pelling travel guide

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The Best Travel Guide to Pelling, Sikkim – Updated for 2024

Researching for offbeat destinations for a vacation and contemplating visiting Pelling ? Look no more as this is the only Pelling travel guide you need to read to plan your trip. With a flexible Pelling itinerary to accommodate different travel styles and weather conditions, I have tried to make it an exhaustive resource for Pelling trip planning .

The Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF) in North Sikkim in October 2023 had damaged some roads in Pelling. However, the repair work has been speedy, and most roads are now in good condition. You can check the updated condition of the roads to plan your route

When you plan a week-long vacation for the first time in three years, would you choose the same place where you visited the last time? Mostly no, right?

But if it's a yes, then you get how special the place must be. That's the best pitch I can make for Pelling – a quaint little town in the Himalayas known for its scenic views and some architectural wonders. Pelling makes you feel free and safe, adventurous and comfortable at the same time.

Besides a detailed itinerary this Pelling holiday guide will cover some easy day-trips you can plan from Pelling and the best places to stay during your trip.

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Is Pelling worth visiting?

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There are so many famous hill stations in India where you can enjoy great weather, luxury hotels and Himalayan views. While you can easily take a trip to Dalhousie-Khajjar-Chhamba on a weekend, you can't do that with Pelling located in the remote north-east.

To take a trip to Sikkim, you need to plan ahead and free-up 5-6 days of your busy schedule at the least. So, the obvious question follows – “Is Pelling worth visiting”?

Pelling is a picturesque town in west Sikkim where you can enjoy pleasant climate throughout the year. It's way less crowded than the capital Gangtok but even more lovely.

Most famous for the resplendent views of Kanchenjunga, Pelling has a mystic old-world charm with its Buddhist monasteries, quaint pilgrimage sites, hidden waterfalls, and friendly locals.

For me the biggest highlights of Pelling are its weather and the views of Kanchenjunga peak – the third highest mountain peak in the world.

When we visited Sikkim in winter , Pelling gave us the much-needed warmth after the chilling temperatures in North Sikkim and even in Gangtok.

When we visited Pelling in the summer, we got the much-needed respite from the pan-fry heat of Kolkata .

Pelling is a great place for every kind of traveler – mountaineers, families on vacation, couples looking for luxury experiences, budget backpackers – the young and the old. Solo travelling might be expensive out here due to lack of accessible public transport.

You'd need to get a small cab service or self-drive. You can also avail this guided small-group tour that make it so much easier to navigate for first-time visitors.

Still wondering, what's so special about this little Himalayan town? Let's take a look at the most stunning sites in Pelling.

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Pelling Sightseeing – Exploring the Pivotal Town of West Sikkim

The local transportation in Pelling is not good. So, the best way to go for sightseeing in Pelling is by hiring a cab. Pelling sightseeing comprises of majestic waterfalls, river, Buddhist pilgrimage, Sikkimese history and modern engineering marvels.

Though it's a small town, you can sense a drastic drop in temperature as you move up from the river-plains to the Kanchenjunga waterfalls or further up. Here's a look at the best places to visit in Pelling, ranked in order of my preference.

Rabdentse Ruins

I love exploring ruins. Somehow, they attract me more than stunning new architecture. So, no wonder, the site of Rabdentse ruins is my favorite place in Pelling.

The history of Rabdentse Ruins traces back to the 17th century when it served as the second capital of the Kingdom of Sikkim. Established by Tensung Namgyal, Rabdentse flourished as a center of political and cultural significance during its time.

The capital was strategically located atop a ridge, providing natural defense against potential invasions. In the late18th century it was abandoned and fell into ruin following a series of conflicts with neighboring kingdoms.

Over the years, nature reclaimed much of the once-thriving city, leaving behind scattered remnants that now form the Rabdentse Ruins.

Today, these ruins stand as a testament to Sikkim's rich history and attract visitors who come to explore the site's ancient architecture and immerse themselves in its historical significance. It is accessible for free for anyone who can hike about 1.5 km through the forests.

Besides exploring the ruins, you can also enjoy the panoramic views from the top. Notable sights include the Sangchoeling monastery and the Kanchenjunga peak.

Sidkeong Bird Park

The first time we visited Sikkim, this was the most underwhelming experience for me. With an entry ticket price of rs.50, the bird park offered nothing but a walk across a hanging bridge to a huge, netted area to see few not-so-rare species of birds.

However, in three years a lot has changed, and this has developed into a beautiful park, especially suitable for families with children. Named after the 10th Chogyel (monarch) of Sikkim, Sidkeong Tulku, it is a beautifully decorated park in the wetlands between Rabdentse and Pemyantse.

