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.
