Chochenpheri

Perched at an altitude of 4000 feet, Chochenpheri is a blissful hamlet in East Sikkim encompassed by towering mountain ranges and lush green plantations. It is an ideal place to take a break from the monotonic city life. A village walk through the winding roads will help you soak in the beauty of Chochenpheri. Being a paradise for bird and butterfly watchers, you can go for a nature walk through the unforgettable jungle trail and spot some colourful birds and butterflies. The region also houses several rare species of Himalayan orchid and flowers. Few years ago, there used to be a lake at Chochen Pheri. However, the lake has now dried up completely and the area is being extensively used for cultivating paddy, wheat, corn, cabbage and cardamom. Mornings at Chochen Pheri are exotic and magical with the chirping of birds and fragrance of flowers filling the air with a charming vibe. The place also offers a magnificent view of sunrise and Mt. Kanchenjunga.

Chochenpheri

Sightseeing and Activities

Most of the attractions near Chochenpheri are located at a walking distance from the hamlet. One of the main attractions of the village is the Bhutia Heritage House. Built using stones in traditional architectural style, the heritage house is a masterpiece of architecture. You can also visit the Chochen Gumpha situated atop a small hill. The hike to the top is a little difficult but it is very rewarding. From the top, one can get a splendid view of the surrounding valley, tiny village houses, dense green foliage and mighty mountains.

While at Chochenpheri, you should not miss the thrilling experience of walking over the hanging footbridge across the Rolep River. Other attractions in and around Chochen Pheri include the Rolep Buddha Waterfalls, Machong Monastery and Rikip Mankhim Temple. If you plan to travel on the Old Silk Route, then Chochenpheri is a good starting point. Rongli, the place from where permission needs to be obtained for travelling the Silk Route, is an hour drive away from Chochen Pheri. The entire Silk Route is easily accessible from Chochenpheri.

Best Time to Visit

Chochenpheri can be visited all throughout the year as the climate is very pleasant round the year. However, the best time to visit the hamlet would be during the months of September to November.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Kolkata and Howrah to New Jalpaiguri. Chochenpheri is 150 km from New Jalpaiguri. You can hire a car from New Jalpaiguri to reach Chochenpheri. The journey takes around 4 hours.

Accommodation

Chochen Eco Hut
Tariff: ₹1000-1300 per person with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Tel: 8346649001, 8348813845

Namchi

The district headquarters of South Sikkim, Namchi is a fabulous tourist destination perched at an altitude of 1325 m above sea level. In Bhutia language, the word ‘Namchi’ literally translates to ‘top of the sky’. Set in a picturesque location, the town offers an awe-inspiring view of the Kanchenjunga Range and the Rangit Valley. Namchi hosts the very popular Namchi Mahotsav, a Tourism, Culture and Food Festival, every year in October. A flower festival is also held annually.

Statue of Guru Padmasambhava atop the Samudruptse Hill

Sightseeing and Activities

One of the most striking attractions of Namchi is the 135 feet high statue of Guru Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) atop the Samudruptse Hill. It is the highest statue of Guru Padamasambhava in the world. The statue is gilded with gold that makes it glitter when sunlight falls over it. His Holiness the Dalai Lama laid the foundation stone of the statue in October 1997 and it took about three years to complete the statue. From here, you can treat your eyes with the magnificent vista of Mt. Kanchenjunga amidst the richly forested hills under the clear blue sky. Another notable attraction of Namchi is the Solophok Char Dham complex (officially known as Siddheswar Dham). A huge pilgrimage cum cultural centre developed by the Government of Sikkim, the complex hosts a 26.5 m high statue of Lord Shiva in sitting posture. Apart from this giant statue, the replicas of twelve Jyotirlingas along with the four Dhams of Hindus namely Badrinath, Jagannath, Dwarka and Rameshwaram have been constructed inside the complex. This stunning imitation of Char Dham amidst the serene nature of Sikkim, has made it one of the prime tourist destinations in Sikkim.



