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West Sikkim is the ideal location for an unforgettable exploration if you long for breathtaking views and serenity. There are many places to visit in West Sikkim for adventure travellers. The ancient monasteries welcome spiritual tourists, offering a glimpse into Sikkimese architecture. Nature enthusiasts will fall in love with the beauty of rhododendrons, snow-capped peaks, cascading waterfalls, and rich flora and fauna. Trekking in West Sikkim will take you through diverse terrains if you are up for the challenge.
Top 10 Places To Visit In West Sikkim
From national parks to quaint little villages, here is a list of tourist places to visit in West Sikkim that deserve a spot in your travel itinerary:
1. Kanchenjunga National Park
Photo: Abhishek.ghosh1984 / Wikimedia Commons
Encompassing the mighty Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest mountain, this national park was established in 1977. It protects a vast swathe of the eastern Himalayas, encompassing diverse landscapes. The glaciers and lakes have earned the UNESCO World Heritage Site honour. The park boasts incredible biodiversity, with endangered species like red pandas, snow leopards, and elusive Himalayan musk deer roaming its meadows. Trekkers can embark on challenging expeditions that offer breathtaking encounters with nature.
Major Attractions: Stunning views of Mount Kanchenjunga, diverse flora and fauna,
Best Time To Visit: April to May and October to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In East Sikkim For An Incredible Experience
2. Pelling
Photo: Rangan Dutta Wiki / Wikimedia Commons
Nestled amidst breathtaking Himalayan vistas at an altitude of 7,050 feet, Pelling is a charming town steeped in Sikkimese culture. The town’s crown jewel is the sprawling Pemayangtse Monastery, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. Pelling offers a front-row seat to the majesty of Kanchenjunga, particularly from the popular viewpoint atop Khecheopalri Peak. Hikers can explore the serene Sanga Choling Monastery perched amidst serene forests or visit the nearby Rimbi waterfalls for a refreshing break.
Major Attractions: Sanga Choeling Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, Kanchenjunga Falls
Best Time To Visit: March to May and September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
3. Pemayangtse Monastery
Photo: Prof Ranga Sai / Wikimedia Commons
Founded in 1647 by Lama Lhatsun Chenpo, Pemayangtse Monastery is one of Sikkim’s oldest and largest Sikkim tourist places. Its impressive three-storied structure houses a treasure trove of Buddhist artefacts. Visitors can marvel at ancient scriptures meticulously preserved on palm leaves, intricate murals depicting the life of Buddha, and a revered statue of Guru Padmasambhava, credited with introducing Buddhism to Sikkim. The monastery’s serene atmosphere is punctuated by the rhythmic chanting of monks engaged in daily rituals.
Major Attractions: Ancient Buddhist artefacts, stunning architecture,
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to December
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In South Sikkim
4. Yuksom
Photo: Shubhamshukla / Wikimedia Commons
Shrouded in history as the first capital of Sikkim, established in 1642 AD, Yuksom is a charming town nestled in a valley at the foothills of the Himalayas. History buffs can delve into the past at the serene Dubdi Monastery, adorned with colourful prayer flags and adorned with ancient Buddhist relics. Yuksom’s surrounding valleys offer a glimpse into rural Sikkimese life, with traditional wooden houses nestled amidst emerald rice paddies.
Major Attractions: Dubdi Monastery, Norbugang Park, Kathok Lake
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 days
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
5. Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary
Photo: Spattadar / Wikimedia Commons
A riot of colour explodes during spring in the Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary, transforming the landscape into a breathtaking tapestry of blooms. Established in 1996, this sanctuary is a haven for over 60 species of rhododendrons, including the endemic Sikkim rhododendron. Hiking trails weave through the vibrant landscape, offering opportunities to witness the diverse birdlife. Beyond the floral spectacle, the sanctuary protects a rich ecosystem with diverse flora and fauna.
Major Attractions: Rhododendron forests, trekking
Best Time To Visit: March to May
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Sikkim In December For Your Next Winter Holiday
6. Rabdentse Ruins
Photo: Ankur P. / Wikimedia Commons
Once a bustling capital that thrived from the 17th to the 19th century, Rabdentse Ruins stand as a testament to the region’s rich past. Perched atop a strategic hill overlooking the Ralong River Valley, the ruins offer a glimpse into the architectural style of the Sikkimese royalty. The central courtyard, once a centre of power and administration, now allows visitors to imagine the grandeur of a bygone era.
Major Attractions: Ancient ruins, historical significance
Best Time To Visit: March to May and October to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
7. Yangtey
Photo: Goyaldevender / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
A scenic village in West Sikkim, Yangtey offers a tranquil escape amidst the Himalayas. Visitors can embark on nature walks through the verdant landscape, stopping to admire the vibrant wildflowers and listening to the melodious calls of birds. Homestays in Yangtey provide an opportunity to experience the warm hospitality of the local Lepcha people and gain insights into their unique culture and traditions. Yangtey serves as a base for exploring the nearby Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary.
Major Attractions: Mount Kanchenjunga views, nature walks
Best Time To Visit: March to May and September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Sikkim In May For A Serene Trip
8. Dzongri Trek
Photo: Anupam2015 / Wikimedia Commons
Adventure seekers can embark on the Dzongri Trek, a popular route traversing Kanchenjunga National Park’s heart. The trek takes hikers through diverse landscapes, starting amidst verdant forests and gradually ascending towards high-altitude meadows. Camping beneath the majestic Kanchenjunga massif, tourists can witness breathtaking sunrises. The highlight of the trek is reaching Dzongri, a high-altitude plateau offering panoramic views of glaciers, lakes, and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Major Attractions: Trekking, scenic landscapes, high-altitude adventure
Best Time To Visit: April to June and September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 7 – 8 days
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
9. Legship
Photo: Bhattaraibinod3 / Wikimedia Commons
Located on the banks of River Rangit, Legship is a small town best suited for photography enthusiasts. Tourists can spend a few hours in the Rangit Dam, picnicking and enjoying the green scenery. Thrill seekers can experience rafting to get the adrenaline high. After enjoying water sports and relaxing at the dam, tourists can visit nearby tourist places in West Sikkim, such as Kirateshwar Mahadev Temple and Lho Khando Sang Pho cave.
Major Attractions: Kirateshwar Mahadev Temple, Reshi Hot Springs, Rangit Dam
Best Time To Visit: March to June and September to November
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Sikkim In June For A Fun Trip
10. Khecheopalri Lake
Photo: Amitabha Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
Considered a sacred lake by Buddhists and Hindus, Khecheopalri Lake is a tranquil haven nestled amidst the Himalayas. Located near Pelling, the lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers stunning views of the Kanchenjunga mountain range. Legend associates the lake with wish-fulfilment, attracting pilgrims who perform traditional rituals at its banks. Visitors can take a peaceful boat ride on the lake’s crystal-clear waters, or simply relax on its banks and admire the surrounding beauty.
Major Attractions: Sacred lake, serene surroundings
Best Time To Visit: March to May and October to December
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 days
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport
Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station
Departing West Sikkim, travellers carry a piece of its magic within their hearts. The echoes of prayer flags fluttering in the mountain breeze and the soul-stirring serenity of the Himalayas linger as cherished memories. The popular places to visit in West Sikkim promise new discoveries and a renewed appreciation for the beauty and wonder of nature. Plan your vacation with TripXL for an experience that transcends the ordinary.
Cover Photo: Billijones94 / Wikimedia Commons
