Sikkim

Popular destinations in West Sikkim

Pelling

This is perhaps the most visited destination of the state after Gangtok. The view of the Himalaya is worth watching from any part of Pelling. Its vicinity has waterfalls, soft trek routes and soothing atmosphere. Situated at an elevation of 6,800 feet with spectacular views of Mt. Kanchendzonga it is a must go place. A full day guided sightseeing of Pelling town including Kecheopalri Lake, Kanchendzonga and Changey waterfalls Pemayangtse monastery, Singshore Bridge is enjoyable.

Rabdantse Ruins

Rabdantse Ruins - During the historic time this was the second capital of Sikkim after Yuksom and till 1814 AD. The King of Sikkim had ruled from this place and was shifted due to continuous invasion by Neighbouring state. At present the ruins lie hidden from the main road at a walking distance from the Pemayangste Monastery. Scenic view from the top of the ruin across deep valley to the mystic heights of Khanchendzonga ranges is something to be etched in memory.

Kecheopari Lake

This is one of the most sacred lakes of Sikkim. The lake remains hidden in the rich forest all around it. It can that the birds do not permit even a single leaf to float on the lake surface. Peaceful environment with a monastery is situated close to it. The famous Dzongri trek starts from here too.

Singshore Bridge / Uttarey

This is perhaps the highest bridge in this region about 25 kilometers from Pelling / Pemayangste. Nearly 20 minutes drive is Uttarey a base camp for the famous trek route of Uttarey Varsey and the Rhododendron sanctuary. Trekking, birding is famous in this region - A place worth Visiting.

Khanchendzonga Waterfall

This is a spectacular fall and worth visiting, about an hour drive from Pelling is Khanchendzonga falls. There are numerous falls all around the hills but few are as nice as this - Nice and soothing. One day Pelling sightseeing includes all this site.

Yuksom

Yuksom was the first capital of Sikkim and is worth visiting. According to the historical records the first Chogyal of the kingdom of Sikkim was sanctified in 1641 AD. This was done by three learned Lamas - Yuksom is served by roads from Pemayangtse and is best to either stay one or two nights or a day sightseeing is good for leisure travel. Dzongri trek starts from here.

Kanchendzonga National Park

Nearly spreading over 850 square kilometers is one of the most beautiful Parks in India. Many glaciers among them Zemu Glacier is the longest and most beautiful. It is a park of wilderness and attracts nature & adventure lovers from all over the world over. In the Alpine scrub there are many medicinal plants. Among the fauna to be found in the park area is the famous Snow Leopard.

Tashiding Monastery

Situated on top of a heart shaped hill with the back drop of the sacred Mt. Kanchendzonga. It is said that Guru Rimpoche blessed the sacred land of Sikkim in the 8th century AD from the spot. It is also famous for the holy chorten known as Thong – Wa – Rang - Doi means Saviors by mere sight. Another important feature of Tashiding is the sacred water festival popularly known as Bhumchu, celebrated with the devotees from far and near.

Sanga Choeling Monastery

Sanga Choeling Monastery is situated on a mountain top just close to Pelling town. The road is not motor able and one needs to take a 45 minutes walk through a quite path to reach the monastery for about three kilometers. The walk is compensated with great views of the surrounding mountains including Mount Kanchenjunga. It was built in the year 1697 and is one of the oldest monasteries in the region. Sanga Cholling literally means the island of teaching. It is of the Nyingmapa order, once gutted by fire was rebuilt and houses some of the original statues.