EasoTrip
Preparing your journey...
EasoTrip
Preparing your journey...
Quick links
Address
Near Bhutia Market, Haren Mukherjee Road, Ward No. 12, Hakim Para, Siliguri – 734001
+91 70017 24300Scan to chat
© 2026 EasoTrip. All rights reserved.
Preparing your journey...
Preparing your journey...
Near Bhutia Market, Haren Mukherjee Road, Ward No. 12, Hakim Para, Siliguri – 734001
+91 70017 24300
Aritar in East Sikkim is a serene mountain destination known for Lampokhari Lake, monasteries, forest trails, and panoramic views of Mt. Kanchenjunga
Altitude
1,494 meters
Region
Sikkim
Min temp
4°C to 6°C
Max temp
20°C to 24°C
Aritar is a very welcoming and peaceful Himalayan hamlet where you can experience cultural richness and natural charm. You can enjoy birdsong and misty mornings here, surrounded by lush pine trees and get to explore scenic trails, waterfalls and Lampokhari Lake.
Aritar is a blissful blend of quiet village life, cultural heritage and natural beauty encompassed by lush forests and the charm of the iconic Silk Route circuit. You can expect a calm ambience from Aritar and can witness monasteries, scenic lakes and perfect sunrise viewpoints.
I was captivated by the breathtaking views of Aritrar during my visit, and the stillness of Lampokhari Lake enchanted me, where I got a home-like feeling at the warm homestays
Aritar is a peaceful settlement which falls under the Rongli sub-division and Pakyong district of East Sikkim at an average height of around 4,900 feet. It is encompassed by lush forests, tranquil lakes and terraced slopes and is a part of the Old Silk Route. It is a biodiversity-rich region where you can find medicinal herbs, bamboo and pine groves. It houses the serene Lampokhari lake with crystal-clear water, which reflects the beauty of the Khanchenjunga range and is surrounded by walking trails and prayer flags.
The season-wise distribution of weather and temperature of Aritar is mentioned below-
| Season | Temperature | Weather | Best activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (March to May) | 12°C – 22°C | Blooming, dry and pleasant | Nature walks, mopnastery visit and lake boating. |
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 14°C – 20°C | Misty, rainy and cool. | Birdwatching, relaed stays and photography. |
| Autumn (Sep–Nov) | 10°C – 20°C | Dry, crisp air and clear. | Heritage site explorations, road trips and sunrise views. |
| Winter (December to February) | 4°C – 12°C | Misty mornings, dry and cold. | Campfires, village walks and quiet retreats. |
Aritar has something breathtaking and unique to offer in each season, being surrounded by a tranquil lake, pine forests and a charming landscape. Spring is the best season here, where you can witness clear mountain skies and blooming orchids, rhododendrons. Autumn is a highly recommended season where you can enjoy breathtaking Kanchenjunga views, nature walks and cultural explorations. Winters are best enjoyed for solitude and peace. Monsoon is also loved for its lush greenery; however, heavy rainfall can cause landslides and reduce visibility.
I went on a trip to Aritar during the spring season, where the peaceful lake vista, clear skies and blooming hills made my trip an unforgettable one.
| Months | Weather | Footfall | Category | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (March to May) | Pleasant (12°C – 22°C) | Moderate | Shoulder Season | Nature photography, lake walks, and blooming landscape. |
| Monsoon (June-August) | Rainy and cold (14°C – 20°C) | Low | Off-Season | Introspective travel, peaceful stays and lush greenery. |
| Autumn (September-November) | Clear weather, crisp air (10°C – 20°C) | High | Peak-season | Outdoor sightseeing, heritage visits and best views. |
| Winter (December-February) | Cold (4°C – 12°C) | Low to Moderate | Shoulder Season | Birdwatching near the lake, cosy stays and quiet escapes. |
Some attractions and activities to try out in Aritar include-
Lampokhari Lake
It is also known as Aritar Lake, which ranks amongst the oldest natural lakes of Sikkim. It is surrounded by peaceful walking paths and lush forests where you can enjoy paddle boating.
Mankhim Hill & Temple
This temple is situated at the top of a hill, which reflects the strong spiritual beliefs of the Rai community. You can enjoy the charming view of the Kanchenjunga range and sunrises from here.
Aritar Monastery
It is also known as Lingsay Monastery, which was built way back in the 18th century. It has many important cultural and historical significance, where you can witness age-old scriptures and murals.
Lungchok Valley
This is a scenic, offbeat valley encompassed by hidden trails and forested hills where you can enjoy picnics and nature walks.
Zuluk
This is a high-altitude hamlet of the Silk Route situated just 40 km away from Aritar and is famously known for its iconic zig-zag road. You can enjoy breathtaking vistas of sunrise and the Kanchenjunga range from here.
Rongli Bazaar
This is a trading town which is situated at a distance of 17 km from Aritar. It is also the entry point to the iconic Silk Route, where you can shop for some essentials and withdraw some cash.