While at Namchi, you should not miss a visit to the Rock Garden. Set against a beautiful backdrop of the Himalayan mountains, the garden houses different species of plants, flowers and trees growing everywhere. Along the pathway there are several waiting sheds, view points and water bodies landscaped to fit the taste of the visitors. The idyllic surroundings will help you relax and soak in the views of nature. You can also visit the Tarey Bhir view point which offers a breathtaking view of the river valleys below and dense woods. It also offers a panoramic view of the confluence of the two rivers of Sikkim, Teesta and Rangit. The Ngadak Monastery, Sri Shirdi Sai Baba Mandir, Serdup Choling Monastery, Temi Tea Garden and Tendong Hill are other places of interest that can be visited from Namchi.

Best Time to Visit

Namchi can be visited at any time of the year except the monsoons.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Kolkata and Howrah to New Jalpaiguri. You can reserve a car from New Jalpaiguri and reach Namchi directly. Alternatively, you can reach Namchi from Siliguri by shared car.

Accommodation

Juniper Residency. Tariff: Rs. 2200-3700. Tel: 9593988698, 7679071222.
Summit Sobralia Resort & Spa. Tariff: Rs. 3700-30000. Tel: 8250528270, 8388877888.
Kava Suites. Tariff: Rs. 2500-4500. Tel: 8670044028, 03595-263444.
Hotel Valley View. Tariff: Rs. 1800. Tel: 9830152169.

Places Near Kolkata

Chujachen

Chujachen is a beautiful place to spend your vacation in solitude and serenity. Tucked on pine-clad mountain slopes above lush green valleys and surrounded by pristine nature, Chujachen is a perfect spot to unwind away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Home to some exotic species of birds and butterflies, the place is a heaven for nature lovers. The resort at Chujachen offers a spectacular view of the surrounding hills and valleys. The area is covered with thick groves interspersed with cascading waterfalls which provide for a truly delightful experience.

Sunset at Chujachen

Sightseeing and Activities

A little distance away from Chujachen lies the Jorkhola Waterfalls encircled with dense foliage and magical mist. After falling from a considerable height, the water flows through the forest and finally meets the Rangpo River. If you wish to experience tranquil solitude and quietude, then you must visit the bank of Rangpo River where you can spend some time watching the river flow at its own pace. Another spot of tourist interest is the Sokekhola Waterfalls shrouded with mountains and caressed with soft breeze. From a height of about 50 feet, it falls carelessly on the rocks and flows in a small stream before making its way to the Rangpo River.

Best Time to Visit

Chujachen can be visited round the year except during the monsoon season.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Kolkata and Howrah to New Jalpaiguri. Chujachen is 115 kilometres from New Jalpaiguri. Hired cars are available from New Jalpaiguri to reach Chujachen. Alternatively, you can opt to reach Rangpo by shared jeep from New Jalpaiguri or Siliguri. Hired cars and shared jeeps are available from Rangpo to reach Chujachen.

Accommodation

Nirja Resort
Tariff: Rs. 800-1000 per person with breakfast, lunch and dinner
Tel: 7551870546, 9933308289

Places Near Kolkata

Yangtey

Yangtey is a quaint mountain hamlet in West Sikkim located just 9 km from Pelling. At an altitude of 6000 feet, Yangtey provides you some superb views of the Himalayan snow clad mountain peaks sans the hustle and bustle of popular tourist destinations. Relish a cup of tea while enjoying the panoramic view of the majestic Mt. Kanchenjunga along with other mountain peaks like Rathong, Frey, Kabru, Pandim, Narsing and Siniolchu. Occasional cover of mists and clouds make the experience even more enjoyable. A retreat amid the lofty mountains with woody fragrance of pine and conifer and a breathtaking vista of Himalayan range, Yangtey can be surely called the heaven for nature lovers.

Breathtaking view of snow-capped peaks from Yangtey

Sightseeing and Activities

Yangtey is best experienced when combined with a day excursion to Pelling. In a day's sightseeing, you can visit Pemyangtse Monastery, Rabdentse Ruins, Khecheopari Lake, Sewaro Rock Garden, Khangchendzonga Waterfalls and Rimbi Waterfalls. The Pemyangtse Monastery, belonging to the Nyingmapa sect, is well known for its exquisite sculptures and wall paintings. If you are visiting the monastery in January or February, then you can witness a religious dance called ‘Cham'. A 10 minutes walk from the monastery will take you to Rabdentse, the ruins of the second capital of the the former kingdom of Sikkim. The vantage point of Rabdentse Ruins offers a fabulous view of the Kanchenjunga range.

