Discovering the Hidden Gems of Pelling, Sikkim: A Two-Day Itinerary (2024)
Pelling, a beautiful hill town of Sikkim, is a major tourist attraction located 130 kms from the capital Gangtok and about 10 kms from Geyzing. With a mesmerizing view of the majestic Khangchendzonga and other peaks, Pelling is a must-visit for nature lovers, holidaymakers, and adventure enthusiasts.
If you plan a short two-day trip to an offbeat petite destination in India, then schedule two days and two nights in Pelling, Sikkim, which stands tall at 6800 feet. The Northeast of India offers stunning views of snow-capped mountains and mind-blowing scenic spots. Apart from its picturesque beauty, Pelling, the laid-back and tranquil town, attracts visitors because of its strong historical background, traditions, heritage, culture, and widespread flora and fauna.
Discovering the Hidden Gems of Pelling, Sikkim: A Two-Day Itinerary
The two days and two nights in Pelling package is a perfect weekend trip to witness beauty up close. Pelling connects the famous Pemayangtse and Sangacholing Buddhist monasteries and has now bloomed into a full-fledged hamlet hot spot for tourists. A visit to Sikkim is complete with setting steps in this beautiful village.
How To Spend Your Day 1 in Pelling?
Pelling, tucked away at a glorious height of 2150 meters offers a spectacular view of the Himalayas, Kanchenjunga, and various waterfalls en route to the town, which undoubtedly heightens the feeling of peace and calm. Start your first day in Pelling with a fabulous meal at the Melting Point restaurant. The thupka, aloo paranthas, and momos are lip-smackingly delicious and a must-try. What an excellent way to start your day! You can also taste a bite at the Newa Grill, where everything served on the menu is extra special and yummilicious.
Sangachoeling Monastery:
The 17th-century Sangachoeling Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries and a significant landmark on the Buddhist pilgrimage route. You have to travel through extensive forest cover and challenging terrain for almost an hour and a half, nearly 3 kms, to reach this Monastery, but it is worth every minute. On the way, you can also see the Rani Dhunga Jungle Trek path.
A beautiful layout and a fabulous sight greet you at every step of the way, and the view from the Monastery makes the arduous journey worthwhile. Sangachoeling, built-in 1697 by Gyalwa Lhatsum Chempo, the devotee belonging to the Nyingmapa sect of Tibetan Buddhism, is the most well-liked out of the many attractions in Pelling. Take the tour and include this in your agenda.
Standing regally in the middle of scenic beauty and prayer flags, the tranquil environment of the MonasteryMonastery and the fabulous sight of the white snow-clad peaks enthralls the visitor. You also get to see exciting scriptures, unique clay statues, ancient paintings done on the walls and other artifacts with historical references dating back years and years.
Pemayangtse Monastery:
One of the first monasteries in Sikkim is the Pemayangtse Monastery, founded way back in 1705. The Zangdokpalri, a wooden structure on the top floor of the Monastery, is the most distinctive feature of this holy place, and many people pay their visits to look at this. It is a tangible representation of Lama Gyalwa Lhatsum Chempo’s dream as a celestial sphere, and its historical and spiritual reference makes it one of the most lovely things here.
The Monastery also has sculptures, wall paintings, a statue of Guru Padmasambhava, and other precious artworks. Avoid using your phone inside the Monastery, and keep your hands off any treasures or holy items, or you may disturb the sanctity of the sacred place. Similarly, cameras are not generally permitted inside the Monastery; therefore, get consent before taking any pictures to avoid getting into trouble. Additionally, it is wise to dress appropriately. The distance between Pelling and the Monastery is roughly 9 kilometers so stay prepared for an enchanting trip. You are going to reach here in no time to enjoy the beauty.
These two monasteries are opposite directions and show an enthralling view of the snowy Himalayan peaks.
Geyzing Marketplace
Gyalshing or Geyzing, a well-liked location in Pelling, is known for its market area and connection to Rabdentse’s royal garden. In fact, this is one of Pelling’s premier commercial areas famous for shopping. People in business prominently display regional handicrafts along with handmade goods. Moreover, the prestigious farmer’s market exhibits several items and provides the community with fresh produce, fruits, and other eatables.
As the evening approaches, it’s time to end the day. If you are still up to it, head to the marketplaces for souvenir shopping and yummy treats. While here, you can also visit Yangtey, Varsey, or Khecheopalri Lake. The marketplace has many good food joints to satiate your hunger, and you can conclude your tour’s first day with an overnight stay in a hotel.
How To Spend Day 2 in Pelling?
