Things to Do in and Around Gangtok, September 2025 Edition

Gangtok is more than just MG Marg and postcard views of Kanchenjunga. It’s a town that surprises you with monasteries perched on hilltops, cafés tucked into lanes, adventure sports that get your heart racing, and a nightlife that keeps getting livelier every year. If you’re staying with us at Hotel Tashi Delek, MG Marg, here’s your updated September 2025 guide to the best experiences in and around Gangtok, from spiritual stops to foodie finds.

1. Monasteries: Finding Peace in the Hills

Gangtok is blessed with monasteries that are as much about the journey as the destination.

• Rumtek Monastery – The largest in Sikkim, about a 40-minute drive from town. Its golden stupa and vibrant murals make it a must-visit.
• Enchey Monastery – Close to Gangtok, perched on a hill, with sweeping views of the valley.
• Do Drul Chorten (Chorten Stupa) – A serene stupa surrounded by prayer wheels in the heart of the city.
• Tsuglakhang Monastery – The Royal Chapel of the Chogyals, still holding a deep sense of history.

2. Paragliding at Tashi View Point

For thrill-seekers, paragliding from Tashi View Point to Ranka is one of Gangtok’s most exciting activities. You’ll need clear skies and a prior booking, but when the conditions are right, you’ll be soaring over valleys with Kanchenjunga in view.

3. Tashi View Point & Sikkim Zoo

Wake up early and head to Tashi View Point for sunrise. On a clear morning, the world’s third-highest peak, Kanchenjunga, glows golden. You can also see this view from your hotel, the Hotel Tashi Delek Balcony and terrace. Next door, the Sikkim Himalayan Zoological Park isn’t your typical zoo; it feels more like a forest walk, where you might catch glimpses of red pandas or Himalayan black bears if you’re lucky. Even if you don’t, the walk itself is worth it.

4. Tinjure Hike

Looking for something offbeat? The Tinjure hike is an approx 4 hour trek near Gangtok. It’s best done with a group and a guide. The trail winds through forests, villages, and ridges with rewarding views of the mountains.

5. Tsomgo Lake, Nathula Pass & Baba Mandir

This classic day trip takes you into the high-altitude landscapes of East Sikkim:

• Tsomgo Lake – In September, it’s a deep blue, framed by rugged peaks.
• Nathula Pass – A historic border crossing with China (permits required).
• Baba Mandir – A shrine dedicated to an Indian soldier, set against stark mountain scenery.

The trip starts early (8 AM) and takes up a full day, but it’s absolutely worth it. You can also extend the loop to Zuluk, famous for its zig-zag mountain roads and incredible sunrise views.

6. Ropeway & Cable Car

Just a 5-minute walk from Hotel Tashi Delek, the Gangtok ropeway glides above rooftops and valleys. It ends near Chorten Monastery and the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology, making it easy to combine this short adventure with cultural sightseeing.

7. River Rafting on the Teesta

If you’re driving up from Bagdogra or Siliguri, stop for river rafting on the Teesta River. The rapids are beginner-friendly, and the valley views are stunning. Avoid during the monsoon, when water levels are high.

8. Casinos in Gangtok

Gangtok is one of the few places in India with live casinos. For a lively evening, try your luck at Mayfair Casino, Denzong Regency, Deltin Denzong, or Ramada. All just a stone’s throw away from Hotel Tashi Delek.

9. Pubs with Live Music

If casinos aren’t your style, Gangtok has a growing nightlife scene. Some favorites include: Gangtok Groove (MG Marg) – Always buzzing with live music, Thundel (30 mins from MG Marg), 241 Brewery (ranka), Dawn Hill (Namnang) & Rabbit Hole ( MG Marg).

10. Cafés Worth Stopping For

Gangtok has one of the best café cultures in the Northeast. A few must-visits:

• Baker’s Café (MG Marg) – A Gangtok classic & a must go-to since 2004. Perfect for breakfast or a coffee break.
• Local Café / Sikkim Coffee House (MG Marg & Vajra) – Try the laphing and single-origin coffee.
• Craft Theory – Coffee plus a showcase of local art.
• Loafing Around – Famous for cheesecakes.
• Tripti – Don’t miss the cheese pufi.
• Dzongri Café – Great pizzas.
• Rachna Book store - Perfect for a rainy day.

11. Restaurants You Can’t Miss

Though Hotel Tashi Delek is the best choice (we recommend keeping at least two meals with us for our ribs, momo, Indian food and rooftop Kanchenjunga views, here are a few other local favorites:

• Orthodox & Himalayan Kitchen – Tibetan and local flavors.
• Thakali & Nimtho – Nepali non-veg thali and jhol momo.
• Kelly’s Café & Barn & Soy – Authentic Korean food.
• Bhutia Kitchen – Bhutanese & Tibetan homestyle cooking.
• Solpon – Local flavors with a creative twist.
• Kitchu Gatsal– About an hour from MG Marg, Kitchu Gatsal is a great spot for a mini escape.
• S’yuo- Cha – Japanese food

12. Street Food Finds

Don’t leave Gangtok without sampling:

• Aloo Chewra – At a tiny hut on Tibet Road.
• Sel Roti – Best tried at Roll House.

13. Local Brews & Drinks

Sikkim’s drinks are as unique as its culture, and trying them is part of the experience:

• Tongba & Chhaang – These traditional millet-based brews aren’t just beverages, they’re a cultural offering. Since they take time and care to prepare, you’ll rarely find them in restaurants or shops. The best way to enjoy them is while staying at a homestay in west or north Sikkim, where sharing Tongba or Chhaang is as much about hospitality and connection as it is about the drink itself.
• Dansberg Beer – A crisp local favorite and easy to find in Gangtok.
• Zumzin Peach Wine – Light, fruity, and refreshing.
• Paan Liqueur & Cherry Brandy – Quirky, colorful bottles you’ll spot in many shops across town.

14. Shopping in Gangtok

Gangtok isn’t just about views and monasteries, it’s also a great place to shop for local crafts and souvenirs. The best spots are:

• MG Marg – The main pedestrian street where you’ll find handicrafts, woolens, and small boutique stores. Perfect for strolling in the evening.
• Directorate of Handicrafts & Handloom – A government-run Emporium where you can pick up authentic Sikkimese carpets, thangkas (Buddhist paintings), wooden masks, and hand-woven shawls.
• Lal Bazaar – Best visited on Sundays, this is where locals come to shop. From fresh produce and herbs to household items, dried cheese (chhurpi), and fiery Dalle Khursani (Sikkim’s famous round red chili, available in both pickle and paste form), the market is an authentic slice of everyday life. The upper floors are packed with shops selling shoes, clothes, and local fabrics. Fashion is an important part of Sikkimese culture, and Lal Bazaar is one is one of the best places to see how locals shop and style themselves.

Why Stay at Hotel Tashi Delek, MG Marg With so much happening in Gangtok, choosing the right base matters. Hotel Tashi Delek, one of Gangtok’s best boutique hotels, sits right on MG Marg, steps away from the ropeway, cafés, and shops. Our terrace suites and rooftop bar offer sweeping Kanchenjunga views, while our restaurant is a perfect for both guests and locals. Think of us as your community base in Gangtok, the perfect place to begin your mornings and return to after a day of exploring.

👉 Plan your stay at hoteltashidelek.com