A small town in the northeastern Indian state of Sikkim, Pelling is nestled in the foothills of Mount Khangchendzonga. Adorned with snow-clad peaks, verdant meadows, glittering lakes, and cascading waterfalls, it has a tapestry of natural beauty. This hidden gem is the perfect destination for a fun-filled vacation. In addition to witnessing breathtaking landscapes, there are a myriad of amazing things to do in Pelling. Offering you an array of adventurous activities, Pelling is blessed with historic sites, architectural marvels, tranquil monasteries, and rich national parks.
10 Things To Do In Pelling
Bookmark these top things to do in Pelling like hiking, walking on glass paths and trekking for an enthralling vacation in the peaks.
1. Hiking At Darap Village
Darap, a socially rich town is one of the must-visit destinations among tourists visiting Pelling. Situated at a distance of 8 km from Pelling, Darap village offers you a glimpse of the local life. You can explore Sikkimese culture and witness the life of the Limboo community here. The towering mountains and lush greenery of this place are a sight to behold. You can stroll through the village, savour authentic cuisines, hike up the hills to enjoy mesmerising views, indulge in bird watching, and rest by the gushing streams. You can also stay in traditional homestays to get a taste of the local life.
Location: Pelling-Rimbi Road
How To Reach: You can travel via taxi and bus from anywhere in Sikkim
Suggested Read: Explore The Majestic Landscapes Of Pelling
2. Trek To The Kanchenjunga National Park
Photo: Spattadar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Trekking and hiking at the Kanchenjunga National Park is one of the things to do in Pelling. Kanchenjunga National Park is spread across 849 km sq. of the region, teeming with lush greenery, icy peaks, vibrant flora and rich fauna. You can watch wild creatures like snow panthers, red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and musk deer on a jeep safari while exploring the sprawling national park. Trekking at the Kanchenjunga National Park is an immersive experience, however, you have to get a permit from the Wildlife Education and Interpretation Centre at Yuksom.
Location: Sakkyong, Sikkim
Entry Fee: ₹350/person (variable)
3. Walk On The Glass Path — Pelling Skywalk
Photo: Rangan Datta Wiki / Wikimedia Commons
Pelling Skywalk is India’s first-ever skywalk. This colossal long-bridge structure takes you to the majestic Chenrezig statue. Built at an astonishing height of 7,200 ft, you can enjoy awe-inspiring views of lush forests, waterfalls and monasteries. The skywalk overlooks the magnificent Kanchenjunga, as well as the shimmering Teesta and Rangit rivers. Walking on this glass path is one of the things to do in Pelling as it will offer you a spine-chilling experience.
Best Time To Visit: March to May
Cost/Person: ₹50/adult, ₹25/child
Suggested Read: Go Trekking In Sikkim For A Soulful And Exhilarating Scenic Journey
4. Sightseeing At The Singshore Bridge
Photo: Shivani4692 / Wikimedia Commons
An engineering marvel, Singshore Bridge is the highest bridge in Sikkim. It also counts as one of the highest bridges in Asia. Enjoying staggering vistas from this suspension bridge is one of the things to do in Pelling. Connecting two canyons, the Singshore Bridge is over 100m tall and more than 240m long. It is surrounded by green mountains dotted with lush green trees and pristine cascades. This bridge is rising as a prominent attraction among the tourists visiting Pelling.
Entry Fee: ₹10/person
5. Find Solace At Pemayangtse Monastery
Photo: Tejas498 / Wikimedia Commons
An architectural marvel, the beauty of Pemayangtse Monastery goes back to the 17th century. Visiting Pemayangtse Monastery is one of the things to do in Pelling. This peaceful structure is enriched with a collection of Buddhist art and sculpture. The highlight of this monastery is the seven-layered model of Guru Rinpoche. Watch the monks pray with traditional instruments and chanting hymns. Here, you can feel the divine energy that will nurture your soul and mind.
Location: Pelling-Gyalshing Road, Geysing, Sikkim
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Suggested Read: Cascading Waterfalls In Sikkim That Are Not To Be Missed
6. Plan A Picnic At The Sewaro Rock Garden
Photo: Pankaj Shah / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Located on the riverbank, the Sewaro Rock Garden is an idyllic spot. The garden is surrounded by gushing streams, wellsprings, lush greenery, rugged mountains, and tall trees, making it a perfect spot to conduct a picnic. Embrace the scent of nature, click a myriad of photographs or leisurely spend a day at this picnic spot. Witnessing Maghe Mela is one of the things to do in Pelling. This mela is conducted on 14th January, every year and is enjoyed by the tourists and locals alike.
Location: Darap, Sikkim
Entry Fee: ₹10/person
7. Feel Serenity At Khecheopalri Lake
Photo: Ankur P / Wikimedia Commons
A scenic spot, Khecheopalri Lake holds the utmost religious significance for both Buddhists and Hindus of Sikkim. This shimmering lake is also known as a wish-fulfilling lake. You can sit on the shores and feel the tranquillity or spend a night in the hotel adjacent to the lake to enjoy stunning views. Bird watching and photography in the vicinity of this lake are some of the things to do in Pelling.
Location: Enroute Pelling-Rimbi Road
Entry Fee: ₹30/person
Suggested Read: The Best Adventure Sports In Sikkim To Try On Your Next Vacation
8. Watch The Gushing Kanchenjunga Waterfalls
Photo: Sujay25 / Wikimedia Commons
The majestic Himalayas shower its blessings on Pelling in the form of the glistening Kanchenjunga Waterfall. This cascading waterfall arrives on the route to Yuksom. The luscious greenery surrounding the falls looks magical. Apart from relishing the scenic views, you can also partake in adventurous activities like rope sliding here. Visiting these falls during the monsoon season is one of the things to do in Pelling.
Location: Thingle I, Sikkim
9. Enjoy The Bhumchu Festival At Tashiding Monastery
Photo: Ashakn / Wikimedia Commons
The Tashiding Monastery is one of the best things to see in Pelling. Founded in 1641, Tashiding is a peaceful monastery which is popular among the Buddhists. The monastery in itself is a gem to look upon but its highlight is the celebration of the Bhumchu festival. Amid the celebration, the sacred water preserved inside the Monastery is put on display. Offering you a glimpse of the traditional Buddhist religion and customs, you can experience exquisite Buddhist customs being followed here.
Location: Sikkim
Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM
Suggested Read: Go Camping In Sikkim At These Places To Witness The Alluring Beauty of Sikkim
10. Savour Authentic Sikkim Food
Photo: Sarkar Sayantan / Wikimedia Commons
Are you still wondering what to do in Pelling? Then, try the delicious cuisines of Sikkim that will treat your tastebuds. The local cuisine of Sikkim is influenced by Tibetan and Nepali cuisine. Thukpa, Sel Roti, Thenthuk, Kinema, Momo, Churpi, and Gundruk are some of the best dishes you should try when you are in Pelling. In addition to delicious delicacies, you should also try local spirits including Rhododendron wine and Chang.
Best Restaurants: Melting Point Restaurant, Lotus Bakery, Hotel Dubdi
With this fantastic list of things to do in Pelling, we assure you that your trip to this offbeat jewel will be nothing less than magical. From panoramic vistas and enchanting spots to indulging in thrilling activities, there is something for every type of traveller here. What are you waiting for? Book your trip to Pelling with TripXL, and witness the magic of this picturesque spot unfold in front of you.
Cover Photo: Sahil Pandita / Unsplash