Planning a Gangtok getaway without emptying your wallet? We’ve got you covered with 11 incredible budget-friendly experiences! From street food at MG Marg to serene spots like Enchey Monastery, SavePlus reveals money-saving tips, travel hacks, and discount-friendly activities. Whether you're a student or savvy traveler, enjoy Gangtok the smart way—with deals, UPI cashback, and cultural gems!

Visit the Enchey Monastery

Experience peace and local spirituality at this over 200-year-old monastery. Nestled on a quiet hilltop, Enchey Monastery offers a glimpse into Buddhist rituals, murals, and traditional architecture. The early morning chants create a serene atmosphere ideal for meditation and reflection. This sacred space holds strong cultural significance among locals and visiting pilgrims. Best of all, there’s no entry fee, making it ideal for budget-conscious travellers. Vendors nearby also sell snacks and souvenirs at affordable rates.

• Location: Ridge Road, Gangtok
  
  
• How to Reach:
• By Bus: Local buses run from Deorali stand.
• By Train: Take a train to New Jalpaiguri (NJP), then bus/taxi to Gangtok.
• By Air: Bagdogra Airport is the nearest, 125 km away.
  
  
• Things to Do / Places to Visit: Meditation, architecture photography, attend morning prayers
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹0–₹50
  
  
• Trip Duration: 1–2 hours
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Butter tea, local prasad offerings
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Kalimpong, Darjeeling

Pro Tip: Visit during early mornings for fewer crowds and scenic sunrise views.

Ride the Gangtok Ropeway

The Gangtok Ropeway is perfect for travellers wanting a bird’s-eye view of the city. It connects three stations—Deorali, Namnang, and Tashiling—allowing you to see Gangtok from different angles. Tickets are reasonably priced, and the short ride is thrilling, especially for first-timers. The cable cars can get crowded, so visit early to avoid queues. The 15–20 minute ride lets you capture panoramic photos of the valley and town. It’s a must-do for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.

• Location: Deorali, Gangtok
  
  
• How to Reach:
• By Bus: Use local transport to reach Deorali
• By Train: NJP to Gangtok, then taxi to Deorali
• By Air: Bagdogra to Gangtok by shared cab
  
  
• Things to Do / Places to Visit: Enjoy panoramic views, aerial photos, short city rides
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹120 per person
  
  
• Trip Duration: 1 hour
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Nearby street stalls: fried momo, tea
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Siliguri, Pelling

Pro Tip: Book tickets in advance using PhonePe UPI for smooth payment and cashback offers.

Try Local Street Food at MG Marg

MG Marg is Gangtok’s vibrant pedestrian hub where foodies can indulge without guilt. With dozens of stalls and cafés, you can taste authentic Sikkimese street food for as low as ₹50. Popular picks include piping hot thukpa, steamed momos, and sweet sel rotis. The area is clean, organized, and lively, especially in the evenings. Vendors accept cash and UPI, making transactions convenient. It's not just a food street—it’s a cultural hotspot for meeting locals and fellow travellers.

• Location: MG Marg, Central Gangtok
  
  
• How to Reach:
• By Bus: Accessible from any part of the city
• By Train: NJP to Gangtok, then local taxi
• By Air: Land at Bagdogra, take a taxi
  
  
• Things to Do / Places to Visit: Shop, street photography, dine at budget cafés
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹100–₹200
  
  
• Trip Duration: 2–3 hours
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Thukpa, momo, sel roti, jalebi
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Namchi, Ravangla

Pro Tip: Use SBI Yono offers while dining at digital-payment-enabled cafés.

Explore Hanuman Tok

Hanuman Tok is one of the most peaceful and spiritually uplifting places in Gangtok. Located at a height of over 7,000 feet, it offers majestic views of the Kanchenjunga range. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman and is maintained by the Indian Army, ensuring cleanliness and order. With minimal to no crowds during weekdays, it’s ideal for meditation or reflection. The serene road leading up to it is just as scenic as the destination itself. Entry is free, and shared taxis are an affordable way to get there.

