1Option
Shared jeep
Shared jeeps run from Gyalshing to Yuksom through the day, passing below Pelling. Ask your hotel to help you find a seat. Departures can be slow to fill outside season.
Route · Sikkim
Pelling to Yuksom
A short, scenic drive from Pelling to Yuksom, Sikkim's first capital, past Rimbi and Kanchenjunga falls and the turn for Khecheopalri lake. About 35 km and 1.5–2 hours, with shared jeeps from Gyalshing and taxis from Pelling.
Photo: Kothanda Srinivasan · CC BY 2.0 · CommonsEvery way to go
Options compared
| How | Time | Cost, indicative 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Shared jeep | 1.5–2 h | ₹150–250 a seat |
| Private car | 1.5–2 h | ₹2,000–3,000 one way |
| Walk via Khecheopalri | 1–2 days | Guide ₹1,000–2,000 a day |
2Option
Private car
A taxi lets you stop at Rimbi falls, Kanchenjunga Falls and Khecheopalri lake. A full-day round trip from Pelling with these stops costs about ₹3,000–4,500.
3Option
Walk via Khecheopalri
A traditional footpath links Khecheopalri lake and Yuksom through forest and villages. Go with a local guide in the dry months; leeches are common in the monsoon.
At each end
The two places
Photo: Santanu Paul · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Commons
2,150 m · Town · Sikkim
Pelling
Kangchenjunga views, Pemayangtse and the ruins of Rabdentse
Best Mar – Apr · Oct – Dec2–3 nights
Photo: Kothanda Srinivasan · CC BY 2.0 · Commons
1,780 m · Village · Sikkim
Yuksom
Sikkim's first capital and the trailhead for Goecha La
Best Mar – May · Oct – Nov2 nights
Questions
Asked about this road
How far is Yuksom from Pelling?
About 35 km, 1.5–2 hours by road.
Can I visit Khecheopalri on the way to Yuksom?
Yes, it is a short detour from the road. Allow an extra 2–3 hours.
What does a taxi from Pelling to Yuksom cost?
About ₹2,000–3,000 one way, or ₹3,000–4,500 for a full-day round trip with stops.
Do I need a permit for Yuksom?
Indian nationals do not. Foreigners need the Sikkim Restricted Area Permit. Treks beyond Yuksom need park permits.
More in Sikkim
Other routes
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