BEST TIME TO VISIT

Gangtok

https://avathioutdoors.gumlet.io/travelGuide/dev/gangtok55249.jpg
https://avathioutdoors.gumlet.io/travelGuide/dev/gangtok90550.jpg
https://avathioutdoors.gumlet.io/travelGuide/dev/gangtok10150.jpg
https://avathioutdoors.gumlet.io/travelGuide/dev/gangtok25303.jpg
https://avathioutdoors.gumlet.io/travelGuide/dev/gangtok74175.jpg

+ 16 Photos

Weather Overview for Gangtok

Oct - Feb

cloudy

23°C - 32°C

Mar - May

sun

25°C - 33°C

Jun - Sep

rain

24°C - 30°C

Best Time to Visit in Gangtok

Gangtok is an all-year-round destination, offering different experiences in different seasons. The peak season, from March to June, and the moderate season, from October to February, present pleasant weather ideal for sightseeing. The off-season, from July to September, experiences heavy rainfall and is best avoided due to the possibility of landslides. The best time to visit Gangtok is during the months of late September to mid-December and from March to May, when the climate is ideal, offering unobstructed views of the Himalayas and the breathtaking bloom of Rhododendron flowers.

Top Experiences on Avathi

View All Experiences Now

Weather

  • Winter conditions in Gangtok (November - February)

    Discover the enchanting beauty of Gangtok during the winter months, from November to February. With temperatures ranging from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius, this is the perfect time to explore the city beyond the typical tourist spots. Enjoy leisurely strolls amidst colorful flowers in full bloom and lush green surroundings. Experience the tranquility by the holy river with a cup of hot tea or embark on an early morning boat ride to witness the mesmerizing sunrise. Don't miss the grand Ganga Aarti in the evening, where the riverbank lights up with golden hues from oil lamps and resonates with the chants of pundits. Winter is also ideal for visiting Banaras Hindu University, Durga Temple, New Vishwanath Temple, and other divine sites in the city.

  • Monsoon conditions in Gangtok (July - October)

    Despite the heavy rainfall, Gangtok sees a surge in visitors during the monsoon season from July to October. With temperatures averaging between 25 to 30 degrees Celsius, the monsoon brings relief from the heat. Witness the Ganges in its full glory as the water levels rise, attracting crowds to the ghats. Be cautious of slippery paths due to algae on the steps. Experience the thrill of watching the Ganga during peak monsoon, a sight to behold amidst the rain-soaked surroundings.

  • Summer conditions in Gangtok (March - June)

    Summer in Gangtok spans from March to June, with April and May being the hottest months. The weather is dry and scorching, with temperatures soaring up to 45 degrees Celsius. While the areas near the Ghats offer some respite, outdoor activities can be challenging due to the intense heat. If you visit during summer, relax by the riverside at Dashashwamedh Ghat, Assi Ghat, and other serene spots. Indulge in the famous Varanasi lassi, a refreshing treat in the heat. Plan your visit wisely to make the most of your trip to this spiritual city.

Local Events/Festivals

May - International Flower Festival, Gangtok:

The International Flower Festival in Gangtok is a vibrant celebration of nature's beauty, featuring a stunning display of colorful flowers and plants. Held from 1st to 31st May, this event showcases a variety of flora indigenous to the region, including exotic orchids and rhododendrons. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, botanical lectures by experts, and a delightful food festival offering local delicacies.

June - Saga Dawa, Gangtok:

Saga Dawa is a significant Buddhist festival celebrated in Gangtok on 17th June. The day is marked by processions, prayers, and acts of charity towards the less fortunate. Observers believe that participating in the customs and rituals of Saga Dawa brings blessings and positive karma for the future. Join the local community in this spiritually enriching event to witness the cultural heritage of Gangtok.

Travel tips 💡

•  Packing

  • Peak Season Booking: Book accommodations well in advance if planning a trip between late September to mid-December or March to May, as these are popular times to visit Gangtok for pleasant weather and clear views of the Himalayas.
  • Off-Season Avoidance: Avoid traveling to Gangtok during the monsoon season from July to September due to heavy rainfall and the risk of landslides. Plan your trip during the recommended best times for a more enjoyable experience.
  • Accommodation Types: Choose from a range of accommodation options in Gangtok, including luxury hotels offering stunning mountain views, cozy boutique stays for a more intimate experience, and budget-friendly guesthouses for cost-effective stays. Consider staying close to the city center for easy access to attractions and local eateries.

•  Accommodation

  • Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable fabrics for the pleasant weather from late September to mid-December and March to May; include waterproof jackets and umbrellas if visiting during the monsoon season from July to September. For winter months, bring comfortable, layered clothing to stay warm.
  • Footwear: Opt for comfortable walking shoes to explore the city and enjoy sightseeing; consider waterproof footwear for the monsoon season to navigate through wet pathways.
  • Accessories: Don't forget to pack sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen to shield yourself from the sun's rays while exploring Gangtok. Carry insect repellent, especially during the monsoon season, to ward off pesky bugs.

FAQs on Gangtok

What type of holidays is Gangtok perfect for?
Gangtok is an ideal destination for Hills & Mountains themed holidays.
What is the weather like in Gangtok during peak season?
The weather in Gangtok during peak season is pleasant, making it perfect for maximum enjoyment.
What are the top attractions in Gangtok?
When in Gangtok, don't miss out on visiting the High Altitude Lake, Sikkim’s Largest Monastery, and Scenic Motorable Road for a fun-filled vacation.
What are the local food specialties in Gangtok?
Gangtok offers a rich variety of authentic local cuisine, including Momos, Thukpa, Wonton, Gyathuk, Thenthuk, Shah-Phaley, and unique local soups. Don't miss trying Chang, a locally made alcoholic beverage, along with authentic Tibetan and Indo-Chinese cuisines.
What is Gangtok famous for?
Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim and serves as a base for exploring other parts of the region. Known for its cleanliness, good food, music in pubs and restaurants, spectacular views, rich culture, heritage, and as a pilgrim site for Buddhists.
What are the disadvantages of visiting Gangtok?
Gangtok can be slightly difficult to access as the nearest airport and railway station are around 4 hours away.
Who should visit Gangtok?
Gangtok is suitable for newly-wed couples, trekking enthusiasts, people seeking a break from city life, and nature lovers.
When is the best time to visit Gangtok?
The best time to visit Gangtok is from late September to November and March to June, offering pleasant weather ideal for sightseeing. The autumn and spring-summer months provide an enjoyable climate. It's best to avoid visiting during the monsoon months of July to early September due to heavy rainfall and landslides.
What is the best way to reach Gangtok?
The nearest airport to Gangtok is in Bagdogra, and one can hire a cab or taxi from there. The nearest railway station is in Siliguri, which is directly connected to major cities. Taxi and state bus services are available from Siliguri to Gangtok.
How much does a package cost for Gangtok?
Packages for Gangtok start at INR 11934 and can be further customized based on the number of people, days, hotel category, vehicle type, and customizations.
What are the top attractions in Gangtok?
The top things to do in Gangtok include visiting Nathula Pass, MG Road, Rumtek Monastery, Tsomgo Lake, Ganesh Tok, and Namgyal Institute of Tibetology.
What are the nearby places to visit near Gangtok?
Nearby places to visit from Gangtok include Darjeeling (47 km away), North Sikkim (19 km away), Kalimpong (33 km away), South Sikkim (30 km away), and West Sikkim (36 km away).

img