Pemyangtse Monastery

Best places to see in Pelling - Pemyangtse

The name “Pemayangtse” translates to “Perfect Sublime Lotus” in Tibetan. Over the centuries, the monastery has undergone several renovations and expansions, evolving into an architectural marvel.

Photography is prohibited inside the monument to maintain sanctity of the place. As you take off your shoes and enter the monastery, a sense of awe engulfs you.

As I ascended the steep staircases with my 1.5-year-old, I should have been practically scared. Instead, I was lost in the charm of the intricate woodwork and vivid murals.

I was a little surprised to see what certainly looked like a painting of Ganesha among the murals. Buddhists don't believe in Hindu Gods. But what do I know about spirituality? There's so much to Indic religions and spirituality that transcends these man-made differences.

Pelling Skywalk and Chenrezig statue

Situated on a hilltop, this glass-bottomed skywalk is a modern engineering marvel of Sikkim. Walking on the transparent pathway, suspended high above the ground, gives you a sensation of “walking in the sky”.

As you venture along the skywalk, the breathtaking vistas of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys, and cascading waterfalls unfold before your eyes.

But what stands out is the path leading to the huge Chenrezig statue. Like in Buddha Park of Ravangla , the statue sits atop a temple that you can enter and learn more about Buddhism in.

Sangcholing Monastery

Sangachoeling monastery is located a short hike away from the Pelling Skywalk. It is the oldest surviving monastery of Sikkim, this 17th-century monument is also known as the “place of secret spells”.

Perched on a hilltop amidst lush greenery, Sangachoeling offers a tranquil and serene ambiance that enhances the spiritual experience.

The monastery houses intricate statues, vibrant thangkas, and sacred scriptures, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Tibetan Buddhism. As you walk on the stone steps leading to the monastery, you're rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and majestic Himalayan peaks.

Kanchanjunga Falls

Surrounded by lush green forests and pristine landscapes, Kanchenjunga Falls offers a serene and refreshing atmosphere.

With a ticket price of Rs. 10, you can ascend a flight of around 50 steps to see this natural splendor. The pristine ice-cold water plunge into the pool inviting visitors to take a dip.

Rimbi River Rock Garden

The Rimbi River Orange Garden , is a delightful and vibrant agricultural attraction. Situated along the banks of the picturesque Rimbi River, this orange garden is a testament to Sikkim's rich horticultural heritage.

In winter, the visitors can stroll through the garden, enjoying the fresh scent of citrus and marveling at the vibrant hues of the oranges.

However, the main attraction here is the Rimbi river itself. Walk over the rocks and see how far you can go, sit and soak the warmth of the sun, with your feet dipped in the river.

While there are no oranges to savor in the summer, you can still enjoy the tranquil surroundings and spend time in the river-rocks. Be cautious, if you are travelling with friends. This is a time-killer, and you'll never know how long you spent here doing nothing!

Rimbi Falls

Rimbi waterfall is a relatively small waterfall on your way from Rimbi orange garden to the Kanchanjunga falls. For a change, there's no need to hike, or trek here. Just park your car and enjoy the splendor while sipping on some hot coffee or spicy Wai-wai. The wooden bridge makes this place picture-perfect.

Khechoparli Lake

Khecheopalri Lake is a sacred and serene freshwater lake that holds immense religious significance for the local Buddhist community. Surrounded by verdant forests and misty hills, the lake is believed to be a wish-fulfilling and sacred site.

Legend has it that the lake's water remains crystal clear due to the blessings of Guru Padmasambhava, the revered Buddhist master. Surrounded by prayer flags and colorful prayer wheels, the lake has a mystical charm.

Honestly, I have seen larger and more beautiful lakes in India, however, the walk through the forests, the folklore around it, and the chance to feed fish makes it unique.

You can trek further to the hill-top from where the Khecheopalri lake looks like a foot.

That would take at least 30-45 minutes extra time. I'd suggest skipping it unless you are really interested in this. There are much better views from other places like Pelling skywalk or Rabdentse Ruins.

How to reach Pelling?

People usually visit Pelling as a part of their Sikkim trip, which should ideally be at least 5-6 days long. You can also combine Pelling trip with a trip to Darjeeling like we did in April this year.

In any case, the closest international airport is the Bagdogra airport in West Bengal, and the closest well-connected railway station in New Jalpaiguri (NJP).

You can book train ticket to the NJP station from any major town of India. Bagdogra is also well-connected to major cities. Once you reach NJP, you can book a cab to Pelling easily.

A 6-seater car like Innova would cost around Rs. 4500 – Rs. 5000, and a 4-seater car would cost around Rs. 3500-Rs. 4000. The prices may vary depending on the travel season. You can also book tourist buses online.

You may also want to explore some offbeat destinations in North Bengal from Jalpaiguri.

