Mangan is a town located in the northern part of Sikkim, which has a perfect blend of legends and natural beauty. Picture a town where every December, a three-day music festival shakes the mountains and transforms the town into a music lovers’ and adrenaline junkies’ paradise. It is not only a music festival but also a cultural one with traditional songs and dances and a food festival that presents the best of the regional cuisine. Mangan is not just a place to visit; it is also a place to experience the beauty of nature with its Kanchenjunga range, sparkling streams, and beautiful flowers.
History And Culture Of Mangan In Sikkim
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This famous town in Sikkim has a rich history, as well as a rich geography. Sitting on the banks of the River Teesta, the town is historically and culturally important as it is the entry point to the Tibetan Plateau. The region has grown from a mere village to a town mainly because of the strategic location and the recent economic development in the production of organic foods.
Ethnically, Mangan is home to the Lepchas, Bhutias and Nepalis among other ethnic groups of Sikkim. All the groups play an important role in enriching the cultural diversity of the town in terms of their culture, festivals, and way of living. The music festival that is conducted in December for three days is a clear example of how culturally diverse the town is, with bands and visitors from the Northeast region.
Also Read: Sikkim In December
Things To Do In Mangan Sikkim
From exploring charming monasteries to embarking on scenic treks, Mangan presents a diverse array of experiences for every traveller. Discover the beauty of lush valleys, pristine rivers, and vibrant local markets as you delve into the heart of Sikkim. Whether you seek relaxation or adventure, Mangan has something special to offer.
1. Go To The Mangan Music Festival
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Mangan turns into a musical hub every December with its annual three-day Mangan Music Festival. Groups from the Northeast and other parts of the country play against the backdrop of snowy mountains, which makes the show very exciting. The festival is not limited to music only but also has local handicrafts, traditional dance and music, and a food festival that gives a glimpse of Sikkim cuisine. This festival is a perfect example of how the modern world can combine the best traditions of the past. If you are a lover of music or a cultural tourist, then the Mangan Music Festival is a festival you should not miss.
Celebration Month: December
Event Duration: Three days
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2. Trek To The Seven Sisters Waterfalls
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The Seven Sisters Waterfalls are situated 32 km away from Gangtok towards Mangan and is a beautiful waterfall that attracts tourists. The waterfall tumbles down in seven steps and each stage is more beautiful than the other. A viewing shed is ideal for photography and enjoying the beautiful view of nature. The waterfall is most beautiful during the monsoon season because the water flow is at its highest. This place is perfect for a break from the daily grind and to be one with nature in its simplest form.
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Highlights: Series of seven cascading waterfalls with scenic views
3. Trek To Singhik
Singhik, a drive away from Mangan, is a trekker’s delight. The village provides an excellent opportunity to have a close look at the Mt. Kanchenjunga and Mt. Siniolchu. The area is characterised by green trails that can be used for short hiking and nature walks. The calmness of the place along with the beautiful views makes Singhik a preferred destination for nature lovers. The Tourist Lodge nearby offers good lodging facilities, which will enable you to enjoy the natural scenery in the area at your own sweet will. Trekking in Singhik allows getting closer to the calm nature and appreciate the untouched nature of Sikkim.
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Highlights: Panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range
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4. Visit Phodong Monastery
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Phodong Monastery, one of the six major monasteries of Sikkim, is a religious retreat, 38-km from Gangtok. Constructed in the 18th century by the king Chogyal Gyurmed Namgyal, this monastery has beautiful paintings and relics that depict the history of Buddhism in the region. The calm environment and the design of the building make it ideal for meditation and other forms of self-reflecting. Tourists can join the monastic activities and feel the serenity of the place that Phodong is. This monastery is not only a religious place but also a museum of sorts.
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Highlights: Ancient Buddhist monastery with vibrant murals and peaceful surroundings
5. Learn About The Culture Of Rong Lungten Lee
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Rong Lungten Lee is a beautiful imitation of a Lepcha house that gives a glimpse of the lifestyle of the Lepcha people. The house has three rooms and a loft, which is an example of the plain but rather ornate architecture of the Lepchas. This cultural site is situated at the bank of the Teesta River and Kanaka River and the Lepchas can demonstrate the traditional way of living, tools, etc. The Nam Prik Dang area nearby also adds to the beauty of the place, and the calm environment makes Rong Lungten Lee a place to be visited by cultural lovers.
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Highlights: Traditional Sikkimese lifestyle, local customs, and cultural practices
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Best Time To Visit Mangan Sikkim
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The best time to visit Mangan is during the months of March to June and September to December. These are the months when the climate is mild and this is the best time to go for sightseeing and other outdoor activities. The absence of clouds and relatively warm climate contributes to the general atmosphere, which makes it possible for people to appreciate the views of the area.
How To Reach Mangan Sikkim
By Air: The nearest airport to Mangan is Bagdogra Airport which is connected with most of the major cities of India. One can hire a taxi or take a bus from the airport to Mangan, which is about 124 km away.
By Road: Mangan is well connected by road to the capital city Gangtok and other parts of Sikkim. Local buses and taxis are easily accessible and road transport is therefore a viable means of transport for tourists.
By Rail: The New Jalpaiguri Railway Station is the closest railway station to Mangan. From there, you can book a taxi or board a bus to get to Mangan. You will have to travel further 139 kilometres from the railway station to Mangan.
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Mangan is a place that has beautiful sceneries, cultural heritage and many activities that are worth exploring hence making it a perfect place to visit. If you are out to discover the waterfalls, dancing to the tunes of the music festival, or hiking through the trails, the place has it all. Book a trip to Sikkim and make sure to visit Mangan.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Mangan
What is the importance of the Mangan Music Festival?
The Mangan Music Festival is one of the most important cultural festivals that features bands from the region and neighbouring areas. It also includes the display of local arts and crafts, cultural dances and dramas, and food bazaar, which makes it a colourful representation of the culture of the place.
What are the adventure sports that can be done in Mangan?
Yes, Mangan has different adventurous activities such as trekking, hiking, and river rafting. The geographical structure of the region and the beautiful landscape offer a lot of challenges for the adventurers.
Where are the recommended accommodations in Mangan?
Mangan has a variety of hotels starting from the cheap hotels to the expensive hotels and resorts. Some of the most preferred hotels are Hotel Tamarind, Apple Orchard Resort and The Hidden House. These places provide accommodation with a good environment and wonderful views of the surrounding environment.
Can Mangan be considered a family-friendly destination?
Absolutely! Mangan is a perfect place for family vacations. The town has a variety of activities for people of all ages including; nature walks, sightseeing, cultural festivals, and food tours.
What kind of food do they have in Mangan?
The food that is consumed in Mangan is a fusion of different tastes and is prepared from the recipes of the Lepcha, Bhutia and Nepali people. The visitors can taste such dishes as momos, thukpa, and gundruk, which are prepared from fresh products, purchased in local stores.
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With a passion for exploring and travelling to the roads long forgotten, experience the world through enthralling stories and adventures. Join me as I share my experiences at some of the world’s most popular tourist destinations and quench that pestering curiosity with something exciting!
