Pelling Travel Information

Pelling, a serene hill station in the West Sikkim district of India, is known for its breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range, lush greenery, and cultural richness. It is an excellent destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those interested in exploring local Sikkimese culture. Here’s a complete guide for first-time foreign tourists visiting Pelling

Pemayangtse Monastery

  • Description: One of the oldest and most famous monasteries in Sikkim, established in the 17th century.
  • Key Attractions:
    • Monastery Complex: Houses ancient scriptures, paintings, and statues.
    • Zangdok Palri (Heavenly Palace): A three-storied wooden structure representing a celestial palace.
  • Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • Entry Fee: Free

Rabdentse Ruins

  • Description: The archaeological site of the former capital of the Kingdom of Sikkim.
  • Key Attractions:
    • Ruins and Stupas: Explore the ancient ruins and three chortens (stupas) that overlook the Kanchenjunga ranges.
    • Panoramic Views: Enjoy scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  • Timings: Open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
  • Entry Fee: INR 20

Kanchenjunga Waterfalls

  • Description: A stunning natural waterfall, one of the largest and most popular in Sikkim.
  • Key Attractions:
    • Waterfall and Surroundings: Enjoy the serene beauty and relax by the waterfall.
    • Adventure Activities: Zip-lining is available for thrill-seekers.
  • Timings: Open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
  • Entry Fee: INR 50 (additional charges for adventure activities)

Khecheopalri Lake

  • Description: A sacred lake revered by both Buddhists and Hindus, surrounded by dense forests.
  • Key Attractions:
    • Lake and Prayer Flags: Walk around the lake, lined with colorful prayer flags.
    • Hiking and Nature Trails: Explore nearby trails through the forest.
  • Timings: Open from sunrise to sunset.
  • Entry Fee: Free

Sanga Choeling Monastery

  • Description: One of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim, located on a hilltop with panoramic views.
  • Key Attractions:
    • Monastery Architecture: Traditional architecture with ancient manuscripts and artifacts.
    • Hiking Opportunity: Reach the monastery by hiking through a scenic trail.
  • Timings: Open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • Entry Fee: Free

Skywalk and Chenrezig Statue

  • Description: A glass skywalk leading to one of the tallest statues of Chenrezig, the embodiment of compassion.
  • Key Attractions:
    • Glass Skywalk: Enjoy thrilling views of the mountains below.
    • Chenrezig Statue: A 137-feet tall statue surrounded by serene gardens.
  • Timings: Open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
  • Entry Fee: INR 50

Darap Village

  • Description: A traditional Sikkimese village that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.
  • Key Attractions:
    • Cultural Experience: Interact with locals, visit traditional houses, and experience homestays.
    • Nature Walks and Bird Watching: Enjoy peaceful walks through the village and surrounding forests

Where to Stay in Pelling

Luxury Hotels and Resorts

  • The Elgin Mount Pandim: A heritage hotel offering luxurious rooms with mountain views, fine dining, and modern amenities.
  • Norbu Ghang Resort: A well-regarded resort with comfortable accommodations, scenic views, and good dining options.
  • Chumbi Mountain Retreat & Spa: A luxury resort with an in-house spa, spacious rooms, and stunning views of the Kanchenjunga

  • Mid-Range Hotels

    • Hotel Phamrong: Offers comfortable rooms with views of the valley and mountains.
    • Tashigang Resort: A mid-range option with cozy rooms and good food, located close to key attractions.
    • Hotel Sonamchen: Provides a comfortable stay with essential amenities and easy access to the main sights

Budget Hotels

  • Hotel Hill Retreat: A budget-friendly hotel with basic amenities and good service.
  • Hotel Viewpoint: Known for its affordable rates and rooms with views of the mountains.
  • Pachu Village Resort: A budget option offering cozy accommodations in a serene environment

Where to Eat in Pelling

Fine Dining

  • Melting Point Restaurant: Offers Indian, Continental, and local Sikkimese cuisine with great views.
  • Lotus Bakery: Known for its freshly baked goods, pastries, and organic coffee.
  • The Rabdentse Restaurant: Serves a mix of local and international dishes, popular for its hospitality

Local Cuisine

  • Hotel Garuda Restaurant: Serves delicious local dishes, including momos, thukpa, and local Sikkimese specialties.
  • Big Bite Restaurant: Known for its Tibetan, Nepali, and Bhutanese cuisine.
  • Oxygen Restaurant: Offers Indian, Chinese, and local delicacies in a relaxed setting

Street Food

  • Local Market Stalls: Explore street food vendors for momos, chowmein, and traditional Sikkimese snacks.
  • Lower Pelling Market: Known for its variety of food stalls offering local delicacies

Activities for Tourists in Pelling

Trekking and Nature Walks : Pelling is surrounded by beautiful trails and nature walks. Moderate treks like the trail to Sanga Choeling Monastery and more challenging ones around the Kanchenjunga range.