• Location: Upper Gangtok
  
  
• How to Reach:
• By Bus: Local mini-buses are available
• By Train: Nearest major railhead is NJP
• By Air: Bagdogra to Gangtok cab, then taxi
  
  
• Things to Do / Places to Visit: Temple visit, scenic view, photography
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹0–₹50
  
  
• Trip Duration: 1–1.5 hours
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Street-side momos en route
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Rumtek, Lachung
  
  

Pro Tip: Check UPI scan-and-pay stalls en route for chai and snacks with Paytm promo codes.

Walk Around the Flower Exhibition Centre

This vibrant centre near Ridge Park showcases a lush collection of seasonal flowers and rare orchids. A must-visit during the spring and summer months, the greenhouse bursts with colors, making it perfect for nature lovers and Instagrammers. The affordable ₹20 entry fee makes it one of Gangtok’s most accessible attractions. The garden is well maintained and offers a quiet retreat from the city buzz. It also features benches to relax and admire the blooms. The venue often hosts annual flower shows that highlight Sikkim’s floral diversity.

• Location: Ridge Park, Gangtok
  
  
• How to Reach:
• By Bus: Take a local bus to Ridge Road
• By Train: NJP, then shared cab to Gangtok
• By Air: Bagdogra + taxi
  
  
• Things to Do / Places to Visit: Flower viewing, photo ops, garden walk
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹50–₹100
  
  
• Trip Duration: 1 hour
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Nearby café snacks
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Namchi, Kalimpong

Pro Tip: Visit in March–June for full bloom season—much like shopping during Spring Sale on Myntra.

Visit Banjhakri Falls

Banjhakri Falls is a scenic waterfall and landscaped park that combines nature with Sikkimese folklore. The 100-foot waterfall is surrounded by sculptures of shamanic traditions, lush gardens, and walking bridges. It's a family-friendly destination with open spaces for picnics and games. Entry is affordable, and food stalls near the entrance sell refreshments. Educational signs tell stories of tribal healers known as "Banjhakris." The mix of myth, nature, and fun makes it unique.

• Location: Ranka Road, Gangtok
  
  
• How to Reach:
• By Bus: Limited, taxis are better
• By Train: NJP to Gangtok, then cab
• By Air: Bagdogra airport + cab
  
  
• Things to Do / Places to Visit: Waterfall visit, tribal sculptures, nature walk
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹100–₹150
  
  
• Trip Duration: Half-day trip
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Maggi, tea stalls near entrance
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Pelling, Ravangla

Pro Tip: Buy snacks and water beforehand at local kirana stores with Paytm cashback options.

Trek to Tashi View Point

Tashi View Point is known for offering unobstructed views of the majestic Kanchenjunga, especially at sunrise. A short trek or drive brings you to this peaceful location just outside the city. It has basic facilities like binocular rentals and a few food stalls. The surrounding landscape is ideal for light hikes and early morning photography. During winter, the skies are clear, offering postcard-perfect sights. It’s a quick escape for those looking to experience Gangtok’s natural beauty on a budget.

• Location: Tashi, 8 km from Gangtok
  
  
• How to Reach:
• By Bus: Not frequent
• By Train: NJP, then taxi
• By Air: Bagdogra + cab
  
  
• Things to Do / Places to Visit: Sunrise view, photo sessions, binocular spotting
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹10–₹30
  
  
• Trip Duration: 1–2 hours
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Hot chai and buns
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Siliguri, Lachung

Pro Tip: For scooter rentals, check local deals via SavePlus India to get instant savings on hourly rates.

Enjoy Budget Shopping at Lal Bazaar

Lal Bazaar is where locals shop for everything from groceries to winter clothes and spices. It’s a treasure trove of affordable souvenirs like prayer flags, incense sticks, and woollen garments. The market is known for its authenticity, making it a must for cultural shopping. Bargaining is encouraged, and most vendors accept UPI for easy payments. It's less commercial than MG Marg, offering a glimpse into everyday Sikkimese life. The market is particularly vibrant on Sundays.

• Location: Below MG Marg, Gangtok
  
  
• How to Reach:
• By Bus: Local buses drop near the market
• By Train: NJP, then cab
• By Air: Bagdogra + taxi
  
  
• Things to Do / Places to Visit: Street shopping, spice and clothing hunt
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹200–₹500
  
  
• Trip Duration: 1–2 hours
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Local pickles and candies
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Darjeeling, Namchi

Pro Tip: Avoid weekends and shop early for the best items.

