
GANGTOK GETWAY
Weekend in Gangtok
Where city vibes meet high-altitude adventures
4 Days / 3 Nights
ROUTE HIGHLIGHTS
Gangtok – Tsomgo Lake – Nathula Pass
This short yet thrilling escape takes you through the iconic heart of East Sikkim:
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Gangtok: A vibrant mountain capital full of monasteries, street culture, and Himalayan charm
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Tsomgo Lake: A glacial lake at 12,400 ft surrounded by rugged snow-covered terrain
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Nathula Pass: A dramatic Indo-China border point blending military history with alpine adventure
From colorful markets to high passes, this is the perfect long weekend plan for those who crave nature, culture, and a little bit of altitude.
ITINERARY SNAPSHOT
Day 1
Arrival at Gangtok
(120 km / 4–5 hrs from NJP/IXB)
Upon arrival at New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) or Bagdogra Airport (IXB), you’ll be warmly greeted by our Pauhunri Holidays representative. Begin your picturesque drive to Gangtok, cutting through lush valleys and winding mountain roads.
Once you reach Gangtok, check in to your hotel, relax, and freshen up.
If time permits, feel free to explore MG Marg—Gangtok's vibrant shopping street. Shop for souvenirs or simply enjoy a laid-back stroll with a hot coffee or snack. For food lovers, Gangtok offers delicious Tibetan specialties like:
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Thukpa: A warming noodle soup, perfect for the chilly mountain air
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Momos: Juicy dumplings served with spicy dips, a local favorite
You’ll also find a great mix of cafes and rooftop lounges with views of the surrounding hills.
Overnight Stay: Gangtok
Day 2
Gangtok Local Sightseeing
After breakfast, set off to explore Gangtok’s top attractions:
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Tashi View Point: A popular spot for panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range and other snow-capped peaks on clear days.
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Hanuman Tok & Ganesh Tok: Two hilltop temples offering tranquil vibes and great views.
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Enchey Monastery: A 200-year-old Buddhist monastery surrounded by pine trees.
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Do Drul Chorten: A stupa known for its golden-topped prayer wheels and peaceful ambiance.
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Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: A museum housing Tibetan-Buddhist scriptures, artifacts, and thangka paintings.
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Gangtok Ropeway (Activity): Enjoy a cable car ride for sweeping views of the city, valleys, and snow-peaked mountains.
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Flower Exhibition Centre: A lively showcase of seasonal Himalayan flowers.
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Handicraft and Handloom Centre: Explore local artistry, including carpets, thangkas, and wooden sculptures.
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Banjhakri Falls & Energy Park: A scenic park featuring a waterfall and sculptures based on Nepali folklore.
Lunch timing will be arranged during the day.
You’ll return to your hotel by 6:00 PM, after which you’re free to explore Gangtok further or relax.
Overnight Stay: Gangtok
Day 3
Excursion to Tsomgo Lake, Baba Mandir & Nathula Pass
After an early breakfast, prepare for an unforgettable journey to high-altitude destinations:
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Tsomgo Lake (Changu Lake): A glacial lake at 12,310 ft, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The lake’s surface changes color with the seasons, offering a stunning sight.
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Baba Harbhajan Singh Mandir: A temple dedicated to an Indian Army soldier believed to protect the Indo-China border spiritually.
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Nathula Pass (Indo-China Border): At 14,140 ft, Nathula is one of the highest motorable passes in India. It offers dramatic landscapes and a sense of history as it was once part of the ancient Silk Road.
Activities:
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Yak Ride at Tsomgo Lake: Enjoy a yak ride around the lake’s edge for a traditional high-altitude experience and a perfect photo op.
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Ropeway Ride at Tsomgo Lake: Take the cable car for breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding snow peaks.
Please Note:
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Nathula Pass requires special permits, and an additional fee may apply.
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Visits are subject to weather conditions and availability of permits. In case of road closures or restricted access, an alternative plan will be arranged.
Overnight Stay: Gangtok
Day 4
Gangtok to NJP/IXB Departure
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and proceed to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) for your onward journey.
Trip Ends with Wonderful Memories!
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Documents Required
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Valid Photo ID: Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License (Aadhar is not accepted for permits in protected areas).
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Passport-sized Photographs: Keep at least 4 copies handy for permit processing.
Permit Note
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Nathula Pass and Tsomgo Lake require special permits issued by Sikkim Tourism.
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Ensure you carry the required documents at the time of travel to avoid last-minute issues.
Hotel Check-in Requirements
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Hotels in Sikkim require valid ID proof from all travelers at check-in, as per local regulations.
TRAVEL TIPS
Weather & Clothing
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Layer up: Even in summer, evenings can be chilly in Gangtok and especially cold around Tsomgo Lake and Nathula.
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Winter (Nov–Feb): Bring thermals, gloves, woolen socks, and heavy jackets.
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Rainy Season (Jun–Sep): Carry a light raincoat or umbrella. Roads may be slippery, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Mobile Networks
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Mobile connectivity drops significantly in high-altitude regions like Nathula Pass and Tsomgo Lake. While BSNL tends to perform slightly better than others, even it isn't fully reliable.
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Networks like Jio, Airtel, and Vi usually stop working once you move beyond Gangtok.
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Within Gangtok, however, you can expect strong 4G coverage across all major service providers.
Health & Altitude
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Tsomgo and Nathula are at high altitudes (12,000+ ft).
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Walk slowly and stay hydrated.
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Carry personal medications if prone to altitude sickness or respiratory issues.
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It’s good to carry basic medicines for headache, motion sickness, cold, and stomach upsets.
Cash & Payments
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Most places in Gangtok accept digital payments.
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However, keep some cash handy when visiting remote spots like Nathula, where connectivity can be unreliable.
Photography
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Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass offer postcard-worthy landscapes—bring extra storage/batteries!
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Photography is prohibited at army check-posts and sensitive border zones—always follow local rules.
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Let’s make it official.
Personalized itinerary, verified hotels, trusted drivers—fully handled from start to finish.
📞 Call / WhatsApp Us: +91-8929816353
📧 Mail Us: pauhunriholidays@gmail.com
Let the mountains know you’re coming.
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