Anyone who starts planning a trip to Sikkim always goes for the obvious places like Gangtok, Tsomgo Lake, Gurudongmar, or maybe Nathula Pass. Some adventurous travelers add Ravangla, Namchi, or Zuluk to their itinerary. But almost no one ventures to the extreme west of the state, and that is a missed opportunity.
Pelling is a small hill town in West Sikkim, sitting at about 7,000 ft (2,150 m), and it offers something quite different from the rest of Sikkim. Instead of crowded tourist spots, you get monastery ruins, waterfalls, a clear view of the Kanchenjunga range, and the popular Pelling Skywalk with its 137 ft Chenrezig statue. If you love quiet places with a touch of history and adventure, Pelling deserves a spot on your Sikkim itinerary.
I visited Pelling a few years ago and was genuinely surprised by how peaceful it was compared to Gangtok. The Kanchenjunga view from Upper Pelling on a clear morning is something that stays with you. In this guide, I will cover everything you need to plan your trip to Pelling in 2026, from how to reach, where to stay, what to see, budget, and a ready-to-use 3-day itinerary.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
Quick Facts About Pelling You Should Know Before Planning
Pelling sits in the West Sikkim district at an elevation of about 7,000 ft (2,150 m). It is 131 km from Gangtok, 10 km from Geyzing (the district headquarters), and about 145 km from Bagdogra Airport. The town is divided into Upper Pelling (where most hotels and viewpoints are) and Lower Pelling (where the taxi stand and market sit). Indian nationals do not need any permit to visit Pelling. Just carry a valid photo ID like Aadhaar, Voter ID, or Driving License. Foreign nationals need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP), which can be obtained on the spot at the Rangpo or Melli checkpoints between 8 AM and 7:30 PM.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Altitude | 7,000 ft (2,150 m) |
| District | West Sikkim (Gyalshing) |
| Distance from Gangtok | 131 km (5-6 hours) |
| Nearest Airport | Bagdogra (145 km) |
| Nearest Railway | NJP / Siliguri (150 km) |
| Permit for Indians | Not required (carry photo ID) |
| Permit for Foreigners | RAP required (on-the-spot at checkpoint) |
| Best Time | February – May, September – November |
| ATM | 1 SBI ATM in Pelling (carry cash) |
| Mobile Network | Airtel and Jio work (patchy at sightseeing spots) |
How to Reach Pelling from Siliguri, Bagdogra, and Gangtok?
Getting to Pelling is slightly trickier than reaching Gangtok because there are limited direct transport options. Most public transport goes to Geyzing first, and then you take a short onward ride to Pelling. The total journey takes about 5.5 to 6 hours from Siliguri or Gangtok.
How to Reach Pelling from Siliguri / Bagdogra?
If you are flying into Bagdogra Airport or arriving at NJP Railway Station, you first need to get to Siliguri. From the airport, a shared cab to Siliguri costs about Rs 300, a private taxi Rs 700-800, or a local bus for just Rs 30 (takes about 45 minutes).
By Bus: SNT (Sikkim Nationalised Transport) runs a daily bus from Siliguri to Pelling/Geyzing. The fare is approximately Rs 180 and the journey takes about 6 hours. Buses depart from Siliguri Bus Stand, with the bus departing around 10:30 AM. Keep in mind that bus timings can vary seasonally, so it is best to confirm at the bus stand on the day of travel.
By Shared Cab: Shared jeeps from Siliguri to Geyzing cost about Rs 500-650 per person (2026 rates). The last direct shared cab usually leaves before 2 PM. If you miss the direct one, take a shared cab to Jorethang (Rs 200-300) and then another to Geyzing from there.
By Private Taxi: Prepaid taxis from NJP or Bagdogra directly to Pelling cost Rs 4,000-5,000. This is the most comfortable option but obviously the most expensive. If you are traveling solo or on a budget, shared cabs are the way to go.
How to Reach Pelling from Gangtok?
If you are already in Gangtok and want to head to Pelling, the options are a bit limited.
