No matter wherever you go in Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, you are never away from hills. It is these beautiful hills that add beauty to Gangtok's serene ambience. Located in the north-east of India, Gangtok is a picturesque destination. The beautiful monasteries, orchids and the towering Himalayan peaks offer a beautiful sight. Vacations India takes you on journey to Gangtok.

Gangtok is well connected with other major cities in India. The nearest airport to Gangtok is Bagdogra, which is 124 kilometres from Gangtok and it takes about five hours to reach Gangtok. The two railway stations close to Gangtok are Siliguri, which is about 114 kilometres and New Jalpaiguri, which is about 125 kilometres. Gangtok is well connected to Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Siliguri by road transport.

You can spend your holidays in Gangtok, trekking and watching many places of tourist interest. Deer Park also known as Rustomji Park is a wonderful place to see wild animals especially deer and red panda. The statue of the Buddha in the park commemorating the teachings of Buddha is a beautiful spot. If you want to take something back that bears a stamp of the local place head to Government Institute of Cottage Industries. It is just a half kilometre from the main market and was established to promote the sale and manufacture of local handicrafts. You can find the exquisite handicrafts items like hand carved wooden tables, carpets, dolls, lamp-stands, a number of bamboo items and hand-painted masks.

Kangchendzonga National Park is another interesting place that you can tour. The climb to the park is gradual but once you reach the park, you are greeted by snow, covering the treetops and leaves. The park offers a scenic view of the surrounding area. You can also visit the Botanical garden in Gangtok. The garden has numerous varieties of orchid and other flowers.

Gangtok has a number of monasteries and Rumtek Monastery about 24 kilometres from Gangtok is one of the most famous monasteries in Sikkim. The route to Rumtek Monastery is scenic and meanders through emerald green terraces. The monastery was built in 1959 by His Holiness Gyalwa Karmapa, head of the Kagyud sect. The monastery is a replica of the Tsurphu Monastery in Tibet.

In the west of Gangtok lies the Pemayangtse Monastery, which was built in 1705. The monastery has beautiful murals inside with a number of deities that belong to Tibetan Buddhist pantheon. Pemayangtse Monastery is the headquarters of the Nyingmapa Buddhist sect of Sikkim.

The other interesting places in and around Gangtok include Tashiding Monastery, Yuksom, Mangan and Tsomgo Lake. The Ridge just above the town is best to take a leisurely walk. The area houses the official residence of the Chief Minister of Sikkim.

Gangtok is also good for trekking and some of the popular treks take you to virgin forests and river valleys. These treks present some breathtaking views of the ancient monasteries and streams. Come and tour to some of the fabulous places in Gangtok with Vacations India.