Banjhakri Waterfalls

Ban Jhakri Waterfalls near Gangtok (celebrated across Sikkim eco tourism and folklore as 'Ban Jhakri' translating to 'Forest Shaman' or 'Jungle Healer', sprawling across a two hectare landscaped subtropical valley along the Ranka road at an elevation of 1,600 meters / 5,250 feet, world famous for its thunderous 100 foot / 30 meter natural mountain waterfall plunging into a emerald pool, Nepali shamanic folklore theme park dotted with life sized ethnic sculptures of traditional spirit healers and mythological woodland creatures, solar powered energy exhibits, manicured flower gardens, and dragon crested wooden footbridges crossing rushing rocky streams), located near Swastik Gate in Gangtok in Sikkim, stands as Gangtok's premier family picnic park and cultural nature attraction.

Inaugurated by the Government of Sikkim to revive and preserve indigenous Himalayan shamanic traditions, the park celebrates the mythical 'Ban Jhakri'—a benevolent woodland spirit believed by the ethnic Nepali community to live inside hidden mountain caves, rescuing gifted human boys and training them in occult herbal medicine and spiritual healing.

It's the home of the paved trail leading directly to the base viewing terrace where refreshing cold spray from the 100 foot cascade mists visiting travelers, the life sized stone and clay figurines illustrating Jhakri apprentices undergoing mystic woodland initiations, the traditional thatched gazebos set amidst blooming hydrangeas and ferns, the solar energy educational pavilions, and an intensely peaceful, deeply family friendly mountain park atmosphere that delights travelers of all generations.

It represents a rich Sikkim folklore heritage, Himalayan shamanic traditions, and sustainable eco tourism where 100 foot waterfalls, Ban Jhakri cave sculptures, lush garden trails, and Gangtok sightseeing travel unite in Ban Jhakri Waterfalls.

Located in a forested valley 7 km northwest of Gangtok city center (MG Marg) on the route toward Ranka Monastery, it sits 16 km from Rumtek, 6 km from Tashi Viewpoint, and 125 km from Siliguri / NJP, easily reached in 20 minutes by private taxi or sightseeing cab.

The 100 Foot Cascade & Shamanic Sculptures

Plunging 30 meters over vertical mossy granite rock faces, the waterfall generates a soothing roar that echoes throughout the surrounding pine gorge.

Scattered throughout the park grounds are authentic statues depicting 'Ban Jhakri' and his fearsome wife 'Ban Jhakrini', alongside scenes of tribal shamans playing traditional dhyangro drums during healing rituals.

Truth is, standing on the footbridge right in front of the waterfall while misty cool drops splash your face is an absolute delight on a sunny Gangtok afternoon.

Renewable Energy Park & Children's Play Zone

Energy Theme Exhibits: The park features working models of micro hydel turbines, solar lighting, and renewable energy displays designed to educate school groups and travelers about mountain conservation.

Family Amenities: Gentle paved walking pathways, a children's activity area, and a safe artificial boating pond make this one of the most accessible family destinations around Gangtok.

Gangtok North West Day Tour Circuit

The Classic Day Plan: Ban Jhakri Falls (9:30 AM to 11:30 AM) -> Ranka Monastery / Lingdum Monastery (12:00 PM to 1:30 PM) -> lunch in Gangtok -> Do Drul Chorten and Tibetology museum (3:00 PM to 5:00 PM) -> evening shopping along MG Marg.

Photography Tips: The wooden footbridge crossing the plunge pool provides the ideal framing angle to capture the full vertical drop of the falls surrounded by blooming green foliage.

After admiring the roaring cascade of Ban Jhakri Waterfalls, visit Ranka Monastery, explore Do Drul Chorten, or tour Gangtok.