Pelling to Yuksom
Your options
Ways to make the journey
1.5–2 h direct, 4–6 h with stops
The usual plan is a one-way sightseeing transfer: Rimbi waterfall, Kanchenjunga Falls, Khecheopalri Lake, then on to Yuksom by late afternoon. Agree the stops in advance, since drivers quote more for the Khecheopalri detour. Four people sharing make this nearly as cheap as jeep seats with a lot more freedom.
2–2.5 h from Gyalshing
Shared jeeps for Yuksom leave from Gyalshing, mostly around midday and early afternoon; few start from Pelling itself. Take a local jeep down to Gyalshing first. This is the budget way, but you will not be able to stop at the waterfalls or the lake on the way.
Not practical
There is no sensible walking route between the two for most visitors. Save your legs for the walks at each end: the Rabdentse and Sanga Choeling trails in Pelling, and Norbugang and Dubdi Monastery in Yuksom. Trekkers bound for Goecha La should arrive in Yuksom rested.
Worth a stop
- Rimbi waterfall
- Darap village
- Kanchenjunga Falls
- Khecheopalri Lake (detour)
- Yuksom's Norbugang park on arrival
Questions people ask
Good to know
How far is Yuksom from Pelling
Yuksom is about 35 km from Pelling by the direct road, roughly 1.5–2 hours by car. If you include Khecheopalri Lake, add about 20 km and an hour. The road is narrow and winding with some rough patches, and in the monsoon landslides can slow it down, so leave room in the day.
Can I visit Khecheopalri Lake on the way from Pelling to Yuksom
Yes, and most people do. The lake sits on a side road off the Pelling–Yuksom route, and a reserved car can take you there, wait an hour, and continue to Yuksom, about 25 km further. Tell your driver when you book, as the detour costs extra. Shared jeeps do not do this.
Is there a shared jeep from Pelling to Yuksom
Mostly from Gyalshing rather than Pelling. Take a local jeep down to Gyalshing (about 25 minutes) and then a Yuksom jeep, which usually leaves around midday or early afternoon for ₹120–180 a seat, indicative. Ask your Pelling hotel to check the day's timings and check current status before you travel.
What are the stops between Pelling and Yuksom
Rimbi waterfall and the Rimbi river, Darap, a Limboo village with homestays, Kanchenjunga Falls, the largest roadside waterfall on this route, and Khecheopalri Lake on a side road. In the monsoon the falls are at their fullest; in winter they shrink but the road is clear and dry.