• Tsomgo Lake: At a distance of 40 km from Gangtok, the Tsomgo Lake is close to the Indo-China border. Flanked by mountains that remain frozen from December to April, this holy lake is considered most important in Sikkim. Add to this the fact that migratory ducks flock here in the season. Further up, is the Nathu La or whistling pass, where tourists can observe the Red Army closely.

• Rumtek Monastery: One of the most important monasteries of the region, the exisiting structure was re-built by Gyalwa Karmapa after the original structure got destroyed in a fire. The most important seat of the Kagyupa sect of Buddhism, its walls are covered with murals, thangkas, Tibetan paintings and frescos. It also houses within its complex a memorial of Gyalwa Karmapa replete with gold and semi precious stones, the Shri Nalanda Institute for Higher Buddhist Studies and a primary school.

• Do Drul Chorten: Undoubtedly the most important stupa of Sikkim, Do Drul Chorten is encircled by 108 prayer wheels, and houses within it several holy books, mantras and other religious objects.

• Enchey Monastery: Located 3 Km from Gangtok, Enchey is a 200 year old monastery and is the seat of the Nyingma order. Particularly noteworthy here is the Chaam or masked dances that are performed every January.

• Research Institute of Tibetology: This is by far one of the best centres for the study of the Tibetan language and literature. Set amidst nature itself, this building has an ornate interior in woodcarvings and murals. It also has the largest collection of rare books and manuscripts on Mahayana Buddhism along with over 200 Buddhist icons, works of art and finely executed silk embroidered thangkas.

• Tashi Ling: Located at a distance of six kilometers from the town, it provides amazing views of the Kanchenjunga range and the Lanrong and Phoodong monasteries around. The monastery here is known for the sacred pot that is believed to have never run dry in the last 300 years.

Expect almost all type of cuisines here. But typical Tibetan, Chinese, Indian and Japanese fares are particularly recommended. Delicious banana pancakes, a specialty in Gangtok, are a favorite with kids. Porky’s is another place kids would love to go to for its croissants and muffins and adults for its aromatic cappuccino. Grown ups however find the momos and chicken fired rice to be irresistible. The Square is a good place to find some of the best local specialties including steaming momos and fruit flavored brandy. You may even try Gyakho, a traditional soup that is served only on special occasions. Glenary’s is a good place to dine with a view. Finally don’t miss out on the tomba, a traditional drink consisting of fermented millet, with a few grains of rice for flavor, served in a wooden or bamboo mug, and sipped through a bamboo straw.

Gangtok can be quite a shopper’s delight, if trinkets and mementos are what you’re looking for. The more popular shopping areas are the Old Market, New Market and Lal Market. Tourists will find it all here - including carved furniture, typical Sikkim-style dresses, Lepcha weave bags, durries with intricate designs and the famous Sikkim tea. Most unique to Sikkim are jewellery in intricately carved Dragon sets of silver and gold inlaid with precious stones.