PELLING, SIKKIM – A MAJESTIC HIMALAYAN WONDERLAND
Pelling is a small town located in the state of Sikkim, situated at an altitude of about 2,150 meters (7,200 feet) above sea level and offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of the Eastern Himalayas, including the majestic Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world.
Pelling is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, serene atmosphere, and panoramic views. It serves as a base for exploring the western and northern parts of Sikkim. The town is surrounded by lush green forests, waterfalls, and terraced farms, making it a picturesque location.
Pelling also offers opportunities for trekking and hiking enthusiasts. The Singalila Ridge trek is a popular route that starts from Pelling and takes you through beautiful landscapes, including rhododendron forests and alpine meadows.
Visitor Experiences and Activities Enjoyed
Visitors to Pelling, Sikkim can enjoy a range of experiences and activities during their stay. Here are some popular ones:
1. Sightseeing: Pelling is known for its stunning views of the Himalayas, including the magnificent Kanchenjunga peak. Visitors can indulge in sightseeing and witness the sunrise or sunset over the mountains from viewpoints like Pelling Skywalk, Pemayangtse Monastery, and Sangachoeling Monastery.
2. Trekking and Hiking: Pelling serves as a starting point for various treks and hikes. The Singalila Ridge trek is a popular option, offering stunning views of the Himalayas, rhododendron forests, and diverse flora and fauna.
3. Waterfalls: Explore the nearby waterfalls such as Kanchenjunga Falls, Rimbi Waterfalls, and Changey Waterfalls. These cascades offer scenic beauty and are ideal for photography and picnicking.
4. Rabdentse Ruins: Visit the ancient ruins of Rabdentse, the capital of the former Kingdom of Sikkim. The ruins are located amidst dense forests and provide a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
5. Bird Watching: Pelling is home to a variety of bird species, making it a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts. Explore the surrounding forests and spot colorful birds such as the Satyr Tragopan, Blood Pheasant, and Red-headed Trogon.
6. Village Visits: Take a walk through the nearby villages and interact with the local communities to experience the traditional way of life in Sikkim. Gain insights into their culture, customs, and handicrafts.
7. Shopping: Explore the local markets in Pelling and shop for traditional Sikkimese handicrafts, souvenirs, and local products like tea, spices, and woolen garments.
8. Food Exploration: Indulge in local Sikkimese cuisine and try traditional dishes like momos (dumplings), thukpa (noodle soup), gundruk (fermented leafy greens), and chhurpi (hard cheese).
Top Attractions and Must Visit Places
In addition to the experiences mentioned earlier, here are some of the top attractions and must-visit places in and around Pelling, Sikkim:
1. Pemayangtse Monastery: Explore the historic Pemayangtse Monastery, one of the oldest and most significant monasteries in Sikkim. Admire the intricate architecture, ancient statues, and religious artifacts within the monastery premises.
2. Khecheopalri Lake: Visit the sacred Khecheopalri Lake, located near Pelling. Take a peaceful walk around the lake, enjoy the tranquil surroundings, and learn about the religious significance associated with it.
3. Rimbi Rock Garden: Located near Pelling, Rimbi Rock Garden is a beautiful picnic spot adorned with rocks, waterfalls, and lush greenery. It is an ideal place to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
4. Sanga Choeling Monastery: Situated on a hilltop near Pelling, Sanga Choeling Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
5. Sewaro Rock Garden: A well-maintained garden located on the banks of River Rangeet, Sewaro Rock Garden is known for its landscaped gardens, rock formations, and water bodies. It’s a popular spot for picnics and leisurely walks.
6. Dentam Valley: Located close to Pelling, Dentam Valley is a scenic valley with terraced fields, gushing streams, and traditional Sikkimese villages. It offers picturesque views and an opportunity to experience rural life.
7. Yuksom: A historic town near Pelling, Yuksom is known as the “Gateway to Kanchenjunga.” It holds immense historical and religious significance, with attractions like Dubdi Monastery, Norbugang Park, and the Coronation Throne.
8. Tashiding Monastery: Situated on a hilltop near Pelling, Tashiding Monastery is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the confluence of the Rathong Chu and Rangit rivers.
9. Changey Waterfall: Located en route to Dentam from Pelling, Changey Waterfall is a mesmerizing cascade amidst lush green forests. It’s a popular spot for photography and relaxation.
10. Darap Village: Visit the serene Darap Village, located near Pelling, to witness the rural lifestyle of the Limboo community. Enjoy the hospitality, interact with locals, and explore the traditional houses and farmlands.
11. Uttarey: A scenic village situated at the base of Singalila Range, Uttarey offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains. It serves as a starting point for treks and offers a tranquil atmosphere.
12. Kanchenjunga National Park: Located in the vicinity of Pelling, Kanchenjunga National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the biodiversity hotspots of the Eastern Himalayas. It is home to diverse flora, fauna, and rare species like the red panda and snow leopard.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Pelling, Sikkim, can be determined based on favorable weather conditions, events, and festivals. Here are the factors to consider:
1. Weather: The weather in Pelling is generally pleasant, but it can vary throughout the year. The ideal time to visit is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) seasons. During these months, the weather is mild with clear skies, making it perfect for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor activities.
