Pelling, a beautiful town in the West district of Sikkim, has become the second biggest tourist destination in Sikkim after Gangtok. Located 10 km from Geyzing and 130 km from Gangtok, Pelling Tourism’s main attractions is the breathtaking sight of the Khangchendzonga and the neighboring peaks.

The scenic town of Pelling is a perfect holiday destination for all nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The famous Pemayangste monastery is less than a kilometer from here and is a major tourist hotspot. Pelling also has mountain biking, rock climbing, village tours, meditations, apart from serving as a base for many treks in the region.

Pelling, a beautiful petite town sited at the height of 6800 ft, was initially covered with a thick wild forest, which served as home to many indigenous wild animals of that period, including Wildman( may not be yet, though). This ridge is situated between two old Buddhist monasteries (Pemayangtse and Sangacholing) developed into a full-fledged village named Pelling. Today, Pelling is one of the best-chosen tourist hotspots in Sikkim. More than that, Pelling is the heart where all the breathtaking tourist spots of West Sikkim can be visited.

A destination for all seasons, Pelling has hotels and resorts catering to all budgets. Named after the guardian deity of Sikkim, Khangchendzonga Festival is held at Pelling every year.

Must-Visit Places for Pelling Tourism:

Khecheopalri Lake, Pelling

As the prayer flags flutter in the wind and the calming sounds of bells ring one after the other, you know you have your bliss at the Khecheopalri Lake, which is a sacred pilgrimage site, considered holy by both Buddhists and Hindus. This religious place is believed to fulfill one’s wishes. The legend has it, if someone prays and sprinkles the water on oneself, his wishes are likely to come true. It is also said that no leaves can be seen afloat the lake despite being located amidst dense forest as the birds remove the fallen leaves from the water. Similarly, many legends revolve around the lake. A beautiful place, Khecheopalri Lake is a paradise for nature lovers and trekkers. There are various trekkers’ outlets and lodging facilities as well if you prefer camping overnight. Read More.

Rabdentse Ruins, Pelling

Rabdentse Ruins is the archeological site that tells Sikkim’s story of glory. Until 1814 A.D, it was the second capital of Sikkim, established by the Chogyal II. Later on, after the Nepalese invasion in the 18th century, the palace and the monastery complex were destructed and turned into ruins. The place is a must-see for history enthusiasts who want to dig into the state’s past in between the spectacular view of Kanchenjunga peak and the gushing river flowing through the foothills. The ruins of Rabdentse Palace are just a walk away from the Pemayangtse Monastery through the dense forest on the way to Pelling. Read More.

Khangchendzonga Waterfall, Pelling

Khangchendzonga Waterfall is a tourist hotspot offering an awe-inspiring view of its gushing chilled water enthusiastically splattering through the rich green vegetation; amidst the jagged surface of the hill. This waterfall is fed by the streams formed by the melting glaciers of Mt. Khangchendzonga and one has to climb up a little to reach the base of the fall and feel the striking water shaping the granite rocks underneath. A ropeway is built for the adventure enthusiasts, to feel the thrill of crossing the stream hanging from a harness. Read More.

Pemayangtse Monastery, Pelling

Occupying a small section of beauty at the higher end of western Sikkim, a renowned monastery of Pemayangtse is located. The word Pemayangtse means ‘Perfect Sublime Lotus’ and it is a famous tourist attraction and widely visited by many travelers all year round. With a mere distance of 2 kilometers from Pelling, this attraction is an easy walk. You can unravel Sikkim’s prime beauty by visiting during the spring-summer season when the sky clears. This is so, as you can not only enjoy the holistic site but also witness the enthralling beauty of the Himalayas as well. Read More.

For more information about Sikkim Tourism, visit Sikkim Tourism Government Website.

Best Time To Visit Pelling

Pelling is at the altitude of 2000meters, where the temperature in summer goes up to 25 degrees Celcius and comes down to 1 degree Celcius in winters. It is pretty warm and pleasant in summer. The monsoon season is from July to September. Pelling can be visited at all times of the year. However, it is best to avoid a trip in the monsoon season.

The following Do’s & Dont’s can make your trip to Pelling enjoyable.

The DO’s for Pelling Tourism

• Maintain peace in the monasteries.

The DONT’s for Pelling Tourism

• Avoid unnecessary loud noises.
• Avoid littering the environment.

