When people search for hotels in Pelling, they quickly see three names: Upper Pelling, Middle Pelling and Lower Pelling. It is not obvious what the difference is, and it matters more than you might think — for views, for noise, and for how much walking you will do. Here is a straightforward local explainer.
A quick note on honesty: we run Kaya Gantavya Resort & Spa, which is in Middle Pelling. We have tried to be fair to every part of town, and to tell you when another area might suit you better.
How Pelling is laid out
Pelling stretches along a hillside road on a ridge in West Sikkim. The town is loosely split by height: Upper Pelling at the top, Middle Pelling along the slope, and Lower Pelling further down the road towards Geyzing (Gyalshing), the district town below. The three are close together — a short drive apart — so you can easily visit all of them whichever you choose.
Upper Pelling
Upper Pelling is the busiest part of town and where most hotels are. It has the Helipad Ground (the best-known public sunrise viewpoint), most of the shops and cafés, and easy access to Sangachoeling and the Skywalk area.
Good for: travellers who like to walk out to restaurants and shops, and those on a tight budget, as there are many options.
Keep in mind: it can feel crowded in peak season, some buildings block each other’s views, and not every “Upper Pelling hotel” actually faces the mountains.
Middle Pelling
Middle Pelling is quieter, with more space between buildings and a more relaxed feel. Several properties here have open, uninterrupted views of the Kanchenjunga range, and it is still only a few minutes from the shops above and the monasteries below.
Good for: couples, families and anyone who wants a calmer stay, a resort-style setting and a view from the room.
Keep in mind: you will usually drive rather than walk to Upper Pelling’s cafés (it is short, and hotels can arrange cars).
Lower Pelling
Lower Pelling sits further down, closer to Pemayangtse Monastery and the Rabdentse Ruins, and on the road to Geyzing. It tends to be quieter still, with fewer hotels.
Good for: travellers who want peace and don’t mind driving for most things.
Keep in mind: views vary a lot from property to property — check photos taken from the actual rooms.
What about staying in Geyzing?
Geyzing (Gyalshing) is the district headquarters below Pelling, about 10 km by road. It is a working town with banks, markets and government offices, and a few simple hotels. It is lower and warmer, but you give up the ridge-top mountain views that most people come to Pelling for. For a holiday, most travellers prefer to stay in Pelling itself and visit Geyzing if needed.
How to choose: a simple checklist
- Is the view from the room, or just from the roof? Ask which room types face Kanchenjunga.
- Do you want to walk to cafés, or would you rather have peace and a big lawn?
- Who is travelling? Families and older guests appreciate fewer stairs and on-site dining.
- What is included? Breakfast, heaters and hot water matter a lot in winter.
- Book direct when you can. It is often the easiest way to ask for a specific room and get help with transfers.
Why guests choose Kaya Gantavya in Middle Pelling
We are a small resort of 14 rooms. Our Cottage Rooms face Kanchenjunga directly and each has its own bonfire space; our Premium Rooms are warm, comfortable and great value. You’ll also find K-Kitchen & Lounge for meals, and Meraki Spa for a massage after a long drive.
Comparing options? See our lists of best hotels in Pelling and resorts in Pelling, or read hotel vs resort vs homestay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Upper Pelling better than Lower Pelling?
Neither is better for everyone. Upper Pelling has more hotels, shops and the Helipad Ground viewpoint; Middle and Lower Pelling are quieter. The most important thing is whether your room faces Kanchenjunga.
Which part of Pelling has the best Kanchenjunga view?
Good views are possible from Upper and Middle Pelling, and from some parts of Lower Pelling. Ask each hotel which specific rooms face the range.
How far is Upper Pelling from Middle Pelling?
They are next to each other on the same hillside road — only a few minutes by car.
Should I stay in Geyzing or Pelling?
For a holiday, most travellers stay in Pelling for the ridge-top views. Geyzing is the district town about 10 km below, useful for errands but without the same views.
Where is Kaya Gantavya Resort & Spa?
Kaya Gantavya is in Middle Pelling, West Sikkim, a short drive from Upper Pelling, the Helipad Ground and Pemayangtse Monastery.
Plan your stay: Kaya Gantavya Resort & Spa is a 14-room boutique resort in Middle Pelling with Kanchenjunga-facing cottages, Meraki Spa and K-Kitchen & Lounge. Check live rates and book direct or call +91 76029 98999.