Another must visit attraction is the Khecheopari Lake, which is highly revered as one of the most sacred lakes in Sikkim. Although the lake is skirted by dense forest, it is astonishing to note that there is not a single leaf on the water surface of the lake. Sewaro Rock Garden is yet another tourist spot near Yangtey. It is an artificial garden decorated with flowers, fountains, ponds, cafeteria and well-maintained rocks. The spectacular Khangchendzonga Waterfalls and Rimbi Waterfalls are also worth visiting.

Best Time to Visit

Yangtey can be visited throughout the year except during the monsoons. However, the best time to witness the unparalleled views of Himalayan snowy peaks are the months of October to February.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Kolkata and Howrah to New Jalpaiguri. From New Jalpaiguri, you can reach Siliguri S.N.T. Bus Terminus by auto rickshaw. Shared cars are available from Siliguri to reach Pelling. It takes about 5-6 hours to reach Pelling from Siliguri. From Pelling, you can book a cab to reach Yangtey. Alternatively, you can directly reserve a car from New Jalpaiguri to Yangtey.

Accommodation

Tashighang Resort
Tariff: Rs. 2850-4850
Tel: 9775822522, 9874440003

Hee Bermiok

Hee Bermiok is a beautiful tourist destination in West Sikkim. Located at an altitude of 5000 feet, the place offers elegant views of Himalayan snow-clad peaks including Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Koktang, Mt. Kabru etc. Hee and Bermiok are actually two separate villages bounded by Hee Khola in the West, Rangeet River in the East, Kalez Khola in the North and Samdong Reserve Forest in the South.  The place is also home to more than 60 species of birds. An hour's downhill walk from Bermiok Bazaar will take you to Sirijunga Waterfalls. Falling from a height of 300 feet, the waterfalls looks absolutely stunning. Besides, there is the Sirijunga Cave. Some other attractions of Hee Burmiok are Manghim Temple and Hee Khola Water Garden. If you wish, you can go for a leisurely village trail walk past mesmerizing landscapes, quaint village houses and verdant forests. Dentam is close to Hee Bermiok. At Dentam, you can witness terrace farming on the hill slopes and cheese processing at the Alpine Cheese Factory.

Hee Bermiok

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Kolkata and Howrah to New Jalpaiguri. Siliguri is 3 km from New Jalpaiguri. Hee Bermiok is 142 km from Siliguri. Hired and shared cars are available from Siliguri to reach Hee Bermiok. The journey takes around 5 hours. Alternatively, you can get to Hee Bermiok from Gangtok or Pelling. From Gangtok, you need to travel for four and half hours whereas from Pelling, the journey takes one and half hours to reach Hee Bermiok.



Accommodation

Hotel Kanchan View. Tariff: Rs. 1600-3000. Tel: 9051166563, 9830271064.
Hotel Silent Valley. Tariff: Rs. 1300-2300. Tel: 8961520554, 9903825287.
Dhungay Homestay. Tariff: Rs.1800-2800 (including food and stay). Tel: 9733269413, 9593776391.
Hitaishi Homestay. Tariff: Rs. 1000 per person (including food and stay). Tel: 9593889226.

Places Near Kolkata

Singhik

A little-known tiny village located on the North Sikkim Highway, Singhik surely offers some of the most dazzling views of Mt. Kanchenjunga. Situated at an altitude of 5200 feet, the village is encompassed by lush green hills with the Teesta River flowing below it. The places serves as a good stopover for those who wish to take a break from their hectic high-altitude North Sikkim itinerary. At Singhik, you can enjoy peaceful and serene environment coupled with a homely charm. Although the snow-covered peaks of Mt. Kanchenjunga and Mt. Siniolchu are visible from almost everywhere in Singhik, you can go for a short trek to the Singhik View Point to enjoy the most breathtaking view of the mountains and ridges surrounding the place.

Beautiful view of Mt. Kanchenjunga from Singhik

Sightseeing and Activities

 A 15 minutes hike from the hamlet through village trails will take you to Singhik Gumpha (Monastery) where you can witness and study Buddhist culture. You would never want to miss the opportunity to sit in the monastery and watch the monks' prayer session. The prayer session usually starts at 3 pm and tourists are even allowed to capture video or photographs of the session. Another interesting attraction near Singhik is the Teesta Hydro Electric Power Project which houses one of the largest hydro power tunnels in the country. The taxi ride from Singhik to the Hydro Electric Power Project is amazing with emerald forests embracing both sides of the road. Once you reach there, the experience gets even better as you walk through the power project tunnel and witness the power plant from within. A visitor’s pass is required, however, which can be collected from a cabin near the tunnel by showing a valid photo ID proof.



