- Where
- On the Pelling–Yuksom road, West Sikkim
- Distance
- About 24 km from Pelling; 10 km from Yuksom
- Timings
- Daylight
- Entry fee
- About ₹20 reported; some guides say free
- Permit
- Not needed for Indian citizens
- Best time
- July–October for full flow; October–April for dry roads
- Time needed
- 30 minutes
Kanchenjunga Falls is a tall waterfall, about 100 ft according to the Ministry of Tourism, that tumbles down a rock face beside the road from Pelling to Yuksom. It's fed by snowmelt and springs from the Kanchenjunga range, so it flows all year, and it's a natural stop on the drive to Yuksom and Dubdi Monastery.
What to expect
- A climb of around 50 steps from the road to the viewing area below the falls.
- Spray, noise and rainbows on sunny mornings after the monsoon.
- Tea stalls and a zipline at the roadside, reported at about ₹100 a ride.
How to reach
The falls are on the Pelling–Yuksom road. Any Pelling sightseeing tour heading to Yuksom or Khecheopalri will stop.
| From | Road distance | Usual drive time |
|---|---|---|
| Pelling | about 24 km | 45 min–1 hr |
| Yuksom | about 10 km | 20–30 min |
| Gangtok | about 135 km | 5–5.5 hrs |
Distances from the Ministry of Tourism and travel guides.
Best time to visit
- July–October: the falls are at their fullest. Roads can be slippery.
- October–April: less water but clear skies and better roads.
Things most guides don't tell you
- The steps are wet and mossy. Wear shoes with grip.
- Go on the way to Yuksom in the morning; the falls face the morning sun.
- Don't climb the rocks into the spray for photos; people have slipped.
Nearby
- Khecheopalri Lake, the sacred wishing lake.
- Dubdi Monastery at Yuksom.
- Pelling Skywalk, Pemayangtse Monastery and Rabdentse Ruins near Pelling.
Kanchenjunga Falls: questions travellers ask
How far is Kanchenjunga Falls from Pelling?
About 24 km, 45 minutes to an hour by road.
How high is Kanchenjunga Falls?
About 100 ft, according to the Ministry of Tourism.
Is there an entry fee for Kanchenjunga Falls?
About ₹20 is reported; some guides list it as free.
Does Kanchenjunga Falls flow all year?
Yes, it's fed by snowmelt and springs, though it's fullest from July to October.
How far is Kanchenjunga Falls from Yuksom?
About 10 km.
Is it a hard walk to the falls?
No, about 50 steps from the road, but they're slippery.
Sources
- Ministry of Tourism: Kanchenjunga waterfalls
- Flamingo Travels: Kanchenjunga Water Falls
- Wanderlog: Kanchenjunga Falls reviews
Timings and fees change. Check on the day, or ask us when you book.
