A tale of two clouds

This quote from a child of about six years of age near Tsango lake is a spectacular way to explain what we felt throughout the trip. He said “Mum, you told me I could never touch the clouds, but that's what I've been doing all day”

Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, would easily be one of the cleanliest cities you will come across in India. Highly organised and beautifully maintained, it is the Switzerland of the east. Clouds play at your balcony. Tourists are of paramount importance; hence rules such as fixed cab fares have been enforced in order to prevent visitors from being cheated.

The city resembles the Bhutanese capital, Thimphu. Devoid of large stores, this place is a nice break from typical city lives. Still, the city is a fascinating place to spend a few nights. The winding side alleys hide some unexpected gems, and the main street (MG Marg) is pedestrian-friendly and a pleasant place to take a stroll.

The city sleeps by 9pm mostly, except for a few pubs which are open till 11pm. Food-wise, there are quite a few places for vegetarians to eat since it is mostly dominated by Buddhist culture.

The easiest way to get to Gangtok is to take a Shyamoli bus to Shiliguri which costs about Tk.3000. From Shiliguri you can either go to Darjeeling for a few days or straight to Gangtok. A hired SUV would cost Rs.2000.

Sky Navigators also arrange flights to Kolkata and from Kolkata to Bagdogra airport in case you want to fly.

Places to go in Gangtok
Rumtek is a famous monastery, especially among the Tibetan Buddhists, and is situated near Gangtok. Originally called the Dharma Chakra Centre, it includes a beautiful shrine temple and a monastery for the monks.

The 16th Karmapa built the monastery. The place came into existence in the Buddhist pilgrimage map, especially after Chinese habitation in Tibet and subsequent relocations of some Tibetan religious gurus to Sikkim.

Nathula Pass, located at a distance of 56 kilometres from Gangtok, is a pass on the Indo-Chinese border. Serving as a trade link between India and China, this park once also served as the main access for Sikkim-Tibet trade. Popularly known as the Silk Route, this pass is at an elevation of 14,450 feet and is rich in diverse flora and fauna.

The Nathula Pass is divided into terms 'Nathu' and 'La', which mean 'listening ears' and 'pass' respectively.

The trade route was closed down in 1961, as a result of the war between India and China. However, in 2006, trade between the two countries resumed after conciliation. Passing the Tsomgo Lake on its way, this pass is one of the highest serviceable roads in India. Covered with snow for most parts of the year, a special permit is required to visit this pass.

Tsomgo/Tsongo Lake is 38 km from Gangtok and takes about two and a half hours to reach by a hired car. The word Tsomgo in Bhutia language means 'source of the lake'. The lake is about one kilometre long, 50 feet deep, oval in shape and is situated at an altitude of 3780 meters. It remains frozen throughout the winter up to April's end.

Snowfall is also common in this area even during the summer months. The Tsomgo Lake is considered extremely sacred by the local people. The place is a haven for bird lovers with large numbers of Blue Whistling Thrush, Redstarts and Forktails around.
Night life/ Party scene
Nightlife starts quite early in Gangtok. Sometimes as early as 5pm. Life is quite laid back at these north eastern hills where life starts late and finishes early.

X'cape
This is Gangtok's leading and popular nightclub, playing its beats from 4pm till midnight. Here you will come across a young and enthusiastic crowd grooving their way on the dance floor. The entry fee is Rs.400 per person. The club is open from 7.30pm to 11.30pm from Thursday to Sunday.

Lounge 31a
Stylish and trendy, this place offers a great ambience. Located four storeys high, the majestic glass architecture offers Zen aesthetics and beautiful sunset views. Being one of the famed night clubs, it offers everything from hookahs to mocktails and from Indian to International cuisines.

Situated near the city's main highway, this place is known for its warm and cosy ambience. It features an intimate sitting area on the first floor and a lounge on the mezzanine floor. There is no entry fee for this club. It's open from 10am to 11pm.

Places to stay
The Elgin Hotels is a wonderful place to stay and costs around Rs.3200 per night. I would suggest staying in a good hotel because this city is not known for its night life for which you would spend quite a long time in the hotel. Hotel Tibet and Hotel Delamere are also within this range.