Gangtok. This double wire ropeway offers spectacular views of the city. It provides a stunning perspective of the lowlands below. The cable cars are always completely booked throughout the tourist season, and there is always a huge line to ride them. So, if you want to get the most out of the journey, make sure you’re one of the first persons in the car. The entire ride is one kilometre long and includes three stops. You may purchase a ticket at any of these locations and then board the cable car.

Deorali, Namnang, and Tashiling are the three stations where you may get down. It is, nevertheless, suggested that you ride the entire two-way journey. It is already included in the ticket price, and you will get two very distinct perspectives on the tour. That is, without a doubt, the finest method to get the most bang for your buck.

The lowest spot to ride the cable car is Deorali in Gangtok.

About Rs 170 for an adult round trip and Rs 90 for a child as of the 2025 fare revision; free for children under three. Use the same figure in the short answer, table and body.

Every day from 9:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

10. Mountain Biking

It’s a weird sensation to be biking on rocky terrain with all-encompassing beauty in the background! Gangtok has some of the world’s most beautiful bike tracks. Witness the majesty of the terrain, the exquisiteness of the flora and wildlife, lush green hills, and picturesque towns while bicycling around this hill city. Stop by and take photos of the natural beauty of Gangtok, and wave to the inhabitants whose heartfelt smiles make your travel worthwhile!

Take a ride through cardamom farms and inhale the aroma. From the mountain ridges, you may get stunning views of the city. The crystal pure alpine streams will refresh you. Bike through deodar and pine trees undisturbed and free-spirited.

11. Helicopter Ride

A helicopter trip in Sikkim is one of the best ways to see the Himalayan peaks from above and is one of the top things to do in Gangtok. It’s time to appreciate the splendour of this location. As you fly above the high-rise mountains, valleys, rivers, and woods, you will be mesmerised. See Gangtok from above and get a bird’s eye view of the city’s scenery. In addition, you may take helicopter rides over the monasteries to learn more about their spirituality and dedication.

The helicopter ride above the Valley of Flowers is the greatest. There may be certain restrictions on photography; according to the Ministry of Defense, photography may be prohibited in select areas.

12. Visit Rumtek Monastery

The Rumtek Monastery, also known as the Dharmachakra Centre, is a well-known Buddhist pilgrimage site. This monastery, which was built in the 16th century and is positioned atop a hill, provides a panoramic view of the city when on a Gangtok excursion.

People come here for its surroundings and scenic vistas, since it is one of the largest monasteries in the region. From the monastery, a narrow trail meanders through terraced rice fields. This walk will lead you to sloshing creeks and unusual flora that make up a distinct habitat. Mountains, streams, and woodlands surround the monastery. It is wonderfully situated amidst such breathtaking scenery to ensure that your vacation to this location is one to remember.

13. View Sunset At Tashi Viewpoint

If you’ve ever wanted to get a closer look at the Kanchenjunga mountain range, the Tashi Viewpoint is the place to go! It is easily accessible, being just a few kilometres from the major metropolis. The mysterious attraction of the perspective is a must for everyone. It is also one of the most sought after places for nature photographers and enthusiasts.

The rays of the morning sun produce a magnificent enchantment surrounding the point, which is mostly mobbed during the early hours of the day. It provides panoramic views of the Khanchendzonga and Siniolchu peaks, illuminating the atmosphere with golden sunrays. Its circular design accommodates four persons at a time, and a visit to this perspective is one of the most peculiar experiences one can have.

14. Hang Gliding

Imagine yourself as a feathery creature gliding across the Himalayan Range, surrounded by gorgeous towns and valleys. This sport of hand gliding is one of the most popular activities to participate in. It’s similar to paragliding in that you grab a bar attached to the wings and hang from it. In any case, you will be secured to the highest point of the bar with a belt. For an extra Rs. 1000, you may rent a GoPro camera to capture your whole flight.

15. Shopping at Lal bazaar

Lal Bazaar is a must-see for everyone who likes shopping! One of the most well-lit streets is this one. You may go shopping for exquisite handicrafts and eat delicious street food. Traditional artefacts are also available for purchase.

16. Walk MG Marg and eat your way through Gangtok

Quick answer: MG Marg is Gangtok’s pedestrian-only main street and the easiest free thing to do. It is at its best in the evening, when the lights come on and locals and travellers fill the benches. No cars, no litter, plenty of cafes.

Spend an evening strolling MG Marg, then eat local. Try Sikkimese staples like momos, thukpa, gundruk soup, phagshapa and a traditional thali, best sampled at a home-style restaurant rather than a chain. Gangtok’s cafe scene is a thing to do in itself: order a pot of local herbal tea, pick up a hot bowl of nettle soup in winter, and if you drink, the state-brewed Hit Beer is worth a try. This is the part of Gangtok most visitors remember, and it costs very little.

