16 Magnificent Places to Visit in Pelling and Its Surroundings

Pelling, a slice of paradise located in West Sikkim, is a pleasant retreat and an excellent travel location to visit. With ancient ruins that take you back in time, magnificent waterfalls, green pastures that soothe the soul to a breathtaking view of the mighty Mount Kanchenjunga, Pelling offers all this and more. The peace and tranquillity one experiences here is indescribable, which makes Pelling tour a must on your itinerary during your visit to Sikkim. The best time to visit Pelling is from September to May as the winter season, as well as the onset of summer, make it a great time for Pelling sightseeing. 

From religious and cultural sites to quaint villages and gorgeous lake, there are a number of tourist places to visit in Pelling. The winter snow makes this already vibrant town even more alluring as the green pastures with a dash of white look beautiful and heavenly. To make your travel to this astounding town a great experience, we bring you a list of 16 best places to visit in Pelling during your trip to Sikkim.     

16 Captivating Places to Visit in Pelling, West Sikkim 

1. Kanchenjunga Falls – A Milky Stream through the Mountain

Half an hour ride from Pelling will bring you to the majestic Kanchenjunga Waterfalls that is believed to be originating from Mount Kanchenjunga. The crystal clear water of this milky white stream falling from a height of 100 feet into a pool, Kanchenjunga Waterfalls is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Pelling. The scenic route that leads you to this untouched beauty of nature and the falls itself offers you innumerable photography-worth moments that you can proudly capture in your cameras and cherish for a lifetime.    

• Best time to visit Kanchenjunga Falls: All through the year, but majorly during monsoons. 
• Things to do at Kanchenjunga Falls: Try rope sliding if you are an adventure junky. Enjoy the panoramic view of the location and capture the same on your cameras.
• Entry Fee: Rs 20 per person
• Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM

2. Kanchenjunga National Park – Natural abode of the wild

If watching wild animals like Snow leopards, Musk Deers and more in their natural habitat thrills you, Kanchenjunga National Park is an unmissable place to see in Pelling for you. A UNESCO heritage site, Kanchenjunga National Park offers you great scope to enjoy a breathtaking view of the glaciers, watch the exotic and rare species of flora and fauna present here and trek the sprawling green forest cover as much as you want. The total area of the National Park is about 849 sq km and trekking is one of the most popular activities that tourists and nature enthusiasts indulge in while visiting this magnificent place. 

• Best time to visit Kanchenjunga National Park: Summer is the ideal time to visit. The months from March to May are the best to enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of Kanchenjunga National Park.
• Things to do at Kanchenjunga National Park: Trekking is the most popular activity that tourists and travel enthusiasts do while visiting this National Park. Enjoy the alluring beauty pf  Lake Menmecho and the surrounding coniferous trees. Watch the charming Mt Rathong and count yourself lucky if you get a glimpse of the arresting 26km-long Zemu Glacier.    
• Entry Fee: Rs 200 per person for 7 days
• Timings: Open 24 hours

 3.Pemayangtse Monastery – Understanding the Buddhist Heritage

Perched at a height of 6840 feet, Pemayangtse Monastery is an eighteenth-century monastery that has a wide collection of Buddhist antiques, sculptures, scriptures and artefacts. This three-storeyed building houses the statues of Padmasambhava and his two consorts along with a seven-tiered painted model of Guru Rimpoche. The interiors of the monastery are decked up with sculptures and paintings while the exteriors are adorned with the beautiful landscape surrounding the monastery. 

Ensure your Pelling sightseeing includes this amazing place and try to visit it during February to enjoy the famous Cham Dance Festival that is celebrated during this month. 

• Best time to visit Pemayangtse Monastery: Visit this amazing place in Pelling during January-February to enjoy the Cham Dance Festival to make the most of your trip.
• Things to do at Pemayangtse Monastery: Soak in the peace and tranquillity this place offers. Admire the sculptures, paintings and architecture of this eighteenth-century building.    
• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM

4. Rimbi Falls, Pelling – Fall in Love with This Gorgeous Waterfalls

One of the most charming tourist attractions, Rimbi Falls in Pelling is a great place to visit in Pelling, West Sikkim. The sparkling water of the falls falling from height and crashing into a pool below is a sight to behold. The picturesque view of the surroundings coupled with the view of this magical waterfall attracts tourist and locals alike who flock this place during summers and winters. Rimbi Waterfalls is undoubtedly a picture-perfect Pelling tourist place you must visit.

