Monasteries and shrines · Hanuman Tok
A quiet visit to the Hanuman Tok temple
Climb the steps to the small Hanuman temple built in 1950 over a sacred stone and kept by the Indian Army. A short, calm visit for devotees and curious travellers alike, with a wide view over Gangtok from the terrace.
Photo: Anjan Kumar Kundu · CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Taxis stop at a small parking area below the temple, and a flight of steps leads up through trees and flags to the shrine. Take them slowly. At the top, leave shoes at the rack, wash your hands if a tap is provided, and join the line to the inner shrine, where the image of Hanuman is kept with offerings of flowers and sindoor.
The temple is small, and the atmosphere is orderly rather than busy, except on Tuesdays and Saturdays, the days traditionally given to Hanuman worship, and on festival days such as Hanuman Jayanti, when soldiers and local families come in larger numbers. Prasad is sometimes given; accept it with your right hand.
After the shrine, walk out to the terrace for the view down over Gangtok and across to Rumtek. Remember that the temple is in an Army-maintained area: keep to the open parts of the grounds and follow any instructions from the staff on duty.
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Questions travellers ask
Before you book
What are the timings of Hanuman Tok temple?
The temple is generally open from early morning to around sunset, roughly 6 am to 6 pm, though hours can vary with the season and Army arrangements. Morning visits give the clearest views. Check current status before you travel, especially for evening visits.
Who looks after Hanuman Tok?
The Indian Army. According to Wikipedia, an official named Appaji Pant built the temple in 1950, and the Army later acquired the land around it and inherited the temple. That is why the grounds are well maintained and why photography of the surroundings is restricted.
Is Hanuman Tok worth visiting for non-Hindus?
Yes, as long as you behave respectfully. Many visitors come mainly for the view, which is the highest in Gangtok town. Remove shoes before the shrine, dress modestly, and do not photograph the inner sanctum unless permitted. The terrace and steps are open to everyone.
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