Uttarey Tours
Uttarey – West Sikkim’s Tranquil Gateway to Nature and Monasteries
Tucked away in the quiet corners of West Sikkim, Uttarey is a peaceful village surrounded by forested hills, rivers, and views of the Kanchenjunga range. Located close to the Indo-Nepal border, this charming destination is known for its calm environment, organic farms, and monasteries that preserve centuries of Buddhist heritage.
A Uttarey tour is perfect for travelers looking to escape tourist crowds and experience authentic Sikkimese life. The village serves as a base for popular treks such as the Singalila Ridge Trek and short hikes to nearby monasteries, waterfalls, and nature trails — making it a favorite among slow travelers, nature lovers, and photographers.
Why Visit Uttarey?
Uttarey offers a rare blend of nature, spirituality, and simplicity. It is less commercial than nearby Pelling, yet equally scenic. The village lies along the old Indo-Nepal trade route and serves as a hub for eco-tourism. From trout farming to heritage monasteries and pristine trekking paths, Uttarey represents the untouched soul of Sikkim.
Top Places to Visit in Uttarey
- Chelwang Monastery: A serene Buddhist monastery that offers panoramic views of the valley and an insight into monastic life.
- Mainbazaar Viewpoint: The central viewpoint offering sweeping views of the rolling valleys, fields, and distant peaks.
- Tenzing Hillary Park: Built in memory of the first Everest summiteers, this park features statues, gardens, and a viewpoint dedicated to mountaineering history.
- Trout Farm: A government-run trout breeding center, ideal for those interested in sustainable fish farming and local agriculture.
- Uttarey Monastery: A peaceful monastery known for its spiritual atmosphere and stunning sunset views.
- Singshore Bridge: About 20 km away, this is one of Asia’s highest suspension bridges, connecting Uttarey to Dentam and Pelling.
Best Things to Do in Uttarey
- Take a village walk through terraced fields and learn about local organic farming.
- Join monastery prayers and interact with monks to understand their way of life.
- Plan a short day trek to the nearby Chelwang Monastery or forest trails.
- Visit Tenzing Hillary Park and capture panoramic views of the West Sikkim hills.
- Experience traditional homestay hospitality and Sikkimese cuisine with local families.
Best Time to Visit Uttarey
- March – June: Pleasant weather with blooming flowers and ideal trekking conditions.
- September – November: Clear skies and scenic landscapes make it the best season for photography and outdoor activities.
- December – February: Cold but peaceful; snow is possible at higher altitudes.
- July – August: Lush greenery after rains, though travel may be affected by monsoon showers.
How to Reach Uttarey
- By Air: The nearest airport is Pakyong (140 km) and Bagdogra (160 km). Taxis are available from both to Uttarey via Pelling or Jorethang.
- By Train: The nearest major railhead is New Jalpaiguri (NJP), about 155 km away. Shared jeeps and private cabs connect to Uttarey.
- By Road: Uttarey is about 30 km from Pelling and 145 km from Gangtok. The route via Dentam and Singshore Bridge offers scenic mountain drives.
Where to Stay
Uttarey offers simple yet comfortable accommodation in eco-homestays and small resorts. Recommended stays include The Green Valley Resort, Tenzing Eco Lodge, and Homestay Himalaya. All provide home-cooked meals and warm hospitality with mountain views.
Travel Tips
- Carry warm clothes — temperatures can drop sharply at night.
- Network connectivity may be limited, so download maps beforehand.
- Carry cash as ATMs are scarce in Uttarey.
- For treks or longer routes, ensure permits and guides are arranged in advance.
Why Travel with Tusk Travel?
Tusk Travel’s Uttarey tour packages combine scenic comfort with cultural depth. From village walks and monastery visits to guided excursions to Singshore Bridge and Pelling, we handle permits, transport, and stays — ensuring a smooth, authentic, and memorable Sikkim journey.
