Gangtok and Darjeeling – Tourist's Heavenly Abode

Any tourist visiting the North Eastern region of India invariably includes Gangtok and Darjeeling, two important hill stations in the region, in his itinerary. It may be a Gangtok tourism package or a Darjeeling tour package; both these tour packages go hand-in-hand.rnGangtok, capital city of Sikkim, is a beautiful city surrounded by nature at its best. Nestled in the Himalayan range, the city has plenty to offer to a tourist. Similarly Darjeeling, another hill station in the same Himalayan ranges has beautiful spots to be visited. That's why both these cities are invariably part of any north east travel package. Sikkim abounds in natural beauty and hence, is a tourist's delight. There are many must visit places which find a place in any Gangtok tourism package. Important places to visit include Himalayan Zoological Park, Menam Hill, Khecheopalri Lake, Ganesh Tok and Pemayangtse Monastery. A very important event worth watching is the annual chaam or the masked dance performed at the Do Drul Chorten Stupa. The nearby Orchid Sanctuary is famous for the variety of Orchids and it is really a treat to watch so many colourful orchids bloom. One can have a breathtaking view of the Kanchenjunga peak from Enchey, the most revered Monastery. Rumtek Monastery is where one finds the ten feet tall Buddha statue. North east travel is not complete without a visit to the beautiful picnic spot, the Banjhakri Falls, surrounded by a beautiful garden. rnGangtok tourism is also incomplete without a visit to the Mayfair Gangtok Spa Resort and Casino. This is the only Casino found in the entire north east region. Darjeeling is another beautiful hill station situated in the Himalayan ranges and is 94 km away from Gangtok. Apart from being a tourist place. Darjeeling is also famous for its tea industry. Any one undertaking a Darjeeling tour should have plenty of time at his disposal because there are plenty of tourist attractions in and around Darjeeling. A famous tourist attraction is the toy train by which one can reach Darjeeling. This toy train has been given the World Heritage tag by UNESCO. The train starts from New Jalpaiguri and covers the distance of about 88 km in approximately eight hours. But the time is well spent as the traveller can enjoy scenic beauty of the hill range throughout the journey. Other major attractions that can be included in the Darjeeling tour can be found with a good travel agent who can formulate a comprehensive vacation for you. For a tourist with a religious attitude there are several Monasteries in and around Darjeeling. To name a few which are worth visiting are Yiga Cholling Monastery, Samten Cholling Monastery and Drukpa Kargyud Monastery. Also worth visiting is the Japanese Peace Pagoda from where one can have a breathtaking view of the Himalayan Mountains. Dhirdham temple, a replica of Nepal's famous Pashupathinath temple is another religious place to visit. For the nature loving tourist north east travel is incomplete without visiting places like the Tiger hill from where one can view sunrise and also get a glimpse of Mount Everest. Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park, Chapramari Wildlife Sanctuary and Barbotey Rock Garden are other attractions in the place.