Pelling, Indian Himalayas, India

Pelling, one of the most prettily situated villages in West Sikkim, owes its growing popularity as a tourist destination to the nearby Pemayangtse monastery – and the magnificent views of Kanchenjunga and the Parkh Chu watershed to the north.

Those from the Norbu Ghang Resort, on the outskirts of the village, are to-die-for. Moreover, you can savour them from the comfort of your own private verandah, wrapped in a blanket sipping hot masala chai.

Accommodation is offered in cosy brick cottages with traditional corrugated roofs and carved eaves, set in terraced gardens full of rhododendrons and wild orchids. For more comfort, upgrade to one of the more spacious, pine-panelled suites, which are attractively furnished with stripey Tibetan rainbow fabrics and perfectly oriented for views of the divine snow peaks on the horizon.

Our opinion

A comfortable resort within walking distance of the Pemayangtse monastery.