Located in the western part of Sikkim, Pemayangtse is a small but important Buddhist pilgrim center. It is a beautiful place surrounded by natural splendour of Eastern Himalayas. Pemayangtse offers fascinating views of the mighty Kanchenjunga peak that overlooks the town. For the adventure lovers, there are many hiking and trekking trails in the vicinity of this city. The region around Pemayangtse was once the stronghold of Nyingamapa sect of Tibetan Buddhism who established the state of Sikkim with major centers near the present-day. At that time, the kingdom of Sikkim included, besides the modern state of Sikkim, areas of Tibet, Bhutan, and some areas in Himalayan foothills including Darjeeling. That power is not there now, but the remnants of this glorious past are enough to signify its importance. This city enjoys a pleasant Alpine climate with short and mild summers and cold winters. The period between March and May is the best time to visit this little town.

Fact File

	Altitude 2,085 metres above sea level
	Languages Sikkimese and English
	Best Time to Visit March to May

Places of Interest

Monastery

Most of the visitors come to here to see its monastery. This second oldest monastery in the state (built in 1705) is the main center of the Nyingamapa sect, a tantrik sect of Buddhism founded in the 8th century AD. The sect is also known as Red Hat because its followers wear red hats rather than the yellow hat worn by the monks in other monasteries. Traditional frescoes depicting tantrik Buddhist themes adorn the walls of this monastery. The depiction of Sangthopalri (or heaven) sculpted intricately on wood is an interesting feature of the Pemyangtse monastery. Traditional austere dwellings of the monks can be found near the monastery.

Sangacholing Monastery

Founded by Lhatsum Chempo in 1697, this is one of the largest monasteries in the state. The monastery is situated on a ridge over here. Belonging to the Nyingmapa sect, the 17th-century clay statues preserved in the monastery are among the oldest in the entire state.

Excursion: nearby Places

Khecheopalri Lake

Khecheopalri Lake is sacred to both Hindus and Buddhists and considered as a wish-fulfilling lake. The tranquil and clear waters of this lake reflect the densely wooded slopes of the surrounding hills with a monastery above. Leaf lamps are floated in the lake with special prayers at dusk. The lake can be reached directly by a motorable road.

Pelling

Situated around 3 km at an altitude of around 2,100 metres above sea level, Pelling is an important tourist destination of Sikkim. The place offers some great views of mountain ranges. It is fast becoming the centre point of tourist activity in the region. Transportation is easy to other places from Pelling and a good range of accommodation facilities is available here.