Top 10 Places to Visit in Aritar: Hidden Gems of East Sikkim

Situated in the Pakyong district of Sikkim, India, along the foothills of the Himalayas, Aritar is a beautiful region known for its stunning natural beauty. You’ll find lush green forests, cascading waterfalls, and pristine lakes, including Lampokhari, the oldest natural lake in Sikkim. The height of Aritar adds to its allure, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers.

With our Sikkim holiday packages, you can enjoy a variety of activities. Hike through the abundant forests, go birdwatching, or simply relax and take in the breathtaking scenery. Among all the best things to do in Sikkim, some hidden gems remain untouched by commercial tourism, preserving their beauty for visitors seeking peace and an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Don’t hesitate to explore this must-see destination. If you’re unsure about what places to explore, we’re here to provide you with the best places to visit in Aritar in Sikkim. Aritar awaits your discovery!

How to Reach Aritar

By Road:  The most convenient way to reach Aritar is by road. You can take a taxi or hire a car from Gangtok, New Jalpaiguri, or Bagdogra. The distance from Gangtok is approximately 67 kilometres, and the ride takes about 2-3 hours, depending on traffic conditions. There are two main routes from Gangtok:

• Route via Pakyong: This is the shorter and more scenic route, taking you through the Pakyong Airport area with stunning views of the Himalayas.
• Route via Rangpo: This slightly longer route offers a more relaxed drive through the plains of Sikkim along the Teesta River.

By Air: The nearest airport to Aritar is Bagdogra Airport, approximately 110 kilometres away. From Bagdogra, you can hire a taxi or car to reach Aritar, with the drive taking about 4-5 hours.

By Train: The nearest railway station to Aritar is New Jalpaiguri, located about 120 kilometres away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or car to reach Aritar, which also takes around 4-5 hours.

Best Places to Visit in Aritar in Sikkim

1. Nathang Valley: One of the Top Places to Visit in Aritar

This valley is perfect for adventure lovers, offering various activities to do in Nathang Valley, including yak rides, trekking, camping, and birdwatching. Nathang Valley also provides a look into the area’s rich history and culture. It’s an ideal place for anyone wanting to enjoy the breathtaking mountain scenery and have an unforgettable adventure. 

Location: Pakyong District, Sikkim

Timing: Open 24 hours

Entry Fees: No Entry Fee

Best Time to Visit: July to September and  October to March to witness snowfall 

Activities to do:

• Mountain Biking
• Yak Safari
• Trekking
• Witness the Sunrise at Zero Point

2. Lampokhari Lake: One of the Finest Tourist Places to Visit in Aritar

The lake is shaped like a boot, with dimensions of 1120 feet in length and 240 feet in width, surrounded by tall pine forests that create a perfect natural setting. A new pathway encircles the lake, allowing visitors to take relaxing walks and enjoy views from all sides.

The Aritar Lake temperature varies depending on the season, typically ranging from cool to moderate due to its high-altitude location. 

There’s also a small temple dedicated to Guru Padmasambhava by the lake, adding a spiritual touch to the area.

If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway surrounded by stunning natural beauty, Lampokhari Lake is one of the top tourist places to visit in Aritar.

Location: Lake, Aritar, 737133, Aritar, Sikkim

Timing: 8 am to 6 pm

Entry Fees: No Entry Fee

Aritar Lake Temperature: 15°C to 25°C in summer and 0°C to 10°C  in winter

Activities to do:

• Boating
• Birdwatching
• Fishing
• Relaxation

3. Aritar Monastery and Gumpa: One of the Outstanding Tourist Places to Visit in Aritar

The Aritar Monastery and Gumpa is traditional and adorned with intricate carvings and colourful decorations, making it a sight to behold. Inside, you’ll find ancient artefacts like beautifully carved murals and paintings depicting Buddhist stories and deities. For information on “Aritar monastery opening time,” it welcomes visitors from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, providing an opportunity to explore its spiritual and cultural significance.

Location: Mankhim Rd, Aritar, Sikkim 737133

Aritar Monastery Opening Time: 9 am to 5 pm

Entry Fees: No Entry Fee

Activities to do:

• Witness the Scenic Views
• Cultural Exploration
• Admire the Beautiful Architecture
• Learn About Buddhist Artefacts
• Attend Prayer Sessions

4. Mankhim Dara Temple: One of the Top Places to Visit in Aritar

What makes this temple special? It’s not just a religious centre but also a cultural hub for the Rai sect, blending Hindu traditions with a deep respect for nature. If you’re curious about Sikkim’s cultural heritage, visiting Mankhim Dara Temple should be on your list.