Also, have a look at our various monthly issues.

As the prayer flags flutter in the wind and the calming sounds of bells ring one after the other, you know you have your bliss at the Khecheopalri Lake, which is a sacred pilgrimage site, considered holy by both Buddhists and Hindus. This religious place is believed to fulfill one’s wishes. The legend has it, if someone prays and sprinkles the water on oneself, his wishes are likely to come true. It is also said that no leaves can be seen afloat the lake despite being located amidst dense forest as the birds remove the fallen leaves from the water. Similarly, many legends revolve around the lake. A beautiful place, Khecheopalri Lake is a paradise for nature lovers and trekkers. There are various trekkers’ outlets and lodging facilities as well if you prefer camping overnight.

For more information about Sikkim Tourism, visit Sikkim Tourism Government Website.

Things to Do & See in Khecheopalri Lake, Pelling

Trekking is one of the most important activities here. There are short forest routes to get here, en route you can sightsee rare flora and fauna. While here, you can enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature and simply relax. Khecheopalri Lake is also located only 24 km from Pemayangtse Monastery and is a must-visit place.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit this attraction is from February to March when the weather remains quite pleasant.

Getting There

Khecheopalri Lake is located 34 kilometers from Pelling and 147 kilometers from Gangtok. Taxis are available to reach this attraction from these places. One has to get down at a point from where a trek for 5 hours begins.

Also, have a look at our various monthly issues.

Rabdentse Ruins is the archeological site that tells Sikkim’s story of glory. Until 1814 A.D, it was the second capital of Sikkim, established by the Chogyal II. Later on, after the Nepalese invasion in the 18th century, the palace and the monastery complex were destructed and turned into ruins. The place is a must-see for history enthusiasts who want to dig into the state’s past in between the spectacular view of Kanchenjunga peak and the gushing river flowing through the foothills. The ruins of Rabdentse Palace are just a walk away from the Pemayangtse Monastery through the dense forest on the way to Pelling.

As one enters the gate, the chestnut trees welcome the visitors by dropping mosses on them and leads to the stone throne comprising of three standing stones known as ‘Namphogang’ where the judges used to pronounce the final judgment. Walking a little further, one will see ‘Taphap Chorten’ which was the entry point of the palace, while the ruins are at the center of the fourth courtyard which offers the mesmerizing view of the southwestern region of Sikkim. Alongside this is ‘Dab Lhagang’ where the royal family used to pray to their deities. Near to this, a white marble slab can be seen which was once the location of the monastery known as “Risum Gompa”.

For more information about Sikkim Tourism, visit Sikkim Tourism Government Website.

What To Do & See in Rabdentse Ruins, Pelling

Pemayangtse Monastery lies just a little walk from the Rabdentse Ruins, which can be visited after surfing through the royal history of Sikkim. On the way, while passing through the lush green forest, the birders can rejoice themselves by spotting some of the rare Himalayan birds. Singshore Bridge is another attractive place to see near the ruins. The Khecheopalri Lake sprawled amidst the sacred Khecheopalri Hill is just 26 km away from here, which one can visit to get enlightened spiritually. Another nearest and refreshing destination is the beautiful Kanchenjunga Waterfalls, about a 38 min (16 km) drive away from here.

Getting Here

The ruins of Rabdentse Palace lie in the West Sikkim, which can be reached by trekking down 2 kilometers from the Pemayangtse Monastery on the way to Pelling. Pelling is 125 Km from Gangtok. One can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep from Pelling to Pemayangtse Monastery and other popular tourist attractions around it.

Best Time To Visit

During the summer season from March to May, the weather is exceptionally pleasant and the temperature ranges between 7°C to 28°C, which is quite bearable to move around and explore the place.

Also, have a look at our various monthly issues.

Khangchendzonga Waterfall is a tourist hotspot offering an awe-inspiring view of its gushing chilled water enthusiastically splattering through the rich green vegetation; amidst the jagged surface of the hill. This waterfall is fed by the streams formed by the melting glaciers of Mt. Khangchendzonga and one has to climb up a little to reach the base of the fall and feel the striking water shaping the granite rocks underneath. A ropeway is built for the adventure enthusiasts, to feel the thrill of crossing the stream hanging from a harness.

For more information about Sikkim Tourism, visit Sikkim Tourism Government Website.