Best Accommodations in Pelling

There are three regions in Pelling – upper Pelling, middle Pelling and lower Pelling. Upper Pelling is closer to the skywalk and the helipad. Lower Pelling is closer to Rabdentse and Pemyangtse.

Upper Pelling or Lower Pelling – which is better for staying in?

Upper Pelling offers a better view of the Kanchenjunga , which is probably the reason why the prices are also high. From near the Pelling helipad at upper Pelling you get unobstructed view of the third highest mountain peak in the world.

Well, I have been to Pelling twice, and on both occasions stayed in lower Pelling, and I have no complaints about the view. We got picture-perfect view of Mt. Kanchanjunga from our hotel both times.

But the higher altitude offers a better unobstructed view for photography in upper Pelling. Lower Pelling also has some good restaurants, if you want to dine outside your hotel. The hotel prices are lower and it is less commercialized.

Here are my top hotel/resort recommendations in mid-budget range:

Nettle and Fern Farmstay

Voyage the Aryan Regency at lower Pelling

Summit Tashi Ghang Resort

The Elgin Mount Pandim

Best Day Trips from Pelling

Pelling is a town speckled with natural and architectural wonders, enough to keep one occupied on a short trip. However, it is also used as a base for exploring the nearby, lesser-known places in Sikkim.

Since the accommodation options are limited in these places, people choose to stay in Pelling longer and go for excursions into the places nearby. Here is a list of the best places to go for a day trip from Pelling.

Singshore Bridge

Located about 25 kilometers away, Singshore Bridge is the highest bridge in Sikkim and the second-highest gorge bridge in Asia.

A journey through scenic roads and verdant Himalayan Forest which is home to the cute red pandas is truly memorable. I couldn't spot a red panda, but hopefully you can. On your way you will come across the beautiful Changey Falls.

The suspension bridge stretches across the valley, providing a thrilling experience as you walk across its length.

Take in the panoramic vistas, capture memorable photographs, and savor the adrenaline rush of being high above the ground. Remember to pack some snacks and water, as there may not be many facilities nearby.

After this visit the charming Dentam village and the Alpine Cheese factory located there.

You can combine the trip to Singshore bridge with a completely off-the-tourist-radar place call Uttarey. A village on the border of India and Nepal, Uttarey offers unadulterated natural beauty.

The main attraction here is the view from the Tenzing Hillary Memorial park – established in the memory of the first pair of mountaineers who climbed Mount Everest. If you love trekking, you can do a 2-km trek to this place.

Or you can drive to this spot directly through the motorable road. The idyllic lake, the infectious smile of the two legendary mountaineers commemorated through the statue is sure to fill you with joy.

My little one enjoyed the place the most. It was a delight to see the 1.5-year-old toddler walking his way up the cobbled-stone pavement in the park with his precious smile.

If you can visit the Titnaic park for some photo opportunity. A 10-minute walk from the Titanic Park will take you to the Kagyu monastery, one of the most significant monasteries in Sikkim.

About 2km from here is the trout farm where you can see the rearing of fresh-water fish. Drive 5km further to the Mainbass waterfall and complete this fulfilling excursion.

The scenic drive from Pelling to Yuksom is approximately 35 kilometers. It takes you through picturesque landscapes and enchanting villages.

Upon reaching Yuksom, start your exploration by visiting the historic Dubdi Monastery, the oldest monastery in Sikkim. Immerse yourself in its tranquil atmosphere and admire the beautiful murals and statues.

Continue your journey to the Coronation Throne, where the first Chogyal of Sikkim was crowned. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains from this vantage point.

In the afternoon, visit the Tashiding Monastery, located a short distance from Yuksom. This important pilgrimage site is known for its religious significance and stunning views.

Take a leisurely walk around the monastery complex, observing the prayer wheels and colorful prayer flags. Before heading back to Pelling, indulge in some local cuisine at one of the eateries in Yuksom.

As you make your way back, reflect on the rich history and natural splendor you experienced during this captivating day trip.

Book a day trip to Yuksom

Most famous for the resplendent Buddha Park, the distance from Pelling to Ravangla is only 32 km. People often spend an hour at the Buddha Park in Ravangla on their way to Pelling from West Bengal. The Buddha Park, home to a huge, magnificent statue of Buddha overlooking the town. Take in the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and spend some time in quiet contemplation amidst the peaceful ambiance of the park.

Afterward, visit the Ralang Monastery, an important Buddhist monastery known for its intricate architecture and spiritual significance. Depending on how much time you have or are willing to spend, you can also visit the Tumlong Monastery.

Pelling Itinerary for 2 days (1 night)

You need to set aside at-least one full-day for Pelling.

