The drive back from Tsomgo Lake was about an hour. I spent the time talking to the taxi driver, who turned out to be a Christian. He dropped me off at my hotel. After the early start, I had a short nap before going out in the late afternoon.
Very close to Gangtok’s main high street, MG Marg, was a narrow street that Steve had recommended exploring. The entrance looked inconspicuous but one evening I had seen lots of people walking along it.
Today I decided to explore it myself. I walked down the street and stopped at a few stalls. At the bottom, there was a sign that said “Welcome to Lalbazaar. Kanchendzonga Shopping Complex. Estd. 1955-56”
As I passed through the archway, I was soon in the indoor market, Lal Bazaar. It was a feast for the senses. I was surrounded by vibrant colours, discordant sounds, and unfamiliar smells. The market was crammed with goods, but the real stars were the fruits and vegetables. Stall after stall burst with produce and other goods. The owners were surrounded by what they were selling, having made use of every inch available to them.
There were countless varieties of rice, pasta, grains and legumes. Fresh produce was spread out everywhere, some of it stacked into neat pyramids. Baskets, bags and household goods filled the remaining stalls, turning the market into a maze of colour and clutter.
After walking around the area, I gradually made my way to my usual Starbucks in the shopping mall.
Knowing this was my last day in Gangtok, the Starbucks staff wanted my photo with this sign! They also offered me free cakes and tea/coffee.
