With the heat rising across India, everyone has been flocking to the mountains. However, if you are not interested in congested tourist destinations such as Manali but still want to take a break, step away from the tourist traps and discover more tranquil destinations.
Located in the Eastern Himalayan range, the capital city of Sikkim is one of the most popular tourist destinations in northeast India. In Gangtok, the climate is mild temperate, people are of mixed ethnicity, history dates back to the early 18th century, monasteries are plentiful, and the view of Kanchendzonga is undisturbed and grand. Undulating roads, gently sloping valleys, stunning sunrises, and unforgettable views of the mighty Khangchendzonga mountain are just a few of this city's attractions.
Its ethnic diversity, growing urbanism, and efflorescence of culture—a mix of the old and new—make Gangtok the cosmopolitan capital of the region. Located on what used to be a busy trade route into Tibet, this is a fascinating place, defined as much by its mixed population of Tibetans, Lepchas, Bhutias and Nepalis as by the reputation it enjoys of being both the most developed city in the northeast, as well as the most mired in problems associated with urban sprawl.
But venture further enough into the lanes and the upper parts of town, and you will be rewarded with a glimpse of a few traditional houses. All these make Gangtok a must-visit destination, and rightly so. Sikkim's capital is an addictive blend of the contemporary and traditional. Gangtok offers dizzying views and a down-to-earth mix of old-school momo joints and hip cafes and pubs. It has one of the best live music scenes in India.
Gangtok serves as a gateway to numerous stunning Himalayan destinations. Nearby attractions include the serene Tsomgo Lake (Nathula Pass route, requiring permits), the vibrant flower exhibitions at the Ridge, the sacred Enchey Monastery, the picturesque Ganesh Tok and Hanuman Tok viewpoints, the cascading Seven Sisters Waterfalls, the Rumtek Monastery (a significant Buddhist centre), and the Nathula Pass (Indo-China border, subject to permits and accessibility), to name a few. Further exploration can lead to North Sikkim destinations like Lachen, Lachung, and Yumthang Valley (requiring special permits).
The most convenient way to reach Gangtok is by flying to Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in West Bengal, which has good flight connectivity with major cities in India. From Bagdogra, Gangtok is approximately a five hour drive along scenic mountain roads.
Alternatively, you can reach New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) in West Bengal, which has excellent train connectivity, and then take a similar five hour road journey to Gangtok. Shared jeeps and private vehicles are readily available from both the airport and railway station.
The ideal time to visit Gangtok is generally during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to mid-November) seasons.
Kasauli has been the well-kept secret of Dilliwallas, who are jealously possessive of their Himachali beauty and regularly repair to this paradise in the Shivaliks for rejuvenation. This is a hill paradise, for few destinations are as close to home and as soothing. Kasauli's very existence has to do with the soothing of fevered brows.
The town was developed as a convalescence centre for the adjoining cantonment of Sabathu. And just as tranquil Kasauli helped many a soldier find his fighting form again all those years ago, the same invigorating climes today enable tired urbanites to head back to their offices refreshed after a weekend of divine relaxation. Strolling down quiet country lanes lined with aged chestnut trees, with no sound to be heard save for the sweet chattering of birds, Kasauli will help you rid your mind of its clutter and your body of its lassitude.
If you want to exercise, drag yourself out of your comfy deckchair and trudge up the surrounding hills. Kasauli's bracing, crisp air offers comfortable walks. You could also stroll through the town, from the Lower Mall to the Upper Mall, and around the Sanatorium. Viewpoints have been marked at different points, offering vistas of the always-popular Himalayan peaks in the distance.
Kasauli, a charming hill station in Himachal Pradesh, offers easy access to other popular destinations in the region. Nearby attractions include the bustling town of Solan (known for its mushroom cultivation and breweries), the picturesque hill town of Chail (known for its highest cricket ground), the serene hill station of Dagshai (one of the oldest cantonment towns), and the scenic Pinjore Gardens near Chandigarh, to name a few. The surrounding Shivalik ranges offer opportunities for nature walks and enjoying panoramic views.
The most convenient way to reach Kasauli is by road. The nearest major airport is Chandigarh International Airport (IXC), which has good flight connectivity with major cities in India. From Chandigarh, Kasauli is approximately a two-hour drive.
