West Sikkim is another major part of Sikkim and is the second largest district of the state whose headquarters is Gyalshing or Geyzing. West Sikkim is famous for offering spectacular views of the mountains and a large number of offbeat places that help to promote tourism is the Sikkim. Some of the top places are Pelling and Kanchenjunga which is popular for its mesmerizing view of nature along with religious activities and spirituality. West Sikkim also shares an international boundary with the neighboring country Nepal. The vegetation of West Sikkim consists of Oak, Chestnut, Maple, and many more.
Places to visit in West Sikkim
Khecheopalri Lake
Khecheopalri Lake also known as the "heaven of Padmasambhava" is a lake situated 34 km away from the city of Pelling. The Lake is known as a wish-fulfilling lake and is sacred to both Buddhists as well as Hindus. Huge number of people around the lake on the eve of nag panchami.
Singshore Bridge
One of the famous tourist attractions of West Sikkim is the Singshore Bridge of Pelling built at a height of 100m and is approximately 240m in length making it the world's 2nd highest bridge in Asia. Situated at a distance of 5km away from Pelling the bridge offers a thrilling feel with strong winds that pass by along with a scenic view of the two valleys.
Rimbi Waterfall
Rimbi Waterfall is one of the must-visit places located 12km from Pelling that attracts a huge number of tourists. The Rimbi Waterfall is famous among loved ones who want to spend quality time amidst nature.
Pemayangtse Monastery
Pemayangtse Monastery is a 300-year-old monastery that offers a rich culture of Sikkim and reflects the fine Architecture of Buddhists. The monastery is located 2km away from Pelling and is the second oldest monastery in Sikkim.
Gylashing
Gylashing also known as Geyzing is the headquarters of the West Sikkim that has several holy places and monasteries. Located at an altitude of 5600 ft the city of Geyzing is a small city surrounded by dense forest that offers a mesmerizing view of Kanchenjunga.
Soreng
Soreng is a beautiful town of Sikkim which is a newly formed district of West Sikkim located at a distance of 102 km from the city of Gangtok inhabits a population of around 4,000 people. The town is famous for its natural beauty and offers a breathtaking view of Kanchenjunga which attracts a huge number of tourists and nature lovers. The people of Soreng mostly depend upon agriculture and tourism as a main source of livelihood. The place is known as one of the largest producers of oranges and flowers in Sikkim. Soreng is famous for a wide range of tourist attractions and activity offerings out of which Teesta river rafting and trekking are some of the most popular activities.
Rabdentse Ruins
Rabdentse Ruins was established by Tensung Namgyal who was the son of Phunstog Namgyal. The city was the second capital of the Sikkim kingdom between the years 1670 to 1814. The place offers the best scenic view of the Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan regions.
Things do to in West Sikkim
- Dzongri trek
- Hilley-Varsey Rhododendron Trek
- River rafting in Rangti River
- Walking past Singshore Suspension Bridge
How to reach West Sikkim
The Fastest route to reach west Sikkim is from the nearest railway station NJP which is around 140kms from the Gyalshing. Whereas, people can also reach Gyalshing from Bagdogra airport traveling for about 145 km.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit West Sikkim is during the start of winter which is October - November as the temperature goes below 0 degrees Celsius. The temperature ranges from 10 to 28 degrees Celsius offering mesmerizing view of greenery from landscapes of beautiful mountains.