Mulkharka Lake
You can enjoy a short trek around this beautiful alpine lake and enjoy photography. The water of this lake reflects the charming view of the Kanchenjunga, which is a breathtaking sight to behold.
Kali Khola Waterfall
This is a charming waterfall by the side of a road, which you can witness while going towards Aritar. You can enjoy short nature and photography breaks in this spot.
By Air
The Bagdogra Airport, situated 110 km away from Aritar, is the nearest. For this airport, you can hire a cab to reach Aritar via Rangpo and Rorathang. The travel time by road will take you around 4.5- 5.5 hours.
By Train
The NJP railway station, which is situated at a distance of 100 km, is the nearest. You can reach Aritar by taking a taxi via Rangpo or Kalimpong.
By Road
From Siliguri
The distance between Siliguri and Aritar is around 100 km, and the road route includes Siliguri → Sevoke → Kalijhora → Rongpo → Rorathang → Aritar. It will take you around 4-5 hours to reach by road.
From Darjeeling
The distance between Darjeeling and Aritar is around 95-100 km, and the road route includes Darjeeling → Jorethang → Rorathang → Aritar. It will take you around 5-6 hours to reach by road.
You will get a taste of genuine Sikkimese meals in Aritar, which are prepared using locally grown, fresh ingredients. The food of Aritar is influenced by the flavours of Nepali, Lepcha and Bhutia communities. The food here is very wholesome, satisfying and simple. Some of the dishes that you can try out here include Thukpa, Momo, Gundruk & Sinki Soup, Rice, Dal & Local Saag, Phagshapa and Chiya. You can try out the following cultural experiences in Aritar-
Monastery Visit
You can visit the Aritar Monastery, which is one of the oldest monasteries of Sikkim and get a chance to witness century-old scriptures, murals, and bask in the serene spiritual ambience. You can also take part in the prayer session of the locals and witness the chanting monks and their daily rituals here.
Sunrise at Mankhim temple
This is a sacred Rai temple which you can visit at the top of Mankhim Hill. You can enjoy a blended experience of mountain serenity, spirituality and religious beliefs here. The sunrises here are breathtaking, where you can enjoy meditation sessions and take part in the morning prayers.
Cooking Session with Local Families
You can ask the host of your homestay to let you join them in their kitchen, where you can witness their traditional way of preparing food using fresh ingredients above wood fires and make delicious dishes with them, such as sel roti, kinema curry and gundruk soup.
Exploring Daily Lifestyle and Handicrafts of the Locals
You can interact with the friendly locals and witness them while they make their fermented pickles, dry vegetables or weave woollen clothes. You can also shop for some traditional clothes and handmade items from small shops.
The accommodation options of Aritar range from budget guesthouses, small resorts, mid-range stays and homestays. These accommodations are mostly surrounded by serene lakes, hills and pine forests.
| Category | Best stay | Price range | Features | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | Aritar Village Stay, Green Valley Homestay | ₹1000 – ₹1500/night | warm hosts, delicious meals, basic amenities | Solo travellers and backpackers. |
| Mid-Range | Aritar Residency, Lampokhari Retreat | ₹1800 – ₹2500/night | Good views, private bathrooms and lake-facing rooms | Small groups and families. |
| Premium Homestay | Monastery View Lodge, Silk Route Heritage Stay | ₹2800 – ₹3500/night | cosy ambience, local meals and heritage-style decor | peaceful retreats, honeymooners |
Homestays
You will be offered warm Sikkimese hospitality, mountain views and home-cooked meals in the homestays of Aritar. Most of the homestays here are in proximity to popular attractions such as the Mankhim Hill and Lampokhari Lake.
Resorts
Some popular options include
Aritar is a peaceful settlement perched in the lap of the Eastern Himalayas where you can seek cultural depth, natural charm and peace. You can enjoy simple moments here, like having a meal at the small eateries, waiting for the sunrise from the Mankhim Hill or enjoying boating at the Lampokhari Lake. You can embrace the serenity of nature and enjoy some slow time in this hidden corner of Sikkim.
What is the location of Aritar?
Aritar is a peaceful hamlet of East Sikkim, which is also a part of the Old Silk Route.
What is the altitude of Aritar?
Aritar is situated at an elevation of around 1,494 meters.
What is Aritar known for?
Aritar is known for Aritar Monastery, scenic Himalayan vistas and Lampokhri Lake.
When can I visit Aritar for the best views?
You can visit Aritar during the Spring or Autumn seasons for scenic beauty and clear weather.
Can I find accomodation options in Aritar?
Yes, you can find some guesthouses and homestays in Aritar, ranging from budget to premium.
Do, I need a permit to visit Aritar?
No, a special permit is not required to visit Aritar.
How can I reach Aritar?
You can reach Aritar from NJP, Rangpo or Gangtok via Rongli.
What can I do in Aritar?
You can do activities such as hiking, relaxing and boating in the Lampokhri Lake in Aritar.
