The Sikkim Research Institute of Tibetology and other Buddhist studies in Gangtok is today the most prestigious of its kind in India. It has a vast collection of rare Lepcha, Tibetan and Sanskrit manuscripts as well as statues and icons used in Buddhist liturgy. The institute promotes a serious study of Buddhist philosophy and religion and is a leading authority on the subject. 

A 24 km drive from Gangtok, through scenic mountain country, brings one to Rumtek. One of the six premium monasteries of Sikkim, the Rumtek Monastery follows the Karma Kagyu order of Tibatan Buddhism. The monastery has some of the most unique religious art objects. 

Adjoining the Siniolchu Lodge, 3 km from Gangtok, is the Enchey Monastery situated on a spur. The 200 year old monastery has in its premises, images of Gods and Goddesses and religious objects. In December, the monastery is the venue for the annual 'Chaam' or ritual dance of the lamas. 

38 km from Gangtok, Phodong Monastery is one of the six principal monasteries in Sikkim. 

The premier monastery of Sikkim, it commands a panoramic view of the mountain ranges. An interesting feature of this monastery is the depiction of 'Sangthopalri' or heaven, sculptured on wood, which is the handiwork of a single monk who took five years to complete it. The monasteries houses numerous religious idols and other objects of worship, most of which are precious because of their antiquity. Pemayangtse is 140 km from Gangtok. 

Just below the Institute of Tibetology, the orchid sanctuary cultivates a vast range of orchids, including several rare varieties. 

This garden of exotic orchids and rich tropical plants, 14 km from Gangtok, is also a popular picnic spot. 

On the north Sikkim highway, 8 km from Gangtok, the Tashi View Point commands a panoramic view of snow ranges and distant monasteries of North Sikkim. 

Situated at a distance of 34 Kms from Gangtok and 8 Kms from the Indo-Tibetan border, Tsangu or Changoo lake (1500 mts above sea-level), considered sacred by the Buddhists, offers a breathtaking view of the snowclad mountain ranges. Boating and fishing are prohibited at the site.

Among quiet gardens and ruminating deer herds of this park, the image of Buddha, a replica of the original in preaching posture at Sarnath, has been enshrined. From this spot, one gets a beautiful view of the hills and valleys. 

The institute, opened in 1957, is a centre for the preservation and development of traditional arts and crafts of Sikkim. Training is imparted to young boys and girls, and its products like handwoven carpets, wood and bamboo works are world famous. 

A day's trek or an hour's journey by car from Pemayangtse, Tashiding Monastery is the most sacred monastery in Sikkim. An interesting feature here is the 'Bumchu' (Sacred Pot) containing holy water which has never run dry even after 300 years. No pilgrimage to Sikkim is complete without a visit to this monastery. 

At an altitude of 4,000 m, Dzongri is a trekker's paradise. From here one gets an awe inspiring view of the Kangchendzonga range of mountains.