Shared Cabs: There are only 3-4 direct shared cabs from Gangtok to Geyzing throughout the day, usually departing at 7 AM, 12 PM, and 1 PM. The fare is about Rs 500-800 per person. If you miss these, take a shared cab to Ravangla first and then another one to Geyzing.
Private Taxi: A private taxi from Gangtok to Pelling costs Rs 3,500-4,500 and takes about 5 hours. This is more comfortable and gives you the flexibility to stop along the way, especially at Ravangla or Namchi if you want a quick look.
How to Get from Geyzing to Pelling?
Once you reach Geyzing, Pelling is just 10 km away. A shared taxi costs Rs 50-80 per person (you might wait for it to fill up). A private taxi from Geyzing to Pelling costs about Rs 200. Most hotels in Pelling can also arrange a pickup if you call ahead.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Pelling?
The best time to visit Pelling depends on what kind of experience you are looking for. Each season offers something different, so here is a month-by-month breakdown to help you decide.
February to April (Spring): This is arguably the best time to visit. The weather is pleasant, rhododendrons are in bloom, and you get clear views of Kanchenjunga on most mornings. This is also the off-season, so hotel prices are lower and crowds are minimal. Temperatures range from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius.
May to June (Summer): If you want an escape from the plains’ heat, Pelling is a good option. Temperatures stay comfortable at 10-20 degrees Celsius. However, this is peak tourist season, so expect higher hotel rates and more crowds.
July to September (Monsoon): I would honestly advise avoiding Pelling during the monsoon. Heavy rains, landslides, and road closures are common. The Pelling Skywalk also closes during July-August. Visibility is poor, so you will miss the mountain views.
October to November (Autumn): Another excellent window. Post-monsoon clarity means the Kanchenjunga views are at their best. Temperatures start dropping (5-15 degrees) but the weather is dry and sunny.
December to January (Winter): If you want to see snowfall, this is the time. Pelling receives snow during these months, giving the entire area an ethereal feel. However, roads can get blocked due to heavy snowfall, so keep extra days in your itinerary. Temperatures can drop below zero at night.
What Are the Best Places to Visit in and Around Pelling?
Pelling and its surroundings have a surprisingly good mix of monasteries, waterfalls, viewpoints, and newer attractions like the Skywalk. Here are the places you should not miss.
Pelling Skywalk and Chenrezig Statue
Inaugurated in November 2018, the Pelling Skywalk complex has quickly become the town’s most popular attraction. The complex features the world’s tallest Chenrezig (Avalokiteshvara) statue at 137 ft (42 m), surrounded by a glass-bottomed skywalk at 7,200 ft above sea level. Walking on the transparent floor with a view of the valley below is genuinely thrilling. The entry fee is Rs 100 per adult (children under 10 free), parking costs Rs 30, and it is open from 9 AM to 5 PM (confirm locally as timings may vary seasonally). The Skywalk closes during July-August (monsoon season). I would suggest going early morning for the best views and fewer crowds.
Pemayangtse Monastery
One of the oldest and most important monasteries in West Sikkim, Pemayangtse was founded in 1705 and sits just 2 km from Pelling. It is a three-story monastery belonging to the Nyingmapa order, filled with sculptures, thangka paintings, and a famous wooden model of Guru Rinpoche’s heavenly palace (Zandog Palri) on the top floor. This model is considered a masterpiece and took several years to build. Entry is Rs 20 per person.
Rabdentse Palace Ruins
A 20-30 minute walk from Pemayangtse Monastery through a forested trail brings you to the ruins of Rabdentse, the second capital of the former Kingdom of Sikkim (1670-1814). The walk itself is beautiful, passing through a forest with orchids and small lakes. Once you reach the top, you get a magnificent view of the valley and the Kanchenjunga ranges. This is an ASI-protected monument, and there is no separate entry fee.