Gangtok after dark

Quick answer: After dark, Gangtok is about MG Marg’s lit-up promenade, a few live-music cafes, and the city’s licensed casinos and pubs. It is a small, safe hill town, so nightlife is relaxed rather than late.

Round off the day with a slow walk down MG Marg, a live-music cafe, or one of Gangtok’s casinos if you fancy a flutter. The city is walkable and safe at night, but taxis wind down early, so plan your ride back to the hotel.

Free things to do in Gangtok

Quick answer: The best free things to do in Gangtok are walking MG Marg, catching sunrise over Kanchenjunga from Tashi View Point, and visiting Do Drul Chorten and the Banjhakri Falls area. Rumtek Monastery is a short paid day trip with only a nominal entry.

Offbeat and local experiences

Quick answer: Beyond the ropeway and the lake, the memorable things to do in Gangtok are the quiet ones: browsing craft and book cafes near MG Road, sitting in on an afternoon monastery chant, and trying a home-cooked Sikkimese meal. These need no permit and little money.

As a Sikkim-based team, here is what we send curious travellers to do: catch the 4 pm chants at a neighbourhood monastery, hunt for hand-made crafts in the lanes off MG Road, and swap the tourist cafe for a family kitchen serving a real Sikkimese thali. If you have an extra morning, a short forest walk near Ranka or Banjhakri is calmer than the main viewpoints.

Things to do in Gangtok in one or two days

Day 1 (in and around the city): Ropeway at Deorali in the morning, Rumtek Monastery or Tashi View Point by cab, then MG Marg and dinner in the evening. Day 2 (day trip): Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass with a registered operator (permit sorted in advance, remember it is closed on Monday and Tuesday). With a third day, add Teesta rafting or paragliding.

Cross-link sentence to add in-body (green): For the sights themselves, see our full guide to places to visit in Gangtok. Ready to book? See our Gangtok tour packages.

Things to Do in Gangtok: FAQs

What are the top things to do in Gangtok?

The top things to do in Gangtok are the ropeway at Deorali, a day trip to Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass, a yak safari by the lake, Teesta river rafting, paragliding at Baliman Dara, and visiting Rumtek Monastery and Tashi Viewpoint.

How many days do you need in Gangtok?

Two to three days are enough for Gangtok itself and a Tsomgo Lake and Nathula day trip. Add a day or two more if you want to fit in rafting, paragliding, or a run out to Rumtek.

What is Gangtok famous for?

Gangtok is famous for its views of Kanchenjunga, the ropeway over the city, Buddhist monasteries like Rumtek, the high altitude Tsomgo Lake, and Nathula Pass on the old Silk Route to Tibet.

Do you need a permit for Nathula Pass and Tsomgo Lake?

Yes. You need a Protected Area Permit for Tsomgo Lake and Nathula, arranged through a registered operator with an ID and passport photos. The Nathula permit costs about ₹200 per person as of 2026, and foreign nationals face extra restrictions.

How much does the Gangtok ropeway cost?

The Gangtok ropeway costs about ₹117 per adult and ₹77 per child as of 2026, with the ride running roughly 9:30 am to 4:30 pm daily from the Deorali station.

What adventure activities can you do in Gangtok?

Gangtok offers paragliding, river rafting on the Teesta, mountain biking, hang gliding, Silk Route cycling, and multi-day treks like Goecha La. Most are seasonal and run through registered operators.

Is Nathula Pass open every day?

No. Nathula Pass is usually open to tourists from Wednesday to Sunday and stays closed on Monday and Tuesday. It can also shut at short notice due to snow, weather, or security, so keep your plans flexible.

What can you do in Gangtok for free or with family?

Tashi Viewpoint, Seven Sisters Waterfall, Rumtek Monastery, and a stroll along MG Marg and Lal Bazaar are easy, low cost outings that suit families. The ropeway and a Tsomgo Lake day trip are also family friendly.

How far is Tsomgo Lake from Gangtok?

Tsomgo Lake sits about 40 km from Gangtok at an altitude of 3,780 metres, roughly a two hour drive on the road towards Nathula, and most people combine both in one day trip.

What is the best time to visit Gangtok for activities?

March to June and October to November are best for most activities, with clear skies for sightseeing and comfortable weather for adventure. Winter adds snow at Tsomgo Lake, while the monsoon brings the Seven Sisters Waterfall to full flow but raises landslide risk.

Plan Your Gangtok Trip

Some of the best things to do in Gangtok hinge on permits, timings, and weather that shift week to week. As a Sikkim based team, sikkimtourism.org sorts the Tsomgo Lake and Nathula permits, lines up trusted rafting and paragliding operators, and builds your days around what is actually open when you visit. Tell us the mix you want, adventure, sightseeing, or a relaxed family pace, and we will put together a Gangtok plan that runs smoothly on the ground.