Oh, the folly of the endeavour! Slaying the lean biosphere in the monsoon is always as adventurous as it is hazardous. But in accordance with fact and reality, one who is bequeathing the dirt flurry of the city to reanimate in the verdure embedded under the benedictions of the Kanchenjunga is always ready to accept the risk. You can’t stop him. Being demented he will actually trail up the soaked meandering paths, en route a vast diversity of nature patched with different species of plant and animal life. Gangtok is truly a lofty escape. But the monsoon has got something better and bold to add on. The slick tracks offering a distinct stride, the lush greenery appareled with sparkling droplets, the mystic mountain mist floating aimlessly and the harmony in the people in general, together makes an esthetic journey. Sitting on the lap of the majestic Himalaya, one can discover the unique blend of diverse culture and religion anytime in the year. With the presence of age-old traditions, this hill station in India is definitely not lagging behind the rest of the world in terms of modernization – posh markets, educational institutes, fast food outlets, discotheques, and all other modern amenities including hotels in Gangtok that your heart can go for. One traversing the foothills to this mighty hill station, from New Jalpaiguri to Gangtok, the plethora of tea gardens and the evergreen forest will surely feast one’s eyes. Within your monsoon escape to Gangtok, you can pay a visit to the hundred years old Labrang Monastery that belongs to the Nyingmapa sect of Tibetan Buddhism, the same as that of Pemayangtse monastery in West Sikkim. Nestled beautifully in the bewitching country side the Rumtek Monastery that is the seat of the Karmapa Lama who heads the Kagyupa Sect of Buddhism is another popular attraction. If you are a nature freak, the tranquility of Khecheopalri Lake, surrounded by mountains with dense forests and wild life, will truly mesmerize you. Further if you are willing to take the risk, en route some hazardous mountain-slides that is obvious in this time of the year, you will indeed encounter the celestial beauty of the Changu Lake that is one of the high-altitude lakes in the world. Further if your overall circumstances or condition in life permits you, drive up to the Nathula Pass, which is one of the highest mountain passes in the world as well as a bridge that connects India and China.

Being in the hills in this time of the year, you are not going to face any dearth of hotels in Gangtok. Brainsick travellers even weekenders like you and me or like minded people, who always search for quaint escape hardly waits for peak seasons. Nonetheless the Orange Villa Resort that is nestled amidst the natural foliage overlooking the green hills is one of the best hideouts. It comprises of six executive suites and 25 luxury rooms with private balconies. Further the Elgin Nor-Khill Hotel located on the Paljore Stadium Road is another option for you to build your nest. It is one of the well known 3 star hotels in Gangtok. On the other hand, the Keepsa Residency that is one of the budget hotels in Gangtok offers a homelike atmoshphere and is crafted with deluxe, super deluxe rooms and suites. It is an ideal getaway for budget travellers. One can even enjoy the panoramic view of the far-fetched snow-capped mountains. Well, can’t assure that during the monsoon where clouds and mist are going to play around you.

While you cut and run pegs of gilded spirits, your stay in Gangtok will let you to explore the culinary paths in the form of Nepali and Tibetan cuisine to other ethnic groups like Lepcha and Bhutia. Apart from these, there's always the ubiquitous North Indian cuisine that's found in restaurants worldwide. Do not forget to savor the spicy Momos!