GANGTOK

Renowned worldwide as a premier study center for Buddhist religion and philosophy, this institution houses some rare Lepcha, Tibetan, and Sanskrit manuscripts, thangkas, and over 200 rare icons. Built-in 1958, this is a unique institute for research into Mahayana Buddhism and the language and tradition of Tibet.

Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre built by the 16th Gyalwang Karmapa, the religious center has a well-structured main shrine temple and monastery with the quarters of monks. The colossal prayer hall inside the monastery is adorned with lovely murals and statues. Rumtek Dharma Chakra Centre has become an all-inclusive institution, where Relics, Retreat Centre, 'Shedra', Nunnery, Stupas, Institutions for the lay community & other establishments are working under the same ceiling. The Golden Stupa in the monastery encompasses the relics of the 16th Karmapa. Rumtek Monastery hosts various Tibetan festivals throughout the year. 

Tsomgo Lake is 35 km from the city on the Gangtok-Nathula highway. This highway is also a part of the old route that links India and China. Worshipped by Sikkimese, this holy lake is approximately 20 km from the Nathula Pass. The water in this lake has accumulated from the melting snow of the mountains. The river Lungtze Chu originates from this lake, which meets Rangpo-chu down its course. During the winter months, the entire lake gets frozen. Tourists can also witness a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva built on the lakeside. In addition, around Tsomgo Lake, primula flowers and other alpine plantations are also grown. 

Nathula Pass, located 56 km from Gangtok, is a pass on the Indo-Chinese border. Popularly known as the Silk Route, this pass is at an elevation of 14,450 feet and is rich in diverse alpine flora and fauna. The name Nathula Pass comes from Nathu & La, meaning listening ears and pass. Passing the Tsomgo Lake on its way, this pass is one of the highest motorable roads in entire India. A special permit is required to visit this pass. In addition, the Nathula Pass also reduces the traveling distance to a few significant Hindu and Buddhist pilgrimage sites, such as Lhasa and Mansarovar Lake. 

Ganesh Tok, a small temple, is located at a distance of 7 kilometers from Gangtok. The temple is next to the television tower on the small hill on Gangtok-Nathula road, dedicated to Lord Ganesh. This temple is so small in size that, at a time, it can only accommodate one person. In addition, one needs to crawl to get inside this temple. Besides its size, the temple is also known for the bird's eye view of several places, such as Gangtok town, mount Kanchenjunga, and the Raj Bhawan Complex.