Pelling
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Pelling is a small town in the district of West Sikkim with an altitude of 6100 ft. Pelling offers the splendid and closest view of Mt.Kanchenjunga range without leaving the comfort of your Hotel. In the months of winter, Pelling is sometimes covered with a blanket of snow. You can come here to escape from daily metropolis hustle and bustle. This area offers immense relaxation and tranquility. However with the influx of tourists, the region is undergoing a metamorphosis, with the roads being repaired and more hotels being set up.
The nearest sightseeing places in Pelling are Khecheopalri Lake, Sangachoeling and Pemayangtse Monastery.
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Places of Interests
Pemayantse Monastery
Pemayantse Monastery was built around the 17th century by Latseen Chembo (one of the three lamas who coroneted the king), Situated at a height of 6,841ft and at a distance of 110 km from Gangtok is one of the oldest monasteries in the Sikkim. It is a three storied structure filled with wall painting, sculptures and antiques. On the third floor there is athe Zandog Phalri - an amazing seven tiered painted wooden model of the abode of Guru Rimpoche, complete with rainbows, angels and whole panoply of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. The model was built single handedly by late Dugzin Rimpoche in 5 years. In Febuary month the Chaam or Masked Dance is performed by the monks.
Sangachoeling Monastery
The second oldest monastery, built in the 16th century, is about 40 minutes walk from Pelling. Sangachoeling Monastery is just opposite to Pemayantse Monastery. Other ethnic groups are not allowed inside the monastery, only Bhutia and Lepcha community are admissible. The admission in this monastery is limited to the families of Bhutia and Lepcha.
Rabdentse Palace
Rabdentse ruins, once 2nd capital of Sikkim, can also be reached from here, this place is about 3 to 4 kilometer from Pelling.
Khecheopalri Lake
Khecheopalri Lake is situated in west sikkim, (2000m) 34km northwest of Pelling. Lake is known as the "Wishing Lake", lake is considered sacred by the Lepchas and the Hindus religions. Lake is surrounded by dense forests, it is believed that the birds do not allow even as single leaf to float on the lake.
Yuksom
Yuksom (Locals pronounce Yuksam), the first capital of Sikkim with an altitude of 5500ft, is about 35 kms from Pelling. The legend has it that, here in Yuksom three holy monks arrived from Tibet and where they consecrated Phuntsok Namgyal as the first Chogyal of Sikkim in the year 1642 as per Sikkim History
Reaching Pelling
Pelling is 115 km (5 to 6 hours) of drive from Gangtok and about 135 km from Siliguri. The nearest rail station is NJP and airport the is Bagdogra. Regular jeeps connect Pelling to the towns of Jorethang, Kalimpong and Namchi.