• Best time to visit Rimbi Falls, Pelling: Summers and winters are the best time to visit Rimbi Falls in Pelling.
• Things to do at Rimbi Falls: Indulge in fishing and swimming and also gorge on some Assala  – a lip-smacking dish made using fish found only here. Keep the camera clicking to capture the captivating view of the falls.    
• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM

5. Khecheopalri Lake – An exotic blend of nature with the divine

Khecheopalri Lake is a must-visit in your Pelling sightseeing list if you love to visit places that have interesting stories to tell. One of the most peaceful and calm places to visit in Pelling, Khecheopalri Lake, also known as Kha-Chot-Palri, is a serene lake located near the picturesque Khecheopalri hills. The lake is surrounded by dense bamboo forests and is frequently visited by various species of birds. Both Hindus and Buddhists rever this lake and believe it to be associated with Lord Shiva, Guru Padmasambhava, Goddess Tara and other mythical figures.

In October, Chho-Tsho Festival is celebrated near this lake. You can plan your Pelling sightseeing trip keeping this in mind to enjoy and be a part of this traditional festival. 

• Best time to visit Khecheopalri Lake: The lake can be visited throughout the year.
• Things to do at Khecheopalri Lake: Admire the beauty of the lake and understand the marvellous history from a local guide. Be a part of the Chho-Tsho festival in October and Mage Purne festival in March/April. Click pictures of this lake that is nothing but a treat to the eyes as well as the camera lens.    
• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM

 6. Singshore Bridge, Pelling – Float amidst the clouds in this Highest Bridge in Sikkim

Located at a height of 198m, Singshore Bridge is the highest bridge in Sikkim and also a prominent tourist attraction in Pelling. The bridge offers you a spectacular view of the surroundings that are definitely click-worthy. The bridge connects two lush green mountains together and is also one of the highest gorge bridges in Asia. The panoramic view of the mountains, waterfalls and green forest cover is sure to take your breath away, making it one of the most popular tourist places to visit in Pelling. 

• Best time to visit Singshore Bridge, Pelling: The bridge can be visited throughout the year.
• Things to do at Singshore Bridge: Since no vehicles are allowed on this bridge, you can admire the picturesque beauty of the place and also explore the nearby forests by crossing the bridge. Do not forget to capture the moments of delight on your camera that you can cherish for a lifetime.    
• Entry Fee: Free
• Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM

7. Yuksom – A quaint abode of monasteries and lakes

Yuksom is one of the best places to visit in Pelling, West Sikkim, as it is a famous abode to numerous monasteries and rich biodiversity. It has some of the cleanest lakes of the country and also houses the well-known Dubdi Monastery, which is an important Buddhist pilgrimage built in the year 1701. You can enjoy the calm and quietude of this place sitting by the lakes or meditating in the various monasteries located here. 

• Best time to visit Yuksom: You can visit Yuksom at any time of the year.
• Things to do at Yuksom: The village is famous for many adventure activities like hiking, rock climbing and rappelling. You can also be a part of the Yuksom-Dzongri high-altitude trek that begins from this place.   
• Price: Approx Rs 500-2000 for stay
• Timings: Anytime

  8. Darap Village – Serene locale with amazing homestays

Emerging as a popular locale for homestays, Darap village is a quaint place located 8km from Pelling and is also a must-visit tourist attraction here. Inhabited majorly by Limboo Community, Darap Village is also home to Tamangs, Bhutias, Rais, Chettris and Lepchas. Nestled amidst the majestic Himalayan ranges, Darap village is the best place in Pelling to understand and mingle with the locals and indulge in some fun activities like churning butter or processing cheese with the villagers, playing with children or heading out for an extensive hike around the place. 

• Best time to visit Darap Village: You can visit Darap at any time of the year.
• Things to do at Darap Village: The village is famous for its pleasant homestays among the local communities. You can also explore the Limboo traditional houses dotting this village. Apart from this, you can relax and enjoy the calm and serene ambience of this village.   
• Price: Approx Rs 500-3000 for a homestay
• Timings: Anytime

9. Sanga Choeling Monastery  – The oldest Buddhist Monastery in Sikkim

Sanga Choeling Monastery, the oldest monastery in Sikkim, is a popular and one of the top places to visit in Pelling. Constructed in the 17th century by Lama Lhatsun Chempo, this monastery is a hub to age-old Buddhist scriptures, sculptures, paintings and statues as it is a significant Buddhist shrine in the region. A visit to Sanga Choeling Monastery is highly recommended for those curious about Buddhist heritage and culture. 

