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West Sikkim – Land of Monasteries, Mountains, and Mystique

West Sikkim, with its capital at Geyzing (or Gyalshing), lies nestled between majestic Himalayan ridges and emerald valleys. It’s a region where history meets serenity, famous for Pelling, Yuksom, Khecheopalri Lake, and Pemayangtse Monastery — each carrying deep cultural and spiritual significance.Unlike the busier eastern side, West Sikkim maintains a peaceful, traditional charm, with cozy villages, rhododendron forests, and spellbinding views of Mount Kanchanjungha (8,586 m) — the world’s third-highest peak.

assorted flags on beach shore near snow covered mountains under blue and white sunny cloudy sky
assorted flags on beach shore near snow covered mountains under blue and white sunny cloudy sky
a large building with a mural on the side of it
a large building with a mural on the side of it
a view of a mountain range with clouds in the sky
a view of a mountain range with clouds in the sky

Pelling – The Jewel of West Sikkim

Pelling is the most popular destination in West Sikkim — a small, scenic town sitting at 7,200 ft, offering uninterrupted views of the Kanchenjunga range.
It’s a hub for travelers seeking monasteries, waterfalls, and short hikes, while still enjoying good connectivity and comfortable stays.

Major Attractions

  • Sky Walk & Chenrezig Statue: India’s first glass Sky Walk, offering panoramic views of the valley below, next to a massive statue of Chenrezig (the Compassion Buddha).

  • Pemayangtse Monastery: One of Sikkim’s oldest monasteries, built in the 17th century. Famous for its wooden relic “Zangdok Palri,” symbolizing the celestial abode of Guru Padmasambhava.

  • Sanga Choeling Monastery: One of the oldest monasteries in the state, accessible via a short trek.

  • Khecheopalri Lake: A sacred wish-fulfilling lake surrounded by dense forest. It is believed that no leaf ever floats on its surface — birds pick them off immediately.

  • Rimbi Waterfall & Sewaro Rock Garden: Ideal picnic and photography spots.

  • Kanchenjunga Falls: A massive perennial waterfall, one of the most spectacular in Sikkim.

Yuksom – The Historic First Capital of Sikkim

Yuksom, meaning “Meeting Place of the Three Lamas,” holds immense historical and spiritual significance.It was here, in 1642, that the first Chogyal (monarch) of Sikkim was crowned — marking the beginning of the Sikkimese kingdom.Today, Yuksom is the gateway to Khangchendzonga National Park and the starting point of several famous treks, including the Dzongri–Goechala Trek.

Major Attractions

Norbugang Coronation Throne: Stone platform where the first king was crowned, surrounded by ancient prayer flags.

Dubdi Monastery: The oldest monastery in Sikkim (built in 1701), located on a forested hill above Yuksom.

Kathok Lake: A serene holy lake near the main village.

Trekking Routes: Yuksom is the trailhead for Dzongri, Goechala, and Kanchenjunga Base Camp treks.

Khecheopalri Lake – The Wish-Fulfilling Lake

Located about 27 km from Pelling, Khecheopalri Lake is one of Sikkim’s most sacred lakes, revered by both Buddhists and Hindus.Surrounded by dense forests, it is said that wishes made here come true if offered with pure heart and devotion.

Myth & Legend Local belief says the lake is a manifestation of Goddess Tara and shaped like a human footprint. Despite being surrounded by trees, not a single leaf is seen floating on the water — birds pick them up to keep the lake clean.

Rinchenpong & Kaluk – The Hidden Himalayan Balcony

Located about 45 km from Pelling, Rinchenpong and Kaluk are twin villages offering spectacular panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range.
They are relatively offbeat compared to Pelling, making them ideal for travelers seeking tranquility and authenticity.

Highlights

  • Resum Monastery: Perched atop a hill offering 360° views of snow-clad peaks.

  • Poison Lake: A small lake with an intriguing legend — it’s said to have been poisoned by locals centuries ago to deter invaders.

  • Nature Trails: Forest walks filled with wild orchids, butterflies, and birds.

Why Visit

Ideal for meditation, village tourism, and spending quiet mornings watching clouds float past the Himalayas.

Kanchenjunga National Park & Goechala Trek

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Khangchendzonga National Park is one of the most biodiverse regions in the Eastern Himalayas.

The park covers glaciers, alpine meadows, and deep forests — home to snow leopards, red pandas, and Himalayan tahr.

The Goechala Trek from Yuksom offers one of the closest views of Mount Kanchenjunga and is considered a dream trek for adventure seekers.

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