Ride Shared Taxis Like a Local

Shared taxis are the cheapest way to get around Gangtok like a local. They follow set routes and pick up multiple passengers, making them both economical and eco-friendly. Locals use them daily for commuting to work, markets, and school. The cost per ride can be as low as ₹10, much cheaper than private cabs. These taxis cover routes to all major attractions and markets. Payments can be made via UPI or cash, and drivers are generally helpful with directions.

• Location: All around Gangtok
  
  
• How to Reach:
• By Bus: Shared taxis work as informal buses
• By Train: NJP to Gangtok, then switch to shared taxi
• By Air: Bagdogra, then to Gangtok
  
  
• Things to Do / Places to Visit: Experience local commute, city views
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹50–₹100 per day
  
  
• Trip Duration: Continuous local use
  
  
• Must Try Foods: N/A (but en route vendors sell snacks)
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Siliguri, Kalimpong

Pro Tip: Carry small change and use PhonePe or GPay to avoid overpaying.

Rumtek Monastery

One of the most famous monasteries in the region, Rumtek offers spiritual insight and stunning architecture. Located 23 km from Gangtok, it serves as the seat of the Karmapa of the Kagyu sect. The monastery complex is large, peaceful, and filled with prayer wheels, murals, and golden stupas. It’s a great place for cultural exploration and introspection. The views of the valley from the monastery are equally captivating. Entry is free, and affordable food stalls are located nearby.

• Location: 23 km from Gangtok, Rumtek
  
  
• How to Reach:
• By Bus: Limited SNT buses available
• By Train: NJP to Gangtok, then shared jeep to Rumtek
• By Air: Bagdogra to Gangtok, then local taxi
  
  
• Things to Do / Places to Visit: Explore monastery halls, watch monks chant, photograph panoramic views
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹50–₹100
  
  
• Trip Duration: Half-day trip
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Local thukpa and butter tea at nearby stalls
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Pakyong, Rangpo

Pro Tip: Combine this visit with Lingdum Monastery on the same route using shared taxi options. Pay with UPI apps for quick stops at tea stalls.

Ganesh Tok Viewpoint

This hilltop viewpoint and temple is dedicated to Lord Ganesha and offers panoramic views of Gangtok and the snow-clad mountains. It’s a small but significant spot often overlooked by tourists. Visitors can also dress up in traditional Sikkimese attire for photos at affordable rates. The walk up is lined with prayer flags and offers a peaceful atmosphere. It’s perfect for morning or evening visits. Basic food stalls and tea shops are available nearby.

• Location: 7 km from Gangtok, near TV Tower
  
  
• How to Reach:
• By Bus: Taxis are more convenient
• By Train: NJP to Gangtok, then cab or scooter
• By Air: Bagdogra + taxi to Gangtok
  
  
• Things to Do / Places to Visit: Scenic viewpoints, small temple, traditional dress photography
  
  
• Estimated Budget: ₹30–₹100
  
  
• Trip Duration: 1–1.5 hours
  
  
• Must Try Foods: Maggi, steamed corn, local tea
  
  
• Nearby Cities: Tadong, Gangtok Main Town

Pro Tip: Dress in traditional Sikkimese attire (₹50–₹100) for memorable photos. Many stalls accept Paytm QR codes for payment.

Conclusion

Gangtok delights every kind of traveller—even on a shoestring budget! With scenic views, local eats, spiritual sites, and smart hacks from SavePlus, you can explore more while spending less. Use UPI offers, plan around local festivals, and enjoy real value without missing out. Gangtok’s charm proves budget travel can still be extraordinary.

FAQ 

What is the best time to visit Gangtok on a budget?
Visit during the shoulder seasons—March to May or September to November—for pleasant weather and lower accommodation rates.

Are shared taxis in Gangtok safe and reliable?
Yes, shared taxis are widely used by locals. They're affordable, safe, and follow fixed routes across town.

Can I find budget accommodation easily in Gangtok?
Yes, there are many affordable hostels, homestays, and budget hotels starting from ₹500 per night.

Do food stalls and local shops accept digital payments?
Most vendors in popular areas like MG Marg accept Paytm, PhonePe, or Google Pay.

Is Gangtok suitable for solo female travelers?
Absolutely. Gangtok is known for being tourist-friendly and safe, especially in central areas and popular sites.