Baichung Stadium, also known as Paljor Stadium, is a multi-purpose stadium in Gangtok, the capital city of the northeastern Indian state of Sikkim. The stadium is named after Baichung Bhutia, a retired Indian footballer who hails from Sikkim and is considered one of the greatest footballers India has ever produced.
Baichung Stadium is a modern facility with a seating capacity of around 25,000 spectators. The stadium is primarily used for football matches and is the home ground of United Sikkim FC, a football club owned by Baichung Bhutia. The stadium has hosted numerous football tournaments and matches at both national and international levels, including the prestigious Santosh Trophy and the Indian Super League.
The stadium is located in a picturesque location, surrounded by hills and mountains on all sides. The views of the surrounding mountains and the city from the stadium are breathtaking, making it a popular tourist attraction in Gangtok. In addition to football matches, the stadium is also used for other events such as cultural programs, music concerts, and other public gatherings.
Baichung Stadium has modern facilities like floodlights, scoreboards, press boxes, and VIP boxes. The playing surface is made of artificial turf, which provides a safe and consistent playing surface for the players. The stadium also has locker rooms and other amenities for the players and officials.
Baichung Bhutia, the former Indian football captain, played his last match for the Indian national team at this stadium in 2011. The game was played against Bayern Munich, a German football club, and was witnessed by thousands of football fans nationwide. The stadium has also hosted international matches like the SAFF Championship and the AFC Cup.
Places To Visit In Sikkim Near Taichung Stadium In Sikkim
Located about 4 km from Baichung Stadium, Enchey Monastery is one of Sikkim's oldest and most revered monasteries. It was established in the 19th century and offers a serene atmosphere for meditation and prayer.
Situated about 3 km from Baichung Stadium, the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology is a research institute that studies the Tibetan language, culture, and Buddhism. It has a museum that displays rare artefacts, manuscripts, and thangkas.
Gangtok Ropeway:
The Gangtok Ropeway is a popular tourist attraction about 2 km from Baichung Stadium. It offers a scenic view of the city and surrounding mountains. You can also enjoy a ride in the cable car that runs between Deorali and Tashiling.
Tsomgo Lake:
Tsomgo Lake is a glacial lake about 40 km from Baichung Stadium. The locals consider it surrounded by snow-capped mountains and a sacred lake. You can enjoy boating or take a walk around the lake.
Rumtek Monastery:
Rumtek Monastery is one of Sikkim's largest and most important monasteries. It is located about 22 km from Baichung Stadium and offers a beautiful view of the surrounding mountains. The monastery has a beautiful prayer hall and a golden stupa.
Banjhakri Falls is a beautiful waterfall about 8 km from Baichung Stadium. Lush green forests surround it and offer a perfect picnic spot for tourists. There is also a small park that showcases the traditional way of life of the Lepcha tribe.
Hanuman Tok is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, about 10 km from Baichung Stadium. It is situated at a height of 7,200 feet and offers a panoramic view of the city and surrounding mountains.