Pelling

Pelling is a town in western Sikkim, India, and the administrative center of the Pelling subdivision in the West Sikkim district. It is a well-known hill station and tourist hub, popular for views of Kangchenjunga and for its cluster of monasteries and historic sites.

Located at about 2,000 meters above sea level on a ridge in the western Himalayas, the area is flanked by the Rimbi and Khangchhu river valleys. It is connected by road to Gangtok and Siliguri via state and national highways, and serves as a base for trips to nearby attractions such as monasteries and lakes.

Sights and culture: Pemayangtse Monastery, founded in the 17th century, is among the oldest in Sikkim. Rabdentse Ruins mark the site of the former royal capital. Khecheopalri Lake is considered sacred by local communities. Other monasteries in the area include Sangachoeling and Darap. Nearby natural attractions include Rimbi Falls, Kanchenjunga Falls, and panoramic viewpoints of Mount Kangchenjunga. The population includes Nepali, Lepcha, and Sikkimese communities, with Nepali and English commonly used in daily life and tourism.

Economy and climate: The local economy rests largely on tourism and small-scale agriculture. Visitors come for mountain scenery, religious sites, and day hikes in the surrounding hills. The climate is temperate, with cool winters and mild summers; the monsoon season brings heavy rainfall.