Pelling: A Splendid Destination
Pelling is a beautiful town in West Sikkim, located 10 km from the district headquarters of Geyzing and 130 km from Gangtok.
The most iconic feature is the panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga range, especially during sunrise and sunset, when the peaks glow golden. It’s one of the best places to witness this third-highest mountain in the world.
The main attraction of Pelling is Pemayangtse Monastery, located only 3 km away at an altitude of 7000 ft. It is situated 6 km from Geyzing town and is the most important monastery of the Nyingmapa order, built as a small temple in the late seventeenth century by Latsun Chembo.
Perched atop a hill, Pemayangtse Monastery offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga range. The monastery’s ancient architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant murals, reflects the rich Tibetan Buddhist heritage.
The peaceful ambiance, surrounded by lush greenery, creates a serene atmosphere, perfect for meditation and spiritual reflection. Inside, the sacred sculptures and the intricate wooden structure of the “Zangdok Palri” capture the essence of mystical beauty and cultural grandeur.
Rabdentse ruins is located a couple of kilometers away from Geyzing, near the Pemayangtse monastery. Rabdentse was the second capital of Sikkim and was established in the late seventeenth century by the second Chogyal of Sikkim. It was abandoned towards the end of the eighteenth century due to threats posed by the Nepalese and was shifted to Tumlong.
Khecheopari Lake, at an altitude of 6000 ft, is located on a bifurcation on the road between Geyzing and Yaksum. Khecheopari means "wishing lake." The water in this lake is placid and crystal clear, with a beautiful dense forest surrounding it.
The beautiful Kanchenjunga Waterfall cascades down from a height of 100 feet and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals.
Sanga Choeling Monastery: This is another Buddhist monastery located in Pelling, known for its beautiful frescoes and a popular destination for tourists interested in Tibetan Buddhism.
Pelling, a picturesque town in Western Sikkim, is known for its stunning natural beauty and awe-inspiring landscape. The town offers panoramic views of the majestic Kanchenjunga range, especially during sunrise and sunset, where the snow-capped peaks shimmer with golden hues.
Surrounded by lush green forests, terraced hills, and cascading waterfalls like the Kanchenjunga Falls, Pelling is a serene retreat for nature lovers. The tranquil Khecheopalri Lake and vibrant valleys add to the region's charm, making it a perfect destination for those seeking peace and scenic beauty.
How to reach Pelling
- By air: The nearest airport to Pelling is Bagdogra, located in West Bengal. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Pelling. The journey by road takes around 6-7 hours.
- By train: The nearest railway station to Pelling is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, located in West Bengal. From the railway station, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Pelling. The journey by road takes around 6-7 hours.
- By bus: Several buses operate between Pelling and major cities in West Bengal and Sikkim. You can check the regular bus service schedule from this link.
- By car: If you are traveling by car, you can reach Pelling by taking National Highway 31. The journey from Siliguri, which is the nearest major city, takes around 6-7 hours by road.