Sangachoeling Monastery
Established in the 17th century by Lama Lhatsun Chempo (one of the revered trinity of Sikkim), Sangachoeling is among the oldest monasteries in the state. It sits on a ridge about 4 km uphill from Pemayangtse. The trek to reach it takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour through dense forest. It is a moderate climb, and the monastery itself is peaceful with very few tourists. Entry is free, and it is open from 8 AM to 5 PM.
Kanchenjunga Waterfalls
Undoubtedly one of the most impressive waterfalls in Sikkim, the Kanchenjunga Falls is about 28 km from Pelling (roughly 1 hour by car). The waterfall stays active throughout the year and is slightly hidden from the main road, so the first glimpse catches you by surprise. There are small food stalls near the falls, making it a good spot to spend an hour or two.
Khecheopalri Lake (Wish-Fulfilling Lake)
Considered sacred by both Buddhists and Hindus, Khecheopalri is known as the “wish-fulfilling lake” and is one of the holiest spots in Sikkim. The lake is surrounded by dense forest, and the pathway leading to it is covered with colorful prayer flags. Locals believe birds keep the lake surface free of fallen leaves, which adds to its mystical character. It is located near the Kanchenjunga Falls and makes for a nice combined trip. Best visited in the morning when it is quiet and the light is soft.
Singshore Bridge
Located 27 km from Pelling in the Uttarey direction, Singshore Bridge is one of the highest suspension bridges in Asia. It is about 1 hour away from Pelling. When you walk to the middle of the bridge and look down, you truly realize the depth of the mountain gorge below. It is both thrilling and humbling. The bridge connects the road to Dentam and Uttarey.
Rimbi River and Orange Plantations
The Rimbi River is a popular spot for picnics and fishing, accessible through orange and cardamom plantations on the way. The river has a strong current during monsoon, so be careful near the banks during that season. In winter, the water is calmer and the surroundings are gorgeous.
Helipad Viewpoint
The highest point in Pelling, the Helipad area gives you a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. This is the best spot for watching sunrise or sunset. The wind is almost always strong here, so carry a warm jacket even in summer. It is within walking distance from Upper Pelling hotels.
Where to Stay in Pelling and What Does It Cost?
Pelling has accommodation for every budget. The town is small enough that you can walk to most places, but staying in Upper Pelling gives you better mountain views.
Budget Hotels and Homestays: Rs 800-1,500 per night. Basic rooms with hot water and mountain views. Several homestays in Lower Pelling and around the market area offer clean rooms at these rates. You will not find luxury here, but the hospitality is warm.
Mid-Range Hotels: Rs 1,500-3,500 per night. Better amenities, restaurant on-site, and often a balcony with Kanchenjunga views. Hotels in Upper Pelling fall in this range and offer good value for couples and families.
Resorts and Luxury: Rs 4,000-8,000 per night. A few upscale properties in Pelling offer a premium experience with spa, room service, and panoramic views. If you are celebrating a special occasion, these are worth the splurge.
During the off-season (February to April, late November), you can negotiate discounts of 20-30% on walk-in rates. During peak summer season (May-June), book online at least a week in advance.
What to Eat in Pelling and Where?
Pelling does not have the restaurant scene of Gangtok, but there are enough options to keep you well-fed. Most restaurants serve a mix of Sikkimese, Tibetan, Chinese, and North Indian food.
I would suggest sticking to the local cuisine as it is both cheaper and more authentic. Try momos (steamed or fried dumplings), thukpa (Tibetan noodle soup), and Sikkimese rice with local curries. A meal for two at a local restaurant costs about Rs 300-500. There are also a few cafes in Upper Pelling where you can get coffee and snacks while enjoying the view.
Carry your own water bottle and refill it instead of buying plastic bottles. This small step helps keep the mountains clean, and it is something we always encourage in the DwD responsible travel initiative 🙂
How to Travel Around Pelling for Sightseeing?
Since most attractions are spread across 10-30 km around Pelling, you will need some form of transport to cover them. Here are the main options.
