Pelling Sky Walk, Pelling [2026] - Timing, Entry Fees, Best Time, How To Reach, Photos

General information

Ideal Duration:

1-2 hours
Place Type:

Religious/Spiritual/Adventure/Viewpoint
Entry Fees:

Indian National Entry Fee: The entry fee for Indian citizens to the Pelling Sky Walk complex (including the statue area) is very reasonable, typically around INR 50 per person. This fee is collected at the entrance booth before you access the skywalk itself.

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Indian National Entry Fee: The entry fee for Indian citizens to the Pelling Sky Walk complex (including the statue area) is very reasonable, typically around INR 50 per person. This fee is collected at the entrance booth before you access the skywalk itself.

Foreigner Entry Fee: The fee for foreign nationals is generally slightly higher than for Indian visitors, often around INR 100 per person, a standard practice at many tourist sites in India.

Shoe Cover Charges: As a cleanliness and maintenance measure, visitors are often required to wear disposable shoe covers before stepping onto the glass walkway. A nominal charge, usually included in the main entry ticket or a separate cost of INR 5-10, may apply.

No Separate Camera Fee: Crucially, there are no additional charges for carrying still cameras or video cameras to the Sky Walk, allowing visitors to freely capture the stunning views and the colossal Chenrezig statue. The revenue generated is used for the maintenance and development of the entire complex. :

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Timing:

Regular Operating Timings: The Pelling Sky Walk complex is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (though some sources suggest the ticket counter may close earlier, around 5:00 PM). It is essential to check the latest timings locally before planning your visit.

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Regular Operating Timings: The Pelling Sky Walk complex is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (though some sources suggest the ticket counter may close earlier, around 5:00 PM). It is essential to check the latest timings locally before planning your visit.

Ideal Visit Time for Photography: The ideal time to visit is immediately after opening, between 9:00 AM and 10:00 AM. This morning hour offers the best chance for the clearest views of the Kanchenjunga range before haze or clouds set in. The early morning light is also excellent for photographing the golden Chenrezig statue.

Best Time to Avoid Crowds: Visit on a weekday and aim to be there right when it opens to avoid the long queues that form during the peak hours of 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, when most tour buses arrive.

Spiritual Visit Time: For a more spiritual experience, late afternoon (4:00 PM to 6:00 PM) is quieter, and the complex is bathed in a beautiful, warm light, perfect for quiet contemplation. :

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Special Events:

Chenrezig Statue Anniversary Celebration: The statue and skywalk complex were inaugurated in November 2018. The anniversary of this inauguration is often celebrated annually with a large gathering, special prayers, and cultural performances by local monks and artists, marki...

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Chenrezig Statue Anniversary Celebration: The statue and skywalk complex were inaugurated in November 2018. The anniversary of this inauguration is often celebrated annually with a large gathering, special prayers, and cultural performances by local monks and artists, marking the modern spiritual significance of the site.

Monastic Prayer Days: The Chenrezig complex, being a religious site, observes all major Tibetan Buddhist prayer days and festivals, such as Saga Dawa (May/June) and Lhabab Duechen (November). On these days, a large number of monks and devotees gather for mass prayers and rituals, offering a vibrant display of Buddhist faith and culture.

Community Workship Events: Local Buddhist communities from Pelling and Gyalshing frequently use the complex for community prayers and worship events, often involving large processions up the prayer-wheel-lined staircase, which is a powerful sight for visitors to witness.

Dalai Lama's Consecration Day: The day the Dalai Lama consecrated the statue is sometimes unofficially celebrated or marked with special prayers, acknowledging the profound spiritual blessing bestowed upon the site, although the exact date varies. :

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Best Photo Spots:

Glass Walkway Downward Shot: The signature photo is a downward-facing shot of your feet on the transparent glass, with the valley and mountains visible far below. This shot captures the thrill and uniqueness of the skywalk experience. Ensure to remove your shoes as per the...

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Glass Walkway Downward Shot: The signature photo is a downward-facing shot of your feet on the transparent glass, with the valley and mountains visible far below. This shot captures the thrill and uniqueness of the skywalk experience. Ensure to remove your shoes as per the rules.

Framing the Chenrezig Statue: Position yourself on the skywalk to frame the enormous 137-foot Chenrezig statue against the sky. Use the curvature of the skywalk and the golden railings as leading lines directing the eye towards the statue's face and upper body.

Staircase with Prayer Wheels: The long, elevated staircase leading up to the statue, flanked by rows of golden prayer wheels, is an excellent spot for a symmetrical and spiritual photograph. Capture the line of wheels leading into the mountain, often with monks or pilgrims spinning them.

Panoramic Kanchenjunga View: On a clear day, use a wide-angle lens from the skywalk's outer edge to capture the sweeping panoramic view of the Kanchenjunga range. Early morning is critical for this shot before the clouds roll in.

