Bakthang Waterfall is one of the most beautiful and scenic natural waterfalls near Gangtok. It is located on the North Sikkim Highway (NH10) near Tashi Viewpoint.
It is an ideal stop while doing sightseeing around Gangtok. The name “Bakthang” comes from the local words where ‘Bak’ means forest and ‘Thang’ means meadow.
But the height of the waterfall is not very tall, what makes it so special is the wide horizontal cascade of water flowing over rocks covered with green creepers, and forming a small, shallow pool at the bottom.
It a picture-perfect spot for nature lovers and photography lovers. The waterfall is fed by the Ratey Chu river, which originates from the Himalayan glacial streams. Because of its location and beauty, Bakthang Water Fall is a must-visit during your Gangtok tour.
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Best time to visit Bakthang Waterfall
Before planning your visit to Bakthang Waterfall, it’s important to understand how weather and seasons affect the waterfall and the overall travel experience.
Since Bakthang is a nature spot surrounded by hills and forests, timing your visit well will make it more enjoyable. This is the first concern of you. Summer and Autumn are considered the best seasons to visit Bakthang.
Summer (March–June)
Summer is one of the best seasons to visit Bakthang Waterfall. Because in this season, the weather is pleasant with clear skies. Temperature stays between 12°C – 22°C in Gangtok, that is cool and walking around is comfortable.
In this season waterfall flow is steady and nature looks fresh and green. This season is great for sightseeing, photography, and spending peaceful time near the falls. If you are planning your Gangtok trip next year, choose this season.
Monsoon (July–September)
Monsoon is one of the best times to visit Bakthang Waterfall because the water flow becomes much stronger and fuller, creating a powerful and refreshing scene. But Bakthang is not your ultimate travel goal. Most of the travellers come Gangtok for sightseeing.
Because this season is very cloudy and foggy, visibility remains very low so you can’t enjoy sightseeing.
There is also risk of landslide, roads become slippery and you can’t walk because the weather change frequently so this season is not recommended to visit Gangtok, but you can visit Bakthang Waterfall.
Autumn (October–November)
After summer, Autumn is also the best season to visit Gangtok and Bakthang Waterfall. This is post monsoon season so you will see greenery everywhere and with clear skies.
In this season, the weather becomes clear and pleasant after the monsoon. In this season, temperature stays between 8°C – 18°C in Gangtok, make it cool.
This is a great season for capturing photos with crisp air and clear light. So you can visit Gangtok in this season.
Winter (December–February)
In Gangtok the winters are very cold because of Himalayas. But you can still visit Bakthang Waterfall in winter if you are comfortable with colder temperatures.
In this season temperature remains between 3°C – 12°C. Mornings are very chilly, but the air is clear and refreshing. You will feel relaxed and calmness in this season. So if you want a quiet and relaxed nature visit, this season will be perfect for you.
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How to Reach Bakthang Waterfall
If you are planning to visit Gangtok and Bakthang waterfall you must have to take some knowledge about the transportation system in Gangtok to make your journey easy and hassle free.
Bakthang Waterfall is very easy to reach from Gangtok because it is located along the main highway and close to many other sightseeing spots. There are many ways to reach to Gangtok and Bakthang:
By Flight
There are no airports in Gangtok city so you have to reach to the nearest airport first. The nearest airports are Pakyong Airport and Bagdogra Airport. You can reach any of the airport from both.
At any airport, you will easily taxi or cab to Gangtok. Once you reach Gangtok, book a local taxi to Bakthang Waterfall. It’s simple and quick. No permit is required to visit the waterfall.
By Train
There are no train stations in Sikkim. Because trains not operate in Sikkkim because of the mountain area. So you have to reach to the nearest New Jalpaiguri or Siliguri train stations.
From here you can hire a local taxi or cab to Gangtok. You will get easily. And after reaching Gangtok you can book a local taxi to the Waterfall.
By Road
This is the most convenient and best way to reach Bakthang. Bakthang is located on the North Sikkim Highway (NH10), about 5–7 km from Gangtok city center.
The road is smooth and well connected, so you can easily reach by taxi or local shared jeep. It takes around 15–20 minutes from MG Marg or Deorali Stand. So you can visit easily.
Tour Package
If you want a stress-free travel experience, you can book a Gangtok Tour Package that includes Bakthang Waterfall in the itinerary.
Nearby Tourist Attractions
These are nearby places to visit in Gangtok and Bakthang Waterfall.
FAQs
Why is Bakthang Waterfall famous?
Because of its natural beauty, wide cascade, green surroundings, roadside access and location near Tashi Viewpoint.
Where is Bakthang Waterfall located & how far from Gangtok?
It is located on North Sikkim Highway (NH10), about 5–7 km from Gangtok town. It’s a quick drive of around 15–20 minutes.
Is there an entry fee or permit needed?
No, there is no entry fee or permit required to visit Bakthang Waterfall.
When is the best time to visit?
Summer (March–June) and Autumn (October–November) are the best times for most travellers.
Is Bakthang Waterfall good for photography?
Yes the waterfall’s setting, greenery, shallow pool, and mountain backdrop make it a wonderful spot for photos and nature moments.