Day 1 in Pelling

On a relaxed trip with family, you can visit the Skywalk, the Pemyangtse monastery, Kanchanjunga falls, Rimbi falls and the Rimbi river garden on the first day.

While you can just stop your car and marvel at the Rimbi falls, for Kanchanjunga falls and Rimbi river you will need to do a short hike.

I highly recommend a trek to the Rabdentse ruins and Sidekeong bird park. But it will take time and may not be suitable for people with mobility issues.

A trek to the Khechoperi Lake is also worthwhile, however, you will need to manage your time really well to accommodate all these along with the ones mentioned above, all in one day.

Not only will it be hectic, but it also won't be fulfilling enough to touch and leave these places at once.

Day 2 in Pelling

Wake up early to see sunrise at Kanchenjunga peak from the rooftop or balcony of your hotel. Then drive from Pelling to Ravangla on your way back to Siliguri or Bagdogra.

Alternatively, you can also drive from Pelling to the Char-dham in Namchi , on your way back to West Bengal.

These places are beautiful and easily accessible by car. So, if you are visiting with ageing parents, or tiny toddlers, make sure to not miss any of these.

You can also add Kanchanjunga falls, Rimbi falls and the Rimbi river garden to the list. While you can just stop your car and marvel at the Rimbi falls, for Kanchanjunga falls and Rimbi river you will need to do a short hike.

If you're a group of young adventurers and nimble on feet, do not miss the trek to Rabdentse Ruins.

Not only will it be hectic, but it also won't be fulfilling enough to touch and leave these places at onc

Pelling itinerary for 3 days (2 nights)

Pelling is a small town studded with jewels. While you can cover a lot of ground in two days, you should ideally allot 3 days for Pelling.

This will help you see not just the attractions within Pelling but also around it. Here's how I'd plan a 2-day trip to Pelling.

Day 1 in 3-day Pelling itinerary

Visit the skywalk and hike to the Sanga Choeling Monastery. Then start off for an excursion to the Singshore bridge. On the way to Singshore you can stop at the Changey falls. After this you can either explore the Detam village and visit the cheese factory, or head to Uttarey for a scenic drive.

On the second day you can explore the top attractions of Pelling.

Start with Pemyangtse monastery in the morning, then move on to Khechoparli lake, Rimbi river rock garden, Rimbi falls and Kanchenjunga falls. After lunch, trek to the Sidkeong bird park and then to Rabdentse ruins.

The panoramic view from the ruins is a sight to behold before sunset.

Day 3 in Pelling

Drive from Pelling to Ravangla or Namchi on your way back to departure.

If you have more days in Pelling, spend on different excursions and in getting lost in the natural beauty. There's Yuksom and Darap village excursion, and then there's more to explore in Uttarey.

Best Organized tours to book Online

If you want a hassle-free experience travelling in Pelling, I highly recommend these tours.

4-hour Best of Pelling tour in group of maximum 3
2-hour food crawl to discover the culinary delight of Pelling after a long excursion.
Heritage and culture walking tour – A guided tour starting from Pemyangtse to Randentse Ruins

I hope I was able to cover all the ground for you to plan your next trip to Pelling. Watching the first rays of the sun fall on the Kanchenjunga peak, making it turn golden is a sight to behold.

It's something worth visiting Pelling for and worth waking up at 5 am every morning during your stay. To know more about Sikkim, you can check out my other posts about this spectacular little state in India.

Snowfall in Sikkim
The best Sikkim Itinerary
A guide to Lachung – the gateway to North Sikkim

This was my first travel article after a really long time. If you liked it, please share it with your travel buddies.

Drop in your questions and experiences in the comment section. I am not actively posting on the blog or my Instagram profile, but I'm pretty prompt with replying to comments.

Thanks a lot for reading and come back for more travel articles.

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Thank you for putting Pelling on my radar! I had never heard of it until now, and now I’m itching to go! I love the ancient ruins and the little lakes!

Thank you so much for reading. It’s a lovely place to add to ur india bucketlist

I don’t know why the Himalayas have never even been on any of my lists. It looks BEAUTIFUL! Your photos are spectacular.

Thanks a lot for your kind words.

This is a fantastic article ! I’m saving this for my future trip. Thanks for the insight !

I will probably never make it to the Himalayas, so reading your post was interesting. I would love to experience the views of the snow-capped mountains with the glow of the sun on them and go to the skywalk and the bird park. It’s good to hear that on your second visit, you found the bird park had improved.

Thanks a lot. Do check out my blog as I’ll bring you more virtual travel experiences in the Himalayan towns

Thank you for highlighting the beauty of Pelling. The blog has excited me to explore this charming town of Sikkim.

Thanks a lot Kritika for reading and sharing your thoughts.