Half-Day Shared Taxi Package: Typically covers Kanchenjunga Falls, Khecheopalri Lake, Rimbi River, and Helipad. Starts at 6-7 AM and wraps up by 2 PM. Another half-day option covers Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, and Singshore Bridge. This is ideal if you are on a tight budget.
Full-Day Shared Taxi Package: Combines both circuits into one day. It covers 7-8 places but can be exhausting, so be prepared for a packed schedule.
Private Taxi: Costs Rs 1,600-2,500 for a full day (depending on season and vehicle size). This gives you the freedom to spend more time at places you like and skip others. For a small car (up to 4 persons), expect around Rs 1,600-2,000. For a larger vehicle (6-8 seater), it is Rs 2,000-2,500.
What Is a Good 3-Day Pelling Itinerary?
Here is a practical 3-day itinerary that covers all the major sights without rushing. This works whether you are coming from Gangtok or Siliguri.
Day 1: Arrive in Pelling by midday. Check in to your hotel and rest for a while. In the afternoon, visit the Pelling Skywalk and Chenrezig Statue (go after 3 PM for softer light and fewer crowds). Walk around Upper Pelling market in the evening.
Day 2: Start early and visit Kanchenjunga Waterfalls, Khecheopalri Lake, and Rimbi River (half-day circuit). Return by lunch. After rest, walk to Pemayangtse Monastery and Rabdentse Ruins (these are close to Pelling and can be done on foot or a short taxi ride). End the day at the Helipad Viewpoint for sunset.
Day 3: Get up early and head to Singshore Bridge (1 hour from Pelling). Spend 30-45 minutes here. On the way back, visit Sangachoeling Monastery if you are up for the trek (1 hour uphill). Head to Geyzing by afternoon to catch a shared taxi to Gangtok or Siliguri.
If you have extra time, consider adding Yuksom (the first capital of Sikkim) and Tashiding Monastery as a day trip from Pelling. Yuksom is also the starting point for the famous Goecha La trek.
How Much Does a Pelling Trip Cost? (Budget Breakdown 2026)
Here is a realistic budget breakdown for a 3-day Pelling trip from Siliguri for one person. These are 2026 estimates based on current rates.
| Expense | Budget (Rs) | Mid-Range (Rs) |
|---|---|---|
| Siliguri to Pelling (shared cab + Geyzing transfer) | 650 | 4,500 (private taxi) |
| Accommodation (3 nights) | 3,000 | 7,500 |
| Meals (3 days) | 1,500 | 3,000 |
| Sightseeing taxi (2 days) | 800 (shared) | 3,500 (private) |
| Skywalk + monastery entries | 150 | 150 |
| Return to Siliguri (shared cab) | 650 | 4,500 (private taxi) |
| Total per person | Rs 6,750 | Rs 23,150 |
For a budget traveler, Pelling can be done for about Rs 6,500-8,000 for 3 days (excluding travel to/from Siliguri from your home city). A mid-range trip with private taxis and better hotels comes to about Rs 20,000-25,000. These are per-person costs assuming double sharing for accommodation.
What About ATMs, Mobile Network, and Other Practical Tips?
ATM: There is only one ATM in Pelling (State Bank of India), and it can run out of cash, especially on weekends and during peak season. Withdraw money in Siliguri or Gangtok before heading here. Carry at least Rs 3,000-5,000 in cash for your Pelling stay, as UPI acceptance is limited at smaller shops and shared taxi stands.
Mobile Network: Airtel and Jio work in Pelling town, but the signal gets patchy once you move toward the waterfalls, Khecheopalri Lake, or the Singshore Bridge area. BSNL has very limited coverage here. Do not rely on Google Maps for navigation around sightseeing spots. Download offline maps or ask your hotel/driver for directions.
Shared Taxi Booking: If you want to head to Gangtok from Pelling, pre-book your seat on the shared taxi, especially during peak season. Locals book months in advance, and seats fill up fast. Your hotel can usually help arrange this.
Clothing: Even in summer, evenings in Pelling are cool. Carry a light jacket or fleece. In winter (November to February), you will need heavy woolens and thermals, especially if you are visiting the Helipad or Singshore Bridge where wind chill is significant.