What To Do & See in Khangchendzonga Waterfall, Pelling

Enroute Yuksom, Khangchendzonga Waterfall is 25 km from Pelling. There are few monasteries nearby such as Rabdentse Monastery, the Pemayangtse Monastery, and Sangachoeling Monastery that one can see along with their visit to Khangchendzonga Waterfalls. The Khecheopalri Lake, popular as the wish-fulfilling lake, is just 37 km away from the fall, settled near the sacred Khecheopalri Hill is also a must-visit. The history buffs can dig into the Rabdentse ruins enjoying the excellent view of the Khangchendzonga range. Singshore Bridge is another attractive place to see near the ruins.

Getting Here

From Gangtok, it is around a 3-4 hours drive (116 km) onto the Legship-Rabongla Road to reach Pelling. One can also board a train/bus/flight from Gangtok to reach Pelling, from where Khangchendzonga Waterfall is just 25 km away.

Best Time To Visit

The months of the summer season from March to May are considered to be a pleasant time to visit Khangchendzonga Waterfall. The temperature during this time ranges between 7°C and 28°C.

Also, have a look at our various monthly issues.

Namchi or Namtse is the capital of the district of South Sikkim in the Indian state of Sikkim. The appellation Namchi means Sky (Nam) High (Chi) in Sikkimese. Namchi Tourism guide shows the information about everything.

Namchi is situated at an altitude of 1,675 m (5500 feet) above sea level. It is located at a distance of 78 kilometers (48 mi) from the state capital Gangtok and 100 kilometers (62 mi) from Siliguri, the nearest railhead and airport. Namchi lies off the road between Melli and Jorethang. Namchi is well connected to other towns in Sikkim and West Bengal. Jeeps and buses regularly ply between Namchi to Gangtok, Pelling, Jorethang, Kalimpong, and Siliguri.

It is home to the Buxa Formation of Mamley, the stromatolite bearing Dolomite Limestones, which has been declared a national geological monument by the Geological Survey of India (GSI) for their protection, maintenance, promotion, and enhancement of geo-tourism.

One of the Namchi Tourism highlights is the football stadium – the Bhaichung Stadium built by the Sikkimese government in honor of its most famous citizen, footballer Bhaichung Bhutia who owns many football schools all over India. “The Gold Cup” football tournament is held in Bhaichung Stadium almost every year. Football teams from all over India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan vie for the honor, which draws many crowds from all over Sikkim.

Historically, Namchi was where Pende Ongmoo, the treacherous princess who poisoned one of the Chogyals of Sikkim, was caught and killed for her deed. Legend says her spirit still haunts the foothills of Ghurpisey.

For more information about Sikkim Tourism, visit Sikkim Tourism Government Website.

Namchi Tourism Guide:

Best Time To Visit Namchi

This region experiences three major seasons in a year; summer, winter, and rainstorms.

March to May is an excellent time to visit Namchi when the temperature remains moderate. Another good time is between the months of September to November.

If you want to attend the flower show festival, then visit during the month of February. Numerous species of Himalayan flowers bloom in beautiful shades.

The month of October held Annual Namchi Tourism, Culture, and local food festivals.

How To Reach

• By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra in West Bengal about 102 kms from Namchi which is a domestic airport and connected to the nearest international airport being Kolkata in West Bengal.
• By Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri Station in West Bengal about 96 kms from Namchi from where one can avail trains to different parts of the country.
• By Road: Namchi is approximately about 92 kms from Siliguri. The Sikkim Nationalised Transport (SNT) buses ply regularly from Namchi to towns within the state and Siliguri. Private taxis are also available on regular basis for hire or on a shared basis.

Also, have a look at our various monthly issues.

Dzuluk or Zuluk or Jhuluk or Jaluk is a small hamlet located at the height of around 10,000 feet (3,000 m) on the rugged terrain of the lower Himalayas in East Sikkim of the Indian state Sikkim (Pincode 737131). This place is relatively an emerging and offbeat destination in East Sikkim. Today it is fast emerging as a new tourist destination. It derives Zuluk tourism importance from the excellent view of the eastern Himalayan mountain range, including the Kanchenjunga.

It was once a transit point to the historic Silk Route from Tibet to India. The silk route that connected Lhasa (Tibet) to Kalimpong was in use even a few decades ago until the Chinese invasion of Tibet. It was commonly used by traders traveling to Tibet through Jelep-La (“La” stands for mountain pass) as an overnight base. The route started from Kalimpong and passed through Pedong, Aritar, Dzuluk, and Jelepla to Chumbi valley in Tibet.

