capital of the principality of Sikkim. Situated in a mountain valley near the Natu Pass in spurs of the Himalayas; altitude, 1,900 m. It has a damp climate (yearly precipitation approaches 3,300 mm). Average temperatures: 8° C in January, 20° C in July. Population, 12,000 (1964).

Gangtok is one of Sikkim’s major commercial and transportation centers. Roads link it with the railroad junction in Siliguri and the airport in Baghdogra (India). A ropeway leads to the pass. Cottage industry is important; it includes woodworking, tanning, paper production, embroidery, and carpet weaving. There is also a printing press establishment, a publishing house, an electric power plant, and an institute of Tibetan studies. The city consists largely of single-story dwellings, but one can also see the modern stone edifices of hotels, movie theaters, and stores. The residence of the ruler of the principality stands at the top of a hill, together with a monastery that is a typical example of Tibetan religious architecture.