PELLING, WEST SIKKIM

     Pelling is a small town in the northeastern Indian state of Sikkim, at the foothills of Mount Khangchendzonga. The late-17th-century Buddhist Sanga Choling Monastery has mountain views. Pemayangtse Monastery features wall paintings, sculptures and a gold-plated statue of Guru Padsambhava. Overlooking a valley, the 17th-century Rabdentse Palace, now in ruins, still has evidence of the king’s bedroom and kitchen .

Pelling is a heaven for nature lovers and adventure seekers.It has also become the second biggest tourist destination in Sikkim after Gangtok. Located 10 km from Geyzing and 130 km from Gangtok, the main attraction of the place is the breathtaking sight of the Khangchendzonga and the neighbouring peaks

BEST TIME TO VISIT :

Pelling is at the altitude of 2000meters, where the temperature in summer goes up to 25 degrees Celcius and comes down to 1 degree Celcius in winters. It is quite warm and pleasant in summer. The monsoon season is from July to September. Pelling can be visited at all times of the year, however, it is best to avoid a trip in the monsoon season.

PLACES TO VISIT :

Khecheopalri lake

Located away amidst the serene hills of West Sikkim, Khecheopalri Lake is a sacred gem revered by both Buddhists and Hindus. Known as a wish-fulfilling lake, its tranquil waters are believed to be blessed by Guru Padmasambhava and the Goddess Tara. Surrounded by lush forests and the mystical aura of ancient legends, this enchanting lake, part of the revered Demazong valley, invites pilgrims and nature lovers alike to experience its profound spiritual energy and breathtaking natural beauty. Such is its rich cultural and spiritual significance, that it is known by several names: originally called Kha-Chot-Palri, meaning "the heaven of Padmasambhava", locally it is also referred to as Sho Dzo Sho, which translates to "Oh Lady, Sit Here".

Known for its serene ambience, you will witness numerous breath-taking views at this place. The lake’s landscape is a canvas painted with shades of vibrant green and clear serene blue. The lake’s waters are embraced by dense trees and bamboo grooves. The mighty Kanchenjunga peak not only serves as a majestic background but is reflected on the lake’s water presenting a mesmerizing phenomenon. Admire how the still water of the lake perfectly mirrors the abundant greenery and calming sky. The quiet view of the lake makes it a wonderful spot to relax and distress.

Rabdentse Ruins

Ancient remnants of Sikkim's past

It was once the second capital of the former Kingdom of Sikkim, from 1670 to 1814, before the invading Gurkha army destroyed it. Today, it is an incredible historical treasure, with only the ruins of the palace and the chortens (Buddhist shrines) visible.

Behold the Rabdentse Ruins, a heritage moment recognized by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), with lush surroundings and incredible views of the Kanchenjunga as its backdrop. Located half an hour away from Pelling, it is also often referred to as the ‘Machu Picchu’ of India.

Today, the Rabdentse ruins are part of a Buddhist religious pilgrimage circuit starting with the first monastery at Yuksom, the Dubdi Monastery. This is followed by Norbugang Chorten, Tashiding Monastery, the Pemayangtse Monastery, the Sanga Choeling Monastery, and the Khecheopalri Lake.

There is a 7-ft long white marble slab where locals have offered prayers to date. Legend has it that a single person carried it up to the top of the hill. The slab's location is believed to be the location of a monastery called Risum Gompa. The southern wing of the ruins features a throne and is the religious complex where the common people would pray as well as seek an audience with the king.

Within the ruins' complex, you will also find the Sidkeong Tulku Bird Park, named after the 10th Chogyal of Sikkim, Sidkeong Tulku Namgyal. The landscaped park is home to about 200 of the 550 avian species in the region. You can spot owls, eagles, bulbuls, flycatchers, pheasants, and babblers, among many other birds. An elevated walkway in the park is the best spot for sightings and close encounters with the feathered residents.

