Uttarey is a small, quiet village in the hills of West Sikkim, close to the Nepal border. It’s not as popular as places like Pelling, but that’s what makes it special. Here, you won’t find big crowds or noisy streets just peaceful mountain views, clean air, green forests, and kind people.
Many travelers visit Uttarey Sikkim to relax, enjoy local culture, and spend time in nature. It’s also a starting point for some of the most beautiful treks in Sikkim, like the Phoktey Dara trek, where you can see sunrise views over the Himalayan peaks, and the Varsey trek, famous for its rhododendron forests in spring.
Staying in a simple homestay in Uttarey gives you a chance to eat home cooked Sikkimese food, learn about the local way of life, and wake up to amazing views. Whether you want to go trekking, explore local sights, or just enjoy a slow and quiet holiday, Uttarey has something for you.
In this guide, you’ll get all the important details for planning your Uttarey Sikkim tour like when to go, how to get there, where to stay, what the weather is like, and what not to miss. Let’s explore this beautiful corner of Sikkim together.
Uttarey Travel Guide Full Information
Uttarey Weather Guide
Uttarey experiences a cool and pleasant climate throughout most of the year, making it a great destination for travelers who enjoy mild weather.
During the spring months from March to May, temperatures usually range between 10°C to 20°C, with fresh air and blooming flowers all around.The monsoon season from June to September brings moderate to heavy rainfall, so it’s best to avoid visiting during this time as roads can become slippery and trekking trails muddy.
Autumn, from October to early December, is one of the best times to visit Uttarey because the weather is crisp, clear, and comfortable, with temperatures generally between 8°C to 18°C. Winters from late December to February can get quite cold, with temperatures sometimes dropping below 5°C, especially at night, so warm clothing is necessary.
Overall, Uttarey’s weather is ideal for sightseeing and trekking during spring and autumn, while the monsoon and winter months require more preparation due to rain and cold.
Best Time to Visit
For the most comfortable experience, consider visiting Uttarey during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) months. These periods offer pleasant weather, clear views, and are ideal for outdoor activities.
Where to Stay in Uttarey
Staying in Uttarey Sikkim is all about comfort, warmth, and peaceful surroundings. Most accommodations here are small, family-run homestays, which offer a chance to enjoy local food, learn about the culture, and feel at home in the hills. These places are not fancy, but they are clean, cozy, and often come with beautiful views of the mountains and forests.
If you prefer something a bit more private, you’ll also find a few small hotels in Uttarey West Sikkim with basic facilities. These are perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers who want a quiet and safe place to rest after a day of sightseeing or trekking.
Wherever you stay, expect friendly hosts, home-cooked meals, and a true village experience. Booking in advance is a good idea, especially in spring and autumn when the weather is nice and many people visit.
Recommended Places to Stay in Uttarey
| Type | Approx. Price/Night | Facilities | Ideal For |
| Homestay | ₹1000–₹1800 | Local meals, mountain view | Cultural experience |
| Budget Hotel | ₹1500–₹2500 | Private rooms, hot water | Families & couples |
| Eco Lodge | ₹2000–₹3000 | Peaceful location, guided treks | Nature lovers |
| Trekking Camp | ₹800–₹1200 | Shared tents, simple food | Budget travelers, trekkers |
How to Reach Uttarey
Uttarey, a peaceful village in West Sikkim, is known for its calm surroundings and natural beauty. While it doesn’t have a direct airport or railway station, reaching here is quite manageable if you plan ahead.
By Air
The nearest airport to Uttarey is Bagdogra Airport, located in West Bengal. It’s about 160 km away and takes roughly 6 to 7 hours by road. Once you land, you can hire a private taxi or find a shared cab heading toward Jorethang or Geyzing, and from there, continue on to Uttarey. The drive is scenic, with mountain views and fresh air perfect to start your Sikkim journey.
By Train
If you’re coming by train, the nearest station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP). It’s well-connected to major cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Guwahati. From NJP, you’ll need to take a cab or a shared jeep to Jorethang or Geyzing, which takes around 6 to 7 hours. From there, you can easily find transport to Uttarey. The road journey offers a mix of river valleys, forests, and small villages.
By Road
Uttarey is accessible by road from several nearby towns and cities. From Gangtok, you can drive via Ravangla → Legship → Geyzing, and finally reach Uttarey in about 6 to 7 hours. If you’re already in Pelling, it’s a shorter and beautiful drive of around 30–35 km, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours. Shared jeeps and taxis regularly run from places like Jorethang, Geyzing, and Dentam, especially in the morning hours.
What to Eat in Uttarey
Food in Uttarey is simple, warm, and full of local flavor. Most meals are homemade, served at your homestay, and cooked fresh with locally grown ingredients. If you enjoy trying new things, you’ll love the traditional Sikkimese dishes served here.
You’ll often find meals that include rice, dal (lentils), fresh vegetables, and sometimes chicken or pork curry. Don’t miss Gundruk (fermented leafy greens), Phagshapa (pork with radish and chili), and Kinema (fermented soybeans). These are traditional Sikkimese items with unique tastes, often cooked with care by local hosts.
