West District of Sikkim lies at an altitude of 400 mtr to 2500 mtr with unique and countryside escape of endless waves of agricultural fields and the terraced slopes, intercepted by spring patched forests and encompasses a total area of around 116600 hectares. Area wise, it is the 2nd largest district of Sikkim and population-wise, third one. Its total population is 136,435 (as per 2011 census) among which 70,238 are male and 66,197 female. Gyalshing is the headquarter of West Sikkim, which is nestled among the hills having elevation of 8500 fts and which commands panoramic view of snowcapped mountains and vast stretches of valley. Gyalshing is around 120 km away from the capital Gangtok and is the close to Siliguri (around 130 km), which is gateway to enter in Sikkim from West Bengal. The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) (around 140 km) and nearest Airport is Bagdogra (around 145 km) from Gyalshing. The Akar Bridge,Jorethang and Legship bazar are two the entry point to West District from South Sikkm.
Simple and religious people, some of the oldest monasteries, great scenic beauty, agricultural society and peace & tranquility is the identity of West Sikkim and it is known as fastest growing industrial area. West Sikkim has variety of climatic conditions and average annual rainfall of 162.5 cms. Maximum temperature recorded so far on the average is 17-27 Degree Celsius and minimum 02-21 Degree Celsius. Dubdi Monestry in Yuksum and Kagju Gumpa in Uttarey are among the oldest monasteries of West Sikkim. Other important places are Pelling, Yuksum, Dentam, Hee Bermiok and Soreng.
Gyalshing,Dentam,Yuksum and Soreng are sub-divisions of the district and Pelling, Tashiding, Rinchenpong and Sombaria are important towns. Rabdentse Bird Sanctuary, which is around 8 km from Gyalshing at an altitude of 6200 ft, is the one of the high altitude sanctuary in Sikkim, spread over 6 sq.kms of area. West district has 8 Assembly Constituencies, 1 Nagar Panchayat, 7 Municipal Wards, 53 Gram Panchayat Units and 288 Wards.
In the vein of other districts of Sikkim, the West district is not behind in any case whether talking about its natural splendor or fresh towns. Gyalshing, being the headquarters of the West Sikkim district, enjoys the authority over the region. The striking tourist attractions of the district offer many reasons to visit the place for once. Subsequently, there are many tours that can be taken in West Sikkim.
After East and South Sikkim District, this is the only district that embraces a major part of Sikkim’s population. There are numerous sight-seeing points, monasteries, gardens, hills, waterfalls and trekking zones that really allure anyone to come here. The natural splendor in the district is not less bewitching and engages the spectator in its heavenly charm. In this section, we will discuss the various tourist attractions of West Sikkim to give you a comprehensive idea about the touring places. Read further to know about the tours to West Sikkim in India.