Gangtok, Capital city in eastern Himalayas, India
Gangtok is the capital of Sikkim at 1,650 meters elevation, built across mountain slopes with views of the Kanchenjunga range and dense forests containing rare orchids. The city connects steep roads with terraced neighborhoods, while fog often wraps the lower slopes.
The city grew from a small trading post to become the capital of Sikkim in 1894, when Thutob Namgyal moved the administrative center from Tumlong. Sikkim joined the Indian Union in 1975, transforming the city into a state capital with expanding government institutions.
The population includes Bhutia, Lepcha, and Nepali communities, each maintaining their traditions through festivals, languages, clothing, and religious practices throughout the year. Buddhist monasteries and Hindu temples stand side by side, while traditional garments appear alongside modern dress on the streets.
Travelers reach the city via Pakyong Airport or National Highway 10, with shared taxis serving as the primary mode of transportation within the mountainous terrain. The best visiting months are between March and May, and October and November, as monsoon rains make roads slippery from June through September.
The city requires specific permits for visitors exploring areas near international borders, reflecting its position between Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan. The local market sells Tibetan butter bread and fermented bamboo shoots that are difficult to find in other parts of India.
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