Darjeeling or Gangtok Which is Better & Why?
Planning to visit Darjeeling or Gangtok, but confused about ‘Darjeeling or Gangtok which is better?’ To answer this question of yours, we have prepared this entire content for you. We have been to both Darjeeling and Gangtok so many times that now we can confidently explain to you in detail which is better and why.
Let’s discuss Darjeeling First –
Darjeeling
Darjeeling, the ‘Queen of Hill Stations in West Bengal’, is undoubtedly the most visited tourist destination in West Bengal, & northeast India. Darjeeling is located at 2134m above sea level and attracts tourists of all interests. Darjeeling offers stunning views of Kanchenjunga as well as the hospitality of colorful Himalayan people. Darjeeling, and all her tea plantations, are under the shadow of this Himalayan giant. Darjeeling lies just 78 km from Siliguri, the major rail and road head. It is easily connected by bus and jeep. So, to know if Darjeeling or Gangtok which is better, continue reading:
What Is Darjeeling Famous For?
Happy Valley Tea Garden
Darjeeling is one of the famous hill stations near Kolkata. Happy Valley Tea Estate is located on the hillside of Darjeeling. It shows you how tea is made. It is home to a tea factory, which has been converted into a museum. For a small fee, factory employees will guide you through the manufacturing process. This location allows you to witness the tea’s fermentation, drying, and rolling process. It’s fascinating to see how different types of tea are made from the same leaf.
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Darjeeling – Rangeet Valley Cable Car
Enjoy one of the longest cable car rides in Asia, and the only one that goes through rolling tea estates. It takes 40 minutes to go one way, with the tea estate on the left and the hills of Sikkim to the right. So, Darjeeling or Gangtok which is better and why you can understand this now?
Himalayan Mountaineering Institute
Learn mountaineering at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute. It was established in 1954, one year after Mount Everest was climbed. Tenzing Norgay was a Darjeeling resident and served as the institute’s director for many years. To see records from some of the interesting expeditions, you can visit this museum in Darjeeling.
The spot where Tenzing Norgay’s body was cremated is located just beside the museum. The institute offers 28-day courses in basic and advanced mountaineering, as well as a 15-day adventure course designed for thrill-seekers. Activities include trekking, rock climbing, and camping as well as water sports.
Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park
The only specialized zoo in the country is internationally known for its conservation breeding programs of Red Pandas, Snow Leopards, Tibetan Wolf, and other endangered species of Eastern Himalayan animals. So, if you want to visit this park, start gathering information on ‘how to reach Darjeeling?’.
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Tiger Hill
Darjeeling is one of the famous hill stations near Siliguri. Tiger Hill, located at an elevation of 2590m and 13 km from Darjeeling is famous for its spectacular sunrise views. Here you can see Kanchenjunga’s peaks illuminate before the sun reaches lower elevations. Tourists from all over India flock to Tiger Hill for the stunning view of snow-capped mountains surrounded by cotton clouds. This is also the summit at Ghoom, the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway’s highest station.
Start time from Darjeeling at 3.30 am to reach Tiger Hill by 4.15 AM. In winter, the starting time is 4.15 AM due to the delayed sunrise. During peak season, the roads can be blocked by cars and jeeps. It takes a short walk from the parking area to reach the sunrise spot. You can either book a car, or an Innova from a local travel agency or pay INR 200 per person.
Darjeeling Ropeway
The Darjeeling Ropeway was established in 1968 to serve the tea gardens of the valleys that did not have easy access. It is a highly-visited tourist spot that attracts thousands of tourists every year to see the beautiful scenery of Darjeeling. Each cable car can carry 6 passengers and is equipped with 16 cars. It travels from Singamari’s North Point to Singla Bazaar. This location is located by the banks of the charming Ramman river. The cars are at an elevation of 7000 feet. This experience is a must-do for all tourists to Darjeeling.
The views of Darjeeling’s many tea estates, the waterfalls, and the magnificent Kanchenjunga make it a must-do. Travelers have great opportunities to capture amazing photos as the gondola moves at moderate speeds. The cable car then stops at the bottom of the journey. Here, passengers can explore the beautiful tea gardens or relax in the small mountain cafe before returning to Singamari.
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River Rafting in Teesta
White water rafting in the River Teesta can be one of the most thrilling things you can do in Darjeeling. Rafting is favorite among adventure-seekers. There are rapids that range from grades 1 through 4. The difficult rapids can only be done by trained professionals. This activity should be done when you are in Darjeeling. So, now you can say ‘Darjeeling or Gangtok which is better.
Take the Himalayan Mountain Railway Toy Train
Darjeeling is famous for its historical toy train. This railroad is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This toy train runs from Darjeeling to the lower reaches. It takes almost 24 hours to complete the journey. You can also opt for shorter joy rides.
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railroad is the most popular route, which runs from Darjeeling via Batasia Loop to Ghoom. The train stops at Batasia Loop for around 10 minutes, where you can see a historic war memorial and a lookout dedicated to Gorkha soldiers who fought in Darjeeling during historic times. The train stops at Ghoom for around 30 minutes, where you will get to see a railway museum. So, make sure to visit the hill station at the best time to visit Darjeeling to enjoy the view from this toy train.
