KANCHENJUNGA FALLS GUIDE

Why Should I Go

There is something magical about a waterfall that gushes all through the year. Kanchenjunga Falls cascades down from a height of about 100ft and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The perennial, double-pronged, waterfall snakes its way across dark boulders and jutting-out branches, forming small pools of freshwater.

Travellers land up here because of the scenic beauty that makes for an ideal picnic spot. If you’re exploring Sikkim with the family, this waterfall is suitable as it is easily accessible all year round.

How Do I Get There

Kanchenjunga Falls is a 5-hour journey from Gangtok. If you’re visiting Yuksom, as most Sikkim tours do, this waterfall is just 7-8kms away. There is a sharp turn in the road and there are a couple of shanties set up here that sell snacks and drinks. A stone staircase (around 50 steps) will take you the waterfall.

Kanchenjunga Falls is situated in the western town of Pelling, and an hour’s journey via Pelling-Rimbi Road will bring you to this spot.

There is a nominal entry fee of ₹20.

When Should I Land Up

Right after the monsoon season is the perfect time to visit Kanchenjunga Falls. This is when the waterfall gushes along in all its glory and the vegetation stands out against the rocky surface.

The perennial nature of the waterfall implies you will never be disappointed at this tourist attraction. In the summer months, shafts of sunlight light up the waterfall and you feel as if you’re walking through the woods of a magical land.

The Falls open around 8 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. Try and land up as soon as its open or right before closing time. This way you bypass the crowds and you can take a peaceful walk amidst nature.

The Finer Details

Locals will tell you an interesting story of how this waterfall was hidden away for the longest time. Kanchenjunga Falls flowed silently as hundreds of tourists passed it by towards other attractions. However, in the 90s, Topjor Bhutia, a local tour guide, is said to have discovered this secret gem by accident. Whether that story is true or not, this waterfall should be part of your list.

Time holds no value here as you are surrounded by the low hum of water splashing against rocks and the chirping of birds. Kanchenjunga Falls is where you will find solitude in nature without trying too hard. People will tell you that there are a number of similar waterfalls in Sikkim, but this one stands out because of its tranquillity and the fact that it originates at the base of the mighty Kanchenjunga.