Detail Shots of the Statue: Capture close-up details of the statue's features, especially the intricate hands and face, to highlight the craftsmanship and the devotional art. Also, photograph the murals and paintings inside the statue's base for cultural context. :

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Photo Gallery

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Things To Do

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Walk the Glass Skywalk Thrill: The main activity is walking across India's first glass-bottom skywalk. This is a thrilling experience where the glass floor gives you a clear, dizzying view of the valley thousands of feet below. Walk slowly to manage the adrenaline rush and take in the panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Circumambulate the Chenrezig Statue: Walk the sacred path leading to the colossal 137-foot Chenrezig statue. This is a spiritual act where you walk around the statue (a kora or circumambulation) in a clockwise direction, which is believed to accumulate good karma and blessings.

Spin the 108 Prayer Wheels: Along the staircase leading to the statue, there are rows of golden prayer wheels. Spinning these wheels in a clockwise direction while thinking of the mantra Om Mani Padme Hum...

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Walk the Glass Skywalk Thrill: The main activity is walking across India's first glass-bottom skywalk. This is a thrilling experience where the glass floor gives you a clear, dizzying view of the valley thousands of feet below. Walk slowly to manage the adrenaline rush and take in the panoramic views of the Himalayas.

Circumambulate the Chenrezig Statue: Walk the sacred path leading to the colossal 137-foot Chenrezig statue. This is a spiritual act where you walk around the statue (a kora or circumambulation) in a clockwise direction, which is believed to accumulate good karma and blessings.

Spin the 108 Prayer Wheels: Along the staircase leading to the statue, there are rows of golden prayer wheels. Spinning these wheels in a clockwise direction while thinking of the mantra Om Mani Padme Hum is a key spiritual practice. It is believed that spinning the wheel has the same effect as orally reciting the thousands of mantras inside the wheel, promoting compassion and peace.

Meditation and Contemplation: Given the profound spiritual energy of the site, take time for quiet contemplation. Find a quiet bench or spot to sit, observe the monks, and listen to the spiritual chants. The serene atmosphere is conducive to short periods of meditation and reflection on the statue of the Bodhisattva of Compassion.

Photography of the Statue and Views: The complex is highly photogenic. Capture the massive golden statue against the backdrop of the blue sky and mountains. The perspective from the glass skywalk and the symmetrical golden prayer wheels make for stunning and unique photos. Early morning is ideal for clear views of Kanchenjunga.

Explore the Statue's Base Chamber: Venture inside the base of the statue to see the inner sanctum. Here, you can view religious paintings and murals depicting the life and teachings of Chenrezig and other Buddhist deities. This provides a cultural and historical depth often missed by visitors focused only on the glass walk.

Combine with Pemayangtse Monastery Visit: The Sky Walk is close to other major sites. Combine the trip with a visit to the nearby Pemayangtse Monastery, one of Sikkim’s most important and oldest monasteries. This allows for a deeper exploration of Sikkim’s Buddhist heritage on the same day. :

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Resturants

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Information

Why Famous:

India's First Glass Skywalk: Its primary fame is being the first glass-bottom skywalk in India, providing a unique and thrilling perspective high above the valley. The transparent floor makes for a unique, slightly scary, but unforgettable walk.

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India's First Glass Skywalk: Its primary fame is being the first glass-bottom skywalk in India, providing a unique and thrilling perspective high above the valley. The transparent floor makes for a unique, slightly scary, but unforgettable walk.

Colossal Chenrezig Statue: It is famous for housing the 137-foot statue of Chenrezig (Avalokiteshvara), the world's tallest of this Bodhisattva, which holds immense religious significance and attracts Buddhist pilgrims globally.

Buddhist Pilgrimage Site: The entire complex, consecrated by the Dalai Lama, has become a major spiritual landmark, particularly with the flight of stairs lined with 108 golden prayer wheels, enhancing its sacred fame.

Kanchenjunga Viewpoint: On a clear day, the complex offers one of the best viewpoints for the majestic Kanchenjunga and the surrounding mountain ranges, solidifying its reputation as a scenic marvel. :

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Architecture:

Sky Walk Structure and Material: The Pelling Sky Walk is a modern architectural wonder. It is a semi-circular, cantilevered structure extending over the cliff, made predominantly of high-tensile steel and multiple layers of high-strength laminated glass for the walking surf...

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Sky Walk Structure and Material: The Pelling Sky Walk is a modern architectural wonder. It is a semi-circular, cantilevered structure extending over the cliff, made predominantly of high-tensile steel and multiple layers of high-strength laminated glass for the walking surface. This transparent floor provides the 'walking on air' experience.