Zuluk Location

Located at the height of around 10,100 feet on the rugged terrain of the lower Himalayas in East Sikkim, Zuluk or Dzuluk is a small village that was once a transit point to the historic Silk Route from Tibet to India. It is relatively an emerging and offbeat destination in East Sikkim. This small village accommodates a population of around 700 people. There is also an Indian Army base at Zuluk, used as a transit camp for the army movement to the Chinese border, a few kilometers away. It is the very first village within this whole Silk Route circuit to offer homestay facilities for tourists. 14 kms away from Zuluk, the Thambi View Point offers a panoramic view of the entire Mt. Khangchendzonga range. Zuluk is open to Indian nationals only who need to apply for Protected Area Permit.

Wild forests surround Dzuluk; some of the woods are completely virgin. Sighting of Deer, Wild Dog, Himalayan bears the red panda is not very uncommon. Some tigers have also reportedly been sighted in the area.

Various birds can also be seen, such as Blood Pheasant, Himalayan monal, Kalij pheasant, Snow Pheasant, and others. During the summer months, the area and its surrounding hills are covered with thousands of blooming rhododendron. Dzuluk during these months is a riot of colors due to the variety of rhododendron that can be seen here.

For more information about Sikkim Tourism, visit Sikkim Tourism Government Website.

Zuluk Tourism Guide:

How To Get Permit For Zuluk

Zuluk, in East Sikkim, is located in the restricted area of Sikkim. A special Inner Line Permit is required to reach Zuluk. And all tourists are required to carry-

• Passport or Voter ID card for Adult
• Passport or Birth Certificate for Child (Below 18) and one Photo ID card (School ID / Aadhar etc.)
• 4 Copies of Passport Size of Photo
• Photocopies – 4 No. of the above documents

Best Time To Visit Zuluk

Dzuluk, at an altitude of about 10,000 ft, offers pleasant weather during most of the year. The summer temperature would be near 20 °C (68 °F), with a substantial difference between the day and night. Heavy to hefty rain showers are expected here during rainy seasons. The winter may see snowfall in the area of about 3–5 feet (0.91–1.52 m) of snow.

1. October to February — winter, cold, and snow.
2. March to May — cold.
3. June to September — the monsoon season.

The following Do’s & Dont’s can make your trip to Zuluk enjoyable.

The DO’s for Zuluk Tourism

• Clothing & Luggage: Travel as light as possible with the most miniature minimum clothes, toiletries, and other essential commodities & as these areas are cold throughout the year, it is advisable to carry warm woolen clothes, woolen mittens, and gloves, cap, etc. During the month of Dec to Feb, Zuluk is very cold and often experiences heavy snowfall. Please carry heavy woolen garments during winter.
• Food and Drink: Drink only bottled water. Please carry your water from Rongli, Pedong, or Siliguri. Since this area doesn’t have a single shop, it is always advisable to bring dry foods like biscuits, chips, dry fruits, fruits, etc. Foreign Liquors / Alcohols are not also available in Zuluk.
• Health Facility & Health Precautions: It is advisable to carry specific medicines as there are no pharmacy shops in Zuluk. Always have a kit of the essential emergency medicines you might need for diarrhea, fever, etc., band-aids, and an antiseptic ointment. The nearest health facility /medicine shop is available at Rongli.
• Card Payment & ATM: Credit/Debit Card is not accepted in Zuluk. In Zuluk, there is also no ATM. Please carry cash for all your transactions.
• Telephone / Mobile phones: Mobile coverage in Zuluk is minimal and may not be available from all the places in and around Zuluk. Data connectivity is also inferior in Zuluk. It is advisable to carry mobile phones from two different mobile service providers.
• Where ever you find Pine forest beware of leeches. So, Walk carefully.

The DONT’s for Zuluk Tourism

• Do not expect modern facilities out there as this is an economically poor village, and people out there have been providing homestay for the last few years only. Rooms are ok type, running water, commode in the bathroom, but no TV and Geyser. Hot water will be provided on demand.
• If you have breathing issues, avoid staying at Gnathang Vally; stay in Zuluk. On the way to Kupup, visit Gnathang.
• Do not overthink. Just take precautions and enjoy your holiday.

