Pelling

West Sikkim's viewpoint town — Kanchenjunga sunrises, monasteries, and quiet trails.

verifiedLast verified: August 25, 2026

Getting There

• From Delhi / Kolkata: Train to NJP, then shared jeep from the SNT stand or Siliguri Gurudwara (~₹500–650 per seat, 5–6 hrs). Private sedans cost ~₹3,500–4,300.
• Budget option: SNT bus Siliguri → Pelling runs once daily (~₹325–700, ~5 hrs), sometimes only till Gyalshing — then a short local taxi.

Typical Budgets

• Backpacker: ₹1,000–₹1,600/day — budget hotel or homestay (~₹700–1,200/night), shared sightseeing (~₹400–600/person), simple meals.
• Mid-range: ₹2,000–₹3,500/day — Kanchenjunga-facing room, private cab for a day.

Practical Tips

• Stay in Upper Pelling for the best Kanchenjunga views; Lower Pelling is cheaper but viewless.
• Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdentse ruins, and the skywalk can be covered in one shared-sightseeing day.
• Khecheopalri Lake needs half a day — pair it with Kanchenjunga Falls on the way.
• Shared jeeps to Pelling leave when full, mostly before noon — reach Siliguri early.

What I Wish I Knew

Mornings decide everything here. If the sky is clear at 6 AM, drop your plans and watch the sunrise — clouds roll in by 10.

Permits & Notes

• No special permit needed for Pelling town. Carry a photo ID; some checkpoints note visitor details.