One can go for a day trip to the historic village of Kabi Lungchok, 40 km away. Significance of this village lies in the fact that it was the place where the state of Sikkim was formed through a Blood Brotherhood Treaty between the Lepchas and Bhutias nearly 600 years ago. Dzongu, a reserve for the Lepcha people of Sikkim is also worth visiting. Acres of luxuriant landscapes and spectacular mountain vistas with an air of exclusivity is just the right place for those who wish to enjoy the beauty of pristine nature in seclusion. For more details and accommodation options at Dzongu, buy the Weekend Destinations Travel Guide eBook.

Best Time to Visit

Singhik can be visited throughout the year except during the monsoons. The best time to visit, however, would be during the months of September to March.

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Kolkata and Howrah to New Jalpaiguri. Reserved cars, shared cars and buses are available from Siliguri to reach Gangtok. Singhik is around 56 km from Gangtok and is easily accessible by hired cars. Frequent share car services are also available from Gangtok to Mangan. Singhik is just 4 km from Mangan. Local cars are available from Mangan to get to Singhik. Alternatively, you can directly book a car from New Jalpaiguri to Singhik. Distance from New Jalpaiguri to Singhik is 144 km.

Accommodation

Singhik Tourist Bungalow. Tariff: Rs. 1500. Tel: 9635839939, 9818827720.
Lazomla Homestay. Tel: 8436282859.

Nearby Places

There are several tourist destinations near Singhik, Sikkim. Buy the Weekend Destinations eBook and find out more places to visit near Singhik.

Places Near Kolkata

Biksthang

Biksthang (also known as Mangalbarey) is a picturesque village situated at an altitude of around 4100 feet in the Indian state of Sikkim. The pristine wilderness and pleasant climate of Biksthang makes it ideal for nature lovers. The place is a well-known bird watching hotspot. On a clear day, one can witness a stunning view of Mt. Kanchenjunga from this hamlet. Biksthang also offers a breathtaking view of the Rangit River valley which is an added attraction. The serene environment, colourful flowers, lush green farmlands and unmatched natural beauty makes Biksthang a perfect romantic getaway.

Biksthang

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How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Howrah and Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri. Biksthang is 100 km from Siliguri. Hired cars are available from Siliguri and New Jalpaiguri to reach Biksthang via Melli and Jorthang.


Accommodation

The Bliss Village Resort. Tariff - Rs. 2000-3900. Tel: 9735001881, 7797867888.
Biksthang Heritage Farmhouse. Tariff - Rs. 6000-22050. Tel: 8170015329.

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Padamchen

Padamchen is a small village on the Silk Route circuit at a distance of 14 km from Rongli and 10 km from Zuluk. The hamlet lies at an altitude of 7000 ft and is surrounded by dense forests. The place experiences pleasant weather throughout the year which is one of the main reasons behind its increasing popularity among tourists. Padamchen is also a bird watcher's paradise. The dense forests covering the entire valley is home to various species of birds including laughing thrush, honey buzzards, steppe eagles and babblers. The interior region of the jungle is inhabited by Himalayan black bear, red panda and leopards. Thambi Viewpoint is 24 km from Padamchen which offers its visitors a magnificent view of sunrise and the snow capped peaks of the Kanchenjunga range. The beautiful Kuikhola falls is just a few minutes drive from Padamchen.

View of Kanchenjunga range from Thambi View Point

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How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah and Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri. Hired cars are available from both New Jalpaiguri and Siliguri to reach Padamchen. It will take around 6-7 hours to reach Padamchen from Siliguri.


Accommodation

Silent Wood Retreat. Tel: 7872895493.
Sonam Inn. Tel: 9932487358.

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Borong

Borong is a nature lover's paradise, 17 km from Ravangla in the Indian state of Sikkim. Located at an altitude of 5800 ft above sea level, the place serves as an ideal destination for spending time with nature. Borong is situated in a calm and peaceful environment with chirping birds, dense forests and mind blowing views of the snow capped mountain peaks. View of sunrise and sunset from Borong is a truly unique and unforgettable experience. The prime attraction of Borong is the Dungdung Waterfalls. Apart from that there are two more waterfalls namely Rainbow Falls and Silver Falls which are also worth visiting. Other nearby attractions include Old and New Ralang Monastery, Barmili Bridge and Maenam Hill.