• Best time to visit Sanga Choeling Monastery: You can visit Sanaga Choeling Monastery at any time of the year, although winters and the onset of summers is a great time.
• Things to do at Sanga Choeling Monastery: You can explore the monastery and learn about Buddhist culture and tradition. You can also enjoy the beautiful view of the surroundings and may hike to the top of the hill where this monastery is located.    
• Price: Free
• Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM

You may also like to read about 18 Most Important Buddhist Pilgrimage Places in India

10. Dubdi Monastery – A pleasant retreat in Yuksom village

Also known as the Yuksom Monastery, Dubdi Monastery is a popular Buddhist shrine and also a great place to visit in Pelling. Nestled amidst the dense chestnut forest cover, this holy shrine leads you to a panoramic view of the lofty mountains outside and a calm and quiet inner chamber, where you can find the statues of 3 lamas who contributed significantly in the establishment of Yuksom. The two-storey monastery is 2100m tall and painted red and houses the images of saints and a collection of manuscripts. 

• Best time to visit Dubdi Monastery: March to May is considered the best time to visit  Dubdi Monastery owing to the pleasant climate and ideal temperatures.
• Things to do at Dubdi Monastery: You can enjoy the mesmerizing view of the surroundings, click amazing pictures and wander around the Yuksom Village.    
• Price: None
• Timings: 7 AM to 4 PM

11. Rabdentse Ruins – A blend of history and brilliant view

Rabdentse Ruins are the stubs of buildings from the 17th century when Rabdentse was the second capital of Sikkim. They recall Sikkim’s glorious history that can be dated back to the era of Chogyal II. The Nepalese invasion in the 18th century lead to the destruction of the monastery and converted them to ruins. Rabdentse Ruins in Pelling is a must-visit for those are curious about Sikkim’s history and those who’d love to get a glimpse of the picturesque view of the Mount Kanchenjunga and the gushing rivers below.

The entrance of these ruins greets you with chestnut trees and walking further, you will find three standing stones or Namphogang that were once the place where judges pronounced their final statements. Your Pelling sightseeing is indeed incomplete without a visit to these ruins.   

• Best time to visit Rabdenste Ruins: March to May is considered the best time to visit Rabdenste Ruins owing to the pleasant climate and ideal temperatures.
• Things to do at Rabdenste Ruins: Along with these remnants of history, you can also visit the magnificent Pemayangtse Monastery, Khecheopalri Lake and Singshore Bridge that are close to this place.    
• Price: None
• Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM

12. Kaluk – Nature at Its Best

Kaluk is another fabulous beauty located at the foothills of West Sikkim. A must-visit place in your Pelling tour itinerary, Kaluk is a small village home to Nepalese and Marwari people who live here. If you wish to enjoy the solitude and quietude in Pelling to relax and rejuvenate, head to this quaint village and book a homestay. You can also interact with the locals here and indulge in some fun activities with them. 

• Best time to visit Kaluk: Although March to May is the best time to visit this place, you can visit Kaluk and book homestays any time of the year.
• Things to do at Kaluk: You can visit the nearby monasteries or relax in this leisurely village and enjoy the calm that washes over you.    
• Price: Rs 500-1500 for homestays
• Timings: Anytime

13. Tashiding Monastery – Exploring the Buddhist Heritage

Tashiding Monastery is considered to be one of the most pious monasteries in Pelling, West Sikkim. It is also an important Buddhist shrine here and is a part of the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. Tashiding Monastery is situated between two Rathong chu and Rangeet River and is well-known for its meditative beauty. An instant calm and tranquillity washes over you as soon s you enter into the premises of this magnificent monastery. Visiting this beautiful monastery in Pelling with a local guide is highly recommended as you can learn more about the history and legends associated with this shrine. 

• Best time to visit Tashiding Monastery: Visit during February or March tp enjoy the fabulous views and a pleasant climate in Pelling.
• Things to do at Tashiding Monastery: You can enjoy the Bhumchu festival, one of the most famous festivals of Pelling, here. You can also learn about the history and legends of this monastery.    
• Price: Free
• Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM

14. Sewaro Rock Garden – Relax amidst the rocks

Sewaro Rock Garden is a pretty picnic spot near Pelling that is a great place to take a break from your travel and relax. The garden comprises of streams, fountains, avenues, resting area rock structures that are well maintained. You can also enjoy a cup of your favourite beverage in the cafeteria inside this garden. Sewaro Rock Garden is a great place to spend some time with friends, family talking, clicking pictures or just enjoying the view. It is undoubtedly one of the best things to see in Pelling.