2. Rhododendron Blooms: If you are a nature enthusiast and wish to witness the vibrant blooming of rhododendron flowers, plan your visit during the months of April and May. Pelling and its surrounding areas are known for their beautiful rhododendron forests, which come alive with colorful blooms during this time.
3. Festivals: Sikkim celebrates various festivals throughout the year, offering a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage. The Losar Festival (Tibetan New Year), celebrated in February or March, is a vibrant and significant festival in Sikkim. You can witness traditional dances, music, and cultural performances during this time.
4. Bumchu Festival: The Bumchu Festival is a popular religious festival held at the Tashiding Monastery in Sikkim. The exact date of the festival varies each year according to the lunar calendar (usually in January or February). Pilgrims gather to witness the opening of the sacred Bumchu pot, believed to predict the future. Attending this festival can be a unique cultural experience.
It’s important to check the specific dates of festivals and events as they can vary from year to year.
Shopping and Must Try Cuisine
Shopping in Pelling, Sikkim, offers an opportunity to explore and purchase unique local products and handicrafts. Here are some items you can consider buying:
1. Handicrafts: Look for intricately woven carpets, wooden carvings, and handcrafted items like traditional masks, thangkas (Buddhist paintings on silk), and prayer wheels. These items showcase the artistic skills and cultural heritage of Sikkim.
2. Tea: Sikkim is known for its tea plantations, so consider buying locally grown tea such as Temi Tea. It is a renowned brand and offers a range of flavors, including black, green, and white tea.
3. Traditional Attire: Explore local boutiques and shops for traditional Sikkimese clothing. You can find beautiful dresses like the traditional Bhaku (a silk blouse with a full-length wraparound skirt) and the Kho dress (a traditional Sikkimese dress for women).
4. Handicraft Bags and Accessories: Look for handmade bags, purses, wallets, and accessories crafted from locally sourced materials like handwoven fabrics, hemp, or yak wool. These items make for unique and sustainable souvenirs.
5. Tibetan Artifacts: Pelling has a significant Tibetan influence, and you can find Tibetan artifacts like prayer flags, singing bowls, prayer beads, and incense. These items are symbolic and carry spiritual significance.
Now let’s move on to the must-try cuisine in Pelling:
1. Momos: Momos are a popular Tibetan dish and a staple in Sikkimese cuisine. These dumplings are filled with a variety of fillings such as vegetables, chicken, or pork and are served with spicy tomato or sesame chutney.
2. Thukpa: Thukpa is a hearty noodle soup that is perfect for the chilly weather. It is typically made with vegetables, meat, or seafood, along with noodles and flavorful broth.
3. Chhurpi: Chhurpi is a traditional Sikkimese cheese made from yak’s milk. It is often chewy and can be enjoyed as a snack or used in various dishes. Try chhurpi snacks, which are dried and seasoned cheese sticks.
4. Gundruk and Sinki: Gundruk is a fermented leafy green vegetable dish, and sinki is a fermented radish taproot. These traditional fermented foods are commonly used in Sikkimese cuisine as side dishes or as ingredients in various recipes.
5. Local Brews: Sikkim produces a variety of local alcoholic beverages. Try “tongba,” a traditional millet-based alcoholic drink served in a bamboo container, or “chhang,” a millet beer.
6. Sikkimese Thali: Indulge in a Sikkimese Thali, a traditional platter consisting of various dishes like rice, dal (lentils), vegetable curries, pickles, and sometimes non-vegetarian options. It allows you to taste a variety of flavors and specialties of the region.
How to Reach
To reach Pelling, Sikkim, there are several transportation options available. Here’s how you can reach Pelling from different starting points:
By Air: The nearest airport to Pelling is Bagdogra Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India, including Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Bangalore. From the Airport you can hire a pre-paid taxi or book a private cab to Pelling.
By Train: The nearest major railway station to Pelling is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station. From the Railway Station, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to reach Pelling.
By Road: Pelling is well-connected by road to various nearby towns and cities. You can reach Pelling by hiring a taxi, taking a shared jeep, or even using public bus services. Here are some common routes to reach Pelling:
· Bagdogra to Pelling: You can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep from Bagdogra to Pelling. The distance is approximately 140 kilometers, and it takes around 5-6 hours to reach.
· Gangtok to Pelling: Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim, is approximately 120 kilometers away from Pelling. You can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep from Gangtok to reach Pelling. The journey takes around 4-5 hours.
· Siliguri to Pelling: Siliguri, a major city in West Bengal, is around 130 kilometers away from Pelling. You can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep from Siliguri to reach Pelling. The journey takes around 5-6 hours.
It’s important to note that the road to Pelling involves hilly terrain, and the journey can be quite scenic but also winding. It is advisable to hire a reliable driver who is experienced in driving in the hilly regions.
