Kasturi trek is one of the prominent treks, due to its features. A moderate trek will let you experience unique culture of local people. Delight with a memorable sunrise against the scenery of Kanchanjunga from a small hill and descend to Thansing (3,930m.) Explore Pemayangtse Monastery and explore local inhabitation. On the way you will have several opportunities to spot Indian Wildlife species and the untamed flora and fauna. You may also encounter the rustic lifestyle of the locals. A moderate trek climbs up over a pass at almost 5000m from where you can have unforgettable views of Himalayan treks.

Major Attractions

Rumtek Monastery: Rumtek Monastery is also familiar as Dharmachakra Centre. It is the largest monastery in Sikkim. A home to the community of monks is worth visiting Monks show the rituals and practices of the Karma Kagyu lineage.

Geochala Pass: At 16,200 ft Goech La pass is famous and increasing popularly. The awesome South-East face of Kangchenjunga can be viewed directly.

Pemayangtse Monastery: It is situated in the Pemayangtse town of Sikkim. This monastery is one of the oldest monasteries of Sikkim. It includes a superb compilation of ancient Buddhist antique idols, scriptures and sculptures also.

How to get there

By Air: Sikkim doesnt have any airport, but the nearest Airport is Bagdogra (near Siliguri) in West Bengal, which lays only 125kms away from Gangtok the capital of Sikkim. Bagdogra linked with cities like Delhi and Kolkata.

By Road: Sikkim can be reached through northern areas of West Bengal. Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Siliguri are directly connected to Gangtok and other cities of the state. Avoid traveling during the monsoon seasons. Temporary problems may occur.

By Rail: The closest Railways Station is New Jalpaiguri (near Siliguri), which is linked with Gangtok. Gangtok has a far-reaching rail network linked with major railway stations in India. It is also linked with the cities of Northeastern India like, Guwahati.

Best time to visit: March to June & September to November

Prerequisites/Facts

Make sure that you do not dirty the surrounding places while trekking.

  • All the waste should be gathered and disposed off away from the camping site.
  • Do not walk too fast on wet stones.
  • A moderate trek requires reasonable health.
  • 4940m is the highest altitude of this trek.

Things to Carry

  • Walking stick
  • Binoculars
  • Sleeping bag
  • Hiking shoes
  • Woolen clothes
  • Water, juices, snacks
  • Electric torch
  • Medical kit
  • A good compass
  • An extra pair of clothes

Other Information

Pelling: The name Pemalingpa is inspired from Pemalingpa monastery. Placed at about 2105 meters height, Pelling was initially identified as Pemalingpa. Pelling boasts of having many beautiful waterfalls, valley flowers. It is nestled by forests and huge mass of water plunges from great heights. You can see the majestic views the Khanchendzonga ranges.

Khecheopalri Lake: Set at an altitude of 1951 meters this lake is sacred lake and bounded by thick forests.
It is believed that this lake is visited by Guru Padmasambhava. This lake is the most prominent for fulfillment of wishes.

Rinchenpong: Perched at a height of 1700 meters, Rinchenpong is a picturesque village with attractive landscape. It provides the majestic view of mountain range. Explore Resum monastery, Lepcha Heritage Houses. You get a chance for nature walk through forests to see orchids in trees.

Image Source: Bental_3000