Pemayangtse Monastery

Amidst Pelling's beautiful landscape lies a venerable monastery that stands as a beacon of the lineage of the Ta Tshang (pure Tibetian monks). Welcome to the Pemayangtse Monastery, where a rich tapestry of Sikkimese history and spirituality unfolds against majestic snow-capped mountains.Pemayangtse translates to "Perfect Sublime Lotus" and is said to represent one of the four plexuses of the human body.

It began as a small shrine called 'Tsangkhang', founded by Lhatsun Chhenpo between 1650 and 1651 AD. In 1705, this shrine was later shifted to the present site and established as a monastery by Chhogyal Chhagdor Namgyal and Lama Khanchhen Rolpai Dorje (first head lama of Pemayangtse Gompa) in honour of Guru Padmasambhava - the Lotus Born. Today, it is considered the second-oldest monastery in Sikkim, after Dubdi Monastery.

Chenrezig statue and Glass skywalk

The Chenrezig statue and skywalk are a tourist attraction in Pelling, West Sikkim district, Sikkim. The complex houses a 137 ft (42 m) tall statue of the bodhisattva Chenrezig, the tallest Chenrezig statue in the world. The place is also the location of India's first glass skywalk. The site was inaugurated in 2018 and has since attracted significant footfall.

The glass-bottomed skywalk is situated at a height of 7,200 ft (2,195 m) above sea level, nestled in the Himalayas. It overlooks the Chenrezig statue and the flight of stairs leading up to it. There are golden prayer wheels on both sides of the stairs. The foundation stone of the Chenrezig statue was laid in 2009 and consecrated by the Dalai Lama.

Kanchenjunga Waterfall

The most beautiful thing water can do in the arms of nature is falling from a cliff with majestic demeanour. The Kanchenjunga Waterfall in Pelling is one such vision which will imprint in your memory forever, owing to the spectacular sight it provides which is nothing short of a picturesque extravaganza. A visit to this inexplicable grandeur is all you need to restore your faith in the power of nature, as this waterfall was untouched till the nineties and it is only recently that it has gained popularity as a major tourist attraction.

Sidkeong Tulku Bird Park

Sidkeong Tulku Bird Park, which is tucked away in the wetlands between Rabdentse and Pemayangtse in Sikkim. This park was created in 2015 as a result of collaboration between the Sikkim government and the travel and tourist sector to provide a refuge for both migratory and permanent bird species. Sikkim, which is the perfect place for this kind of project because of its amazing scenery and abundant wildlife, is tucked away in the Himalayan foothills. The park, which bears the name of Sidkeong Tulku, the 10th Chogyal of Sikkim and a pioneer of modern forestry, features more than 600 different species of birds among its rich array of flora and animals. The park’s raised bridges and well-kept paths make it simple for visitors to see the diverse birdlife.

Singshore Bridge, Pelling 

At a distance of 21 km from Pelling, Singshore Bridge is a suspension bridge situated between Dentam & Uttarey village near Pelling. At an elevation of 198 m above the ground, it is the highest bridge in Sikkim and the second highest gorge bridge in Asia.

Singshore Bridge, with a height of over 100 m and 240 m in length, is truly an engineering marvel and made it to connecting two gorges. This bridge helps the trekkers to cover a large distance between hills in a short span. The downward view from the bridge is overwhelming with the sight of beautiful waterfalls and breathtaking views of the green hillsides above are pleasing. This engineer's triumph has become a popular attraction in Pelling.

Offering a splendid view of lush hillsides, overwhelming waterfalls and the pristine valley, Singshore Bridge promises a sight to behold. It connects two beautiful villages Dentam and Uttarey, where homestay facilities are also available. For tourists, there is a special restaurant adjacent to the bridge where one can have a wonderful time. The Government of Sikkim is likely to introduce Bungee jumping activities soon to make it more attractive for adventure seekers.

Sikkim Set To Introduce First Bungee Jumping Experience At Singshore Bridge.Along with the bungee jumping facility, a glass skywalk is under construction at Shingshore Bridge, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valleys. The new adventure attraction is expected to boost tourism and benefit local businesses, positioning Sikkim as an emerging destination for adventure tourism while prioritizing safety and responsible development.