Sightseeing and Photography : Capture the natural beauty, monasteries, and heritage sites of Pelling. Visit viewpoints, waterfalls, monasteries, and historical ruins for excellent photo opportunities.

Adventure Sports : Engage in thrilling activities like zip-lining at Kanchenjunga Waterfalls. Paragliding, rock climbing, and river rafting in nearby locations.

Cultural Experiences : Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting monasteries, attending traditional festivals, and staying in local homestays. Visit Pemayangtse Monastery, attend cultural events, and interact with local communities.

Bird Watching and Nature Photography : Pelling is a paradise for bird watchers and nature photographers. Khecheopalri Lake and nearby forests are excellent for bird-watching.

Shopping for Local Handicrafts : Purchase local handicrafts, including woolen garments, traditional jewelry, and local produce. Local markets and souvenir shops

Tips for Visiting Pelling

  • Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Pelling is from March to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
  • Packing Tips: Carry warm clothing, especially during winter. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the hilly terrain.
  • Health and Safety: Drink bottled water, follow local health advisories, and be cautious of altitude-related issues. Carry personal medications and be mindful of local customs

Popular Souvenirs to Buy in Pelling

Pelling, located in the beautiful state of Sikkim, is known for its rich culture, traditional crafts, and breathtaking natural beauty. Here are some popular souvenirs that foreign tourists can buy in Pelling

Prayer Flags and Prayer Wheels

  • Description: Colorful Tibetan prayer flags and handheld prayer wheels are commonly found in Buddhist monasteries and local markets. They are believed to bring good fortune and are a symbol of peace and spirituality.
  • Where to Buy: Local markets, souvenir shops near monasteries, and handicraft stores

Thangka Paintings

  • Description: Thangkas are traditional Tibetan Buddhist paintings depicting deities, mandalas, and spiritual scenes. They are hand-painted on silk or cotton and are often framed with brocade.
  • Where to Buy: Handicraft stores, monasteries, and local markets

Handcrafted Woolen Items

  • Description: Warm woolen clothing and accessories like scarves, shawls, caps, gloves, and sweaters made by local artisans.
  • Where to Buy: Local markets, shops around monasteries, and handicraft centers

Sikkimese Tea

  • Description: Sikkim is famous for its tea, particularly from Temi Tea Garden, known for its aromatic and flavorful teas. You can buy black, green, and white teas, which make excellent gifts.
  • Where to Buy: Tea shops, local markets, and shops selling local products

Handmade Paper Products

  • Description: Eco-friendly handmade paper products like notebooks, diaries, greeting cards, and envelopes. These are often decorated with traditional designs and motifs.
  • Where to Buy: Handicraft centers and local souvenir shops

Local Organic Honey

  • Description: Pelling and its surrounding regions produce high-quality organic honey. It is pure, natural, and free from additives, making it a healthy and delicious souvenir.
  • Where to Buy: Local markets and organic product shops

Tibetan Carpets and Rugs

  • Description: Hand-woven Tibetan carpets and rugs with intricate designs. These carpets are made from pure wool and are known for their quality and durability.
  • Where to Buy: Handicraft shops and local markets

Traditional Jewelry

  • Description: Unique pieces of jewelry crafted by local artisans, often featuring turquoise, coral, and other semi-precious stones. Tibetan-style necklaces, bracelets, and earrings are quite popular.
  • Where to Buy: Local jewelry shops, markets, and handicraft stores

Churpi (Traditional Himalayan Cheese)

  • Description: Churpi is a traditional Himalayan cheese made from yak milk. It comes in both soft and hard varieties, with the hard variety being popular as a chewable snack.
  • Where to Buy: Local markets and food shops

Bamboo and Cane Products

  • Description: Artisans in Pelling create beautiful bamboo and cane products like baskets, mats, and decorative items. These are eco-friendly and reflect the local craftsmanship.
  • Where to Buy: Local handicraft stores and markets

Local Spices and Pickles

  • Description: Sikkimese spices and pickles are unique in flavor and make great gifts. Common items include fermented bamboo shoot pickle, local chili pickles, and exotic Himalayan spices.
  • Where to Buy: Local markets, spice shops, and souvenir stores

Traditional Masks

  • Description: Hand-carved wooden masks used in traditional Sikkimese dances and rituals. These masks are colorful and represent various deities, demons, and characters from folklore.
  • Where to Buy: Local markets, handicraft centers, and shops near monasteries

Where to Shop in Pelling

  • Local Markets: Visit the local markets around Upper and Lower Pelling for a wide range of souvenirs, from handicrafts to local produce.
  • Monastery Shops: Shops near monasteries like Pemayangtse Monastery often sell traditional Tibetan and Sikkimese handicrafts and artifacts.
  • Handicraft Centers: Specialized shops and centers dedicated to promoting local crafts provide a range of authentic and high-quality souvenirs