Viewpoints · Pelling
Climb to Sanga Choeling and the skywalk
Walk up the steep forest path from Upper Pelling to Sanga Choeling, a monastery dated to 1697, then follow the ridge to the Chenrezig statue and glass skywalk opened in 2018. Early starts give clear views and quiet paths before the tour cars arrive.
The path to Sanga Choeling begins above Upper Pelling and climbs through forest for about 40 minutes. It is steep and stony in places, with prayer flags strung between the trees, and it is the best workout in town. The monastery is small and old, dated to 1697 and counted among the oldest in Sikkim. Its setting is the point: a quiet clearing on top of the ridge, with the valleys dropping away on both sides and the snow peaks to the north.
The prayer hall may be locked outside prayer times; if a caretaker monk is around, ask politely and follow what he says about entry and photographs. From Sanga Choeling, continue along the ridge to the Chenrezig statue and the glass skywalk, which opened in 2018 and can also be reached by road. The skywalk sticks out from the hillside so you can stand above the valley on toughened glass. Pay the small entry fee at the counter, take off or cover your shoes if asked, and keep to the marked area.
We like to walk up early and come down by the same path, stopping at the tea stalls in Upper Pelling on the way back. Families with young children or seniors can drive to the skywalk and skip the monastery climb. Carry water, a light jacket and a rain shell from April onwards, because cloud can roll up the ridge very quickly in the afternoon. After rain the path is muddy and leeches appear, so from June to September stick to the road.
Cost: Monastery free · skywalk entry about ₹50–100 (check)
Questions people ask
Good to know
How hard is the walk up to Sanga Choeling?
It is short but steep: about 40 minutes up from Upper Pelling on a stony forest path, and 25–30 minutes down. Anyone with average fitness can do it slowly. Wear shoes with grip, carry water and avoid it after heavy rain, when the path turns muddy. People with knee or heart problems should drive to the skywalk instead.
What does the Pelling skywalk cost?
The Chenrezig statue and glass skywalk complex charges a small entry fee, roughly ₹50–100 for Indian visitors in recent seasons, and there may be extra charges for cameras or shoe covers. Fees change, so check current rates at the counter. Go early in the day, when queues are shorter and views are clearer.
Can we drive to Sanga Choeling and the skywalk?
A road reaches the skywalk complex, and any Pelling taxi will take you there as part of a local sightseeing loop costing ₹2,500–3,500 for the car. The old monastery itself is best reached on foot from Upper Pelling. If you want both, drive up to the skywalk and walk the short ridge section to the monastery.
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