Also, have a look at our various monthly issues.

Gangtok, literally meaning a ‘High Hill’, is a charming hill resort perched on a ridge at the height of 5,400 ft. It affords magnificent views of the snow-clad Kanchenjunga peak. For Gangtok Tourism keep on reading.

Govt. Cottage Industries Institute

Women weaving colourful woollen carpets, shawls, and blankets and men carving beautiful, multi-hued wooden tables called ‘choktses’ can be seen here. Exquisite handloom and handicrafts items can also be purchased here.

Research Institute of Tibetology

This world-renowned centre for Buddhist philosophy and religion has a rich collection of Tibetan books, over 200 icons, tangkha tapestries, and many rare objects of Buddhist art. Nearby is the Dotrabu Chorten of Guru Padmasambhava and a small temple of Guru Rimpoche, which houses a 60 feet statue of Guru Padmasambhava, the patron saint of Sikkim.

Dodrul Chorten (Stupa)

It was built in 1945 by the Ven Trulshi Rinpoche to invoke the gods to keep peace and tranquillity in the State. The beautiful structure rises like a great white bell surmounted by a golden pinnacle and houses holy books, relics, mantras, and other objects of religious importance.

Orchid Sanctuary

The sanctuary houses over 250 species of exotic orchids. The blooming season of orchids is from April-May, July-August, and December-January.

Tsuklakhang (Palace Monastery)

The monastery built in traditional Sikkimese style lies within the palace of the Chogyals, the former rulers of Sikkim. It is the most accessible monastery from Gangtok and is known for numerous festivals and grand ceremonies.

Permanent Flower Show Hall

It is located near the white memorial hall and just below Palace Ridge park. The flower shows and exhibitions held here round the year are top-rated.

For more information about Gangtok Tourism, visit Sikkim Tourism Government Website.

9 Places To Visit Near Gangtok: Gangtok Tourism

Places around Gangtok, that are a must for travellers visiting Gangtok are listed below. Make sure you are visiting them as they are part of Gangtok Tourism.

Enchey Monastery (3 kms.)

The 200-year-old monastery built by the Nyingma pa sect of the Buddhist monks is set on a conifer-covered ridge festooned with prayer flags ‘Chaam’ or masked religious dance is held here during January.

Ganesh Tok (7 kms.)

This small temple of Lord Ganesha set on a hillock on Gangtok-Nathula Road, affords a fine view of Gangtok and the peaks of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Mt. Siniolchu.

Hanuman Tok (11 kms.)

This shrine of lord hanuman is also known for the panoramic view of Gangtok and the snow-clad peak of Mt. Kanchenjunga.

Deer Park (6 kms.)

It is home to the Himalayan spotted and musk deer. Scenic views of the mountains and valleys can also be enjoyed from here.

Tashi View Point (9 kms.)

This interesting picnic spot is famous for the fine view of Kanchenjunga peak.

Tsomgo Lake (38 kms.)

The oval-shaped holy lake is noted for its mystical environs and wildflowers. It is home to the Brahmin ducks and a stopover for many migratory birds.

Orchidarium (14 kms.)

The botanical garden, noted for its wide variety of orchids, and other rare tropical and temperate plants, is an excellent recreation and picnic spot.

Rumtek Monastery (24 kms.)

The picturesque drive from Gangtok to the Rumtek Monastery is genuinely spellbinding. Changing vistas of mountains unfold at every bend, and there are delightful vignettes of the hamlets and fields of the people of rural Sikkim. The original monastery was built by one of the rulers of Sikkim. When His Holiness, the 16th Gyalwa Karmapa, left Tibet and took refuge in Sikkim, he made a new monastery. The Jawaharlal Nehru Botanical Garden, with a rich collection of rare plants and trees, is nearby.

Pemayangtse Monastery (115 kms.)

The monastery perched atop a 2085 mts. High Ridge, amidst snow-clad mountains, is the headquarters of the Nyingma sect. It houses many priceless antiques and objects of worship. The wooden model of a heavenly palace of Zamdogpalri Rimpoche, as revealed in a dream to Lhatsun Chempo, the founder of the monastery, is spellbinding.

Tashiding Monastery, the most sacred shrine of Sikkim, is set atop a hill near Pemayangtse. It was built in 1717 and attracted many devotees, especially during the Bhumchu Festival (feb./Mar.).

Also, have a look at our various monthly issues.