Discover Amazing Pelling

If you’ve ever wanted to wake up to a view where the mountains look close enough to touch, you need to head to Pelling (widely known as Pelling). Tucked away in the quiet corners of West Sikkim, this small hill town is much more than just a quick stop on a map. It is a place where you can hear the chanting from ancient monasteries in the morning and see the third-highest peak in the world, Mt. Kanchenjunga, glowing in the sun by the afternoon.

While Gangtok is the bustling heart of the state, Pelling is its peaceful soul. People come here for the fresh air, the history of the Chogyal kings, and the kind of quiet you only find at 7,000 feet. Whether you’re a solo traveler looking for a break or a family on a Pelling tour package, this guide will help you plan everything.

Where Is Pelling Located?

Pelling is located in the West Sikkim district of India. It sits at an altitude of about 2,150 meters (7,200 feet). To give you an idea of the map, it is roughly 130 kilometers away from Gangtok.

While it’s a mountain town, it is divided into three sections: Upper Pelling, Middle Pelling, and Lower Pelling. Most of the better views and luxury hotels are found in the Upper section, while the Lower section is where you’ll find the main local market and budget stays.

Why Visit Pelling?

Why choose Pelling over other hill stations? Here’s the honest truth:

• The Views: It offers arguably the best and closest views of the Kanchenjunga range without having to go on a multi-day trek.
• Spirituality: It is home to some of the oldest and most sacred Buddhist monasteries in Sikkim.
• A Slower Pace: Unlike the crowded malls of Darjeeling or Gangtok, Pelling still feels like a village in parts. It’s perfect for those who want to walk, breathe, and relax.
• Unique History: You can walk through the ruins of the second capital of the former Kingdom of Sikkim.

Best Time to Visit Pelling

Timing is everything in the mountains. Here is a quick month-wise breakdown:

• March to May (Spring/Summer): This is the peak season. The weather is pleasant (around $10°C$ to $25°C$), and the rhododendrons are in full bloom. It’s the best time for outdoor sightseeing.
• June to September (Monsoon): This is the time to be careful. Sikkim gets heavy rain, which often leads to landslides and road blocks. While the greenery is stunning, the mountain views are usually hidden by clouds.
• October to Mid-December (Autumn): This is my favorite time. The air is crisp, the sky is crystal blue, and the Kanchenjunga views are at their clearest.
• Late December to February (Winter): It gets very cold ($0°C$ or lower). You might see snow, but make sure you book a hotel with good heating.

How to Reach Pelling

Reaching Pelling requires a bit of a drive, but the scenery along the Teesta River makes it worth it.

From Bagdogra Airport (IXB): Bagdogra in West Bengal is the nearest major airport. From here, Pelling is about 140 kilometers away. You can hire a private taxi directly from the airport, which takes about 5 to 6 hours.

From NJP Railway Station:

New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is the main train hub. Similar to the airport, it’s a 5-6 hour drive. There are shared jeeps available from Siliguri (near NJP) to Pelling, but they usually leave early in the morning.

From Gangtok:

If you are already in the capital, you can reach Pelling by road in about 4 to 5 hours. The road goes through Ravangla, which is a great place to stop for a break and see the Buddha Park.

Top Places to Visit in Pelling

There are plenty of places to visit in Pelling, ranging from ancient ruins to modern skywalks.

1. Pemayangtse Monastery

One of the oldest and most prestigious monasteries in Sikkim. It belongs to the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The wood carvings and the seven-tiered wooden sculpture of "Zangdog Palri" inside are breathtaking.

2. Rabdentse Ruins

Just a short walk from the monastery, these are the ruins of the second capital of Sikkim. Walking through the stone fortifications feels like stepping back into the 17th century. The view of the valley from the king's throne site is incredible.

3. Pelling Skywalk & Chenrezig Statue

This is India’s first glass skywalk. It leads to a massive 137-foot statue of Lord Chenrezig. Walking on the transparent glass with a deep gorge below is a thrill, and the spiritual vibe at the top is very calming.

