Pelling is a small Himalayan town tucked away in West Sikkim between the rugged terrain, alpine vegetation and the innumerable waterfalls along the hill. Visit this small town and catch breath taking views of the snow-capped   Kanchenjunga, which is the third largest peak in the world.  From here you can not only view the   Kanchenjanga but the entire range. Although a small town, Pelling is soon growing into a popular tourist hub. Pelling offers you an opportunity to get close to Kanchenjanga mountain range without giving up the coziness of your hotel. Pelling also offers ample opportunities for nature walks,  treks and adventure sports. To ensure that you make most of your trip here are a list of Pelling attractions that are not be missed.

Places to Visit in Pelling

Khangchendzonga waterfalls:

Khangchendzonga waterfall is one of the most beautiful and popular tourist places to visit in  Pelling. It is located at an hour and half’s drive away on the way from Darap to Yuksam. You will find cardamom fields and orange trees scattered along the way transforming   the drive into a beautiful journey. Hidden from the view, behind a wall of rocks you need to climb some steps to watch this beautiful waterfall.  As evident from the name the waterfall originates from Khangchendzonga.  The waterfall is several feet long and the water is crystal clear and ice cold. There is a shadow pool and rocks which you can cross with the help of the locals and get a closer view of the falls.  In case you are hungry you can eat from the several small shops lined on the way selling maggi, snacks and momos.

Rabdanse Ruins

At Rabdanse Ruins experience the  beauty of history and nature at the same time. It is one of the most beautiful Pelling attractions. Rabdanse was once the capital of Sikkim in 17^th century. Now only the ruins of the palace remain. The ruins of the royal palace is set against the backdrop of  snow -capped Himalayan peaks of  Kanchenjanga range and on the opposite hill lies Pemayangtse Monastery, carved out of the wood. The views from Rabdanse ruins are breathtakingly beautiful.  The hike from car parking to the ruin is also delightful, strewn with lakes. You can also spot rare birds here.  Rabdanse Ruin is a paradise for nature lovers, history buffs and architect buffs.  It is also one of the popular places to visit in Pelling.

Khecheopalri Lake

Khecheopalri Lake is considered holy by the Buddhists. One of the popular Pelling attractions,  This lake is tucked away in the midst of dense forest. The walk from the car parking to the lake is delightful.  You will find a number of Buddhists monasteries nearby and  Buddhists prayer flag and prayer wheels lining the lake.  There is a  shrine, temple and a boardwalk leading to the lake.  Experience divine serenity and tranquillity at Khecheopalri Lake.  This lake is also a part of the Buddhist pilgrimage circuit.  At this lake you can make your wish come true, it is believed to be a wishing lake.  The natives believe the shape of the lake to be footprint of Goddess Tara.

Pemayangtse Monastery

It is one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in west Sikkim built in 1705.The three storied monastery has intricate murals and ornate figurines, paintings, statues and sculptures of deities. The top floor has the celestial palace of Guru Rimpoche .  The meaning of  Pemayangtse is ‘perfect sublime lotus’.  The view  of Himalayan ranges from this monastery is beautiful. You can also view the Rabdanse Ruin from  the Pemayangtse Monastery. If you visit during January or February you can watch the dancers perform traditional Cham dance.

Singshore Bridge

Singshore Bridge  is the second highest suspension bridge in Asia and the highest in India. An architectural and engineering marvel, it is one of the popular places to visit in Pelling. The Singshore bridge is about an hour’s drive away from  Pelling. A photogenic attraction , the views of the surrounding hills is mesmerizing.  The bridge connects Dentam village with Uttarey village, which is Nepal border. This half a kilometre long bridge is at a height of 6500 ft without any pillar support.   You can walk along the bridge, catch the amazing views from dizzying heights and feel the suspension of the bridge while a car passes by. Good news  for the adventure lovers! Bungee jumping would be soon commencing from this bridge.  While admiring this great location you can also enjoy snacks from the nearby local stalls and huts.

Pelling is a beautiful hidden gem. Visit Pelling and lose yourself  in the serenity and tranquillity of the nature.  From Pelling the mighty Himalayan peaks are just a breath away!