Gangtok, Sikkim

No matter how much you write about the beauty of Northeast India, it’s never enough. There’s a sense of pride when you drive through the valleys in Sikkim and you end up wanting for more. Gangtok is located in the Himalayan range at an elevation of 1,650 metres. The city rose to fame during 1840 after the construction of Enchey Monastery. Guess what? You can get the best view of Kanchenjunga from the city which in itself is the most blissful achievement. Do not rely on hotels and if you want to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Sikkimese families, get yourself a home stay. The locals are known to be welcoming and loving. Gangtok is a very nice mix of urban infrastructure and the traditional bamboo houses all around.

• Nathula pass! The name is enough to excite you to plan your next trip up north. The mountain pass has been a matter of conflict between India and China’s Tibet Autonomous region. This doesn’t spoil the excitement among tourists as the pass is well secured by the Indian army and is safe for the visitors.

• Sikkimese are known to be die-hard music lovers and most of the local cafes host budding musicians. These are the gigs you must not miss; you never know, there might be a budding Beatles gang up there.

• The most popular Silk Route is right here in Gangtok. The historic trade path was a catalyst the development of silk trade between China and India. Driving through it until the country’s border can make for an adventurous ride.

• Like we mentioned earlier, there’s is no best time to visit these beautiful destinations, it can add to the fun quotient if you visit during one of the festivals which are organised every year in Gangtok. Devil dance festival is the most spectacular one of all and it is celebrated from January to February each year.

• Another must visit place in Gangtok is the life size statue of Lord Shiva. The view from the spot post sunset is absolutely breathtaking.

Best time to visit — All around the year

Cuisine — Sikkimese, Tibetan, Chinese, Indian and Thai

Languages Spoken — Bhutia (Sikkimese), Nepali, Lepcha and English

How to get there — Helicopter from Bagdogra airport or by road from Jalpaiguri railway station.