The legend of Baba goes back 35 years when Sepoy Harbhajan Singh of the 23rd Punjab Regiment went missing although main a pack of mules from his battalion stationed at Tukla to Deng Dhukla, both remote areas situated in East Sikkim. A manhunt was launched and it took the army three days to find his body. It is believed that he himself led the soldiers towards the website. Soon after, soldiers in the regiment started reporting that Baba had been appearing in their dreams and directing that a shrine be constructed in his memory. A Samadhi was raised in his memory and believers say that even today Baba visits each night, puts on his uniform and does his rounds. He is worshipped like a saint who grants boons and guards the lives of soldiers posted alongside the border.  Each year in September Baba requires his annual holiday and travels back to Kapurthala, his hometown. People gather in big numbers and line the route that Baba will take to provide flowers and prayers. A berth on a train is reserved in his name and two orderlies accompany him around the journey. The legend of this Sepoy-Saint grows stronger with each passing day.

Bakthang Waterfalls 
20 minutes drive from Gangtok is Bakthang Water Falls alongside the 31 A National Highway leading to North Sikkim. It originates from Ratey Chu, the main water source of Gangtok region. Suggested to go to with a view to relax and to take photographs.

Ban Jhakri Falls 
Situated en route to Ranka and 4 kms away from Gangtok, the Ban Jhakri Falls Energy Park, lies amidst a lush green valley spread more than two acres, surrounded by trees along with a gushing mountain river. The Park has a shamanistic theme. Hence, although the location of the Park penetrating the forest spreads seeks to enhance the essence of the occult and the unknown, the location itself is littered with ethnic sculptures and figurines from the jhakri culture.
The park includes a waterfall and has well laid out trails to wander along with gazebos placed at convenient spots to soothe weary legs although the eyes can continue to marvel more than the gushing streams and falls. Sikkimese styled foot bridges add more colour towards the myriad hued park adorned with exotic flowers of wide selection. A dragon-adorning splash pool beckons longingly at children who can splash about, while the exhibition centre also doubles as a cafeteria. Designated fishing spots along the stream further provide visitors a chance to dwell more than life matters although waiting for a bite of the local trout.

Nehru Botanical Garden 
Just ahead from the Rumtek Monastery is the Nehru Botanical Garden which has a mix of tropical and temperate plants and trees as nicely like a large greenhouse of exotic orchids. It’s a good location to stop to get a while. For kids there is a small playground with swings along with a see-saw along with a winding footpath is ideal for a stroll.

Chogyal Park 
It is dedicated to the memory of Miwang Chogyal Chenpo Palden Thondup Namgyal, 17th within the line and the 12th consecrated Denzong Chogyal (King of Sikkim).<br> He was gracious, valiant and extremely enlightened. He descended directly from Namgyal Dynasty, which began within the year 1642 A.D. with the installation of Phuntsog Namgyal as the initial consecrated ruler of West Sikkim , Born in 1923 he succeeded as Chogyal in 1963 and died in 1982. Deeply inspired by his cherished dream of welfare state for his country, even from his young years as heir apparent, The chogyal dedicated his entire efforts for a clear, effective and timely fruition from the precious plans. 
Throughout his illustrious era, firm foundations were laid for fundamental amenities and social aids. Having initiated electoral reforms and transfer of power to peoples representatives in stages, this humane democrat with the highest sense of justice made the judiciary completely independent, quickly right after his coronation. He was devout Buddhist and extremely attained in religious scholarship. He was the founder president from the Namgyal Institute of Tibetan Studies at Dotapu (Gangtok) and President of the Maha Bodhi Society of India. Chogyal Palden Thondup Namgyal was undoubtedly a pioneer among his peers, in advocating the modern system of governance. 

Directorate Of Handicrafts & Handlooms (DHH) 
The Directorate of Handloom and Handicrafts was established within the 12 months 1957 with the aim of promoting and keeping alive the State's traditional art & craft, the DHH is a store house of hand - woven woolen carpets, with traditional motifs, blankets, shawls and exquisitely carved 'Choktse' or table and several other gift items. The Directorate is really a unique combination of training-cum-production spread more than 20 centers in Sikkim, which has a modest center at Gangtok. A Handloom and Handicrafts Development Corporation Ltd. has been formed which will facilitate efficient marketing of quality based products and make more jobs and avenues for crafts persons. Such products have a huge potentiality for exports.