4. Khecheopalri Lake

Known as the "wish-fulfilling lake," this is sacred to both Buddhists and Hindus. A local legend says that birds don't allow a single leaf to float on the lake’s surface, picking them up as soon as they fall.

5. Kanchenjunga Falls

A massive, perennial waterfall that crashes down into a pool. It’s one of the most popular spots for photography and a great place to grab some local Maggi and tea.

6. Singshore Bridge

About 25 km from Pelling, this is one of the highest suspension bridges in Asia. Walking across it while the wind howls through the gorge is an experience you won't forget.

Things to Do in Pelling

If you are planning your Pelling trip itinerary, make sure to include these experiences:

• Photography: Wake up at 5:30 AM to catch the "Golden Glow" on Mt. Kanchenjunga.
• Nature Walks: The trail to the Rabdentse Ruins is through a thick forest and is great for bird watching.
• Village Tours: Visit nearby villages like Darap to see the traditional Limboo culture and try some local hospitality.
• Meditation: Spend a quiet hour in the prayer halls of the monasteries.

Pelling Tour Itinerary (4 Days)

Here is a realistic and easy-to-follow plan for your trip.

Day 1: Arrival & Rest

• Reach Pelling from NJP/Bagdogra by late afternoon.
• Check into your hotel in Upper Pelling.
• Evening walk at the local helipad for a sunset view of the peaks.

Day 2: The Spiritual & Historical Circuit

• Morning: Visit Pemayangtse Monastery.
• Mid-day: Walk to the Rabdentse Ruins (it’s a 15-20 minute easy hike).
• Afternoon: Head to the Pelling Skywalk and the Chenrezig Statue.
• Evening: Browse the local market for hand-woven carpets or traditional tea.

Day 3: Waterfalls & Sacred Lakes

• Morning: Drive toward Rimbi Orange Garden and Rimbi Waterfalls.
• Mid-day: Spend time at the sacred Khecheopalri Lake.
• Afternoon: Visit the mighty Kanchenjunga Falls.
• Optional: If you have time, drive further to the Singshore Bridge.

Day 4: Farewell

• Catch one last sunrise from your balcony.
• Have a heavy local breakfast and start your journey back to NJP or toward Gangtok.

Where to Stay in Pelling

• Luxury & Mid-Range: Most of these are in Upper Pelling. Look for hotels like The Elgin Mount Pandim or Magpie The Chestnut Retreat. They offer the best views right from your bed.
• Budget Stays: Lower Pelling has many guest houses and homestays that are easy on the pocket and run by very friendly local families.
• Homestays: For a real taste of Sikkim, stay in a homestay in Darap Village (about 8 km from Pelling).

Food & Local Cuisine in Pelling

The food here is a warm mix of Tibetan, Nepalese, and Sikkimese flavors.

• Momos & Thukpa: You’ll find these everywhere. The beef or veg momos in the local shacks are often better than the hotel food.
• Gundruk: A fermented leafy green soup that is very traditional.
• Sel Roti: A ring-shaped fried bread usually served during festivals.
• Local Tea: Don’t forget to try the Temi Tea, which is grown right here in Sikkim.

Travel Tips for Pelling

1. Carry Cash: While some hotels take cards or UPI, the network can be patchy. Small shops and taxis almost always prefer cash.
2. Permits: If you are a foreign national, you will need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to enter Sikkim. Indian tourists don't need a permit for Pelling, but carry a valid ID just in case.
3. Clothing: Even in summer, evenings are cool. Carry a light jacket. In winter, heavy woolens and thermals are a must.
4. Network: BSNL and Airtel usually work best, but don't expect high-speed 5G everywhere. Enjoy the digital detox!

Pelling is the kind of place that stays with you. It’s not about ticking off a list of sights; it’s about the feeling of the cold mountain wind and the sight of the white peaks standing tall against a blue sky. If you’re looking for a trip that clears your head and fills your heart, Pelling is waiting for you.