5
Detailed Overview: Mankhim Top View Point is a stunning hilltop destination located in the village of Dalapchand, near Aritar in East Sikkim. Situated at an altitude of approximately 6,500 feet, it offers one of the most comprehensive panoramic views of the Eastern Himalayas, including a bird's-eye view of the boot-shaped Lampokhari Lake. The viewpoint is culturally and spiritually significant as it is home to a temple dedicated to the Khambu Rai community, the indigenous people of the region. The Mankhim temple is a place of pilgrimage, especially during the Sakewa festival, where devotees gather to pray for a good harvest. The architecture of the temple is unique, reflecting the traditions of the Rai community. From the top of the hill, one can see the meandering Reshi River, the distant peaks of Bhutan, and the legendary Silk Route winding through the mountains. The viewpoint is accessible via a short but steep trek through a dense forest path from the Aritar lake or by a motorable road. The forest around Mankhim is rich in biodiversity, with numerous species of birds and butterflies, making it a delight for nature enthusiasts. The viewpoint is also famous for its sunrise and sunset, where the changing colors of the sky create a theatrical backdrop for the Kanchenjunga massif. Many travelers choose to stay in the local homestays at Mankhim to experience the peace and tranquility of the hilltop. The hospitality of the Rai community is well-known, and guests are often treated to traditional meals and stories of local folklore. The area around Mankhim is also great for short nature walks and village explorations. The view of the Lampokhari Lake from here is particularly famous, as the emerald green water contrasts sharply with the dark green of the surrounding pine forests. Mankhim serves as a perfect vantage point to understand the geography of the lower Silk Route region. It is a place where nature and culture intersect, providing a holistic travel experience. Whether you are a photographer looking for the perfect shot of the mountains or a soul-seeker looking for a quiet corner to reflect, Mankhim offers the perfect environment. Its elevation provides a cool and refreshing climate, making it a popular getaway for those looking to escape the heat of the plains of West Bengal and the lower valleys of Sikkim.
General information
-
Ideal Duration:
Ideal Stay: 2 to 3 Hours for photography and temple visit; 1 Night for experiencing the sunrise.Place Type:
Category: Viewpoint, Religious Site, Nature.Entry Fees:
Minimal Maintenance Fee: A fee of Rs. 10 to 20 may be collected at the watchtower for its upkeep.
Temple Donations: While entry is free, voluntary donations for the temple maintenance are appreciated by the local community. ...Minimal Maintenance Fee: A fee of Rs. 10 to 20 may be collected at the watchtower for its upkeep.
Temple Donations: While entry is free, voluntary donations for the temple maintenance are appreciated by the local community.Timing:
Regular Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM to cover both sunrise and sunset.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning at 5:30 AM for the best mountain views before the clouds roll in. ...Regular Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM to cover both sunrise and sunset.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning at 5:30 AM for the best mountain views before the clouds roll in.Special Events:
Sakewa (Baisakh Purnima): The most important festival of the Rai community, celebrated with traditional Silli dances and prayers for nature.
The Kanchenjunga View Festival: A local tourism initiative to promote the viewpoint, featuring folk ...Sakewa (Baisakh Purnima): The most important festival of the Rai community, celebrated with traditional Silli dances and prayers for nature.
The Kanchenjunga View Festival: A local tourism initiative to promote the viewpoint, featuring folk music and regional food.Best Photo Spots:
The 360-Degree Watchtower: From here, you can pan your camera to capture three different regions in one frame.
The Rai Temple Facade: The unique traditional architecture of the temple against the blue sky is a beautiful cultural shot.The 360-Degree Watchtower: From here, you can pan your camera to capture three different regions in one frame.
The Rai Temple Facade: The unique traditional architecture of the temple against the blue sky is a beautiful cultural shot.
Sunset over Reshi River: The golden hour light hitting the river valley below creates a magical and warm landscape photo.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
-
Climbing the Watchtower: Head to the top of the metal watchtower for a 360-degree view of the mountains. You can see the peaks of Sikkim, West Bengal, and even the border mountains of Bhutan. It is the best place to understand the geography of the region.
Photography of Lampokhari Lake: From Mankhim, you get the classic "bird's-eye view" of the boot-shaped lake. The emerald green water surrounded by dark pine forests makes for a stunning composition. It is a must-have shot for every traveler.
Visiting the Khambu Rai Temple: Explore the temple dedicated to the indigenous Rai community. Learn about their unique rituals and their deep connection to nature. The temple is a center of peace and offers a great cultural insight.
Trekking to the Aritar Lake: Instead...
Information
-
Why Famous:
Panoramic Vistas: Mankhim is famous for offering a 360-degree view of the Himalayas, covering Sikkim, West Bengal, and Bhutan.
Rai Heritage: It is the most important cultural center for the Khambu Rai community, housing a historic temple ded...Panoramic Vistas: Mankhim is famous for offering a 360-degree view of the Himalayas, covering Sikkim, West Bengal, and Bhutan.
Rai Heritage: It is the most important cultural center for the Khambu Rai community, housing a historic temple dedicated to them.
Lake View: It provides the famous "top view" of Lampokhari Lake, where its boot shape is most clearly and beautifully visible.
Strategic History: The site was historically used as an observation post due to its commanding height over the Reshi River valley.
Sakewa Festival: The annual celebration of Sakewa brings hundreds of locals to this hilltop, making it a vibrant center of Sikkimese culture. -
Architecture:
Architectural Style:
Indigenous Rai Community Heritage: The architecture at Mankhim is centered around the traditional designs of the Khambu Rai people.
Structural Dimension: The viewpoint area is a hilltop c...Architectural Style:
Indigenous Rai Community Heritage: The architecture at Mankhim is centered around the traditional designs of the Khambu Rai people.
Structural Dimension: The viewpoint area is a hilltop clearing of about 500 Square Meters, featuring a small temple and a viewing tower.
Temple Design: The Mankhim temple features a simple rectangular base with a sloping roof, often decorated with symbols of nature and traditional art.
Viewing Platform: A modern concrete and metal watchtower has been erected to provide a 360-degree unobstructed view of the surrounding peaks.
Community Halls: Nearby structures for the Sakewa festival are built with large open spaces to accommodate communal dancing and traditional rituals. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Pakyong Airport is the nearest at 38 Kms. Bagdogra is about 118 Kms away.
By Train: NJP is the closest station, approximately 112 Kms away, a drive of 4. 5 to 5 hours.
By Road: From Zuluk, it is a 4... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Lampokhari Lake (2 Kms), 2. Aritar Gumpa (1 Km), 3. Dak Bungalow (2 Kms), 4. Reshikhola (20 Kms), 5. Rhenock (6 Kms), 6. Pedong (27 Kms), 7. Kalimpong (50 Kms), 8. Zuluk (44 Kms), 9. Sillery Gaon (37 Kms), 10. Que Khola Falls (17 Kms).
Tourism Tips
-
Health & Safety: The climb to the tower is steep; elderly people should take it slow. Wear sturdy shoes for the jungle trail.
Packing: A good camera with a zoom lens is essential for the mountain views.
Accomm...
Reviews
Note:-
Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.
All information and pictures will be updated soon, please keep visiting.
Near Places
1
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
2
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
3
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
4
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
5
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Bhulbhulaiya Zig-Zag Road
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Gnathang War Memorial
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Harbhajan Babaji Ka Bunker
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Jelep La Pass Viewpoint
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Kali Khola Falls
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewherein Other Cities