Pelling

Pelling has had an interesting history. It is said that it was the first capital of Sikkim. It is also believed that the Chogyal dynasty lived and ruled here. It is famous for its view of the snow-capped peaks of the Kanchenjunga. Situated at an altitude of 6,800 ft, it offers a great view of the complete mountain ranges like the Koktang, Kumbhakarna, Dom, Kanchenjunga and others. The great Himalayan ranges and the Kanchenjunga can be sighted at close quarters from Pelling. Pelling also serves as the base camp for treks in West Sikkim.

Sightseeing in Pelling -

Pemayangtse Monastery: is one of the oldest and most important monasteries in Sikkim. Pemayangtse literally translates to 'Perfect Sublime Lotus'. On the third floor of the monastery, there is a seven-tiered painted wooden model of the abode of Guru Rimpoche. In January or February every year, a religious dance called 'Cham' is performed in Pemayangtse.

Sangachoeling Monastery: Another attraction of Pelling. It is located on the top of the mountain behind the town.

Khecheopalri Lake: is considered as one of the sacred lakes of Sikkim. The lake is actually hidden in the forest. There is a belief that birds prevent leaves from floating on the lake surface.

Rabdengtse Ruins:  is another place to see in Pelling, which is located at a walking distance from the Pemayangtse Monastery. Surrounded by thick forests, the Rabdengtse Ruins are considered as famous destinations among the leisure tourists. Rabdengtse was the second capital of the Sikkim state after Yuksum during 1670. The king of Sikkim  ruled  this state up to the year 1814. Today, the Rabdengtse lies in ruins and from here the  Khangchendzonga ranges can be seen.

Changey Waterfall: Changey Waterfall is located about 10 km away from Pelling on the western slope of Pelling district of Western Sikkim. Situated at a height of about 300 metres, these falls are on the way to Dentam Valley. While descending, these falls disappear into the extensive greenery around the waterfall and because of the whiteness of the waterfall it appears like a great white line, with the backdrop of dense green vegetation. The fall flows through the Changey village from Ranidhunga and is considered as a famous tourist destination. Other villages surrounding this waterfall are Chhangey, Sapung and Bongten villages. Across these falls, tourists can also find Dentam Bazaar, which is an old village market housing a cheese factory.

Khangchendzonga National Park: located in the northern district of Sikkim covers an area of 850 sq. km. The park's height varies from about 1800 metres to 8600 metres, making it one of the highest national parks of the country. Khangchendzonga, which is among the highest peaks of the planet, lies on the western boundaries of this park. Wild animals such as snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, Tibetan antelopes, wild asses, barking deer, musk deer, flying squirrels and red pandas are among a few that can be found in the forest. There is a variety of flora that can also be seen in this park, including oaks, fir, birch, maple and willow.

How to reach -  The town does not have its own airport or railway station and one has to travel to the place from either Siliguri or Jalpaiguri. The place is situated at a distance of around 114 kilometers from Siliguri.

By Air:  Nearest airport is the Bagdogra Airport that is situated outside the town of Bagdogra. The airport is located around 124 kilometers from the town of Pelling. There are scheduled commercial flights from places such as Chennai, Kolkata, Guwahati and Mumbai.

By Train: The nearest railway station is situated in the town of Jalpaiguri. The station is connected to some cities across the country such as Chennai, New Delhi, Howrah, Alipur and Darjeeling. You have to hire a taxi from the station or pre arrange a pick up through the hotel to reach the town.