Culture · Kanchenjunga Falls
Pelling to Yuksom day tour via the falls
The classic full-day tour from Pelling: Rimbi waterfall, Khecheopalri Lake, Kanchenjunga Falls and Yuksom's Norbugang throne and Kathok Lake, by private car, with time for tea at the falls and a walk at each stop.
Photo: Shivani4692 · CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons
Leave Pelling by 8 am. The road drops past Darap to Rimbi waterfall and the Rimbi river, then climbs to the turn for Khecheopalri Lake, sacred to Buddhists and Hindus, where a short forest walk leads to the water. Back on the main road, Kanchenjunga Falls is the next stop: climb the steps, have tea, and continue to Yuksom.
In Yuksom, walk up to the Norbugang throne, where the first Chogyal was consecrated in 1642, and around Kathok Lake. If time allows, start back by 2–3 pm to reach Pelling before dark.
Indicatively ₹3,500–5,000 for a private car. In season, shared seats on fixed tours cost about ₹500–800. A night in Yuksom adds Dubdi Monastery and a far easier pace.
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Questions travellers ask
Before you book
What does the Pelling–Yuksom day tour cover?
Usually Rimbi waterfall, Khecheopalri Lake, Kanchenjunga Falls, and in Yuksom the Norbugang coronation throne and Kathok Lake. Some drivers add a tea stop in Darap village. It is about 80 km of hill road in total, so it is a full day; start by 8 am.
How much does a Pelling–Yuksom day tour cost?
Indicatively ₹3,500–5,000 for a private small car for the day from Pelling, and about ₹500–800 per seat on shared tours in season. Entry fees at Khecheopalri Lake and elsewhere are small extras. Prices rise in peak weeks; check current status before you travel.
Should I do Yuksom as a day trip or stay overnight?
A day trip covers the main stops but feels rushed and leaves out Dubdi Monastery. A night in Yuksom lets you see the falls and lake on the way, walk to Dubdi the next morning and go on to Tashiding. We recommend at least one night if you have the time.
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