Day 6, March 5, 2025: Misty Trails & Ancient Echoes in Pelling

At 7,000 feet, nestled in the foothills of Mt. Kanchendzonga , Pelling welcomed us wth dense mist and a gloomy morning. The clouds swallowed the valley, leaving just a faint hope of sunlight peeking through. After a comforting breakfast, we embarked on a day of exploration , hoping to uncover the historical and spiritual essence of Pelling.  

Walking the Skies at Pelling Sky Walk  

Our first stop was the Pelling Sky Walk, India’s first glass bridge, leading up to the 137-ft Bodhisattva Chenrezig statue. Below the statue, a temple adorned with vivid murals and intricate paintings depicted Buddha’s teachings, creating a sacred atmosphere.  

The skywalk is known for its breathtaking views of Mt. Khangchendzonga, but unfortunately, the thick mist veiled everything, leaving me longing for the elusive mountain panorama.  

A Walk Through Time: Bird Park & Rabdentse Ruins  

From the skywalk, we made our way to the Sidkeong Bird Park, a peaceful haven filled with chirping melodies and glimpses of Himalayan pheasants and ducks. The gentle sounds and crisp air felt soul-soothing, a contrast to the usual chaos of city life.  

A short distance away, we ventured into the Rabdentse Palace Ruins, a hidden gem tucked within deep woods. The trail leading there was a sensory delight—the earthy scent of petrichor , the whispering bamboo trees, and the chill of mountain air , all creating a surreal experience. 

Once the second capital of Sikkim, Rabdentse was destroyed by the invading Gurkha army in the 16th century. Standing among the ruins, I imagined the grand halls and royal presence that once graced this place. From the palace grounds, we could see Pemayangtse Monastery, perched on a nearby hill—our next stop.  

The Timeless Charm of Pemayangtse Monastery 

Built in 1647 by Lama Lhatsun Chempo ,Pemayangtse Monastery is one of the oldest and most significant monasteries in Sikkim. The three-story structure houses ancient statues of saints, Rinpoches, and Padmasambhava (Lotus Born), alongside antique scriptures and Tibetan paintings. The prayer hall’s intricate woodwork and vibrant murals transported us to an era where time moved at a slower, more meaningful pace.  

A Late Lunch & A Stroll Through Pelling’s Market  

By now, we realized we had missed lunch, and our stomachs began protesting. At 3:30 PM, we asked our driver to drop us at Upper Pelling, where we grabbed a plate of crispy vegetable pakoras. However, our choice of "chocolate drink" turned out to be a mistake—note to self: only try it from an authentic place! 

Wandering through local shops, we browsed souvenirs for friends and family. Among the treasures, we found a beautifully carved stone tea kettle, traditional Sikkimese dolls, and—surprisingly—several items imported from China and Korea. 

A Misty Evening Walk & Cozy Night  

Though it was just 4 PM, the temperature had already dropped, and a gentle drizzle had begun. After a short break at the hotel, we borrowed an umbrella and braved the misty, chilly night, walking through the fog-laden streets in search of a warm meal.  

As I settled into bed, I sighed, hoping for clear skies tomorrow—would I finally get to witness the majestic Khangchendzonga from my balcony?