Richenpong Monastry – Rinchenpong, a picturesque village in West Sikkim, is home to two notable monasteries, each with its unique historical and cultural significance.
Rishum Monastry or the Gurung Monastry is positioned on a hilltop known as Maggi Dara, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, making it a popular spot for photography.
Richenpong Monastry is situated on higher ground, accessible via a forested trail near the main Rinchenpong market. The monastery is on a mountain trail above the village of Rinchenpong, providing breathtaking views and a tranquil environment. Built in 1730, it is the third oldest monastery in Sikkim. Established by Ngadakpa Lama, the monastery started with around 98 lamas. The monastery houses a unique and beautiful statue of Lord Buddha, known as the Atibuddha statue, attracting many visitors.
The area boasts other nearby monasteries, including one at Kaluk, enhancing the cultural and spiritual richness of the region. Both monasteries in Rinchenpong are popular tourist attractions, offering visitors a blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and spiritual ambiance.
Poison Lake – Located at Upper Sangadorji, just half a kilometer from Rinchenpong Bazar in West Sikkim, Poison Lake is a site steeped in historical intrigue and local legend. During the colonial period, the indigenous Lepcha tribe poisoned the lake using roots and plants with natural toxins to defend against British colonial forces. As the lake was the only water source for the British troops, this act led to the deaths of many soldiers, forcing the British to retreat. Although the exact details of this legend cannot be confirmed, it remains a significant part of local lore. The water is still considered poisonous and not suitable for consumption. The lake is now almost dry and largely dependent on monsoon rainfall. Nearby are the ruins of a British Bungalow, further adding to the historical context of the area.
Chayatal Lake – Chayatal, a picturesque destination in West Sikkim, is renowned for its main attraction, Chaya Lake. This serene location is perfect for nature lovers and offers stunning views of the majestic Himalayas. The lake’s striking emerald green water makes it a haven for nature enthusiasts. The Sikkim state government has undertaken several initiatives to promote tourism in the area, including the construction of Chaya Lake, to foster eco-tourism. Visitors can enjoy superb views of snow-capped peaks, including Mt. Kanchenjunga, Kabru, and many other Himalayan peaks.
These attractions provide a diverse range of experiences, from historical and spiritual sites to natural and scenic wonders, making West Sikkim a captivating destination for tourists.
Hee Water Garden – There are several tourism attractions in West Sikkim, which entices travelers to explore the region’s less-traveled locations. Hee Water Garden is one of the must-see tourist attractions in West Sikkim among the numerous others. Situated in the picturesque West Sikkim village of Hee Gaon, the Hee Water Garden offers a plethora of natural amenities, including a swimming pool, lush surroundings, a view of the meandering river, an impressive beehive, and the striking Dharma Wheel, also called the wish-fulfilling Wheel, which is used for prayer services. Numerous residents frequent this location as it is renowned as a popular picnic destination for the local community. The Hee Water Garden boasts a diverse array of native plants, highlighting rare species alongside various water features, earning it the title of Himalayan Botanical Garden. Recently, the garden has also become a habitat for a variety of bird species. While exploring Hee Water Garden, visitors have the opportunity to explore surrounding attractions such as Chaya Lake. Additionally, a brief trip to the nearby Hee-Bermoik village is highly recommended, as it is known for providing stunning views of Mt. Kanchenjunga, Kabru, and several other majestic peaks.
Uttarey Village – Uttarey, located in the west district of Sikkim, can be accessed from Pelling, Geyzing, or Dentam. On the way, travelers pass the Singshore Bridge, renowned as the second highest bridge in Asia. Situated at an elevation of about 6600 feet, Uttarey is celebrated for its tranquility and natural beauty. It offers stunning views of the Himalayan mountains and remains relatively unexplored by tourists, ensuring a peaceful environment. In winter, the surrounding mountains are blanketed with snow, creating breathtaking vistas. A significant site in Uttarey is the Kagyud Gumpa, a revered monastery nestled in dense forests, which features intriguing wall paintings and offers views of the Dentam peak and the river. Other notable attractions near Uttarey include the Mainbas Waterfall and the Chiwabhanzyang Pass, the latter located approximately 10 kilometers away and serving as a gateway to Nepal. To fully immerse yourself in the local culture, book homestays in north Bengal and experience the warm hospitality of the region.
