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

Are you excited about discovering places that aren’t popular tourist destinations but are hidden gems? Sometimes, the most beautiful spots are the ones that haven’t been found by the crowds yet. Aritar is calling you to explore its untouched beauty!

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

This is the most convenient way to reach Aritar. You can take a taxi or hire a car from Gangtok, New Jalpaiguri, or Bagdogra. The distance from Gangtok is approximately 67 kilometres. 

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

There are tons of places to visit in Sikkim, but Aritar features a treasure trove of everything nature has to offer.

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

Located 68 km from Aritar, Nathang Valley, known as the “Ladakh of East India,” is a beautiful high-altitude valley in East Sikkim, India, at about 13,500 feet above sea level. It’s famous for its stunning views of snow-capped mountains, wide meadows, and flowing streams. Some notable places to visit in Nathang Valley include the Old Silk Route, Lungthung, and Tukla Valley, offering visitors a glimpse into its natural and historical richness.

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

Lampokhari Lake, also called Aritar Lake, is a beautiful natural lake nestled among the green hills of Aritar in East Sikkim, India. It’s one of the oldest freshwater lakes in Sikkim, known for its green waters that have been a part of the landscape for centuries.

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

Aritar Monastery and Gumpa, also known as Ari Gompa or Rhenock Gumpa, is a beautiful Buddhist monastery in Sikkim. It belongs to the Kagyupa order of Tibetan Buddhism and is one of the oldest and most sacred monasteries in Sikkim. Located on a hilltop, it overlooks Lampokhari Lake and offers stunning views of the Himalayas.

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

Ever wondered about a serene temple nestled high in the hills of Sikkim, India? The Mankhim Dara Temple, also known as Maney Dara, is a place of great significance for the Rai community. Situated at 6500 feet in Maity Village, Kheselakha, this temple combines unique architecture with stunning views of Lampokhari Lake and the majestic Kanchenjunga mountain range. 

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

Looking for a peaceful getaway amidst the Himalayas in Sikkim, India? Discover Lungchok Valley, nestled at 7,000 feet above sea level, offering stunning views of mountains, including the majestic Kanchenjunga peak. It’s perfect for nature lovers, featuring Sikkim’s best adventure activities like trekking to places like Lungthung or Nathang Valley, birdwatching in lush forests, and relaxing nature walks. 

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

Looking for a spectacular sight amidst the hills of East Sikkim, India? Where can you find a majestic waterfall that cascades down from lush green hills along the Old Silk Route? Kali Khola Falls is a majestic waterfall that descends from lush green hills, standing approximately 100 metres tall. Its captivating sight draws tourists travelling along this scenic route.

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

Where can you discover a hidden treasure with beautiful waterfalls in Sikkim? Changey Waterfalls, located between Dentam and Pelling, cascade down in two stages—about 20 metres first, then 15 metres. They are surrounded by misty hills and create a stunning view as water crashes onto rocks and forms a calm pool below. To reach the falls, enjoy a trek through forests and fields, offering glimpses of the flowing stream. 

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

Looking for a place steeped in history to stay in Aritar, East Sikkim, India? Curious about where you can experience colonial charm amidst modern comforts? Look no further than the Aritar Dak Bungalow, built in 1896 by Sir James Claude White, the first British political officer of Sikkim, this heritage bungalow has a fascinating past. 

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

Looking for a special place near Aritar that combines nature, history, and art? The Evergreen Nursery and Ram Gauri Sangrahalaya is just that. Established in 1970, the nursery has a wide variety of plants including bonsai, ferns, ornamental plants, and rare pitcher plants like Nepenthes. 

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

Phushrey Lake in Sikkim is a peaceful spot near Aritar surrounded by lush forests and greenery. The lake’s calm waters reflect the mountains, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. Birdwatchers love it here for the variety of birds, and you can take a boat ride or a leisurely walk to soak in the beauty and peace. 

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

In conclusion, Aritar in Sikkim is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. It offers a perfect escape for those seeking peace and adventure. From the clear waters of Lampokhari Lake and the serene ambiance of Aritar Monastery and Gumpa to the high-altitude adventures in Nathang Valley, Aritar offers something for everyone. So pack your bags and come experience the best places to visit in Aritar in Sikkim. This charming hill station offers a memorable getaway in the beautiful scenery of Sikkim. Remember, the best adventures might not be in super popular tourist places, so explore and find your own hidden gems in Aritar!