Sikkim ·
Pelling
Pelling is a small town in West Sikkim. Pelling is famous for its magnificent views of the snow-capped mountains of Kanchenjunga.
Pelling at a Glance
Why Pelling?
The highlights, landmarks and experiences that make this destination worth visiting.
- Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary
- Rabdentse Ruins
- Chenrezig statue and skywalk
Pelling at a Glance
Essential travel information to understand Pelling before planning your visit.
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Explore Pelling
Places to Visit
- Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary: The Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary or Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary occupies 104 km2 in the Singalila Range in western Sikkim. It borders on Nepal to the west, and the state of West Bengal to the south across the Rambong Khola stream.
- Rabdentse Ruins: When descending from Pemayangtse Monastery you can take a left turn and take a walk for 10 min to reach to the gateway of Rabdanse Ruins. The ruins lie hidden from the main road.
- Chenrezig statue and skywalk: The 42-metre-high statue of Chenrezig dominates the Pelling skyline. Chenrezig, also known as Avalokitesvara, “One who looks with unwavering eye,” is the most revered of all Bodhisattvas, embodying the compassion of all Buddhas.
Things to Do
- Pemayangtse Monastery: Pemayangtse literally means perfect sublime lotus. This is one of the oldest and most important monasteries of Sikkim.
- Rabdentse Ruins: When descending from Pemayangtse Monastery you can take a left turn and take a walk for 10 min to reach to the gateway of Rabdanse Ruins. The ruins lie hidden from the main road.
- Chenrezig statue and skywalk: The 42-metre-high statue of Chenrezig dominates the Pelling skyline. Chenrezig, also known as Avalokitesvara, “One who looks with unwavering eye,” is the most revered of all Bodhisattvas, embodying the compassion of all Buddhas.
- Sanga Choeling Monastery: Situated on a ridge above Pelling and overlooking the famous Pemayangtse Monastery. Built in 1697 AD, it is considered to be one of the oldest monasteries in the State.
Sightseeing Places
- Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary: The Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary or Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary occupies 104 km2 in the Singalila Range in western Sikkim. It borders on Nepal to the west, and the state of West Bengal to the south across the Rambong Khola stream.
- Rabdentse Ruins: When descending from Pemayangtse Monastery you can take a left turn and take a walk for 10 min to reach to the gateway of Rabdanse Ruins. The ruins lie hidden from the main road.
- Chenrezig statue and skywalk: The 42-metre-high statue of Chenrezig dominates the Pelling skyline. Chenrezig, also known as Avalokitesvara, “One who looks with unwavering eye,” is the most revered of all Bodhisattvas, embodying the compassion of all Buddhas.
Places That Define Pelling
Explore the most iconic landmarks and sacred sites.
Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary
The Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary or Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary occupies 104 km2 in the Singalila Range in western Sikkim. It borders on Nepal to the west, and the state of West Bengal to the south across the Rambong Khola stream.
Rabdentse Ruins
When descending from Pemayangtse Monastery you can take a left turn and take a walk for 10 min to reach to the gateway of Rabdanse Ruins. The ruins lie hidden from the main road.
Chenrezig statue and skywalk
The 42-metre-high statue of Chenrezig dominates the Pelling skyline. Chenrezig, also known as Avalokitesvara, “One who looks with unwavering eye,” is the most revered of all Bodhisattvas, embodying the compassion of all Buddhas.
Explore Destination on Map
Discover all sub-destinations, routes and detailed navigation information on an interactive map.
Explore Pelling on Map
Open the destination map to discover attractions and routes.
Plan Your Trip
Plan Your Way
- When to Visit: Climate-based guidance for choosing your dates.
- Getting Around: How to reach and move around.
- Budget & Practical Tips: Costs and safety notes from local guidebook sources.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), about 59 km from Pelling.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Darjeeling railway station, about 20 km from central Pelling.
- By Road: SNT Bus are also available from Siliguri (SNT) at Hill Cart Road at 10:30PM. Advance bookings can be done online through popular travel portals.
Best Time to Visit
- Summer: Summer in Pelling (Apr, May, Jun) averages 9–18°C with about 364 mm of rain per month.
- Monsoon: Monsoon in Pelling (Jul, Aug, Sep) averages 14–20°C with about 590 mm of rain per month.
- Post-monsoon: Post-monsoon in Pelling (Oct, Nov) averages 7–16°C with about 130 mm of rain per month.
- Winter: Winter in Pelling (Dec, Jan, Feb) averages 0–12°C with about 39 mm of rain per month.
Weather
- Summer: Average highs of 18°C and lows of 9°C.
- Monsoon: Average highs of 20°C and lows of 14°C.
- Post-monsoon: Average highs of 16°C and lows of 7°C.
- Winter: Average highs of 12°C and lows of 0°C.
Local Transport
- Walk: Guides are available in Pelling for nature walks and monastic treks. Some of the younger men and boys of the district have benefited from a training program provided by the Government of Sikkim.
Suggested Itinerary
Choose the perfect duration for your Pelling trip.
Spiritual & Religious
Planning Guide
- Overview: Pelling is a small town in West Sikkim. Pelling is famous for its magnificent views of the snow-capped mountains of Kanchenjunga. Situated at an altitude of 1,900 m (6,250 ft), the location offers good views of the surrounding mountain ranges including the Koktang, Frey, Rathong, Kabru North and Kabru South, Kabru Dom, Talung Kanchenjunga, Pandim, Jopuno, Tinchikhang, Narsing and others.
- Accommodation: Home-stay accommodations for tourists are being organized by the Darap Eco-Tourism Committee at the houses of committee members. Listed options include Hotel Kabur, Hotel Garuda and Hill Retreat.
The Sacred Heart of Pelling
A timeless journey of faith and devotion.
Significance
Freddie Pelling founded the town during British rule. He organised protection for the townspeople who lived under threat from raiders coming from the north who stole minerals from the mines there.
Natural Significance
Freddie Pelling founded the town during British rule. He organised protection for the townspeople who lived under threat from raiders coming from the north who stole minerals from the mines there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pelling is most comfortable in January, February, November and December, when average daytime highs stay at or below 32°C and rainfall is low. The hottest month is August (average high 21°C) and the wettest months are March, April, May, June, July, August, September and October.
The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB), about 59 km away. The nearest railway station is Darjeeling railway station, about 20 km away. See the How to Reach page for road, rail and air details.
Main attractions include Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, Rabdentse Ruins and Chenrezig statue and skywalk.
A stay of 1 day covers the main sights. Ready-made 1-day and 2-day itineraries are linked on this page.
Average highs range from 11°C to 21°C over the year, with about 3425 mm of rain in total.
Tour Packages for Pelling
Your Pelling Journey Starts Here
Explore top attractions, local culture, and the experiences that make this destination worth visiting.