View from Borong

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah and Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri. Auto rickshaws are plying from New Jalpaiguri to Siliguri. Shared jeeps are available from Siliguri to reach Namchi. Shared jeep charges around Rs. 150 per head. The journey takes about three hours. It takes another one and a half hour to reach Borong from Namchi by shared car. Shared car charges around Rs. 120 per head. You can also reserve a car from Siliguri to reach Borong directly. In that case the cost will be around Rs. 4000.


Accommodation

Borong Retreat. Tariff - Rs. 4500. Tel: 9051166563.
The Wild Flower Retreat. Tariff - Rs. 1500-2300. Tel: 9830705512.
Club 8000 Mountain Resort. Tariff - Rs. 4500 for two persons (including food and one night stay). Tel: 8145294900.

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Barbing

Barbing is a nice weekend destination situated at a distance of 14 km from Gangtok in Sikkim. Perched at a height of 5000 ft above sea level, Barbing is blessed with striking natural beauty and mind blowing scenery. The place is surrounded by dense green forests, majestic mountain peaks and is well admired by nature lovers for its picturesque landscapes. Barbing also offers a panoramic view of the spectacularly lit Gangtok city at night. The prime attraction of the place is the amusement park which offers a range of entertainment options such as toy train, game parlour, swimming pool etc. This park covers an area of 16 acres and is very popular among tourists. Another attraction is the Lingdum Monastery which is worth exploring.

Barbing

How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah and Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri. Buses and cars are plying from Siliguri to Gangtok. Barbing is 14 km from Gangtok.


Accommodation

Khangchendzonga Tourist Villa. Tariff - Rs. 3750-9300. Tel: 9674758061.

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Aritar

Aritar is a picturesque hamlet located in East Sikkim. Situated at an altitude of 4600 m, the prime attraction of this place is the Lampokhari or Aritar Lake. The lake is in a calm and serene environment surrounded by lush greenery and towering hills. One can also enjoy boating in the lake. A number of swans are seen in this lake which adds to its beauty. Every year a tourism festival is held here during the months of March-April. Another attraction of Aritar is the Mankhim Hilltop from where you can get a spectacular view of sunrise. Other attractions include the Dak Bungalow and Aritar Gumpha.

Aritar

How to Reach

Trains are running from Howrah to New Jalpaiguri. Auto rickshaws are plying from New Jalpaiguri to Siliguri. You can also avail direct bus service from Kolkata (Esplanade Bus Terminus) to Siliguri. From there you can hire a car to reach Aritar directly. Car charges around Rs. 2500. Otherwise you can reach Aritar by service jeeps via Rangpo and Renok.


Accommodation

Hotel Aditya. Tariff - Rs. 700-3000. Tel: 9932487358.
Lampokhari Village Resort. Tariff - Rs. 1000-3000. Tel: 9933187911.
Dadul Guest House. Tariff - Rs. 1000-1800. Tel: 9933195461.

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Ravangla

Ravangla (also spelled as Rabangla) stands at 6800 ft and straddles the ridge between Tendong and Maenam hills of South Sikkim. The beauty of Ravangla changes with seasons. Maenam Peak is a 12 km trek from Ravangla. The trek to the top takes around 4 hours as you move through a thick forest of oak, magnolia and rhododendron. One can get a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills along with Mt. Kanchenjunga from the old monastery at the top of the hill.. A further 5 km walk takes you to Bhaley Dunga. You can also visit Temi Tea Garden from Ravangla by hired car. Other attractions include Ralang Monastery, Namchi and Tibetan Refugee Handicrafts Centre. Chardham Pilgrimage Centre, Buddha Park Pilgrimage-cum-Cultural Centre, Yatrinivas and Lepcha Heritage Centre is also located nearby. Borong is situated close to Ravangla. It is a paradise for bird watchers.

Ravangla

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How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Howrah and Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri. The journey from Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri takes around 10 hours. Auto rickshaws are plying from New Jalpaiguri to Siliguri. Hired cars and shared jeeps are available from New Jalpaiguri and Siliguri to get to Ravangla. You can also reach Pelling from Gangtok by shared jeep and then reach Ravangla by bus.