The Complete Travel Guide to Pelling, Sikkim

Hey there! I have SO MUCH to tell you about Pelling – a serene little town in the North Eastern State of Sikkim. While most travelers to Sikkim either choose to holiday in the capital city of Gangtok, or to spend 7-10 days visiting bits and parts of the whole state quickly, I did what I do best and chose to take it easy, explore one small city for a week and get the real feel of the place – you know what I mean? And boy, was it worth it! Let’s get straight to it, shall we?

WHAT’S GREAT ABOUT PELLING?

A picturesque little town surrounded by rolling hills makes it a refreshing getaway with perfect misty, cloudy weather – the stuff great Indian holidays are made of. While it is not commercial like Shimla and Manali in Himachal Pradesh are, or as cut-off as Tosh and Pulga , you will find it to be a refreshing change of pace for city dwellers always on the run, for a couples getaway, or for writers and artists who need peace, quiet and some natural beauty to get those creative juices flowing.

The highlight of Pelling is the view of the glittering peak of Mount Kanchenjunga in the distance – making for an awe-inspiring sight in the mornings, when the sun’s rays turn it into shades of peach and burnt orange – or in the evenings if you’re lucky and spot it at the exact moment when the clouds around the peak part for a minute.

HOW TO GET TO PELLING

With no railway station or nearby airport, reaching Pelling isn’t easy. If you’re on a budget, you would need to make your way to Geyzing, the largest town in the district (you can get here from Siliguri by bus/cab/shared cab), and switch buses/cabs for the Geyzing-Pelling leg of the journey which would take 5-6 hours. Lastly, you could rent a car from Siliguri, the furthest town of West Bengal for a 4-hour drive to Pelling or do what I did and go on a Kolkata-Sikkim road trip , a journey of 26 hours. I chose this because the flight tickets from one metro city to another (Mumbai- Kolkata ) were much cheaper than that of flight tickets from Mumbai to Siliguri

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT PELLING

Like most of these mountainous states, the best time to visit if you’re travelling with family or with the intention to sightsee and explore – would be between Feb to July, while if you’d like to be enthralled by snowy landscapes, November to Jan is when you should visit Pelling. Visiting in the off-season will give you the benefit of availing good accommodation for cheap but be prepared for spells of rain and closed roads due to landslides. In this case, keep a few days spare for such unforeseen circumstances.

WHERE TO STAY IN PELLING

I hadn’t made any prior hotel bookings in Pelling. My initial plan was to stay somewhere for a night, get a feel of the place, and then get closer to or further away from the hustle-bustle. Turns out, there were absolutely no tourists when I visited in August, which is off-season. It was like the whole town was ours! We booked a lovely little hotel called Hotel Garuda right in the center of Pelling – and we chose this one because the façade was so pretty, it caught my attention straight away! Turns out, the rooms were super comfy and clean, the owners were wonderful (they even gave us a goodbye gift when we left) and I got a view of the (extremely quiet) main road from my balcony as well as of Mount Kanchenjunga from the bedside window. I loved that the entire place was family-run and that the family lived right there, below the hotel. Listening to their chatter, spotting the uncle watching Facebook videos every time I went downstairs, and having the daughter take our dinner orders… it was like living with a local family. While our spacious room is usually priced at Rs. 2000 per night, the owner offered to give it to us at Rs. 1100 (and we didn’t even ask or bargain for a discount!)

On our daily walks and drives around, we couldn’t help but notice how every single hotel in Pelling looked immaculately kept! Some, like ours, were built in the 1980s, but looked better than most buildings constructed 5 years ago! Safe, exceptionally clean, and with great bathrooms (criteria that’s very important to me), I can bet that you can walk into any of them and you will have a pleasant stay, especially since most of them have windows that open up to views of the mountains! Finding a budget hotel or homestay in Pelling would be easy here, so I recommend walking into a hotel over booking online. After spending 3 nights at Hotel Garuda, we spent a night at a luxury hotel in Pelling called Elgin Mount Pandim – more on that later!

HOW TO GET AROUND IN PELLING

As always, it is best if you have your own car so you can see Pelling at your own pace and head off the beaten track every once in a while. Trust me, you will want to! Pelling is a small town and you can get around by foot for the most part, however, to visit any of the attractions, you will need a vehicle. Cabs are available in plenty on a half-day and full-day basis. The half-day package would allow you to see 3-4 attractions from morning to afternoon, while the full-day package would allow you to see around 8 places from morning to evening. I split my sightseeing over 2-3 days and can’t imagine doing it all in one day.

WHERE TO EAT IN PELLING

Like hotels, the restaurants in Pelling are wonderful, too! From the kitchens to the floors, every corner of every restaurant was spotless (Sikkim, in general, places a high emphasis on cleanliness). The food everywhere was made fresh and upon order, and while we were alone at most restaurants, there would always be an attentive server (a family member of the management) around. The restaurant at Garuda Hotel was where we had most of our meals (do try their Poori Bhaji). Most of the restaurant menus are the same – with a mix of Indian, Ch-indian and Tibetan/Sikkim food.