Do Drul Choten 
The Do-Drul Chorten or Stupa was constructed by the Venerable Trullshi Rimpoche, head of the Nyingma order of Tibeten Buddhism, in 1945. Inside the stupa, you will find total mandala set of Dorjee phurba (Vajra Kilaya), a set of Kang Gyur relic (Holy Book), total 'Zung' (mantras) along with other spiritual objects. Around the Chorten, you will find 108 Mani Lhakor (Prayer Wheels). These are turned by devout Buddhists although chanting 'Om Mane Padme Hum' (O Jewel within the Lotus) to invoke the Bodhisattva. It is surrounded by Chorten Lakhang and Guru Lakhang, where you will find two massive statues of Guru Padmasambhava.

Enchey Monastery 
An essential seat of the Nyingmapa order, the Enchey Monastery is constructed around the Website Blessed by Lama Druptok Karpo, a tantric master known for his power of flying. This 200 years old monastery has in its premises images of gods, goddesses and other religious objects. Each year around January, "Chaam" or religious masked dance is performed with fantastic fanfare-for two days. It's situated close to Siniolchu Tourist Lodge, 3 kms from Gangtok City.

Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary 
It is situated at a distance of 25 kms from Gangtok having an region of 51. 76 sq. km. The main vegetation discovered are oak, katus, kimbu, champa, thick bamboos and ferns. The sanctuary is also house to a big variety of wild orchids, rhododendrons, etc. The richly forested region is recognized to become the house for various species of wild animals and birds. This area, situated close to Gangtok, can also be a brief trekking trail. A log Home with two rooms is available at Golitar and Tumin. 

Ganesh Tok 
It is situated on the ridge at a distance of 7 kms from Gangtok. From this Spot 1 can get birds eye watch of sprawling Gangtok town, although throughout the hills Mt. Khang-chen-Dzonga and Mt. Siniolchu loom over the horizon. A cafeteria serves hot tea, coffee and snacks. The view from here is truly breathtaking with snow peaks providing the ideal backdrop for a panoramic watch of Gangtok town. 
Dedicated to Lord Ganesh, the temple is situated at an altitude of 6500 ft on the panoramic hilltop. At present the temple is surrounded by a stunning pinetum, Bulbylay Zooligical Park along with a smriti-van, wherein guests plant saplings within the memory of their dear departed.

Gangtok Ropeway 
It takes the passenger to the highest point of the metropolis of Gangtok, covering the length of about 1 km in only seven minutes. Each cabin accommodates 24 passengers. The lower terminal station is situated at Deorali Market, the intermediate terminal at Nam-Nang and also the upper terminal station is below the Secretariat (Tashiling). One can truly enjoy the panoramic view and thrilling rise as the Ropeway goes more than the Metropolis. Two more Ropeways are going to become constructed and installed form Namchi to Samdruptse and from Yangyang to Bhale Dhunga (Maenam), both in South Sikkim. Also the day is not far when vacationers can appreciate the breathtaking watch of Tsomgo lake (11,800 feet) in East Sikkim by sitting atop a ropeway.

Gonjang Monastery 
Gonjang Monastery near Tashi Watch Level was established in the year 1981. The founder is H.E. Tingkye Gonjang Rimpoche. He was recognised as an incarnation of Yolmo Terton Ngakchang Shakya Zangpo, a 15th century Nyingmapa Terton. The monastery follows Jangter tradition of Nyingmapa school of Tibeten Buddhism.

Hanuman Tok 
The temple devoted to Lord Hanuman is situated at an altitude of 7200 ft at a distance of about nine kilometres uphill from Gangtok on the blissfully calm and quiet hilltop. Popularly known as a wish fulfilling temple, it is maintained through the resident units of the Indian Army and contributions through the local people. The entire complex has been recently renovated along with a lot of public utilities provided. The location is totally free through the pollution of metropolis life.
Apart through the clear watch of the peaks surrounding Mount Khangchendzonga, some portions of Gangtok city, one also gets a bird's eye view from the Selep water works, which supplies drinking h2o to Gangtok. Adjacent to this area is Lukshyama, the royal cremation ground having stupas and chortens. Here the mortal remains from the erst-while royal household members of Sikkim are cremated.

Himalayan (Bulbuley) Zoological Park 
8 kms away from Gangtok will be the Himalayan Zoological Park which covers an region of 205 hectares. This area is also recognized as Bulbulay. Located just over Ganesh Tok, the park is home to a number of animals residing in open enclosures in their organic habitat. 
If you're lucky you might see the Red Panda, Sikkim’s state animal, the barking Deer, Tibetan wolves, panthers, Civet cats or even the Himalayan Black Bear. The Park also has ‘Kush’ and ‘Urbashi’, a snow leopard pair residing in. It’s definitely worth a visit.

Hurhuray Dara 
This watch point is located at Namnamg just next to the Sikkim Legislative Assembly and gives you an outstanding watch of the river and valley below. You are able to go for a walk along the cliff side or just sit in one from the benches and marvel at the natural beauty surrounding you.

