The history of tourism in Pelling, a quaint town in the Western part of Sikkim, India, is relatively recent when compared to other historical tourist destinations around the world. Sikkim itself only became a part of India in 1975 and prior to that was a monarchy with restricted access to outsiders. This restriction meant that for many years, the natural beauty of Pelling remained undiscovered by the wider world.
It wasn't until the late 20th century that Sikkim started developing its tourism industry. The sector gained momentum post the 1980s, as travelers began to seek out new and unexplored destinations. Initially, tourism in Pelling began with adventurous backpackers who came to explore the untouched beauty of the Himalayas, seeking treks to the Kanchenjunga range and the surrounding landscapes.
With the introduction of better road connectivity, and the establishment of basic infrastructure by the state government, Pelling started to appear on the tourism map. The tourism boom was also assisted by Sikkim's reputation as a peaceful and safe region, and its unique Buddhist cultural heritage.
The true turning point for tourism in Pelling was the enhancement of local experiences such as nature walks, village tours, and the highlight for most tourists – the breathtaking view of the world's third-highest mountain, Mount Kanchenjunga. Travelers worldwide started to recognize Pelling as a prime location for not only adventure and trekking but also for cultural tourism and relaxation.
The region's accessibility to famous monasteries like the Pemayangtse Monastery added to its allure. Additionally, the discovery of historical sites like the Rabdantse Ruins, believed to be the second capital of the Sikkim kingdom, attracted history enthusiasts.
As tourism became a pivotal part of Pelling's revenue, the government and private sector invested in further enhancing the experience by improving hospitality services. This led to the establishment of numerous hotels, resorts, and homestays catering to various budgets and preferences.
Eco-tourism has also been on the rise, with initiatives to preserve the natural environment, and to offer tourists sustainable options that respect the local ecology and community. Several eco-friendly tourism projects have been introduced, further positioning Pelling as an attractive destination for the environmentally conscious traveler.
Following global trends, Pelling has seen a rise in wellness tourism, with an increasing number of tourists seeking yoga and meditation retreats amidst the serenity of the Himalayas. Adventure tourism continues to thrive, with new treks and activities being regularly added to the offering.
The town also hosts an annual tourism festival featuring local culture, cuisine, and handicrafts, enhancing Pelling's appeal as a culturally rich destination. As a year-round destination, Pelling now attracts not only international visitors but an increasing number of domestic tourists, who are drawn to its unique combination of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and peaceful environment.
Moving forward, Pelling seems set to continue its rise as a popular destination for a wide array of tourists, all the while carefully balancing growth with the preservation of its pristine natural and cultural assets.
Hill Stations (12)
Religious Places (110)
Historical Places (85)
Museums (20)
Wildlife Sanctuaries (12)
National Parks (7)
Forts (4)
Villages (21)
Zoos (5)
Mountains (14)
Gardens (12)
Waterfalls (3)
Dams (2)
Lakes (6)
Trekking Places (5)
