A small laid back town, where all you would want to do is nothing. Simply sit back and enjoy the peace and calm that envelopes the entire hill, treat your sensations to the beauty that lies around or just feel clouds that descend over you and all around. Take a tour of the town on foot and unravel its various mysteries. Discover the many rapids and falls that dot the entire region. Spot the various streams and rivulets that make the land a paradise for all nature lovers. But it’s not just its relaxed atmosphere that you can enjoy; Pelling has much for adventure enthusiasts too. White-water rafting on the Rangit, kayaking, promotional trekking, mountain biking, sightseeing, traditional sports and bird- watching are some exciting activities you can take up here.

• Pemayangtse Monastery: Pemayangtse, which means the ‘Perfect Sublime Lotus’ is the most important monastery in Sikkim and belongs to the Nyingma order. It is home only for the pure monks, the ones called the ‘ta-sang’ lamas. The monastery is home to several ancient and precious religious images and other objects of worship. The monastery should be visited to get an insight to the cultural history of the town as well as panoramic views of Mount Kanchenjunga and is thus a popular place of tourist interest.

• Sangacholing Monastery: Having the distinction of being the second oldest monastery in town, it is located on a ridge above the famous Pemayangtse Monastery. The way up to the monastery is heavily forested and makes a good track for nature walks and even for treks. The monastery has a scenic backdrop and a calm and quiet setting which makes it a good place to visit.

• Khecheopalri Lake: A major tourist attraction in town it is also known as the ‘Wishing Lake’. The Khecheopalri Lake is undoubtedly a scenic wonder. A pristine lake with sparkling blue waters, the banks of the lake are good for a lazy stroll. The lake is considered to be sacred and hence prayers are offered here. However, due to the sanctity attached, no water activities are allowed in the lake.

• Sangay Waterfall: A lovely waterfall in the outskirts of the town. Stand on the bridge and feel the gentle spray of the water from the fall. The spot makes an ideal place for picnics and is a major tourist spot in Pelling.

• Meghalaya State Museum: Among a good collection of ancient scripts and other valuables, the museum also exhibits collections from the tribal era.

A small and laid back town, Pelling does not have any happening places for eating. However there are a decent number of good restaurants that serve good food. Most of these are the ones attached to the good hotels in the town. Good multi-cuisine restaurants are attached to hotels like Hotel Garuda and Hotel Sonamchen. Try out a typical Sikkimese style meal here.

Don’t expect to shop for big brands here, but shopping at the local markets is surely going to be a unique experience here. Hunt shops for the most unique handicrafts to take home as souvenirs. Locally made curios are also a rage with tourists. Pelling is also a good market for hand woven items. Woolen carpets with traditional motifs and Lepcha shawls are some other good things you might wish to take home.