Bakthang Waterfall — Attraction in Burtuk Ward

Bakthang Waterfalls – A Hidden Gem Near Gangtok, Sikkim

Bakthang Waterfalls (also spelled Bakthang Falls) is a serene and picturesque waterfall located just 5 km from Gangtok, making it an ideal short getaway for nature lovers and travelers seeking tranquility.

Key Details About Bakthang Waterfalls ✔ Location: On the Gangtok-Nathula Road, near the Bakthang village. ✔ Height: Approximately 30-40 feet, cascading down rocky cliffs. ✔ Best Time to Visit: March to June (pleasant weather, clear skies). September to December (post-monsoon, strong water flow). Avoid heavy monsoon (July-August) due to landslides. ✔ Entry Fee: Free (no entry charges). ✔ Visiting Time: 30-45 minutes (ideal for a quick stop).

How to Reach Bakthang Waterfalls? From Gangtok: Taxi: 15-20 min drive (5 km) – easiest option. Local Shared Jeep: Available from Deorali Stand (ask for Bakthang route). On the Way to Nathula Pass/Tsomgo Lake: Many tour operators include a short stop here.

What to Expect? ✔ Natural Beauty: Lush greenery, cool mist, and the soothing sound of falling water. ✔ Photography Spot: Perfect for nature shots and Instagram-worthy pictures. ✔ Small Cafés Nearby: Local stalls selling tea, snacks, and souvenirs. ✔ Peaceful Atmosphere: Less crowded compared to other tourist spots.

Nearby Attractions Ganesh Tok (2 km) – Small temple with panoramic views. Hanuman Tok (5 km) – Famous hilltop temple. Tashi Viewpoint (8 km) – Best sunrise views of Kanchenjunga. Rumtek Monastery (20 km) – One of Sikkim’s largest Buddhist monasteries.

Travel Tips Wear comfortable shoes (some walking on uneven terrain). Carry a light jacket (weather can be chilly). Visit early morning for fewer crowds. Combine with a trip to Tsomgo Lake/Nathula Pass if time permits.

Is Bakthang Falls Worth Visiting? Yes! If you love nature, waterfalls, and short scenic detours, Bakthang is a peaceful escape near Gangtok. It’s not as grand as some of Sikkim’s major waterfalls, but its accessibility makes it a great quick stop.

Would you like recommendations for other hidden waterfalls in Sikkim? Let...

Tucked away just a few kilometers from the chaos (read: charm) of Gangtok, the Bakthang Waterfall* is like that soft-spoken friend at a party who doesn’t say much… but steals the spotlight anyway. Unlike the thundering drama of its flashier cousin Ban Jhakri, Bakthang whispers its way down a mossy cliff, offering serenity with a splash and a side of misty magic.

First Things First – Where Are We? Located along the North Sikkim Highway, a breezy 3–4 km from Gangtok city center, Bakthang is often the first stop on the North Sikkim tour circuit. And trust me, it's a stellar opening act. The name "Bakthang" comes from the Lepcha words: "Bak" (forest) and "Thang" (field) – so yes, it’s literally a field of forest, and it looks every bit as enchanting.

The Scene – Water, Weaves, and Wow! The waterfall, while not towering in height, is wide and graceful – think chiffon saree in a wind tunnel. Cascading down a rocky wall blanketed with ferns, it lands in a shallow basin, perfect for a quick foot dip or an impromptu dance number (yes, people do that).

Local adventure lovers also run a zipline across the face of the falls. If you’ve ever wanted to channel your inner Tarzan with a GoPro, this is your moment.

And guess what? Right near the falls, locals offer traditional Sikkimese attire photoshoots. Get dressed like royalty from the mountains and click pics with the falls as your royal backdrop – 100% filmy, 200% fun.

Fun-Sized Facts: Bakthang is fed by the Ratey Chu river, which also supplies water to much of Gangtok. The waterfall is not too crowded, which makes it perfect for those looking to dodge touristy chaos. It’s accessible even for senior citizens or folks who don’t want to trek a mile just to see a splash.

My Personal Verdict: Bakthang isn’t about grandeur. It’s about grace. A serene, postcard-worthy pitstop that offers a mix of culture, calm, and...

The Bakthang waterfall is only 20 minutes drive from Gangtok town to a place called Swastik, adjacent to the army cantonment area. A serene waterfalls cascades down the rock forming a small pool down below. It is located along the 31A National Highway connecting to North Sikkim Bakthang Waterfalls is a popular tourist spot in Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, India. The waterfall is around 3 km from Gangtok town and easily accessible by road. The name Bakthang means "rock garden", and the waterfall is believed to have its name from the rocks surrounding it. The waterfall is formed by the gushing waters of the Roro Chu River, which originates from the mountains in the eastern part of Sikkim. As the river flows through the rocky terrain, it falls from a height of around 50 feet, creating a mesmerizing sight for visitors. The Bakthang Waterfalls is a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some peace and tranquillity. The sound of the waterfall, the chirping of birds, and the rustling of leaves create a serene environment that can calm even the most stressed-out minds. Visitors can also enjoy a short trek to reach the waterfall, which takes them through a scenic route of forests and small streams. There are several benches and sitting areas around the waterfall where visitors can relax and enjoy the view. The Bakthang Waterfalls is a popular picnic spot and is frequented by tourists throughout the year. It is also a popular spot for photography enthusiasts, who can capture the beauty of the waterfall and the...