Gangtok, the captivating capital of Sikkim, stands as a mesmerizing hill station nestled amidst clouds and embraced by the majestic Himalayas. Perched at an elevation of 1650 meters above sea level, this enchanting town offers breathtaking views of the towering Mt. Kanchenjunga on clear, sunny days, leaving visitors spellbound by its beauty.
For adventure enthusiasts, Gangtok serves as a gateway to the Himalayan mountain ranges, offering a plethora of thrilling activities such as trekking, camping, paragliding, hang gliding, and mountain biking. The town serves as a starting point for popular treks like Dzongri Trek, Varsey/Barsey Trek, and Tholung Trek, leading adventurers through rugged terrain and pristine landscapes.
During the spring months from March to mid-May, Gangtok and its surroundings come alive with the blooming of wild Rhododendrons, transforming the landscape into vibrant fields of colorful carpets, a sight to behold for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Gangtok's eclectic nightlife adds to its allure, with trendy restaurants and pubs lining the popular MG Road, offering a vibrant ambiance for visitors to unwind and socialize until late into the night. The town's bustling markets are a paradise for shopaholics, with shops staying open until late, allowing tourists to indulge in Tibetan handicrafts, woollens, and tea products.
Beyond its urban charm, Gangtok is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty and attractions, including the serene Tsomgo Lake, the cascading Ban Jhakri falls, the panoramic Tashi viewpoint, and more. Religious sites like the Enchey Monastery, Ganesh Tok, Do Drul Chorten, and Rumtek Monastery offer spiritual solace amidst the tranquil surroundings.
For adrenaline junkies, the Teesta River provides an exhilarating experience with its white water rafting adventures, making Gangtok a hotspot for adventure tourism in Northeast India.
With its blend of cultural diversity, urban sophistication, and natural splendor, Gangtok epitomizes the essence of a perfect hill station getaway. Whether you're seeking family fun, a romantic escapade, adventurous thrills, or simply a tranquil retreat in nature's embrace, Gangtok promises an unforgettable experience for...
Read moreTok means a temple, so it's a temple of Lord Hanuman. But it's actually far more than that and known for its wonderful serene ambience and a viewing area that offers spectacular view of Kanchenjunga range. If you ask me which point in the whole of Gangtok area offers the best views of Kanchenjunga, I won't hesitate to choose Hanuman Tok.
It's located at an altitude of 7,200 ft and on a road that branches off from the Gantok-Nathula Highway. It's located at a distance of 11kms from Gangtok town.
From the parking lot when you start climbing the paved stairs of the temple, there are benches to rest and soak in the greenery around. However the climb is relatively easy and doable for all. Prayer bells hang from above. Ring a bell and it makes a resonating sound.
Prayer chants and sometimes religious music are played through the fitted audio speakers. It's a divine and heavenly feeling when you reach up to the main Hanuman temple and offer your prayers.
It is believed by the locals that Lord Hanuman took rest for a moment at this place when he was on his way to Lanka from the Himalayas. He was carrying sanjeevani herbs to cure Lakshman. The temple is popularly known as wish fulfilling temple.
As the legend says, locals used to worship a stone here for centuries. In 1950s a political officer named Appaji Pant had a divine dream at this place and after that the idol of Lord Hanuman had been erected here. Since then the temple is locally known as the Hanuma Tok.In 1968 this entire area was handed over to Indian Army. It is now maintained and preserved by the Units of 17 Mountain Division of the Army.
There is a temple of Sirdi Saibaba here as well just right of Lord Hanuman Temple. Nearby and just before the entrance to the stairway is the cremation ground of erstwhile Namgyal Royal family of Sikkiim. You can see several stupas and chortens there. Admission & Amenities There are toilet facilities at Hanuman Tok for both gents and ladies. There is no admission fee, but donations are welcome.
How to reach Hanuman Tok is a popular tourist destination from Gangtok and included in the standard local package sightseeing tours offered by the...
Read moreHanuman Tok is a popular Hindu temple and a tourist attraction located in Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, India. Here's some information about Hanuman Tok:
Location: Hanuman Tok is situated at an altitude of approximately 7,200 feet (2,194 meters) on a hilltop in Gangtok. It is located around 11 kilometers away from the city center and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and mountains.
Hindu Temple: Hanuman Tok is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, a revered Hindu deity known for his devotion and strength. The temple houses a statue of Lord Hanuman, and devotees visit the temple to offer prayers, seek blessings, and pay their respects.
Peaceful Environment: Hanuman Tok provides a serene and tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal place for meditation and spiritual contemplation. The temple is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Trekking and Scenic Views: To reach Hanuman Tok, visitors have the option to either drive or hike up to the temple. The hiking trail offers a scenic and enjoyable experience, with beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes. From the temple premises, visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of Gangtok town, the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, and the Teesta River winding through the valley.
Prayer Wheels: Near the temple, there are prayer wheels called "Mani wheels." Devotees and visitors can rotate these wheels in a clockwise direction, believed to have the same spiritual effect as reciting the prayers written on them.
Timings and Accessibility: Hanuman Tok is usually open from early morning to late evening, allowing visitors to explore and offer prayers throughout the day. It is easily accessible by road from Gangtok, and there are also taxis available for transportation to and from the temple.
Visiting Hanuman Tok offers a spiritual experience, breathtaking views, and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you are a devotee seeking blessings or a traveler looking for a peaceful spot to admire the scenic beauty of Gangtok, Hanuman Tok is worth a visit during your...
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