Water Garden at Martam Khola

Just off the 31-A National Highway sits one of East Sikkim’s favorite weekend escapes - the Water Garden at Martam Khola. Maintained by locals and loved by families, it’s been a go-to picnic spot for years.

Only 16 km from Gangtok, the drive is short but the change in pace feels big. A shallow pool fed by the Martam Khola river makes it especially popular with children, while the open riverbank is perfect for laying out a picnic blanket.

What’s in Store

Kid-Friendly Pool: A safe splash zone for children, shallow enough to set parents at ease.
Picnic Grounds: Grassy banks by the river, shaded in parts, where you can unpack a spread of momos or sandwiches.
Scenery: Terraced fields, forested slopes, and on clear days, distant Himalayan peaks.
Nearby Stops: Rumtek Monastery lies just 7 km away, and Fambong Lho Wildlife Sanctuary is close enough for a nature detour.

Planning Your Visit

Location: 16 km south of Gangtok on the 31-A National Highway, near Martam village. About a 30–40 minute drive.
Getting There: Taxis and shared jeeps run regularly from Gangtok. If you’re driving, the road is straightforward but winding.
Timings & Entry: Open daylight hours, roughly 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. There’s a small entry fee.
Best Time: Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) bring the most comfortable weather. Monsoon months can leave the riverbank muddy.
Tips: Carry your own food and water - there aren’t cafés here. Wear good walking shoes, keep children close to the river in check, and bring sun protection.

Why Go

The Water Garden is simple but welcoming - a patch of green by a clear stream, with enough space for families, couples, or small groups to unwind outdoors. Combine it with a visit to Rumtek Monastery or a walk through Martam’s rice fields, and it makes for a full, easy day out from Gangtok.