Western Sikkim

Pelling

The city of Pelling is balancing on a ridge at an altitude of 2.040 m.

One of Pelling's main attractions is the Pemayangste Monastery. Known as the "Perfect sublime lotus" it is one of the oldest Monasteries in Sikkim being founded in 1705. This Monastery was meant only for the 'ta-sang' lamas, the pure monks. To date, it is referred to as the "premier monastery" of the State. It contains numerous antique idols and objects of worship and its walls are covered with paintings and sculptures.

The Sagachoeling (or Sang Gnak Choling) monastery is an even older monastery, dating back to 1697, and situated on a hilltop close to Pelling. The monastery is situated on a higher altitude. The view of the snowy peak in the north and of the mountains and valleys in the south are absolutely stunning. The monastery has exquisite murals.

Down the hill, south east of Pemayangtse monastery, lie the ruins of the 17th-century Rabdentse palace. It was the capital of the erstwhile kingdom until 1814 A.D. Surrounded by dense forest and there is also a small lake near the Palace.

Khecheopalri Lake, which is considered to be a holy lake by both the Buddhists and the Hindus, can be easily reached from Pelling. This pilgrimage site is enveloped in a dense forest cover of temperate vegetation and bamboo. A peculiar aspect of the lake is the absence of leaves floating on the waters.

Darap

The picturesque village of Darap, located 8 kilometers from Pelling is a 20 minutes drive downhill passing through cardamom groves and terraced paddy fields. The entire drive provides magnificent views of Mt Khangchendzonga with the villages of Khecheopalri and Yuksam in the foreground. From this village bifurcates the road to Nambu from where one can take the Yambong trek that joins the Singalila range. The local community is a mixture of Lepchas, Bhutias and Limboos. Local Home stays provide ideal accommodation for travelers.

Yuksam

Yuksam is situated in the far western corner of Sikkim and nestled at the base of high forest-covered snow-capped mountains. Yuksam was the first capital of the erstwhile kingdom of Sikkim where its modern history started with the consecration of the first king of Sikkim in 1642. Yuksam literally means 'the meeting place of the three monks'.

Yuksam has nowadays become a popular base for trekkers and nature lovers, as it is the entry point into the Khagchendzonga National Park. It is the starting point for the marvelous treks to Dzongri and Gocha La, crossing rough mountainous terrain and beautiful serene forest.

The area is rich in natural diversity & cultural ethnicity and has attracted visitors far and wide. The area surrounding Yuksam is truly a "Birders' Paradise" having more than 250 bird species, 18 species of Rhododendron, many species of medicinal herbs, alpine flowers and rare wild orchids.

Located on the hilltop of Yuksam is the oldest monastery of Sikkim, the Dubdi monastery.

The Dubdi monastery, also known as the Hermit's Cell after its reclusive founder Lhatsun Namkha Jigme, was built by the followers of the Nyingmapa sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The trail to Dubdi winds through lush forests high above the village, offering scenic mountain views.

Yuksam is well connected by road and is approximately 130 km from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim.

Uttaray

Tucked away in the lap of mother nature is the tranquil village of Uttaray, the gateway to the Singalila trek. This village provides visitors with many options to go for short hikes or longer treks in the vicinity or visit the Limboo village of Sopakha located an hour walk from Uttaray.

The breathtaking views of Khangchendzonga from Phoktey and neighboring sites are rewarding. Hikes to the Barsey rhododendron sanctuary can also be taken from here or to Nup Dechenphu, one of the sacred caves of Sikkim. Local lodges and Homestays provide reasonable accommodation at this site.

Hee Bermiok

The newly developed destination of Hee Bermiok with widespread community participation is an ideal destination for visitors wanting to sample unique rural lifestyle of Sikkim. The strong Limboo culture of this area is worth appreciating.

Visitors have options to explore the village or take hikes into the Barsey rhododenrdron sanctuary. Homestays are also being promoted and various village activities can keep the visitors occupied. The Hee Bermiok Tourism Development & Heritage Conservation Society is spearheading the tourism development programs for this area.