Pelling

Pelling has become the second biggest tourist destination in Sikkim after Gangtok. Situated in the western part of Sikkim at an elevation of 6800 feet, this beautiful small hill town has been alluring the wanderlusts. It is the home to many centuries’ old Buddhist monasteries, ethnic villages, waterfalls, mountain lakes and sites for meditations and adventure sports apart from serving as a base for a number of treks in the region. This is the place from where one can catch the best glimpse of the stunning Mount Kanchenjunga. The distance is so close that one may feel like talking to the snow-capped peak. For its unmatched natural beauty and the preserved heritage along with the tranquil environment, Pelling has cemented a special place among the true mountain lovers and the honeymooners.

Places of attractions in Pelling

 

 

 

Khecheopalri Lake:  Greeted by the numerous Buddhist prayer flags and the mystical sounds of the temple bells in the surroundings the Khecheopalri Lake is one of the most picturesque and serene lakes of whole of Sikkim. Considered as a very sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhists and Hindus, this place is believed to fulfill one’s wishes. Located in the vicinity of many Eastern Himalayan peaks and thick alpine forest, Khecheopalri Lake is a paradise for nature lovers and trekkers. A small Buddhist shrine and a Stupa, with numerous prayer flags around, can be seen in the lake premises. A wooden boardwalk leads to the lake and visitors must remove their footwear before walking on it. Numerous prayer wheels are lined up along the boardwalk.

 

Kanchenjunga Water Falls: Situated at a distance of 25 km from Pelling and 10 Kms from Yuksum, the Kanchenjunga Falls is known for its splendid beauty and glory. The tourists whoever visit the fall are so occupied with capturing the beauty that an hour can just easily be passes away. It is situated at a sharp curve on the road side. It is believed that the waterfall originates high up in the glaciers of Mount Kanchenjunga. The sound of water cascading down the hills and the cold moist air makes a serene environment.

For the adventure seekers, there is an option of rope sliding. The way side food stalls selling chat, tea and Maggie are also available for the tourists.

 

 

Rimbi Waterfalls: The Rimbi Waterfall is situated at a distance of approximately 12 km from Pelling and is one of the prime attractions in Pelling. This waterfall is clearly visible from the main road on the drive from Pelling to Khecheopalri Lake. The waters of these falls go into the picturesque Rimbi river which is famous for the recreational activities like swimming and fishing. One can walk down right to the falls and enjoy the cool clear waters. Nearby is an orange grove where many visitors make a halt, as it is right by the Rimbi river.

 

 

Rabdentse Ruins: Rabdentse was the second capital of the former kingdom of Sikkim from 1670 to 1814. It was built by the second Chogyal of Sikkim Tensung Namgyal in the year 1670 after shifting from the first capital of Yuksom that was consecrated in 1642.

The capital city survived almost a century that saw many royal conspiracies and attacks from foreign lands like Bhutan and Nepal. The city was destroyed by the invading Nepalese army and only the ruins of the palace and the chortens are seen here now.

Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim which is close to the ruins. From the vantage point of this former capital, one can enjoy the spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga ranges. This monument has been declared as of national importance by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Singshore Bridge: The very first sight of the Singhshore bridge in West Sikkim is felt like a hanging necklace in midst of a green canopied mountain. With a height of over 100 meters and 240 meters in length, this highest bridge in Sikkim and probably the second highest bridge in Asia is truly an engineering masterpiece. This suspension bridge built in 1993 is only meant for small cars. Surrounded by the tranquil forests and the streams, the Singshore bridge remains as one of the prime tourist destinations in Pelling. Built with iron and concrete, this cable supported bridge connects the two villages. One is Dentam and the other is Uttarey.

Yuksum: Yuksom is a small beautiful hamlet situated at the head of the Kanchenjunga National Park. It is a historical place with the distinction of the being the first Capital of the former kingdom of Sikkim. It is standing as a very sacred region for the followers of Buddhism with centuries old monasteries like Dubdi Monastery, holy mountain peaks and lakes like Khecheopalri blessed this divine and serene land.

Yuksom is also the starting point of several treks like the Dzongri Goechela trek, Yambong Singalila trek, etc and thus providing access to the base camp of Mount Kanchenjunga.
The inhabitants of Yuksum have followed the path of eco tourism and today this village is considered as the model village for eco-tourism. Every year the visiting population of tourists exceeds the resident population owing to its location on the trekking route and its importance as a religious center for Buddhists.

Dubdi Monastery: Established way back in 1701, Dubdi Monastery is a Buddhist shrine of the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism near Yuksom and is accessible by a thrilling but moderate 3 kms walk through nature’s wonderland embellished with fine tall trees, beautiful streams, gorgeous stoned path eventually leading to the panoramic view of the snow peaked mountains. Popularly known as Yuksom Monastery, it is considered to be the oldest monasteries in Sikkim, carrying immense historical significance to it.

This elaborately painted two storied building is built with stones and painted with Buddhist prayers and other symbols of Buddhist relevance. No photography is allowed inside the shrine and visitors are expected to leave their footwear outside. Within the monastery is a perfect spot to sit and meditate. Stands at an altitude of 2,100 metres, this place can certainly fill you with a sense of serenity that can be out of the world.

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