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Now, let’s discuss Gangtok so that you can decide ‘Whether Darjeeling or Gangtok which is better in a better way.
Gangtok
Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is a charming hill station that is beautiful and surrounded by clouds. The town is located at 1650 meters above sea level and offers stunning views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Gangtok is a place for adventurers, campers, and Himalayan mountain ranges trekkers. The surrounding areas are transformed by the blooming wild Rhododendrons in the months March-May.
What Is Gangtok Famous For?
Tsomgo Lake
The Tsomgo Lake, which is located on the Gangtok-NathuLa highway, is perched high up in the mountains at 12400 feet above sea level. It is also known as Changu Lake. This beautiful place is an important part of tourist attractions in Sikkim. So, Gangtok is among the hill stations in India for honeymoon.
The charming beauty of Tsomgo Lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and nestled between bright green alpine forests, is sure to leave you speechless. You must visit this lake at least once in your lifetime.
Kabi Longstok
Kabi Longstok is located 17 kilometers from Gangtok’s northern capital. This small town, which was established in the early 13th century, is considered a historic place. You can see children and followers of Buddhism learning about Buddhism at the beautiful Buddhist monastery nearby. There is also a library and a small garden where you can learn more about the history of the area. To pay respect, there are life-size statues erected next to the stone pillars of Lepcha and Bhutia, who were blood brothers. Kabi Longstok’s amazing stories will captivate you.
Reshi Hot Springs
There are many hot springs in Sikkim, but the Reshi Hot Spring is the most well-known due to its strategic location as well as its religious significance it has. The hot springs, or Cha-chu, found in Reshi were used as winter spas by pilgrims and visitors for a period of time. It is believed that these hot springs have medicinal properties.
The spring can be found within an hour’s drive downhill toward the Rangit river valley. Temporary huts are available at reasonable prices for overnight accommodation. They do not have any bedding or cooking utensils. Small shops are available in the area selling vegetables and other items that you need every day. So, make sure to visit the hill station at the best time to visit Gangtok to enjoy the view to its fullest.
Flower Exhibition Centre
The Flower Exhibition Centre is located in Gangtok and displays flowers from all parts of Sikkim under one roof. It makes Gangtok a paradise for nature lovers. It is located just across the White Memorial Hall, below Ridge Park, and is a short walk from the MG Marg. It is located at a short distance from the MG Marg and can be accessed from anywhere in the state. The Government of Sikkim invites participants from neighboring states to participate in the annual flower contest. This makes Gangtok among the best hill stations in Sikkim.
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Gangtok Ropeway
The length of the aerial ropeway is 935m from the beginning to the endpoint. It takes between 15 and 20 minutes for the entire journey. There are three terminal stations: Deorali, Namnang, and Tashiling. Either you can get on board or offload at any of these stations. The lowest station, the Deorali station, is located near the Institute of Tibetology. It offers stunning views of Gangtok’s market and the township below.
Namnang, the central station is located near the Secretariat. Tashiling is the highest. The ticket counter is located uphill from the road. After you have purchased your tickets, you will be able to wait in the waiting area on the same floor while you wait for your turn. You can find an elevator at the cable car station, which is located approximately 100 feet higher.
International Flower Festival
People of all interests and affinities can enjoy the International Flower Festival in Gangtok, the northeast Indian state of Sikkim. Every year, the festival is held between 1 May and 31 May. It is a celebration of hundreds of flowers, making it a memorable event.
The festival features thirty different types of rhododendrons as well as hundreds of other flowers, making it equally beautiful and fragrant. The festival includes a variety of competitions, as well as a showcase of flowers. You can also experience river rafting and take part in various lectures and seminars that are held during the International Flower Festival. So, now you can understand ‘Darjeeling or Gangtok which is better.
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9’ine Indian Cuisine
9’ine Native Cuisine, a small cafe in Gangtok that serves Asian, Tibetan, and Nepalese food is located in the suburbs. The cafe is well-known for its delicious Tibetan food and is a popular hangout spot. The cafe offers beautiful views of the mountains and valleys outside, in addition to delicious food.
Yak Safari
Gangtok’s most unique and essential activity is the Yak Ride. The joyride can be enjoyed in any of the three locations where it is offered. It can be done at Tsomgo lake and/or the Dzongri area. You will soon find yourself out of balance and on the ground. It is one of your most enjoyable experiences. This sounds amazing, right? So, gather information on how to reach Gangtok and plan your tour to Gangtok.
Mountain Biking
Gangtok is among the coldest places in India. Mountain biking is another exciting activity in Gangtok. Mountain biking is a great way to get a high adrenaline rush and allows you to see the hidden corners of the city. You will be able to ride through forests, valleys, rivers, and waterfalls as you explore the city’s best. You must try them, you will really enjoy these activities.
Since we have discussed all the best things about Darjeeling and Gangtok, now, it is you who need to decide ‘Darjeeling or Gangtok which is better according to you?’.
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