What to Carry: Since Pelling is a bit remote, make sure you carry essentials. Check our complete packing checklist for trips to make sure you do not miss anything.
How Does Pelling Connect to a Larger Sikkim Itinerary?
Pelling works best as part of a broader Sikkim trip rather than a standalone destination. Here are some popular combinations.
Gangtok + Pelling (7 days): The classic Sikkim circuit. Spend 3 days in Gangtok with Nathula and Tsomgo, then 3 days in Pelling with all the sightseeing, and 1 day for travel.
Gangtok + Pelling + North Sikkim (10 days): Add North Sikkim (Lachung and Lachen) for Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang Valley. This covers all three main regions of Sikkim.
Pelling + East Sikkim Silk Route (8-9 days): Combine Pelling with the Old Silk Route in East Sikkim for a more offbeat experience. Add Zuluk for the famous zigzag roads.
Pelling + Darjeeling (6-7 days): Since both are accessible from Siliguri/NJP, this makes for a convenient combined trip covering both West Bengal hills and West Sikkim.
For more offbeat options in the Northeast, check out our guides to Sillery and Icchey and Dzongu in North Sikkim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pelling worth visiting in 2026?
Absolutely. With the addition of the Pelling Skywalk and Chenrezig Statue (which was not there a few years ago), Pelling now has even more to offer. The Kanchenjunga views, monastery ruins, and peaceful atmosphere make it worth the trip, especially if you have already done Gangtok and want something quieter.
Do I need a permit to visit Pelling?
Indian nationals do not need any permit. Just carry a valid photo ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID, or Driving License). Foreign nationals need a Restricted Area Permit (RAP), which can be obtained at the Rangpo or Melli checkpoints on arrival.
How many days are enough for Pelling?
2 to 3 days are ideal. In 2 days, you can cover all the major sightseeing spots. A third day gives you time for the Sangachoeling Monastery trek or a day trip to Yuksom. If you are combining with Gangtok, allocate 3 days for Pelling.
Is there snowfall in Pelling?
Yes, Pelling receives snowfall in December and January. Upper Pelling and the Helipad area are the best spots to experience snow. However, roads can get blocked during heavy snowfall, so keep buffer days in your itinerary and check road conditions before traveling.
Can I visit Pelling with family and kids?
Yes, Pelling is quite family-friendly. The altitude is moderate (7,000 ft), and there are no extreme treks required for the main sightseeing spots. The Skywalk, monasteries, and waterfalls are all accessible by car. Just make sure kids are dressed warmly in winter.
Is Pelling safe for solo travelers?
Yes, very safe. The locals are friendly and helpful. Solo travelers can use shared taxis for sightseeing, which also helps save costs. Homestays are a great option for solo travelers as you get to interact with local families.
What is the entry fee for Pelling Skywalk?
The entry fee for the Pelling Skywalk is Rs 100 per adult. Children under 10 years enter free. Parking costs Rs 30. The Skywalk is open from 9 AM to 5 PM (timings may vary seasonally) and remains closed during July-August (monsoon season).
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Final Thoughts
Pelling is one of those places in Sikkim that quietly rewards you for stepping off the beaten path. It does not have the tourist infrastructure of Gangtok, and that is precisely what makes it special. The mornings here, with Kanchenjunga looming right in front of you and prayer flags fluttering in the breeze, have a calming effect that is hard to describe.
If you are planning your first Sikkim trip, I would strongly recommend including Pelling in your itinerary. And if you have already done Gangtok and are looking for something different, Pelling with Yuksom and the Silk Route makes for an excellent second trip.
If you have any questions about planning your Pelling trip or need help with your Sikkim itinerary, feel free to drop a comment below or reach out in the DwD Community where fellow travelers are always happy to share their recent experiences and tips 🙂
Last Updated: April 2026
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Very good suggestions of your gide line . We will go to palling tour on oct.30 to 1 nov 2018 .you can help us. Thanking you