Gangtok to Rumtek
Your options
Ways to make the journey
1–1.25 h
Shared taxis to Rumtek leave from a stand in central Gangtok through the day, more often in the morning. They drop you in Rumtek village, a short walk below the monastery gate. Come back by mid-afternoon, as the last taxis leave early. Ask your hotel which stand is currently used, as Gangtok has moved stands in the past.
1 h each way
A reserved small car gives you Rumtek with waiting time, and for a few hundred more you can add Lingdum Monastery at Ranka on the way back, making a half-day loop. Agree the route and waiting time first. This is the easiest option for families and seniors.
Half day
Many Gangtok drivers sell a fixed package that covers Rumtek, Lingdum (Ranka) and a few viewpoints or the flower show. It saves negotiating, but the time at each stop is short. Ask for at least an hour at Rumtek if the monastery is your priority.
Worth a stop
- Ranipool
- Old Rumtek Monastery (lower down the hill)
- Lingdum Monastery at Ranka (on the loop road)
Questions people ask
Good to know
How do I get from Gangtok to Rumtek
Take a shared taxi from central Gangtok for about ₹60–120 a seat, or hire a car for ₹1,200–2,000 return with waiting, indicative 2026. The 24 km drive takes about an hour via Ranipool. Shared taxis are frequent in the morning and thin out after 2–3 pm, so plan your return before late afternoon.
Can I combine Rumtek and Ranka in one trip
Yes. Lingdum Monastery at Ranka sits on the hills between Gangtok and Rumtek, and drivers commonly do both as a half-day loop. Expect 4–5 hours including visits. Book a reserved car for this; shared taxis do not link the two easily. Ask your driver to visit Rumtek first to reach it before the tour groups.
Is there an entry fee at Rumtek Monastery
There is usually a small entry fee or none, and a security check at the gate where you must show a photo ID. Fees and rules can change, so carry some cash and your ID. Photography inside the main prayer hall is often restricted, so look for signs or ask the monks before taking pictures.
Should I stay overnight at Rumtek
Stay a night or two if monasteries are the main reason for your trip. Sleeping near Rumtek lets you hear morning prayers and visit Old Rumtek, Ranka and village lanes without rushing. There are a few quiet stays in the area, such as Bamboo Retreat. For a quick look, a half-day from Gangtok is enough.