• Best time to visit Sewaro Rock Garden: Visit Sewaro Rock Garden on 14th January to be a part of the Maghe Festival, one of the most important festivals celebrated in Pelling, enjoy the festivities with the locals.
• Things to do at Sewaro Rock Garden: Soak in the pleasing and serene atmosphere, enjoying the view of the streams, fountains and well-maintained rock structures.    
• Price: Free
• Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM

15. Rinchenpong Monastery – Third oldest monastery in Sikkim

Perched at a height of 5,500ft, the Rinchenpong Monastery is the third oldest monastery in Sikkim and is an important tourist attraction in Pelling. This monastery has a very rare statue – the Ati Buddha statue in the YabYum position. Owing to its location, the monastery offers a stupendous view of the mighty Kanchenjunga peak and other Himalayan mountains. The monastery is a part of the Rinchenpong village and is located close to places like Kaluk, Singshore bridge and others. 

• Best time to visit Rinchenpong Monastery: Visit Rinchenpong Monastery in summers to enjoy the fantastic view of the surroundings and also enjoy the serene ambience of this place.
• Things to do at Rinchenpong Monastery: Observe the rare Buddha statue found here – Ati Buddha that represents the universe and its inborn wisdom. You can also find a female deity wrapped around Buddha which signifies the Yab-Yum position or the mother-father position. The male deity signifies compassion while the female consort signifies wisdom.   
• Price: Free
• Timings: Whole day

16. Changey Waterfalls – Blissful and click-worthy view

Falling from a height of 300m, this white, gurgling falls located in West Sikkim is one of the frequently visited tourist attractions in Pelling. The Changey Waterfalls falls is located 10km from Pelling and promises an unforgettable experience to everyone – whether they sit by the falls admiring its magnificence or are rappeling near it. Another interesting fact about this falls is that they disappear mid-way amidst the dense forests only to reappear from the most unforeseen corners. If you are visiting Pelling, you must surely visit the magical Changey Waterfalls as well. 

• Best time to visit Changey Waterfalls: Visit the Changey Waterfalls in summers to enjoy the fantastic view of the surrounding villages and also rappel near the cool waters of the falls.
• Things to do at Changey Waterfalls: Cheese lovers are in for some amazing news! You can visit the cheese factory located in the Dentam Village that is located close to the Changey Waterfalls.   
• Price: Free
• Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM

You may also like to read more about 25 Waterfalls in India that more than Just Beauty

Additionally, you can also visit these two places in South Sikkim while planning our Pelling tour and sightseeing.

17. Tathagata Tsal, Buddha Park, Ravangla – Towering Buddha Statue amidst an astounding view

Constructed in the year 2006 to commemorate the 2550th birth anniversary of Lord Gautama Buddha, this magnificent Buddha Park located in South Sikkim is a sight to behold. The towering Buddha statue situated amidst a mesmerizing view of the majestic Kanchenjunga Peak and other mountains of the Himalayan range will surely make you fall in love with this place. Tathagata Tsal is located 50km from Pelling and is one of the most astounding places to visit near Pelling. Buddha Park also has a meditation centre, a museum and a Buddhist conclave.

• Best time to visit Buddha Park: The best time to visit this park is from April to June and from September to November to enjoy pleasant weather coupled with a splendid view.
• Things to do at Buddha Park: Revel in the spectacular view of the mountains and the Cho Djo Lake. Visit the museum to learn about Gautam Buddha.   
• Price: Free
• Ravangla Buddha Park Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM

18. Solophok Chardham Namchi – Find the replicas of all twelve Jyotirlingas in a single place

The Solophok Chardham site is constructed atop the Solophok Hill in South Sikkim to promote tourism in this state. This pilgrimage cum cultural centre houses a 26.5m tall statue of Lord Shiva and the replicas of all 12 Jyotirlingas in India. It also showcases the astounding replicas of the four Dhams in India, namely Badrinath, Jagannath, Dwarka and Rameshwaram.  The magnificent imitation of the Chardham has converted this site into one fo the top tourist attractions near Pelling as hundreds of tourists throng the Solophok Chardham, Namchi on a daily basis.

• Best time to visit Solophok Chardham Namchi: The best time to visit this site is from March to May and from September to January to enjoy pleasant weather along with a phenomenal view of the surroundings.
• Things to do at Solophok Chardham Namchi: Soak in the spectacular view of the surroundings. You can also visit a few other tourist attractions such as Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary, Doling Gompa, Ralang Monastery and others.   
• Price: Free
• Char Dham Namchi Timings: It is open for 12 hours a day. The morning pooja starts at 9 AM

Here are some of the best places to visit in Pelling that you must take a note of while you plan a visit to this place. If you are looking for Pelling hotels with Kanchenjunga view, you can book hotels in Pelling and enjoy visiting all the tourist attractions of this astounding city.

If you’ve already visited this beautiful paradise in West Sikkim, share your experience in the comments section below.