Accommodation

Hotel Sangrila. Tariff - Rs. 2000. Tel: 9434164450.
Hotel Meanamla. Tariff - Rs. 1000-3000. Tel: 9830128779.
Hotel Ravongla Star. Tariff - Rs. 1800-3400. Tel: 03595-260733.

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Uttarey

Uttarey is a small hilly village situated at a height of 7610 ft in West Sikkim. Some of the famous trekking routes of the Himalayas start from this village. Recently cars are plying from Uttarey to Laminipokhri (8200 ft). The view of Nathula Range, Singalila Range, Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Pandim, Mt. Kabru and other snow capped peaks on a cloudless day is awe inspiring. Kagyut Monastery and Gumbadara Pokhri is located nearby. One can visit Manghim and Trout Breeding Centre by trekking or car. Mainbus Waterfalls is a two hour trek from Trout Fishing Centre. Asia's Second Highest Gorge Bridge, Singhshore Bridge is located 6 km from Uttarey. You can also visit Dentam, 9 km from Uttarey where you can witness terrace farming on the hill slopes and cheese processing at the Alpine Cheese Factory. Other attractions in Dentam include Jalpadevi Mandir, Durgamandir and Shivmandir.


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- Concise and informative text with full color photographs
- How to Reach guide with latest train schedules
- Tariff and contact information of hotels and resorts
- Travel tips and useful medicines
- Bonus: 30 Picnic Spots near Kolkata
Available as eBook & Print Book


How to Reach

Trains are running from Sealdah, Howrah and Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri. The journey from Kolkata to New Jalpaiguri takes around 10 hours. Auto rickshaws are plying from New Jalpaiguri to Siliguri. Uttarey is 160 km from Siliguri. Cars are available to reach Uttarey. You can also get Jorthang-bound shared jeeps from Siliguri SNT Bus Stand. From Jorthang, hired jeeps are available to take you to Uttarey.



Accommodation

Nagbeli Resort. Tariff - Rs. 700-4000. Tel: 9733184535.

Green Valley Resort. Tariff - Rs. 700-1000. Tel: 9733084992.
Hotel Uttarey. Tariff - Rs. 900. Tel: 7407180232.

Places Near Kolkata

Pakyong

Pakyong is a small town in the foothills of the Great Himalayas located in Sikkim. Situated at an altitude of 1700 m Pakyong is surrounded by hills and forests. The main attraction of Pakyong is Jhandidara Viewpoint at a height of 6000 ft. It offers panoramic views of the town and the nearby hills. Apart from it there are other attractions like Pacheykhani Cave, Shivalaya Temple and Changey Monastery.

Pakyong

How to Reach

Pakyong is 140 km from New Jalpaiguri and 30 km from Gangtok. You can reach Pakyong from Siliguri by bus. Hired cars are also available from Kalimpong and Gangtok to reach Pakyong.

Accommodation

A few basic lodging amenities are available for staying at Pakyong.

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Tashiding

Tashiding is a small village situated near Pelling in West Sikkim. The place is surrounded by hills and forests. River Rathong and River Rangeet is gushing past Tashiding. The sole attraction is the Tashiding Monastery which was built during the 17th century. The sculpture and carvings of this monastery is worth seeing.

Tashiding Monastery

How to Reach

You can reach New Jalpaiguri from Sealdah by train. From there hired cars are available to reach Pelling. You can get to Tashiding from Pelling.

Accommodation

Hotel Blue Bird. Tariff - Rs. 1000 onwards. Tel: 03595-243248.

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Chumbung

Chumbung is a small village in the district of West Sikkim. The village is primarily inhabited by the Bhutias. From here one can get a spectacular view of Mt. Khangchendzonga. You can also visit the Hilley Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary from here. Chumbung is dotted with a number of tourist attractions. The prime attraction of this village is Durpiney Dara which literally means telescopic hill. You can get a scenic view of the nearby places from here. Other attractions include Tanki Dara and Yesoltsoling Monastery.

Chumbung

How to Reach

You can reach New Jalpaiguri from Howrah or Sealdah or Kolkata by train. From there you can get car to reach Chumbung directly.


Accommodation

Some hotels and homestays are there for accommodation in Chumbung. You can also stay at Gangtok or Pelling.