For snacks or breakfast, you might get Momos (steamed dumplings) and Thukpa (noodle soup) two popular Tibetan-style foods that are both filling and tasty. These are commonly available in local tea stalls or small eateries.
There are not many restaurants in Uttarey, so most visitors eat where they stay. Homestays usually include meals in the package. If you have any food preferences or dietary needs, it’s best to let your host know in advance they are usually happy to prepare something suitable.
Tip: Try the homemade butter tea or local millet beer (tongba) if you’re up for a local treat—it’s part of the culture and often shared during festivals or with guests.
Places to Visit in Uttarey
Uttarey may be a small village, but it’s surrounded by beautiful spots that make your trip unforgettable. Whether you’re here for peace, views, or adventure, there’s something to enjoy.
1. Uttarey Village Viewpoint
This is the perfect spot to start your day. The viewpoint offers a peaceful view of the village, green hills, and snow-capped peaks in the distance. On clear days, you might even spot part of the Kanchenjunga range.
2. Tenzing Hillary Memorial Park
This well-kept park honors the first Everest climbers, Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary. It’s a peaceful place to walk, relax, and learn about the history of mountaineering. The prayer flags and quiet atmosphere make it feel very special.
3. Kagyu Gompa (Monastery)
A peaceful monastery surrounded by trees and hills. It’s a great place to sit, reflect, and enjoy the calm. You can also talk to the monks if they’re around—they’re usually kind and welcoming.
4. Mainbass Waterfall
Just a short ride or walk from the village, this small waterfall is a hidden gem. It’s not crowded, so you can enjoy the sound of falling water and relax in nature. Perfect for a quiet moment or photos.
5. Chewa Bhanjyang
If you love trekking or want to try a short day hike, this mountain pass near the Nepal border gives you stunning views of both India and Nepal. It’s a bit offbeat, so you’ll likely have the trail to yourself.
Best Time to Visit Uttarey
The best time to visit Uttarey is from March to May and October to early December. During these months, the weather is pleasant, the skies are mostly clear, and nature is at its best.
Spring (March to May)
This is the most colorful season in Uttarey. The weather stays cool and fresh, with temperatures around 10°C to 20°C. You’ll see flowers blooming everywhere, and it’s a great time for sightseeing, photography, and short treks like Uttarey to Phoktey Dara.
Autumn (October to Early December)
Autumn brings clear skies, crisp air, and great mountain views. It’s perfect if you want to see the Himalayas, including the Kanchenjunga range, without clouds. The weather stays pleasant, and this is one of the most peaceful times to visit.
Avoid: Monsoon (June to September)
The monsoon season brings heavy rain, making roads slippery and some areas hard to reach. Landslides are also possible, so it’s better to avoid these months for safety reasons.
Winter (Late December to February)
Uttarey gets quite cold in winter, with temperatures dropping below 5°C. If you enjoy cold weather and fewer tourists, you might like it but do pack warm clothes!
Must Know Before You Travel to Uttarey
Uttarey is about slow travel don’t rush, just enjoy the peaceful pace.
- Uttarey is a remote village, so plan your journey and transport in advance.
- There are no ATMs in the village—carry enough cash for your full stay.
- Most accommodations are homestays—simple, clean, and run by locals.
- Food is mostly home-cooked; inform your host in advance if you have dietary needs.
- Mobile networks are weak; Jio or BSNL may work, but expect limited signal.
- Roads are narrow and winding—travel during the day and avoid the monsoon if possible.
- Bring warm clothes, even in summer; evenings and mornings are cool.
- Respect local traditions Uttarey is quiet, clean, and culturally rich.
- Start early if you’re heading to trek routes like Phoktey Dara or Varsey.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time to Visit Uttarey?
Summertime in Uttarey is ideal, with moderate temperatures between 13 and 26 degrees Celsius, from April to June. Another excellent period is October through November when the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor sports and sightseeing.
How Can Tourists Reach Uttarey?
Flying into Bagdogra Airport or the newly built Pakyong Airport will get you to Uttarey. One may take a cab to Siliguri from Bagdogra, and then a shared jeep to Uttarey. If using the train, New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is the closest station. From NJP, visitors may get to Siliguri via cab or shared jeep and then on to Uttarey.
What are the main attractions in Uttarey?
Among the many noteworthy sites in Uttarey are the Mainebass Waterfall, Tenzing Hillary Memorial Park, Trout Farm, and Kagyu Monastery. From serene spirituality at the monastery to breathtaking natural beauty at the waterfall, each of these locations provides a different experience.
Are there any unique activities or events in Uttarey?
Indeed, Uttarey has a number of tourist-drawing activities and events. Popular summertime pursuits include trekking and hiking. Bird viewing and nature hikes are ideal in this peaceful and beautiful town. Tenzing Hillary Memorable Park also holds commemorations and activities linked to climbing. Wintertime offers chances to see snowfall and take in the stunning scenery.
What attracts many people to the Kagyu Monastery?
Popular attractions of the Kagyu Monastery are its spiritual atmosphere and historical relevance. One of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim, founded in 1711, it is tucked away in deep woodlands, offering a serene and picturesque setting. Culture and spirituality enthusiasts should not miss the monastery because of its distinctive architecture and colorful religious artwork. Its hilltop position provides guests with a calm place to think and meditate.
