Pelling Panorama-Majestic Peaks and Serene Valleys

Pelling Sikkim

Pelling is a town in the West Sikkim district of the Indian state of Sikkim. It is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning views of the Himalayan mountains, including the Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world. Pelling offers a serene and picturesque setting, making it an ideal place for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful getaway. Pelling serves as a base for exploring the western parts of Sikkim, and its altitude ensures cool temperatures, even in the summer months. The town has a range of accommodation options, allowing visitors to enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of the region. Travelers often include Pelling in their itinerary when exploring Sikkim for its unique blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions.

Pelling weather

Pelling, being located in the Indian state of Sikkim and situated at an elevation, experiences a temperate climate. The weather can vary based on the season, but overall, Pelling tends to have a relatively pleasant climate throughout the year. Here’s a general overview of the Pelling temperatures by season-

Summer (April to June)

During the summer months, Pelling experiences mild and comfortable temperatures. Daytime Pelling temperatures typically range from 15°C to 25°C. Summer is considered an ideal time to visit Pelling, as the weather is generally clear, and the views of the Himalayas are spectacular.

Monsoon (July to September)

The Town receives a significant amount of rainfall during the monsoon season. The weather can be wet and humid, with occasional heavy rains. Landslides are a potential concern during this season, and some trekking routes may be affected.

Autumn (October to November)

After the monsoon season, autumn brings a pleasant and refreshing atmosphere. The temperatures start to cool down, making it a good time for outdoor activities. The skies are often clear, providing excellent visibility of the surrounding mountains.

Winter (December to February)

Winter in Pelling can be cold, especially in the evenings and early mornings. Daytime Pelling temperatures range from 2°C to 10°C, and nights can get quite chilly. Winter is not as popular among tourists, but it offers a unique experience for those who enjoy colder weather and want to see snow-capped peaks.

Places to visit in Pelling

Pelling Sikkim is surrounded by natural beauty and offers a range of attractions for visitors. Here are some notable places to visit in and around Pelling

Pemayangtse Monastery

Pemayangtse Monastery is one of the oldest and most significant monasteries in the Indian state of Sikkim. Pemayangtse Monastery is located near Pelling, a popular tourist destination in West Sikkim. Established in 1705 by Lama Lhatsun Chempo, Pemayangtse means “Perfect Sublime Lotus” in the Tibetan language. It is one of the premier monasteries of the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism.

The monastery is known for its impressive architecture, intricate woodwork, and religious artifacts. The main prayer hall houses images and statues of saints, bodhisattvas, and the Rinpoche. Pemayangtse Monastery is associated with the Rabdentse Ruins, which served as the second capital of the former Kingdom of Sikkim. The ruins are nearby and offer historical significance.

Dubdi Monastery

Dubdi Monastery, also known as the Yuksom Monastery, is one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim. Dubdi Monastery is located near the town of Yuksom in West Sikkim. Yuksom is often considered the first capital of Sikkim and holds historical significance. Established in 1701, Dubdi Monastery is one of the first monasteries built in Sikkim. It was constructed during the consecration ceremony of the first Chogyal (monarch) of Sikkim, Phuntsog Namgyal.

Khecheopalri Lake

Khecheopalri Lake, also known as Khecheopalri or Khechuperi, is a sacred lake located in the Pelling area.  Khecheopalri Lake is considered a sacred lake by both Buddhists and Hindus. According to local beliefs, the lake is said to fulfill the wishes of those who visit it with a pure heart. Buddhists believe that the lake is a “wish-fulfilling lake” and that it is blessed by Guru Padmasambhava, also known as Guru Rinpoche. Hindus associate the lake with Goddess Tara and consider it a sacred pilgrimage site.

Changey Waterfall

Changey Waterfall is a scenic waterfall located near Pelling. It is situated in the Changey Village, which is approximately 10 kilometers away from Pelling. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a refreshing natural setting. The waterfall is known for its picturesque surroundings and the pristine beauty of the landscape. The cascading water, combined with the greenery and the sound of nature, makes it a popular spot for nature lovers.

Khangchendzonga National Park

Khangchendzonga National Park is located near Pelling Sikkim and shares a border with Nepal. The park encompasses a vast area of the Eastern Himalayas. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, designated in 2016 for its unique biodiversity, cultural significance, and as a crucial ecological hotspot. The national park is named after Mount Khangchendzonga, the third-highest peak in the world. The park not only includes the mountain but also the surrounding areas and diverse ecosystems.

Khangchendzonga National Park is known for its rich biodiversity, including various species of flora and fauna. The park is home to diverse plant species, several species of mammals, and a variety of birds.

Pelling skywalk

Skywalk glass bridge was built with the idea of being the first glass bridge in the country. The bridge is almost at the height of 30 meters floored with transparent thick glass, where visitors will have of thrill after looking down into a foot and feeling like walking in the sky. It is built considering a safety measure where the bridge is outlined with thick 4fit transparent glass which makes zero chances of casualties. One can walk to the Buddhist statue called “Cha-a-gee”. You may listen to a peaceful Buddhist prayer being played in stereo.

Pelling hotels

Various online Booking Platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, and TripAdvisor often provide a comprehensive list of hotels, resorts, and guesthouses in Pelling. You can read reviews from other travelers to help you choose the one that best suits your preferences. The official tourism website of Sikkim or Pelling for information on accommodations. They may provide a list of recommended hotels, resorts, and guesthouses. These are the list of hotels where you can find the best experience.

The Elgin Mount Pandim

Magpie Pachhu Village Resort

How to Reach Pelling Sikkim

The nearest airport to Pelling is Bagdogra Airport in West Bengal, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From Bagdogra Airport, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach the destination. The drive from Bagdogra Airport to Pelling takes approximately 4-5 hours.

The nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station in West Bengal. From NJP, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach the destination. Another option is to take a train to Siliguri Junction and proceed to Pelling from there.

By Road

Gangtok to Pelling

Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is about 120 kilometers from Pelling. You can hire a taxi or take a shared cab from Gangtok to the town. The journey usually takes around 4-5 hours.

Darjeeling to Pelling

Darjeeling is another popular destination in the region. From Darjeeling, you can hire a taxi or take a shared cab to reach Pelling. The road distance is approximately 70 kilometers, and the journey takes around 3-4 hours.