Associated Religious Architecture: The skywalk serves as a viewing platform for the colossal Chenrezig statue. This statue, standing 137 feet (42 meters) tall, is built in the traditional Tibetan Buddhist style, featuring intricate details, golden paintwork, and a three-tiered base. The site includes long, elevated stone staircases, symmetrically lined with rows of gold-plated Mani prayer wheels, which are a characteristic element of Tibetan monastic complexes. The complex's overall design skillfully merges modern civil engineering with centuries-old religious iconography. :

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How To Reach:

By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in West Bengal, approximately 145 KM from Pelling. You can hire a private taxi or take a shared cab to reach Pelling from IXB in about 4-5 hours. The newly opened Pakyong Airport (PYG) is another option, though with lim...

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By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in West Bengal, approximately 145 KM from Pelling. You can hire a private taxi or take a shared cab to reach Pelling from IXB in about 4-5 hours. The newly opened Pakyong Airport (PYG) is another option, though with limited flights. The complex is just 7. 2 KM from Pelling town, so you must reach Pelling first.

By Train: The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) in West Bengal, roughly 135 KM away. From NJP, hire a private cab or take a shared jeep to Jorethang, then transfer to a shared taxi bound for Pelling. The total road journey to Pelling is about 5-6 hours.

By Road: The Sky Walk is located on the road leading out of Pelling towards Gyalshing. It is easily accessible from all major towns in Sikkim. The drive from Gangtok to Pelling is a major route. From Pelling, the complex is a short drive of about 15-20 minutes by car.

By Local Transport: The most common way to reach the Sky Walk from Pelling is by local taxi. It is a very short, pleasant drive. It is included in the Pelling local sightseeing tours, so you can hire a private taxi for the full circuit. Alternatively, for those staying in Upper Pelling, a robust person could undertake a long walk of around 90 minutes, but a taxi is recommended for efficiency and comfort. :

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Weather and Best Time to Visit:

Autumn Season (October to November): This is the premier time to visit the Sky Walk. The skies are typically the clearest following the monsoon, which is vital for securing the coveted, unobstructed views of the majestic Kanchenjunga range from the glass platform. The air ...

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Autumn Season (October to November): This is the premier time to visit the Sky Walk. The skies are typically the clearest following the monsoon, which is vital for securing the coveted, unobstructed views of the majestic Kanchenjunga range from the glass platform. The air is cool and pleasant.

Spring Season (March to May): This is another excellent time. The weather is mild, allowing for a comfortable visit and the vibrant colors of the surrounding nature contrast beautifully with the golden Chenrezig statue. Visibility is good, though perhaps slightly less sharp than in the autumn.

Winter Season (December to February): The visibility is generally excellent, but the cold can be extreme, and the wind on the exposed skywalk can be biting. It is an ideal time for photographers seeking snow-capped mountain views, provided they are prepared for the cold.

Monsoon Season (June to September): This period is highly discouraged. Heavy fog, rain, and low-hanging clouds are frequent, which completely obscure the mountain views and the dizzying drop, negating the primary attraction of the skywalk.

Best Part of the Day: Morning (9:00 AM to 10:00 AM) is the undisputed best time. Aim to be among the first visitors. The sunlight is perfect for photography, and more importantly, this window provides the maximum probability of clear, cloud-free views of Kanchenjunga and the entire valley. :

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Near Tourist Places:

Chenrezig Statue (0 KM - within the complex) Pemayangtse Monastery (~10 KM) Rabdentse Ruins (~8 KM) Sanga Choeling Monastery (~7 KM) Kanchenjunga Waterfalls (~20 KM) Khecheopalri Lake (~25 KM) Rimbi Waterfalls (~20 KM) Darap Village (~10 KM) Singshore Bridge (~26 KM) Kirateshwar Mahadev Temple (~18 KM)

Tourism Tips

Health and Safety: Although the structure is built with high safety standards, be mindful if you have extreme vertigo or acrophobia. The glass floor is a psychological challenge. Wear the mandatory shoe covers properly to prevent slipping on the glass. There's a flight of...

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Health and Safety: Although the structure is built with high safety standards, be mindful if you have extreme vertigo or acrophobia. The glass floor is a psychological challenge. Wear the mandatory shoe covers properly to prevent slipping on the glass. There's a flight of stairs to the top, so pace yourself if you have breathing difficulties. Always move slowly and deliberately.

Essential Packing: Wear bright, solid-colored clothing for striking photos against the white and gold of the statue and the blue sky. Carry your camera, sunglasses, and a warm layer. You must remove your shoes to walk on the glass, so wear easy-to-remove footwear. Carry small denomination cash for entry fees and local vendors.

Accommodation Options: The Sky Walk is located very close to Upper Pelling (7. 2 KM), which is the most popular area for hotels, resorts, and homestays. Staying in Upper Pelling makes the morning trip very convenient. There are no stay options within the complex itself.

Respectful Conduct: Maintain silence near the prayer areas and the statue. Be extremely respectful of the Chenrezig statue and the prayer wheels. Spin the wheels gently and only in a clockwise direction. Do not pose inappropriately for photos, as this is a deeply sacred site for the Buddhist community. Combine your visit with Pemayangtse Monastery for a deeper cultural understanding. :

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