You can also visit Big Bite and Evergreen Café for meals as well as Lotus Bakery for baked goodies. It is one of the only cafes around and has a very homely, rustic vibe. You can see the bakery from the café itself.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN PELLING

Picture a circle. The things to do in Pelling are scattered by the roadside, along the periphery of the circle. So no matter where you go, you can go ahead to the next monument/attraction, or go back to the last monument/attraction you saw. If you think you’d like to skip a monument and go to another, that wouldn’t be possible, as all the monuments are all on the circular route and you would have to cross one in order to proceed to the next. Here are the things to do in Pelling:

Sanga Choeling Monastery – Since Sikkim is highly influenced by Tibetan culture, you’ll have a couple of monasteries to visit in Pelling. This one is the oldest of them all, built in 1642, located among the clouds, high above the forests. The road going up to the Monastery is steep, and small cars struggle with the climb, at an incline of over 60 degrees. Still, many choose to walk this route. Deadly quiet, save for the flutter of the prayer flags and the occasional chant emanating from within, this small, but ornately painted monument cloaked with fog exudes peace while the views are a treat you to the senses!

Pelling Skywalk – Building ginormous statues in natural settings seems to be the trend these days, and here’s another such monument, right besides the Sangla Choeling Monastery. A massive statue of Chenrezig (Avalokiesvara), the most revered of all the Boddhisattvas can be seen from most places in Pelling, but it is only when you’re standing at the feet of the statue, do you get an idea how intricately carved this 137-foot statue is. There is a nominal entry fee to get in, and once you do, walk along the glass skywalk (which is quite a thrill for many since it is high above the ground), and go up the stairs to the statue, turning every prayer wheel as you make your way to the top. If it’s a clear day, you would get unrivaled views of the mountains from here, but sunny day or not, this is a must-visit place in Pelling.

Khecheopalri Lake – A beautiful lake, surrounded by lush foliage, Khecheopalri Lake is a holy place for Buddhists and Hindus, and the abundance of colourful prayer indicates just how sacred it is. The lake is believed to be the footprint of Lord Shiva by the Hindus and that of Goddess Tara by the Buddhists, and hence, even the fish in the lake are not caught or fished – and there are so many, that they seem to be struggling for space in the expansive lake. In fact, visitors are prohibited from bathing or picnicking here, or even feeding the fish anything other than soya chunks that can be bought at the parking lot. One can reach the lake by walking for 3-5 minutes until you come to the area where the boardwalk begins, or one can even trek up the hill for a better view. If you’re in good physical condition, this trek could take half an hour. If not, well, who knows when you’d reach?

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Rabdentse Ruins – Personally one of my favourite places to see in Pelling, Rabdentse Ruins are what remains of what was once the second capital of Sikkim from 1670 to 1814, before it was destroyed by the invading Gurkha Army. Located next to the Bird Park, getting here involves a 30-minute trek of 2 kms through the wilderness (ensure you’re wearing good trekking shoes.) Fret not, though, the trek is relatively easy with no uphill or downhill climbs and the sounds of the birds and insects will have you spellbound during the journey. Unlike the Khecheopalri Trek, this was one I could complete.

Rabdentse Ruins have been declared as a monument of national importance by the Archaological Survey of India and is in excellent condition. The stone walls and floors of this ancient palace-cum-monastery indicate where the bedroom of the king, the guards room, courtyard and more must have once stood. The views from the Rabdentse Ruins are phenomenal. It is worth the walk… and if you know me, that’s saying something!

Rimbi Waterfalls – A small stunner of a waterfall, right by the road, it is enough to make you want to jump out of your car and take a photo or two! Much smaller than the Kanchenjunga Falls, however, as it is right on the road, it is convenient for you to visit and carry on. Due to its easy accessibility, it is most likely to be crowded during peak season, but it was ours for admiring when we stopped our car here.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jade (@thatgoangirl) on Aug 19, 2019 at 6:47am PDT

Kanchenjunga Falls – I love falls located right on the road! No need to trek, and it offers so much beauty to passer-bys! Kanchenjunga Waterfall is one such place – and while you can see the Falls from the main road, you will get the full view of the second mightier Fall once you pay the entry fee and walk a few meters in. The resounding roar of the waterfalls in monsoons and the powerful gushing of the water is a reminder of how powerful Mother Nature is. The icy water comes straight from the mountains and many tourists who dare to get wet in the cold spray make their way right to the foot of the Falls. In the summer, the small tea vendor says, the flow of water is so gentle that kids play in the rocky pool at the foot of the falls, but in the monsoons, it is wise to admire the wild waterfall from a reasonable distance.

