Places to Visit in Pelling

Pelling is a scenic town that is located in the West district of Sikkim and is renowned for its breathtaking views. Pelling is located at an elevation of 6800 feet above sea level. Pelling is considered to be the second most popular tourist destination in Sikkim due to some of the popular places to visit. 

Pelling is located at a distance of 124 km from Gangtok which takes around 4 hours and 21 minutes to reach. Pelling offers something for every tourist such as delicacies, scenic places, and religious places to immerse yourself into the rich heritage and traditions of Pelling. It is recommended to visit Pelling during the summer season, which ranges between March to May. During this time period, the weather remains pleasant and you will attain a clear view and also be able to travel to other parts of Sikkim.

Here Are the Top 7 Places to Visit in Pelling:

1. Pemayangtse Monastery
2. Sanghoeling Monastery
3. Kanchenjunga Fall
4. Rabdentse Ruins
5. Tashiding Monastery
6. Rimbi Waterfall
7. Sewaro Rock Garden

Top 7 Places to Visit in Pelling

Pemayangtse Monastery

Pemayangtse Monastery is said to be the oldest monastery in Pelling and the second oldest monastery in Sikkim and the name Pemayangtse means “The Perfect Sublime Lotus”. Pemayangtse Monastery being 300 years old reflects the unwavering faith of Buddhism. This monastery was built by Lama Lhatsun Chenpo, back in the year 1705. Later the successors of Lama Lhatsun Chenpo renovated and expanded the monastery.

Pemayangtse Monastery Travel Tips

Pemayangtse monastery is located at a distance of 9.2 km It takes around 28 minutes to reach the destination. The monastery is open to the public on all days between the timings from 7 AM to 5 PM.

Pemayangtse Monastery Facts

The Pemayangtse Monastery is believed to represent the plexus or chakras of the human body, which are considered to be the energy centers. The monastery represents the Nyingma order of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery has held a strong tradition of blessing monks with holy water and maintains a strict standard for bestowing monkhood to the chosen Bhutias.

Main Highlights

The first floor of the monastery contains well-crafted sculptures and idols, excellent paintings, and old scrolls. At the top of the monastery, there is a seven-tiered wooden painting named Santopalri, which is named as Guru Rinpoche’s heavenly palace.

The main prayer hall at the monastery is decorated with paintings and the windows and doors of the monastery are also painted in traditional Tibetan design. The main deity of the monastery is of Dorje Bhurpa Vjarakila form, which has multiple arms and heads.

Also Read: How to Reach Namchi

Sanga Choeling Monastery

Sanga Choeling Monastery is yet another ancient monastery that was established back in the 17th century by Lama Lhatsun Chempo.

Sanghoeling Monastery Travel Tips

Sanga Choeling Monastery is located in the upper Pelling region and can be reached by walking a stretch of around 4 km from the drop location. The monastery is situated at a distance of 8.9 km from the main town of Pelling and it will take around 30 minutes to rhea the destination.

Sanghoeling Monastery Facts

The Sanga Choeling Monastery belongs to the Nyingma sect. This monastery reflects the Tibetan architecture style and stands as a testimony to the long-believed traditions and cultures of Buddhism.  

Main Highlights

It is believed that during ancient times, secret mantras were taught in this place for which this monastery has also earned the name of “Place of Secret Spells”. There is also a 300-year-old crematorium located nearby to this monastery. You will also get a panoramic view of Pelling from this monastery. The monastery also houses statues of Vajrasattava, Sakyamuni, and Padmasambhava.

Kanchenjunga Fall

Kanchenjunga Falls is a beautiful piece of nature that is located in the West Sikkim district. The waterfall has earned its name after Mount Kanchenjunga, as it is believed that the water comes from the glaciers of Mount Kanchenjunga, throughout the year. You can also witness a number of small animals and birds in the region.

Kanchenjunga Fall Travel Tips

Kanchenjunga Fall is located at a distance of 30.4 km from the main town of Pelling and requires a drive time of approximately 1 hour and 16 minutes. There is an entry fee of ₹20 to visit the waterfall. 

Kanchenjunga Fall Facts

The Kanchenjunga Fall is 100 feet tall and offers a scenic view to the visitors. Till the late 90s, this waterfall has remained untouched by humans. 

Main Highlights

The origin of the waterfall is the most attractive point of this tourist destination, as the water originates from the glacier of Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third-highest mountain in the world. 

Rabdentse Ruins

The Rabdentse Ruins are present in the West Sikkim district and can be seen from the premises of the Pemayangtse monastery. These ruins also depict the cultural and religious connections with the Buddhist circuit.  

Rabdentse Ruins Travel Tips

The best time to visit these ruins is during the summer season, which remains from March to May when the weather is pleasant and the temperature ranges between 7°C to 28°C. This ruins is located at a distance of 9.2 km from Pelling and will take about 30 minutes to reach the destination.   

