Gangtok is one of those places where every street has its own charm. Whether you want to try local Sikkimese food, buy souvenirs, or simply enjoy a relaxed walk in the evening, the markets here never disappoint. Travellers often ask which markets are worth visiting, and after helping so many people plan their Sikkim trip through Sort My Trip, these are the places that consistently stand out.
MG Marg
If there is one place you cannot miss in Gangtok, it is MG Marg. This pedestrian street is the heart of the city and the most popular hangout spot.
Why it is famous
Comfortable to walk
Beautiful seating corners
Great restaurants and cafes
Evening lights and music
What to eat
Thukpa
Momos
Sikkimese thali
Local teas and bakery treats
What to shop
Woollens
Sikkim handicrafts
Organic teas
Souvenirs and magnets
MG Marg is where most travellers spend their evenings, and Sort My Trip often recommends booking stays close to this area for convenience.
Lal Bazaar
Lal Bazaar is the best place if you want a taste of local life. It is vibrant, colourful, and packed with things you won’t find in typical tourist shops.
What makes it special
Local spices
Handmade pickles
Fresh produce
Traditional Sikkimese snacks
Must try foods
Chhurpi cheese
Local dried chillies
Homemade candies and sweets
What to buy
Sikkimese herbs
Handwoven bags
Local organic products
The market gets especially lively on weekends and gives a real feel of Gangtok’s culture.
New Market
New Market is perfect if you want budget shopping. It is smaller than MG Marg but full of affordable clothing, footwear, and accessories.
What to shop here
Winter wear
Shawls and stoles
Trendy jackets
Caps and gloves
It is also a good place to grab hot street snacks while browsing through the stalls.
Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom
This is the best place for authentic handcrafted items made by local artisans. If you want something unique and long lasting, this market is worth a visit.
Famous for
Handwoven carpets
Traditional paintings
Wood carvings
Handmade jewellery
Travellers who prefer authentic souvenirs often ask Sort My Trip to include this stop in their sightseeing plan.
Tibet Road and Its Small Eateries
Tibet Road is lined with small cafes and momos shops, perfect for a relaxed evening after sightseeing.
Food to try
Chicken momos
Sha phaley
Fried noodles
Hot butter tea
The vibe here is calm and perfect for travellers who enjoy slow evenings.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which market is best for evening walks in Gangtok
MG Marg is the most popular for evening strolls, food, and photos.
2. Where can I try authentic Sikkimese food
Lal Bazaar and the Tibet Road eateries offer the most traditional flavours.
3. Which market is best for budget shopping
New Market is great for affordable winter wear and trendy clothing.
4. Where can I buy authentic handicrafts
The Directorate of Handicrafts and Handloom is the best place for real Sikkimese crafts.
5. Are the markets walkable
Yes, most markets in Gangtok are located close to each other and easy to explore on foot. Sort My Trip usually suggests staying near MG Marg for this reason.