Location: Aritar, Sikkim 737133

Timing: Open 24 hours

Entry Fees: No Entry Fee

Activities to do:

• Witness the Sakewa Puja
• Attend a prayer ceremony
• Admire the Beautiful Architecture
• Enjoy the scenic views

5. Lungchok Valley: One of the Greatest Tourist Places to Visit in Aritar

Enjoy the serene atmosphere away from city life and explore the nearby Sacred Grove of Kabi, where a blood brotherhood treaty was signed between the Lepcha Chief and Bhutia King in the 13th century, paving the way for the formation of Sikkim and enriching the cultural heritage of your Himalayan retreat.

Location: Singtam, Sikkim 737128

Timing: Open 24 hours

Entry Fees: No Entry Fee

Best Time to Visit: March to May

Activities to do:

• Visit the Sacred Grove of Kabi
• Trekking
• Birdwatching
• Stroll through the Surroundings
• Relax and Enjoy the Nature

6. Kali Khola Falls: One of the Top Places to Visit in Aritar

Kali Khola Falls serves as an ideal place to pause during a road trip. Take a moment to relax, inhale the fresh mountain air and capture the magic of one of the best waterfalls in Sikkim, through your camera lens. The height of Aritar contributes to its pleasant climate and scenic beauty, making it a charming destination.

Location: Old Silk Route in East Sikkim

Timing: Open 24 hours

Entry Fees: No Entry Fee

Best Time to Visit: March to June

Activities to do:

• Picnic by the Falls
• Photography
• Nature Walk
• Sightseeing
• Birdwatching

7. Changey Waterfalls: One of the Best Places to Visit in Aritar in Sikkim

Changey Waterfalls promises a refreshing and memorable experience in Aritar’s natural beauty. The height of Aritar contributes to its pleasant climate and scenic beauty, making it one of the main attractions of Aritar.

Location: located between Dentam and Pelling, in Sikkim

Timing: Open 24 hours

Entry Fees: No Entry Fee

Best Time to Visit: July to September

Activities to do:

• Picnic by the Falls
• Nature Photography
• Hiking and Trekking

8. Aritar Dak Bungalow: One of the Must-Visit Tourist Places to Visit in Aritar

Today, it has been transformed into a reputed hotel, offering guests a unique opportunity to relive Sikkim’s history while enjoying modern amenities, making it one of the best places to visit in Aritar in Sikkim.

Located at an altitude of 4750 feet, the bungalow offers stunning views of mountains, forests, and Lampokhari Lake, surrounded by lush greenery for a peaceful retreat. The height of Aritar contributes to its pleasant climate and scenic beauty, making it one of the main attractions of Aritar. 

Location: Aritar, Sikkim 737133

Timing: Open 24 hours

Activities to do: Perfect Staycation, Stargazing and Relax on the Verandah

Suggested Read: 12 Restaurants In Sikkim To Experience Culture On A Platter

9. Evergreen Nursery and Ram Gauri Sangrahalaya: One of the Top Places to Visit in Aritar

The Ram Gauri Sangrahalaya is a private museum filled with interesting things like antiques, driftwood, artistic stones, utensils, old documents about Sikkim, rare manuscripts, coins, and stamps. The museum also has a library with ancient Sanskrit documents and archives of “Kanchenjunga,” Sikkim’s first news journal, and the “Sikkim Herald,” the state’s first government newspaper.

Location: Reshi Rhenock Rd, Rhenock Bazar, East Sikkim, Reshi, Rhenak, Sikkim 737133

Timing: 9 am to 5 pm

Entry Fees: No Entry Fee

Activities to do:

• Admire the plant collection
• Learn about horticulture
• Uncover hidden treasures
• Learn about Sikkim’s rich history

10. Phushrey Lakes: One of the Best Places to Visit in Aritar in Sikkim

Whether you’re looking for solitude or wildlife, Phushrey Lake offers a serene escape into Sikkim’s natural beauty, making it one of the main attractions of Aritar.

Location: Reshi Rhenock Rd, Rhenock Bazar, East Sikkim, Reshi, Rhenak, Sikkim 737133

Timing: Open 24 hours

Entry Fees: No Entry Fee

Activities to do:

• Picnic by the lake
• Birdwatching
• Meditation
• Boating

Suggested Read: 12 Sikkim Travel Tips For A Wanderlusting Gateway

Conclusion