You can indulge in a delicious meal before embarking on a sightseeing tour of Pelling on the second day. Have a gourmet meal at Lotus Bakery and taste its sumptuous bakery items. Gather your energy because the second day of the tour is packed with exciting activities.
You can visit many picturesque locations, including Rabdentse Ruins, a well-known tourist attraction, Sewaro Rock Garden, and Darap Village, which is home to several diverse ethnic communities and is slowly gaining popularity. Other interests in Pelling include:
Pelling Skywalk:
The glass skywalk of Sikkim is mesmerizing and is one of the main attractions for tourists visiting this region. The Pelling Skywalk is tucked away warmly amidst the majestic Himalayas and the glorious sights. It offers a breathtaking view of the Chenrezig, the revered Buddhist pilgrimage site, and the entire building complex is situated nearly 7,200 feet above sea level. The gorgeous religious landmark that also doubles as a well-liked tourist destination is made all the more alluring by the glass skywalk. Imagine peeping beneath into the wilderness! It will be an adventure on its own. Go for it!
Khecheopalri Lake
Khecheopalri Lake, also known as a Wishing Lake, is among the most sacred lakes in Sikkim that is revered and held in high esteem by both Buddhists and Hindus. The lake is at an elevation of 6004 feet above sea level. Moreover, it is even mentioned in the famous legends of Buddhists and Hindus.
The lake stays typically clean because it is said that the local birds often perch and pick up foodstuffs or anything else that falls on the surface of the water. One kilometer of uphill walking can be extremely rewarding for the tourists and exhibits a glimpse of the lake resembling a footprint.
Legend and local Buddhists claim that the unique shape of the lake represents the holy footprint of the worshipped Goddess Tara. This lake is around a trudging 6-hour drive from Gangtok. Be cautious and aware that due to the lake’s sacred and holy status, water activities are prohibited there.
Rabdentse Ruins:
The second Chogyal founded Rabdentse, popularly known as the old capital of Sikkim, which now lies in ruins on the lower hillock near the famous Pemayangtse Monastery. Following the 18th-century attack by the Nepalese, this beautiful Palace was destroyed and rambled.
It is a beautiful sight to see the deep valley with the Kanchendzonga ranges in the background from here. In fact, the North Wing and South Wing are the two sections of the ruins, while there is some semblance and order in the other areas. Tourists have to travel through the forest for around 2 kms to get to the ruins and remains of the “one-time” opulent Palace.
It is advised to wear cozy footwear because the weather can be chilly here. Keep an eye on all around as you pass this attraction since the driving itineraries often do not include a stop here. You can get a glimpse if you are vigilant while you move about in the area. The breathtaking beauty surpasses many exquisite sights.
Rimbi Waterfall:
Rimbi Waterfall is situated on the route to Khecheopalri Lake and Yuksam, about 12 kilometers from Pelling Island and 5 kilometers from Village Darap. One may unwind here amid nature, serene and removed from the bustle of the city. The water collects in a pool that is well-known for fishing. Keep an eye out as you pass this attraction since driving itineraries typically do not include a stop here.
Take advantage of the yummy chicken curry and Tibetan Garlic Bread at Kabur. The savories leave you asking for more and more. The visit will be etched in your memory bank forever. We promise you that. As the night ends, your Pelling visit also commences, and the tour stops. Soon, you will be returning the following day, bidding Pelling goodbye.
Best Time To Visit Pelling
Pelling is a great place to visit at any time of year. Travel to this beautiful location in Sikkim during the famous Khangchendzonga Festival if you want to fully experience this town’s rich customs, traditions, and culture. This most important festival in Pelling features some of the most enjoyable outdoor, cultural, and recreational events. Aside from this, May to September is the ideal month to visit this exciting location because the weather is pleasant and comfortable.
The best time to visit Pelling is when the winter is here, and the weather is superb as the summer approaches. While the peak winter months of January through mid-February can be chilly, travelling here can be a lot of fun if you pack plenty of warm clothes! Nature is at its best, and the period is cold but enjoyable. The least desirable season in Pelling is the monsoon since the area experiences tremendous rainfall during this time, and the surroundings can become slushy and messy.
How To Reach Pelling?
Visitors might have to travel through Gangtok to get to Pelling since there are no direct flights or trains available to this location. You can arrange for a tour representative to take you around once you arrive in Gangtok by plane or rail. You will then be taken to Pelling from there by other means of transport.
The travel time from Gangtok to Pelling is approximately 4 to 5 hours, and the entire distance is 112 kilometres. Undoubtedly, it is far, but many people are known to have a quick visit to this area. But how can you enjoy the breathtaking view of the high-rise Himalayas, the eye-striking Kanchenjunga, and glorious waterfalls if you don’t stay at least two days and two nights in Pelling?