Pemyangtse Monastery – This 300 year old monastery is one of the most popular things to see in Pelling. A simple structure with a rich-looking facade, it houses a huge gold-plated statue of Guru Padmasambhava surrounded by candles and wall murals. Allow yourself some time here to marvel at the religious idols, antiques, paintings and more – the spiritual atmosphere will have you feeling at peace with yourself and the world.

There are other places to see in Pelling that I didn’t go to – namely Gangyap Hot Springs, Sinon Monastery and Phamrong Falls. I found that the stops I made were not only the most convenient, but the most beautiful of the lot. You saw all the pictures – wouldn’t you agree?

OTHER THINGS TO KNOW

Pelling is a fabulous place to work for a remote worker/ freelancer , as there is excellent Airtel and Jio network. There are not many cafes to work out of, so you would need to work out of your hotel room. Also remember to carry sufficient cash with you – I don’t recall seeing a single ATM there.

I hope you found this Guide to Pelling, Sikkim, just what you needed to plan your holiday, backpacking trip or luxury stay. If you have any questions, I’m a message away on Facebook , Instagram or Twitter .

Don’t forget to read about my adventures in Hampi , Jodhpur and Udvada ! And stay tuned for my next blog post on Ravangla, Sikkim.

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Exalent discription I visited 2019 may peeling about 7 days gangtok 3 day dargling 2 day but finally peeling is very good Thanx a lot for remembering the things

The owner of Garuda Mr. Wangdi passed away a week ago, he was my Uncle. Please pray for his departed soul. 🙏Om shanti.

Loved the description,one of my to go place

Such a beautiful description of the beauty of sikkim.

Why no mention of Singshore hanging bridge.. It is also one of the most important tourist places..

Hello! “Why no mention?” Because I didn’t visit it. This isn’t curated information – it’s about places I’ve visited, so I don’t think I’m required to talk about places because others want to see them listed. Have a good day!

PELLING TRAVEL GUIDE

Pelling is a beautiful town in West Sikkim, most popular for breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga peak and the Himalayas. Located at a high altitude of 6800ft, Pelling is the ideal place for exploring the Himalayan views, without any of the harshness of the high mountains. It is the closest view possible apart from mountain trekking. Located at 115 km from Gangtok, Pelling is also known for its cultural heritage and history.

Pelling has rightfully emerged as the second most popular traveller halt in Sikkim, right after Gangtok. It has plenty to offer to the nature lover, the culturist, the urban traveller, and is the ideal cool summer break on a vacation trip. In structure, it is little more than a few roads flanked by hotels and homestays offering views of the Kanchenjunga. But step out of the main town, and you are a short distance from monasteries, waterfalls, temples and lakes. Nature presents itself in all its glory around Pelling.

The People Of Pelling

Pelling is home to people of multiple ethnicities. Bhutias make up the majority, and have an ancient alliance with some of the old monasteries of the area. Lepchas inhabit the surrounding villages. Limboos, who are the indigenous people, Chhettris, Nepalis and their sub-castes are some of the other people who live in and around Pelling.

Agriculture is the prominent source of living for most of the people around Pelling. It is common to see double storey traditional houses with enclosed kitchen gardens, further leading to fields, in the roads around Pelling. Small houses perched in the hilly areas make up for some of the picturesque scenery of the area.

Climate And Best Time To Visit

Pelling is the most pleasant in the summer months – March to May. Being a hilly region, winters are cold, and are marked by landslides and snowfall. Autumn is also a good season to visit, and has its own hues of fall. October to November makes up the autumn. Winter starts in December. Monsoon is the most unfavourable time, as the region receives heavy rainfall during monsoon, and many routes are closed.

Getting There & Getting Around Pelling

Pelling is well connected by road to the Bagdogra airport, as well as the Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri Railway stations. From here, you can hire a local taxi to reach Pelling. It is also connected to Gangtok and other towns in Sikkim via road.

Most of the intriguing sights near Pelling are a short distance from the main town. The most common means of commute is hired cars booked through travel agents, as there are few options of local transport, and hilly areas require sturdy vehicles to conquer the mountain roads. For the sites which are closer to the town, a short walk or trek can also be invigorating, especially for those who enjoy moving around in nature or taking photo walks. While doing so, it is important to not dirty the places or to hurt animals farmed by the locals, as this is counted as a disrespect to their culture.

SIGHTSEEING & ACTIVITIES

Pelling is one of the towns in Sikkim where there is no dearth of activities and places to explore. For the hurried traveller, the most famous sites are a must-see, but for the more leisurely traveller, it is recommended to spend a few days to see everything the town has to offer.