M.G. Marg 
M.G. Marg, the primary street of Gangtok town is a fantastic place to chill out in the evenings. The countrys first litter and spit free zone, no vehicular visitors is permitted into the marg. You can sit at the Titanic Park and listen towards the piped in music played for the listening pleasure of visitors or just stroll down the mall and take within the carnival like atmosphere, especially during the tourist season. The Mall is lined with shops on each sides of the road so shopping becomes an added pleasure.
M.G. Marg is also the venue for the annual Gangtok Food and Culture festival held in December every yr when Sikkims multi-cultural cuisine, along with music and dance performances are showcased. This event attracts a large variety of locals and vacationers every yr.

Menmecho Lake 
Upon covering a distance of 64 kms from Gangtok via Sherathang (6 kms short of well-known Nathula Pass) 1 comes across a marvellous snow fed water body known as Menmecho Lake (altitude 13,000 ft). Surrounded by lush green forest and typical reddish alpine grass cover, it is the supply of the riv Rangpochu.
Larger in size than Tsomgo lake, it's full of trout fish. Impressed by its calm and quiet atmosphere and rare beauty, one can spend hours in splendid isolation.  

Namgyal Research Institute of Tibetology 
Probably the most prestigious research institute of its type in the globe, NIT is a treasure of vast collection of uncommon Lepcha, Tibetan and Sanskrit manuscripts, statues and rare Thankas (colourful tapestries used in Buddhist liturgy). Apart from an attractive museum, it has over 200 Buddhist icons and other prized objects of art. As far as its collections are concerned, it's only subsequent to an institute in Tibet. Today it's renowned globe wide centre for study of Buddhist philosophy and religion. The institute was established in 1958 to promote serious study and research on Buddhism.

Nathula 
Nathula Pass was a main corridor of passage between India and Tibet before it was closed in 1962. Situated around 56 kms from Gangtok at an altitude of 14450 ft, the street to Nathula passes through the Tsomgo lake. It's one from the highest motorable roads in the world and is richly surrounded by alpine flora. On a clear day you can even see the street winding down the Chumbi valley. Vacationers are permitted to go close towards the international border from where you are able to see Chinese soldiers around the other side from the barbed wire.

Nathula is open for Indian nationals on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturday and Sundays. The visitors have to get the allow to go to the place by applying to the Tourism Department through a registered and recognised Travel Agency. Foreign nationals aren't allowed to visit Nathula. Photography is strictly prohibited. 1 can find ATM facility here which is the worlds highest Automated Teller Machine (ATM).

Pal Zurmang Kagyud Monastery (Lingdum) 
Pal Zurmang Kagyud Monastery, situated at Lingdum, East Sikkim is at a distance of about 20 kms from Gangtok. The present Gharwang Rimpoche is the 12th Successive incarnation with the glorious emanation of Zurmang Gharwang. A location worth visiting for its religious and exquisite architecture and serene atmosphere.

Rumtek Monastery 
The Rumtek monastery, a replica with the Tsurphu monastery of Kham region of Tibet belongs towards the Kargyupa sect. It was founded during the reign of the fourth Chogyal in 1740 within the East District. Having a four storeyed building, it will be the biggest monastery of Sikkim. Consequent upon the Chinese aggression over Tibet, His Holiness the Gyalwa Karmapa, the 16th incarnate with the Gyalwa Karmapa of Tibet came to Rumtek with a number of monks. The then Chogyal gifted him a large piece of land at Rumtek village to build a monastery and also develop a centre for religious studies.

The monastery has a special prayer hall, very impressive murals and thanka paintings and 1001 miniature golden images of Lord Buddha. It also has a religious centre by the name of Dharma Chakra Centre and a big residential-cum prayer hall. It also has an impressive library and special rooms for the high ranking incarnate Lamas.

The monastery overlooking Gangtok receives a large number of devotees and tourists throughout the year. Behind the primary monastery is an extremely impressive and elaborately decorated Karma Nalanda Institute of Buddhist Studies, wherein students from all over the globe are enrolled. There is also a small hall having a beautiful jewel studded Chorten known because the Golden Stupa. It has the ashes and remains of His Holiness, the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa.

Sa-Ngor Monastery 
It's a Tibeten refugee monastic institution established in 1961 by his Eminence Luding Khen Rimpoche, Head of Ngorpa, sub-set with the Sakya Order, with the blessings of HH Sakya Trizin and HH the Dalai Lama. This will be the only monastery with the sakya Order of Tibeten Buddhism in Sikkim. It's located on a beautiful hill top at a distance of 5 kms from Gangtok town.

