Top Activities & Experiences

Top Activities & Experiences

Pakyong, a serene town in East Sikkim, offers a mix of adventure, spirituality, nature, and local experiences. From paragliding over the hills to exploring ancient monasteries and organic farms, there are plenty of things to do in this peaceful Himalayan town.

Here are the best activities and experiences in Pakyong:

1. Adventure Activities

(a) Paragliding Over Pakyong Valley

• One of the best paragliding spots in East Sikkim.
• Offers breathtaking aerial views of the mountains, monasteries, and river valleys.
• Best Time: March – June & September – November.

(b) Short Treks to Monasteries & Viewpoints

• Trek to Changey Monastery for stunning sunrise views.
• Hike to Singhik Viewpoint for a panoramic view of Mt. Kanchenjunga.
• Nature walk to Dikling Monastery through forest trails and village roads.
• Best Time: October – May.

(c) Rock Climbing & Rappelling Near Pakyong

• Several rock climbing and adventure sites are located near Pakyong.
• Ideal for beginners and professionals.
• Best Time: March – June.

2. Spiritual & Cultural Experiences

(a) Meditate at Changey & Dikling Monastery

• Peaceful Buddhist monasteries, perfect for meditation and spiritual retreats.
• Experience Buddhist chants & prayer ceremonies.
• Best Time: All year round.

(b) Attend Buddhist Festivals & Cham Dance Performances

• Losar (Tibetan New Year) – Celebrated with prayers, rituals, and feasts.
• Saga Dawa – A holy festival marking Buddha’s birth and enlightenment.
• Cham Dance Festival – A masked dance ritual performed by Buddhist monks.
• Best Time: February – May (for Losar & Saga Dawa), December (for Cham Dance).

(c) Visit Shivalaya Temple & Experience Hindu Rituals

• A sacred Shiva temple where Maha Shivratri is celebrated grandly.
• Join the morning aarti (prayer ceremony).
• Best Time: February – March (Maha Shivratri), October – November.

3. Nature & Scenic Activities

(a) Sunrise & Sunset at Pakyong Airport Viewpoint

• Enjoy a breathtaking sunrise or sunset over the airport and Himalayan peaks.
• Watch flights take off and land against a stunning mountain backdrop.
• Best Time: October – May.

(b) Waterfall Chasing: Kali Khola Falls (Lonely Falls)

• A hidden gem waterfall, surrounded by forests and misty landscapes.
• Perfect for photography and short nature walks.
• Best Time: June – November.

(c) Birdwatching & Nature Walks in Tamang Village

• Home to rare Himalayan birds and butterflies.
• Spot birds like Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant, and Rufous-necked Hornbill.
• Best Time: March – May, October – November.

(d) Visit Rorathang Hot Springs for a Relaxing Dip

• A natural hot spring, believed to have healing properties for skin and joint pain.
• Enjoy a warm soak amidst the cold mountain air.
• Best Time: December – March.

4. Food & Culinary Experiences

(a) Try Traditional Sikkimese & Tibetan Cuisine

• Momos (Dumplings) – Steamed or fried dumplings served with spicy chutney.
• Thukpa – A Tibetan noodle soup with vegetables and meat.
• Phagshapa – A Sikkimese pork dish cooked with radish and dried chilies.
• Sel Roti – A crispy rice-based bread, best enjoyed with tea.
• Chhurpi Soup – Made from fermented yak cheese, a Sikkimese delicacy.
• Best Places:
  • Taste of Sikkim – Best for momos & thukpa.
  • The Local Café – Great for organic tea & homemade snacks.

(b) Experience Organic Tea Tasting & Farm Visits

• Visit local tea farms and learn about organic tea cultivation.
• Sample different flavors of Sikkimese tea.
• Best Time: March – June.

(c) Visit Local Cafés & Bakeries

• Baker’s Café – Serves delicious pastries and organic coffee.
• Taste of Tibet – Known for authentic Tibetan food.

5. Shopping & Souvenirs

(a) Buy Handmade Woolen Shawls & Carpets

• Authentic Lepcha & Tibetan woolens are available in local markets.
• Best Place: Pakyong Market & Monastery Shops.

(b) Collect Buddhist Prayer Flags & Thangka Paintings

• Hand-painted religious paintings & colorful prayer flags.
• Best Place: Changey & Dikling Monastery Shops.

(c) Purchase Organic Sikkimese Tea & Local Spices

• Best for cardamom, ginger, and bamboo shoot pickles.
• Best Place: Local farmers’ markets in Pakyong & Tamang Village.

6. Nearby Excursions & Day Trips

(a) Gangtok (30 km, 1.5 hours drive)

• Visit MG Marg for shopping & nightlife.
• Explore Rumtek Monastery & Tsomgo Lake.

(b) Kalimpong (68 km, 3 hours drive)

• Explore Deolo Hill, Morgan House, and Cactus Garden.

(c) Namthang Bamboo Grove & Tea Gardens (25 km, 1.5 hours drive)

• Walk through tea plantations and enjoy organic tea tasting.

7. Best Time for Activities in Pakyong

8. Why Visit Pakyong?

✅ A perfect mix of adventure, spirituality, and nature.
✅ Less crowded than Gangtok, making it ideal for a peaceful getaway.
✅ Breathtaking views of Mt. Kanchenjunga & Teesta Valley.
✅ Great for cultural experiences, trekking, and offbeat exploration.

Pakyong is a hidden gem in East Sikkim, offering serene monasteries, adventure sports, and peaceful natural landscapes. Whether you’re looking for thrill, tranquility, or cultural immersion, Pakyong is an ideal destination!