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.
Places to Visit
Rabdentse Palace Ruins - Rabdentse was the second capital of the former Kingdom of Sikkim from 1670 to 1814. The capital city was destroyed by the invading Gurkha army and only the ruins of the palace and the chortens are seen here now. However, the ruins of this city are seen close to Pelling and in West Sikkim district in the Northeastern Indian state of present-day Sikkim; Pemayangtse Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim which is close to the ruins.
Pemayangtse Monastery - It was built in 1705 located in Pemayangtse (2 km from Pelling). The Buddhist monastery was founded by Lama Lhatsun Chempo. Built as a three storied structure, the monastery depicts paintings on its walls and statues of saints and Rinpoches, deified in various floors.
Darap Village - A small village about 7 km on the way to Yuksom. It is mostly occupied by the Limbu tribe including small populations of other communities as well.
Rimbi Waterfall - Situated 5 km from Darap en route to Khecheopalri. It is the oldest in West Sikkim being constructed in early 70s during the reign of the last Sikkimese King. The state government has developed the Sewaro Rock Garden here which is complete with rocks, pathways, pools, manicured gardens etc.
Kanchenjunga Falls - Further 18 km from Rimbi River and about 28 km from Pelling. It is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Sikkim and is normally active throughout the year.
Changey Waterfall - 10 km from Pelling.
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.
Pelling Sky Walk and Chenrezig Statue - A new attraction near Sanga Choeling is the gigantic 137 feet statue of Chenrezig (Avalokitesvara) and a transparent Sky Walk made of glass that leads to the statue. It was opened in November 2018 and since then it has attracted significant footfall.[1]
Other locations close to Pelling are Yuksom, Rinchenpong, Dzongri and Hee Burmiok.[2]
Singshore Bridge - Singshore Bridge is located around 26 km away from Pelling. The bridge has a height of over 100 m and 240 m in length, is the highest bridge in Sikkim and the second highest bridge in Asia.
Pelling Helipad - Pelling has a helipad ground though there is no regular air service. Helicopters can connect Pelling with Gangtok on request and in emergency.
