If you are looking to breakthrough your
regular routine of job, family, pressure and numerous other problems in life and want some soul searching then Pelling is the place to head for. The name ‘Pelling ‘ is derived from Lama Pema Lingpa who meditated near the present day Helipad. A sleepy small little town at an altitude of 2,150 m (7,200 feet) in the western district of Sikkim till recent time, this nature’s haven is now bustling with visitors almost throughout the year. The nearest airport is Bagdogra (approx 138kms) and nearest railhead New Jalpaiguri(NJP) (approx 136 kms).There are options of hiring a private vehicle on exclusive basis or you can commute through local taxis on sharing basis from the airport or railway station.Be it a Honeymoon, family trip, adventure trip, eco tours you can look forward to all of these. With the magnificent Mt Kanchendzonga in the backdrop you simply can’t feel more closer to Mother Nature. Its virgin woods, streams, the paddy fields, the winding roads, the monasteries all add to the place’s charm. If you want to experience the beauty of snow clad mountains and enjoy the cold misty weather, the best time to visit would be September-December and if you want more of adrenaline rush and enjoy adventure like trekking March-May is the best time. You can also experience rhododendron trails during this time as the flowers are in full bloom, intoxicating you with their fragrance and beauty. Only few months i.e July and August would not be advisable to visit Pelling due to the heavy monsoon.
Being a small town it is normally quiet and not for those who are looking for night life and fancy restaurants. There are hotels from basic ones to four star categories but the type of accommodation that is gaining popularity in Pelling are the homestays. What more to expect than getting to spend time with a family, while on a holiday. One gets to experience the local culture by actually gaining firsthand experience about the food cooked, their lifestyle, day to day activities, village life for those who are from cities. It is a different and unique experience altogether. Words are insufficient to describe the beauty and serenity of Pelling. One actually has to immerse themselves in the peace and happiness of the place leaving behind all their worries.Among the various attractions Pemayangtse Monastery is a must see. One of the oldest monasteries in the state , its charm and beauty will do nothing but cleanse one’s soul. Then there is the Khecheopalri Lake, considered to be a sacred lake or the “Wishing Lake”. There is a belief that whatever you wish for with pure thoughts it will come true. Another tourist attraction is the Singshore Bridge, 198 meter Suspension Bridge which is the second highest gorge bridge in Asia and is located at about 5kms from Pelling. Rabdentse Ruins another historic place which speaks about Sikkim’s rich culture. Originally Rabdentse was the capital of Sikkim but now in ruins ,hence the name. But the short trek to this picturesque place is definitely worth visiting. Other places of interest in and around Pelling are Yuksom, Dzongri,Darap Village, Rimbi waterfalls, Sewaro Rock Garden, Dubdi Monastery.
