Pelling, Sikkim
Discover Pelling
The small town of Pelling is slowly becoming a tourist hotspot thanks to its jaw-dropping views, including the majestic snow-capped mountains of Khangchendzonga National Park, and easy access to the surrounding historic sites. Just a quick walk past the bustle of the hotels and you can find yourself wandering amongst a peaceful natural forest.
Things to do in Pelling
- Visit the lofty Pemayangtse Monastery, flanked either side by snowcapped mountains and home to 108 monks who can be spotted by the red hats they wear. Dating back to 1705, Pemayangtse is one of the oldest and most famous monasteries in Sikkim and has been refurbished after earthquakes in both 1913 and 1960. The monastery belongs to the Nyingma order and contains a multitude of storytelling wall paintings, statues of saints and Buddhist antique idols. There are also beautiful gardens where the monks’ accommodation is located.
- Just a few miles from Pemayangtse Monastery is Sanghak Choeling, a tranquil monastery reached by travelling through rich forest greenery. This peaceful place is visited by many Buddhist devotees and is also known as ‘the place of secret spells’. The complex contains many clay statues, including the enormous Chenrezig Statue which is visible for many miles around.
- Pemangytse Monastery is home to the Cham Dance Festival held every year on the 28th or 29th of February. The lamas (teachers) of the monastery dress in colourful costumes as the deities Mahākāla and Guru Drag-dmar and perform dances. Pilgrims from all over Sikkim attend the festival, which concludes with a firework display to ward away evil spirits.
The best way to see Pelling
If you would like to visit Pelling, why not take a look at one of our wonderful ATOL and ABTA protected holidays? Please remember all our private tours are designed to meet your exact requirements, and the tours mentioned are just examples to help inspire you. Contact our travel experts on 01792 315499 or email info@aitholidays.com for more information.
