The number of days required to visit Gangtok can vary depending on your interests, the specific places you want to explore in and around Gangtok, and your travel pace. However, a typical itinerary for Gangtok usually ranges from 2 to 4 days. Here’s a general guideline for how you can plan your time in Gangtok:
- 2 Days in Gangtok:
- If you have limited time, you can spend a quick two days in Gangtok to see some of its major attractions. This would involve a somewhat rushed schedule but can give you a taste of the town.
- Day 1: Explore the city center, visit attractions like MG Marg (the main market), Enchey Monastery, and Hanuman Tok.
- Day 2: Take a day trip to the nearby attractions, such as Rumtek Monastery, Banjhakri Falls, and the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology.
- 3 Days in Gangtok:
- Spending three days in Gangtok allows for a more relaxed experience, and you can explore additional places.
- Day 1 and Day 2: Follow the itinerary for a 2-day trip, as mentioned above.
- Day 3: Visit the Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir (if they are open to tourists; permits are required), or you can explore more of Gangtok’s local culture and cuisine.
- 4 Days or More:
- With four or more days in Gangtok, you can explore the town at a leisurely pace and also consider nearby destinations like Nathula Pass and Changu Lake.
- Day 1 and Day 2: Follow the itinerary for a 2-day trip in Gangtok.
- Day 3: Visit Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir (if you haven’t already) or explore nearby areas like Tashi Viewpoint, Ganesh Tok, or the Flower Exhibition Centre.
- Day 4: Take a day trip to Nathula Pass (if it’s open to tourists during your visit; permits are required), which is a high-altitude border pass with China. You can also visit Changu Lake on the way.