Saramsa Garden
About 14 kms. from Gangtok will be the Saramsa Garden. Established and maintained by the Department of Forests, it's an excellent recreation, leisure and picnic spot. A musical fountain and a swimming pool are the recent additions. The Garden will be the venue for the International Flori Show 2008.

A beautiful Convention Center for Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) has been constructed at Saramsa, 14 km from Gangtok with a sitting capacity of 500 and all modern facilities. Meetings and Exhibitions can be held here in an eco-friendly peaceful environment.

Sikkim Science Center, Marchak
Sikkim Science Centre, the first of kind within the state, communicates science and technology in a non-formal way with the primary objective of developing a scientific temper and promoting creative learning among people at large, including the student community. Its galleries on Unique Human and Fun Science, Childrens Activity Corner, Science Park, Taramandal Show and various educational activities are step towards the aspired goal.  

Tashi View Point 
Located along the North Sikkim Highway, it's only 8 kms from Gangtok. From this level one will get a breath taking watch of Mt. Khangchendzonga, 1 of the most graceful peaks within the world. An Observatory Tower, Cafeteria and Public amenities have also been not too long ago added. Ideal time to visit is early in the morning. 1 can also catch a glimpse from the Phodang and Labrang monasteries around the opposite hill. There is a park just over the View Point where one can have a small picnic or go to the cafeteria for scorching coffee, momos and other snacks.

Thakurbari Temple 
The Thakurbari temple is located within the heart of Gangtok town. It was constructed in 1945-47 on a prime piece of land donated by Sir Thutop Namgyal, the former Maharaja of Sikkim. Idols and images of all the main Gods and Goddesses of Hinduism are installed within the temple. 
It gets a big number of visitors and tourists on the occusion of festivals and social events. 

The Ridge 
The Ridge, a small stretch of flat land above Gangtok town is 1 of the most attractive places right here and is really a favorite haunt for each tourists and locals. It stretches through the gates from the Palace from the erstwhile Namgyal kings to the White Hall building built within the memory from the initial Political Officer of Sikkim, Claude White. Close by is Mintokgang, the official residence of the chief minister. The park on the Ridge includes a small Hava Ghar to rest in too as benches to sit on. You may also have instant photographs taken right here by the several camerapersons who haunt the location.
No go to towards the Ridge will probably be complete without seeing the Flower Festival. A special glass house, opposite the White Hall displays the rich floral heritage of Sikkim, beginning using the Orchid Show in March and continuing all 12 months round with display of many varieties of flowers.

Tourist Village, Pastanga 
Pastanga in Assam Lingzey is situated at an altitude of 1425 meters (4676 ft.)! It's two hours drive from Gangtok. The enchanting small village provides magnificent view from the mountain ranges. 1 can wander up lush green mountain trails where one comes across beautiful waterfalls along the path. There are uncommon species of bamboos in dense rhododendron and magnolia forest. The vacationer are provided with house stay facilities with organized cultural programme and local handicrafts show. It can also be worth while to go to traditional houses of ethnic communities, some being 1 hundred and fifty many years previous. Pastanga can also be the take off level for Khedi trekking route.

Tsomgo (Changu) Lake 
38 km from Gangtok and at an altitude of 12,400 ft, the ethereally stunning Tsomgo lk is really a must on each guests itinerary. A winding street through rugged mountain terrain and sharp cliffs takes you to Tsomgo, which indicates source of the water in Bhutia language. The lk derives its water through the melting snows from the mountains surrounding the lk. Of legendary beauty, the lake looks various at different seasons. In winter the placid lk remains frozen using the area close to it covered in snow although in late spring the profusion of flowers in bloom adds a riot of colours around the lake. 
The lk is associated with many myths and legends and is revered through the Sikkimese as sacred. It is believed that in olden times, Buddhist monks would study the colour from the water from the lake to forecast the future. 
The lk is also of special significance for the Jhakris [faith healers] of Sikkim who congregate right here annually on Guru Purnima, which coincides using the festival of Raksha Bandhan, from all over the state to offer prayers. 
For the vacationer a visit to the lake offers a fantastic outing. Rides on colourfully decorated yaks and mules are offered at the lake website, which also includes a selection of eating stalls serving snacks and beverages. Snowboots and gumboots can be hired here. 
Tsomgo lk is open for each Indian and foreign nationals, nevertheless foreign guests need to be in a group of two or much more and need to apply for a visitors permit via a registered travel agency.

Water Garden 
Water Garden at Martam Khola is on 31 A National Highway, 16 Kms South of Gangtok. It is an perfect spot for picnic having a little swimming pool for kids. A Vacationer cafeteria and way side amenity have been also provided.