The nearest railway station is Kalka (KLK), which is well-connected by trains, including the famous toy train from Shimla. From Kalka, Kasauli is about an hour-long drive uphill. Taxis and buses are readily available from both Chandigarh and Kalka.
The ideal time to visit Kasauli is generally during the spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons.
Tirthan Valley is easily one of the most breathtaking places in Himachal Pradesh. Surrounded by the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP), this untouched valley is located right next to the Tirthan River. Spring is the best time to go, with flowers all around. For an escape from the city, but also an escape from the more-crowded Himachali getaways, it doesn't get better than Tirthan. You will hardly meet anyone during your two to three days here, not counting the hospitable locals. People usually stay one night in the valley before going off on a trek in the GHNP since Tirthan falls in the so-called buffer zone of the park.
Tirthan Valley, known for its pristine natural beauty and tranquility, is close to several other attractions in Himachal Pradesh. Nearby you can explore the scenic Kullu Valley (famous for its apple orchards and the town of Kullu), the adventure hub of Manali (offering activities like paragliding and river rafting), the spiritual town of Manikaran (with its hot springs), the charming village of Naggar (with its ancient castle), and the Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) itself, which offers numerous trekking trails and diverse flora and fauna (requires permits for certain areas).
The most convenient way to reach Tirthan Valley is by road. The nearest major airport is Kullu-Manali Airport (KUU) at Bhuntar, which has limited flight connectivity with some major cities in India. From Bhuntar, Tirthan Valley is approximately a two-hour drive, depending on your specific destination within the valley.
Alternatively, you can reach Chandigarh International Airport (IXC), which has better flight connectivity, and then take a longer seven-hour drive to Tirthan Valley.
The nearest major railway station is Kiratpur Sahib (KPUR), about a six-hour drive away. Buses and taxis are available from Kullu, Bhuntar, and Chandigarh.
The ideal time to visit Tirthan Valley is generally during the spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November) seasons.
The tranquillity of this place will take away your travel fatigue in a jiffy. Views of the magnificent Eastern Himalayas, shining water streams, the chirping of beautiful little birds, and the enchanting sound of Buddhist mantras all add up to provide the perfect setting to sit back and relax before you start your adventures in North Sikkim. Nestled in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas, the picturesque village of Mangan serves as a gateway to North Sikkim while introducing you to the Lepchas and their unique culture.
Primarily used as a halting place to Dzongu, Lachen, and Lachung, the town was established in 1903 by Rinzing Namgyal, a local landlord. Mangan gets its name from the Lepcha word Maangan, meaning hidden place. Located at an elevation of 4,000 ft above sea level, Mangan offers spectacular views of the majestic Mt Khangchendzonga, the world's third-highest mountain peak. Pakshak View Point, around 3 km north of Mangan, provides a view of the eastern face of Khangchendzonga.
Mangan is also home to one of the highest bailey suspension bridges in Asia, with the Rangrang Bridge straddling the torrents of the Rangrang Gorge. While lower Mangan houses the bustling and clean Mangan Bazaar with shops, hotels, and cafes, the upper part of the village is where you will find absolute peace. Curvy roads lined with cherry, pine and walnut trees follow you all along the little hamlet while colourful prayer flags flutter all around. Rhododendrons and orchids are also found here in abundance.
Mangan serves as a gateway to the stunning landscapes of North Sikkim. Explore the base towns of Lachen and Lachung for journeys to Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang Valley (requiring permits). Discover the significant junction town of Chungthang. Experience the unique culture and pristine beauty of the Dzongu reserved area (requiring permits).
Reaching Mangan involves a road journey from Gangtok, approximately 65-70 km away. The most common entry points are Bagdogra Airport (IXB) or New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) in West Bengal, followed by a five-hour drive to Gangtok and then another three hours to Mangan by taxi or shared vehicle.
The optimal time to experience Mangan's beauty is during the spring (March to June), with mild temperatures and blooming rhododendrons, or the autumn (October to December), offering crisp, clear skies and stunning Himalayan views.
This story was first published on June 17, 2023; and it has since been updated.
