If you are looking for a place to enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas, then you should not miss the Tashi View Point in Gangtok. This is a popular tourist attraction that offers panoramic views of the majestic peaks of Mount Kanchenjunga and Mount Siniolchu, as well as the lush green valleys and the charming villages. You can also witness the glorious sunrise and sunset from this spot, and marvel at the changing colors of the sky and the mountains.
The Tashi View Point is not just a place to admire the scenery, but also a place to learn about the rich culture and history of Sikkim. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about this amazing place, such as how to reach it, what to see and do there, and what are the nearby places to visit from there.
What to See and Do at Tashi View Point
The main attraction of the Tashi View Point is the stunning views of the mountains, especially the Mount Kanchenjunga and the Mount Siniolchu. These are two of the highest and most beautiful peaks in the world, and they are visible from the viewpoint on a clear day.
You can use the binoculars, which are available at the viewpoint for a nominal fee of Rs. 10, to get a closer look at the mountains and their details. You can also see the Phodong Monastery and the Labrang Monastery, which are located on the opposite hills, and are among the oldest and most revered monasteries in Sikkim.
The best time to enjoy the views is in the early morning or in the evening, when the sun rises or sets behind the mountains, and creates a magical effect. You can also see the changing colors of the sky and the mountains, and feel the tranquility and the beauty of nature.
Nearby Places to Visit from Tashi View Point
If you want to explore more of the area around the Tashi View Point, you can visit some of the nearby places that are worth seeing. Some of the nearby places that you can visit from the viewpoint are:
1. Phodong Monastery:
This is one of the oldest and most famous monasteries in Sikkim, and it is located about 4 km from the viewpoint. It was built in the 18th century by the Chogyal Gyurmed Namgyal, and it belongs to the Kagyu sect of Tibetan Buddhism. It is known for its beautiful architecture, paintings, and statues, and it also hosts an annual festival called the Chaam, which is a masked dance performance by the monks.
2. Labrang Monastery:
This is another ancient and renowned monastery in Sikkim, and it is located about 6 km from the viewpoint. It was built in the 19th century by the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism, and it is famous for its unique design, which resembles a Tibetan fort. It has a large collection of scriptures, relics, and artifacts, and it also organizes a festival called the Pang Lhabsol, which is a tribute to the guardian deity of Sikkim, Mount Kanchenjunga.
3. Seven Sisters Waterfall:
This is a spectacular waterfall that is located about 10 km from the viewpoint. It is named so because it consists of seven cascades that fall from a height of about 300 meters. It is surrounded by lush green forests and rocks, and it creates a rainbow effect when the sun shines on it. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.
4. Banjhakri Falls:
This is another beautiful waterfall that is located about 12 km from the viewpoint. It is named after the Banjhakri, which are the shamanic healers of the Sikkimese folklore. It is a part of a theme park that showcases the culture and traditions of the Sikkimese people. It has a statue of a Banjhakri, a cave, a bridge, and a garden, and it is a fun place to visit for families and kids.
5. Flower Exhibition Centre:
This is a place where you can see a variety of flowers and plants that are native to Sikkim and the Himalayas. It is located about 14 km from the viewpoint, and it is open throughout the year. It has different sections for orchids, roses, cacti, ferns, and bonsai, and it also hosts an annual flower show that attracts many visitors and enthusiasts.
6. MG Road:
This is the main street and the shopping hub of Gangtok, and it is located about 15 km from the viewpoint. It is a pedestrian-only zone, and it has many shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars that cater to different tastes and budgets. It is a lively and vibrant place, where you can find everything from local handicrafts, souvenirs, clothes, books, electronics, and more. It is also a great place to experience the nightlife and the culture of Gangtok.
Best way to visit these places
1. Plan your itinerary according to your interests and preferences, and allocate enough time for each place, as they have different timings and fees for entry and activities.
2. Hire a taxi or a car, or book a tour package, that can take you to these places and back to the viewpoint, as they are spread across different distances and directions, and public transportation may not be available or convenient.
3. Carry some cash, as some of the places may not accept cards or online payments, and you may need to pay for the entry, parking, or other services.
How to Reach Tashi View Point
The Tashi View Point is located about 8 km from the main town of Gangtok, and it is easily accessible by various modes of transportation.
You can take a taxi, a bus, a car, or a bike to reach the viewpoint. The taxi fare is around Rs. 300 to Rs. 400, and the bus fare is around Rs. 20 to Rs. 30. The car and bike rentals are also available in Gangtok, and they charge around Rs. 1000 to Rs. 1500 per day.
The road to the viewpoint is well-maintained and scenic, and it takes about 20 to 30 minutes to reach there. The best time to travel to the viewpoint is in the early morning or in the evening, when you can catch the sunrise or sunset. You can also avoid the traffic and the crowd during these times.
The Tashi View Point is a wonderful place to visit in Gangtok, as it offers you the opportunity to see the magnificent views of the Himalayan mountains, the serene monasteries, and the vibrant culture of Sikkim. It is a place that will leave you spellbound and enchanted, and make you fall in love with the beauty and charm of Gangtok and Sikkim. If you are planning to visit Gangtok, you should definitely include the Tashi View Point in your itinerary, and experience the best of Gangtok and Sikkim. You will not regret it!