PEMAYANGTSE MONASTERY

One of the most ancient monasteries of Sikkim, Pemayangtse literally means “The perfect, sublime lotus.” It is said to represent the chakras or plexus in the human body, which are energy centers. Built in 1705 by Lama Lhatsun Chenpo, it was renovated and expanded later by his successors. It belongs to the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism and controls other monasteries of this order in Sikkim. This monastery has upheld the tradition of anointing monks with holy water, and maintains a strict criterion for bestowing monkhood, chosen from the Bhutias. It is a pilgrimage place for Buddhists due to its ancient roots and spiritual significance.

It is a three storeyed structure, maintained and refurbished several times after earthquakes in 1913 and 1960. It is marked by paintings on the walls, and statues of Rinpoches and other Buddhist leaders. The main deity of Padmasambhava is in the Dorje Bhurpa Vjarakila form, depicted traditionally with multiple heads and arms. One of the main features of the monastery complex is seven-tiered painted wooden structure, said to represent Guru Rinpoche’s heavenly palace called ‘Santopalri’. It was completed by the Late Dungzin Rinpoche in five years’ time, all by himself. There is a varied collection of paintings, Buddhist scriptural texts, idols, and other traditional literature for the visitor to marvel over. The complex also has neatly maintained gardens, and residential monks can be seen going about their daily responsibilities in the area.

The monastery is normally open from 7 AM to 5 PM so the trip should be planned accordingly.

SINGSHORE BRIDGE

The Singshore Bridge is a suspension bridge, and an engineering wonder – the highest bridge in Sikkim and the second highest in all of Asia. It has a height of at least 100m, and a span of 200m. The bridge is surrounded by densely green mountains, and has splendid views of the valley.

KANCHENJUNGA FALLS

This is one of the main waterfalls of Sikkim, and usually remains active throughout the year. Located at a distance of 28 km from Pelling town, it is also one of the more crowded waterfalls. It has a ticketed entry and is busy with shops and roadside sellers. The waterfall is in the gorge carved by the force of the river water, and is one of the most majestic waterfalls, if not the biggest.

KHECHEOPALRI LAKE

Khecheopalri is a distortion of “Kha-Chot-Palri,” which translates to “heaven of Padmasambhava.” The lake is located in the village by the same name, and is one of the sacred lakes, venerated by Hindus and Buddhists alike. It is considered to be a wish-fulfilling lake, and as such, a popular destination for tourists. It is a part of the Buddhist pilgrimage circuit of Sikkim. One of the most unique features of the lake is that no leaves are left floating on the surface of the lake, because they are picked up the birds in the area.

SANGA CHOELING MONASTERY

Sanga Choeling is another ancient monastery located near Pelling. It was established in the 17th century by Lama Lhatsün Chempo. Located on a ridge top, the access to the monastery is through a 4km walk up the hill, which also offers nice views of the hilly vegetation. The monastery was partly damaged by fire and was rebuilt. It is a sacred site for Buddhists and many a Buddhist traveller can be seen here. Beautiful paintings and clay statues dating back to the 17th century can be seen in this monastery.

TASHIDING MONASTERY

This is considered to be the holiest and most sacred Buddhist monasteries in all of Sikkim. Established in 1641 by Ngadak Sempa Chempo Phunshok Rigzing, it belongs to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Ngadak was one of the wise men who crowned the first king of Sikkim. As such, the monastery is held with a lot of reverence by the locals.

RABDENTSE RUINS

The Rabdentse Ruins are of great historical significance, and the ideal place to visit for history buffs. Rabdentse was the second capital of the Kingdom of Sikkim (before it became a part of India), from 1670 to 1814. The city was invaded by the army of Gurkhas, and only ruins remain. Declared of national importance by the Archaeological Survey of India, the place is well maintained and is a part of the Buddhist religious circuit.

The site can be reached by a walk of 1.2km through hilly roads. As of now, only foundations and some broken walls remain, but a walk around the ruins will pique the curiosity of the traveller, and evoke images of what the ancient kingdom must have been like. The pulpit from where judgements were given, the throne of the king, remains of the residence of the royal family, are some of the features of the site.

VILLAGE TOURISM

Village tourism is also picking up in the area, as more and more people become environmentally, socially, and culturally sensitive. Youth of the area support this effort by providing the information and facilities to the tourists. Those keen to absorb the lifestyle of the locals and contribute to the local communities can also spend time in Singyang and Chumbong villages soaking in the cultural vibes. A few lodges in these villages offer these facilities and details can be obtained by request.

Located at an optimum distance from some of the ancient epicentres of the kingdom of Sikkim and Buddhist establishments, Pelling is more than just a scenic place, though that is what immediately overcomes the tourist the most.

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