The
west district certainly boasts some of the best tourist attractions in
Sikkim. The prime location of this district is distinctly ahead of
others in terms of its proximity to Mt. Kanchenjunga, the third highest
peak in the world. In order to have a smooth administration, Geyzing
(Gyalshing) serve as the headquarters of West Sikkim District. The major
tourist attractions have been covered in our related sections for you to
check out.
The temperate climate of the west district allows people to live and
sustain their lives with a tad of agriculture. The extreme west is quite
mountainous, which too offers this place a great trekking zone for
trekkers. Initially, the places were not open for tourists, but in the
recent times, things have got changed and now, almost each and every
part of the district is accessible by roads.
In the west district, there are many tours that you can take and enjoy
the striking environs of the places. West Sikkim District is a beautiful
region with stunning mountains, picturesque sight-seeing points, ancient
monasteries and historical spots that depict the cultural legacy of
Sikkim. The region is an ideal place to trace the nature in its full
bloom. In this section, we will discuss the major tourist attractions of
West Sikkim district in detail.
Sanga-Choeling Monastery
The renowned Sanga-Choling Monastery is to be found on a ridge above
Pelling. The literal meaning of 'Sanga Choeling' is 'the island of
esoteric teaching'. The spiritual island was built in 1697 and perhaps
making it one of the oldest monasteries of Sikkim.
Legship
On the banks of Rangit River, Legship is a hamlet known for a Hindu
shrine. This shrine is dedicated to Lord Shiva. In the month of
November, the festival of Bala Chaturdesi is observed here. Apart from
the religious significance.
Biksthang
Near Pelling, Biksthang is a small hamlet in West Sikkim. Biksthang is
also known by the titles of Chuchen and Mangalbaray. The peaceful, calm,
serene and soothing beauty of this place is getting acknowledged by
people gradually.
Reshi Hot Springs
At a distance of 25kms from Geyzing, Reshi is a nice place to explore.
Reshi is small town famous for its hot springs. Close to River Rangit,
Reshi Hot Springs are generously pouring the waters for the benefit of
mankind.
Soreng
Soreng is a small town in the West Sikkim. The place is famous for its
extensive variety of flowers and birds. From Pelling, it is located at
an estimated drive of 4 hours. If you are coming from Melli, then it
would be a 3 hour journey.
Rinchenpong
Rinchenpong is another tourist attraction in West Sikkim. The marvelous
location of Rinchenpong offers a spectacular view of mountains, sunsets
and sun rise. The old Resum Monastery is also sited here. People enjoy
coming to this place for its rich flora, fauna and soft trek routes.
Dudbi Monastery
This old monastery was built shortly after the coronation ceremony of
first Chogyal at Yuksom. Ideal place for meditation, Dubdi Monastery can
be reached by a trek of 35 minutes through steep slope.