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Rinchenpong

Rinchenpong is a beautiful village located in West Sikkim at a height of 5550 ft. It is one of the latest additions to the tourist map of Sikkim. One can enjoy the magnificent view of the snow clad peaks of Kanchenjunga, Rothang, Koktang, Kabru etc. Hilley Barshey Rhododendron Sanctuary is a 20 km trek from here. The lush greenery of this village will mesmerize each and every visitor. The famous Bengali poet and writer Rabindranath Tagore had spent night in one of the rest bunglows of Rinchenpong. You can visit Rinchenpong Monastery, Risham Monastery, hot spring and Rabindra Memorial Garden. One can also visit Legship which is the entry point of West Sikkim. River Rangit is gushing by its side which looks wonderful. A recreational water park named Rangit Water World has come up here which offers a number of activities like boating, rafting and fishing to the tourists.

Rinchenpong Monastery

How to Reach

You can reach Jorethang from Siliguri by bus or shared car. Again from there you will get shared cars to go to Rinchenpong.


Accommodation

Green Hill Resort. Tariff - Rs. 2400-3800. Tel: 03592-231017, 9932408141.

Mandarin Village Resort. Tariff - Rs. 2000-3300. Tel: 03595-245210.
Rinchenpong Nest. Tariff - Rs. 1200-1800. Tel: 9732639539.

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Pelling

Pelling is a beautiful hill station in the state of Sikkim. Situated at an altitude of 6800 ft, Pelling offers magnificent views of Kanchenjunga and other snow capped peaks. Pelling is a small town and is located in West Sikkim. There are 10 local sightseeing points in Pelling. These are Rimbi Waterfalls, Khechioperi Lake, Khechioperi Falls, Khangchendzonga Waterfalls, Pemayangtse Monastery, Sangachoeling Monastery, Change Falls, Tung Tung Donga, Rabdanse Ruins and Sewaro Rock Garden. Apart from this you can go on a one day tour and see Tashiding Monastery, Phamrong Waterfalls and Singing Stone.

View of Kanchenjunga range from Pelling

How to Reach

You can reach New Jalpaiguri from Howrah by train. From there you can reach Siliguri S.N.T. Bus Terminus by Auto. Buses are running from Siliguri to Pelling. Shared jeeps are also available from there. It takes about 5-6 hours to reach Pelling from Siliguri.



Accommodation

Hotel Garuda. Tariff - Rs. 850-2700. Tel: 03595-258319.
Hotel Snow View. Tariff - Rs. 2000-3500. Tel: 9593888088.
Hotel Sonamchen. Tariff - Rs. 4500-7000. Tel: 8170028232.
Hotel The Panorama. Tariff - Rs. 2000-3500. Tel: 7384226919.

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Gangtok

Gangtok is the capital city of Sikkim. It is a tourist's paradise. Situated at an altitude of 6000 ft above sea level, Gangtok is also called 'Switzerland of the East.' The roads of Gangtok are extremely neat and clean. One can see the snow covered peak of Mt. Khanchendzonga from here. The way from Siliguri to Gangtok is absolutely mind blowing. There are a number of local sightseeing points in Gangtok. Enchey Monastery, Research Institute of Tibetology, Do Drul Chorten Stupa, Tashi View Point, Ganesh Tok, Hanuman Tok, Bakthang Waterfalls, Himalayan Zoological Park, Rumtek Monastery are the prime attractions of Gangtok. You can also visit Nathula Pass, Tsomgo Lake and Baba Mandir from here by conducted tours. Another excursion from Gangtok is Yumthang Valley and Lachung.

How to Reach

You can reach New Jalpaiguri from Kolkata by train. From there you can get jeep or car in sharing basis to reach Gangtok. Or else you can reach Sikkim Nationalised Transport bus terminus in Siliguri by auto and then reach Gangtok by bus. Jeeps are also running from Siliguri to Gangtok.


Accommodation

Hotel Paradise. Tariff - Rs. 800-1200. Tel: 9832036610.
Hotel Woodland. Tariff - Rs. 1500-2000. Tel: 03592-203414.
Hotel Himalayas. Tariff - Rs. 1500, Tel: 03592-202842.
Mayfair Gangtok. Tariff - Rs. 14000-50000. Tel: 03592-250555.

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