Though seemingly a bustling capital town, Gangtok has an enveloping serenity that enchants all. The town has an amazing combination of the lively and ultimate tranquility. The main town remains active with buzzing bazaars and sprightly people while the woods lying outside have a mesmerizing calm. Take a tour of the town on foot to enjoy all its marvels and mysteries. Get friendly with the mingling locals or the spirited monks who would love to share legends of a flying monk with you! Take a stroll along the winding slopes of the hills or the banks of the lakes which are brightened by hosts of poppy flowers creating a carpet-like feeling.

• Enchey Monastery: A must visit place in Gangtok, this is a 200 year old monastery, built by Lama Drupthob Karpo who is believed to had powers of flying. The monastery is home to about 90 monks and becomes particularly happening when the annual dance festival Chaam is held here and lamas perform an enthralling masked dance.

• Do Drul Chorten: The biggest and undoubtedly the most important stupa in Sikkim, it is located at some distance from Gangtok. Built by Truslshi Rimpoche it has 108 prayer wheels which are constantly turned by devotees while they chant prayers. The chorten also houses a gold plated steeple.

• Fambong La Wildlife Sanctuary: A haven for nature lovers, the sanctuary is known for its varied flora and fauna. It is the natural home for a variety of birds and butterflies. Best views of the sanctuary can be taken from Tinjure, a 7000 feet wooden site-seeing tower put up by the Forest Department.

• Hanuman Tok: Located on a hill point about 7200 ft high, this temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Maintained by the Indian Army, the temple is spotlessly clean and is kept well. The cremation ground of the former Namgyal dynasty is also located close by.

• Namgyal Institute of Tibetology: The institute has the largest collection of Tibetan objects outside Tibet, which include a huge collection of statues, thangkas and ancient manuscripts in Sanskrit, Tibetan, Lepcha and Chinese. The most important of these is the silver idol of Manjushri – the Bodhisattva of Knowledge. A Tibetan Library is housed within the same building and has over 60,000 titles translated to Tibetan as part of its collection.

• Pemayangtse Monastery: Located near Gangtok, this monastery is considered to be the best in Sikkim and was intended to serve the pure lamas. Bright murals adorn the walls and ceilings of the monastery.

• Rabdentse Ruins: These are the ruins of the erstwhile capital of Sikkim. The King of Sikkim ruled from here till 1814 AD. The site provides lovely views of the stunning Kanchenjunga and is a popular trekking spot also.

• Tashiding Monastery: One of the holiest monasteries in Sikkim, the site is also good for enjoying views of the Kanchenjunga. Devotees believe that a visit to this monastery would wash away all their sins. The monastery hosts the annual Bumchu festival in which the holy water is displayed in a pot which is believed to predict future.

• Rumtek Monastery: Also known as Dharma Chakra Center, the monastery is the largest monastery in Sikkim. This is the place where the monks perform the sacred rites and the practices of the Karma Kagyu lineage. The monastery also has a golden stupa which treasures the relics of the guru of Kagyu lineage. The stupa is ornate with turquoise and coral and stands 13 feet tall.

• Tsomgo Lake: Located in the north-eastern part of Sikkim, the lake was worshipped by the Sikkimese. The tranquil surroundings and pretty setting of the lake make it a place of tourist interest too. A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is also situated on the shore of the lake.

Like all of Sikkim the best thing to try out in Gangtok is some Tibetan delicacy. Quick Bite is a nice place to savor a variety of snacks ranging from samosas to momos. The Roll House known for delicious vegetarian momos. The Square is also a nice place to try out steaming momos and tempting fruit flavored brandy. To enjoy eating with a view head on to Glenary’s - they serve a number of snacks and offer splendid views of the mountains. The Shangri La Restaurant is an unconventional restaurant which uses fresh herbs and spices to prepare the meals that they serve. Porky’s is the best place to sip on an irresistible cup of steaming cappuccino or gorge on delicious muffins and croissants.

Sikkim is known for its fruit and tea processing. The best buys here are fruits, squashes and variety of teas. Passion Fruit Squash, Alpine Cheese and Temi Tea are some things one should not forget picking before leaving Gangtok. Tibetan goods also make good buys here. The Old Market, New Market and Lal Market are some of the best known areas to shop for these. The Government managed Institute of Cottage Industry however, is the best place to shop for authentic goods at reasonable rates. Curio Craft Gallery is yet another place to shop for some souvenirs to take home.