Pastanga Sikkim
Pastanga is a scenic hamlet in the Eastern Part of the Indian State of Sikkim. Situated at an elevation of 4700 feet, the village is just 28 km distance away from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. The name of the "Pastanga" derived from a Bhutanese phrase "Pasing Tengkha" which means "Below the bamboo forest". Encompassed by the luxuriant Himalayan forest, Pastanga and the Mount Kanchenjunga in the backdrop always hypnotize the minds of every visitor.
Things to See in and around Pastanga
Pastanga in East Sikkim is truly a paradise in every aspect. The village offers an amazing view of the mountain cliffs, divine waterfalls, colourful flowers, vibrant Himalayan birds and butterflies. The village is also renowned for ginger and cardamon cultivation where various species of butterflies like Blue-Mormon, monarch, etc. can be seen.
Built with bamboo and muds, the heritage houses of Rais and Bhutias are worth observing things in the village. Quite near to the village, a number of natural springs constitute the major source of a waterfall named "Sumni-hwari". The cascading water of the "Sumni-hwari" looks alluring.
The botany enthusiasts are gonna love this place too much as Pastanga is full of medicinal plants. Moreover, the blooming rhododendron, orchids and mosses of the village add more charm to it.
Activities to Do in and around Pastanga Village
One can never get bored at all in Pastanga, the offbeat village in Eastern Sikkim. Time here can be spent by just enjoying the serenity or doing plenty of different activities. Stroll around the village to witness traditional houses of ethnic communities like Bhutia and Rai, some being one hundred and fifty years old.
Walking around the winding path of the village and pass through the cardamon tree gardens while having a scenic vista of the mountain peaks. Enjoy the cultural shows and traditional dance of the village to know the traditions of the villagers.
The village is connected with various trekking trails. Hence, trekking enthusiasts are gonna love the village. Trekk through the green lush vegetation of the village to Khedi - Malinggo Trail, located at an elevation of 2803 meters.
How to Reach Pastanga Village in Sikkim
Pastanga is nearest to New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) and the Bagdogra airport. Cars are available to hire from any of these stations to the village via Ranipool and Bhusuk. Cars are also available to hire from Gangtok, the capital city to this picturesque hamlet.
Best Time to Visit Pastanga Village
Even though Pastanga can be visited at any time of the year, March to June is considered to be the best time to visit the village. The weather stays ideally quite charming most of the time and the temperature do not get unbearable at all. Visiting here in the monsoon is not recommended due to frequent landslides and road blockage.
Offbeat Destinations
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