Pelling, nestled in West Sikkim, is a place that stole my heart. My stay at Rufina Palm Bliss in Middle Pelling was pure magic. Waking up to the majestic Kanchenjunga Mountain every morning in January – that's a memory I'll cherish forever! And guess what? The best part? I could see this magnificent peak from practically anywhere in Pelling during that month.
Our adventure began with the Pelling Skywalk, the undisputed highlight of Pelling. Walking on that glass bridge with Kanchenjunga in the backdrop was an experience that left me breathless. Equally impressive was the gigantic 137-foot idol of Chenrezig. The monastery beneath the idol is a must-visit for anyone interested in Buddhist culture.
Next, we ventured into the Tulku Sidekeong Bird Park. The aviary, in particular, transported us straight to Jurassic Park! A few kilometers away, we explored the ancient Rabdentse Ruins, remnants of Sikkim's once-powerful dynasty. These ruins offered a fascinating glimpse into the region's history.
Our journey continued to the Pemayangtse Monastery, one of Sikkim's oldest, established way back in 1705 AD. The serene atmosphere and intricate architecture were truly captivating.
The Orange Garden was a delightful surprise. While oranges are only available during winter, we were lucky enough to enjoy some freshly squeezed juice. A lovely lady there even treated us to a variety of other juices and non-alcoholic wines – a delicious local experience! If you're feeling adventurous, a trek down from the garden leads you to the refreshing Rimbi River.
Our next stop was Kanchenjunga Falls, a scenic waterfall that took about 40 minutes to reach by road. The cascading water surrounded by lush greenery was a sight to behold.
Finally, we ended our perfect day at Khecheopalri Lake, also known as the Wish Lake. This sacred lake holds a special place in the hearts of the locals, and it was the perfect way to conclude our exploration of Pelling.
For a more immersive experience, check out my YouTube video on Pelling Sikkim on my channel @mandymisra. Don't miss it!