Rabdentse Ruins Facts

Rabdentse Ruins is yet another popular tourist attraction that was the second capital of the kingdom of Sikkim during the period of 1670 to 1814. This capital of Sikkim was destroyed by the Gurkha army that invaded in the year 1814 and now only the ruins remain at the site. 

Main Highlights

At present, this site holds archaeological importance in Sikkim, as it helps in testifying the rich cultural significance of the ruins in the past. You can also get stunning views of Mt. Kanchenjunga from this point of interest.

Also Read: Places to Visit in Gangtok

Tashiding Monastery

Tashiding Monastery is yet another beautiful point of attraction that attracts a number of tourists from different parts of India every year. This monastery is located in the west Sikkim district and is also considered to be one of the holy and sacred monasteries. This monastery was founded back in the year 1641 by Ngadal Sempa Chempo Phunshok Rigzing.  

Tashiding Monastery Travel Tips

The best time to visit Tashiding Monastery is between September to October and March to April when you will get pleasurable weather conditions. This monastery is situated at a distance of 40 km from Pelling and requires an estimated traveling time of 1 hour and 55 minutes.  

Tashiding Monastery Facts

The Tashiding Monastery follows the Nyingma set of Tibetan Buddhism and is a part of the religious Buddhist circuit. The name Tashding refers to “The Devoted Central Glory” The monastery is located at an elevation of 1465 meters above sea level.   

Main Highlights

The Tashiding Monastery is also described as the Heart of Sikkim. You will find a peaceful atmosphere when you visit this monastery accompanied by stunning Tibetan architecture and surroundings. The monastery is also believed to house important relics like the footprint of Guru Padmasambhava.  

Rimbi Waterfall

Rimbi Waterfall is a scenic waterfall that offers a view of a cascading waterfall surrounded by lush green vegetation. This point of interest offers you with a soothing and relaxing ambiance.  

Rimbi Waterfall Travel Tips

Rimbi Waterfall is located at a distance of 18.2 km from Pelling and requires a traveling time of approximately 45 minutes. The best time to visit this waterfall is during monsoon season, which is between the months of May and July. However, traveling during monsoon season is less recommended due to the chances of landslides and other issues.  

Rimbi Waterfall Facts

The Rimbi Waterfall is located at a close proximity to one of the old hydropower stations of Sikkim and its water sources the power generation of the hydel power station, which was established back in the year 1970s.  

Main Highlights

The Rimbi Waterfall offers a picturesque view and is visible from the roadside. It is also a convenient stop for tourists. You can also go for swimming and fishing near the waterfall. 

Sewaro Rock Garden

Sewaro Rock Garden is a beautiful park that will help you get immersed in the beauty of nature while strolling in the paths of the garden. You can also see colorful birds around the garden and listen to the gushing sound of the Teesta river, flowing by the garden.  

Sewaro Rock Garden Travel Tips

Sewaro Rock Garden Facts

Sewaro Rock Garden is a part of sustainable tourism initiatives that have boosted the growth of sustainable practices and eco-tourism. There is also a picnic spot located within the premises of the garden.  

Main Highlights

Sewaro Rock Garden is maintained by the Tourism Department of Sikkim for which it has grown to be one of the renowned spots in Pelling. The long paths amidst the lush green vegetation accompanied by trees and flower fields offer a mesmerizing scenery to the visitors. 

Buy Sikkim Tour Packages Here: Sikkim Tour Packages

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is Pelling famous for?

During a minimum of 3 nights and 4 days in Pelling, visitors can explore the second-oldest monastery, Changay waterfalls, Dentam Bazaar, and the world’s second-highest hanging bridge.

How many days are enough for Pelling?

During a minimum of 3 nights and 4 days in Pelling, visitors can explore the second-oldest monastery, Changay waterfalls, Dentam Bazaar, and the world’s second-highest hanging bridge.

Is Pelling worth a visit?

Of course, Pelling is a must-visit destination in Sikkim as it will be offering you with stunning scenic views that will leave you awestruck.  Moreover, the rich cultural heritage and various adventure activities will make your Pelling trip memorable

What is the best time to visit Pelling?

The best time to visit Pelling is during the months of September to May, as during this time period, the weather stays pleasant and you can enjoy travelling to different locations in a pleasant manner

Can we see snow in Pelling?

Yes, we can witness snowfall in Pelling during the winter months that is between October and February, which hangs the scenic routes and also adds charm, to different tourist destinations.

Which river flows in Pelling?

Rimbi River flows through Pelling that is situated near Darap village, which is situated at a distance of 14.4 km and takes a traveling time of roughly 40 minutes from Pelling.   

Which mountain is visible from Pelling?

You can witness the majestic Kanchenjunga mountain from Pelling.