Aritar

The first thing you notice is the quiet. After the winding ascent from the Teesta valley floor, the air in Aritar stills. The sound is of prayer flags flapping, the distant call of a bird across the water, and the gentle creak of a paddle boat on Lampokhari Lake. This small settlement in Sikkim’s Pakyong district offers a different rhythm from the state’s more bustling tourist circuits. It’s a place anchored by one of Sikkim's oldest natural lakes and the resilient culture of the Rai people who call its hills home.

History & Context

While not a major administrative center, Aritar held a strategic position on a lesser-trodden offshoot of the trade routes that connected Kalimpong and Tibet via the Jelep La pass. Its significance during the British period is marked by the Aritar Dak Bungalow, an impressive colonial structure built by Sir James Claude White, the first Political Officer of Sikkim, in 1895. This bungalow, with its classic sloping roof and wide verandas, hosted officials and travellers journeying through this remote corner of the Himalayas and remains a tangible link to that era.

What Makes It Distinctive

Aritar's identity is centered on Lampokhari Lake. While Sikkim has many high-altitude glacial lakes, Lampokhari is a rare natural freshwater lake at a lower elevation (around 4,900 feet). Its distinctive boot shape and the fact that it is the only lake in Sikkim with a boating facility make it a focal point for visitors.

A short, steep drive above the lake leads to Mankhim Top. More than just a viewpoint, this is a sacred place for the region’s Rai community, one of Nepal's ethnic Kirati groups. The hilltop temple offers a profound cultural counterpoint to the predominantly Buddhist monasteries found elsewhere in Sikkim. On a clear day, the panoramic view from Mankhim is spectacular, stretching from the Kangchenjunga range in the northwest to the plains of West Bengal in the south, with the emerald lake nestled directly below.

From late March to April, the area hosts the Lampokhari Tourism Festival, a showcase of local culture, cuisine, and adventure sports, offering a lively window into the community's traditions.

Best Time to Visit

• October to December: This is post-monsoon and early winter. The skies are generally clear, offering the best chances for sharp, unobscured views of the Kangchenjunga massif. The weather is pleasant and cool during the day, becoming cold at night.
• March to May: Spring brings warmer weather and blooming rhododendrons and other wildflowers. Visibility is good, though occasional haze can obscure distant peaks. The Lampokhari Festival often takes place during this period.
• June to September: The monsoon season. Heavy and frequent rainfall makes travel difficult and can cause landslides. Leeches are common on trails. While the landscape is lush and green, mountain views are rare, and outdoor activities are limited.

How to Reach

• By Air: The closest airport is Pakyong Airport (PYG), approximately 58 km (2.5-3 hours) away. The nearest major airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in West Bengal, about 120 km (4-5 hours) away.
• By Rail: The nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) in West Bengal, located around 118 km (4-5 hours) from Aritar.
• By Road: Aritar is well-connected by road. From NJP or Siliguri, the route follows NH10 to Rangpo, the entry point into Sikkim. From Rangpo, the road continues to Rhenock, from where a final ascent leads to Aritar. The journey from Rangpo to Aritar is about 35 km and takes roughly 1.5-2 hours.

Permits & Entry

• Indian Citizens: No special permits are required to visit Aritar.
• Foreign Nationals: A Restricted Area Permit (RAP), also known as an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for foreigners, is mandatory to enter Sikkim. This can be obtained at the Rangpo or Melli tourist check posts on the border with West Bengal upon presenting a valid passport and Indian visa. The permit is usually issued on the spot. This permit allows travel to Aritar, but separate permits are required for protected areas like Tsomgo Lake, Nathu La, and North Sikkim.

Nearby Attractions

• Mankhim Temple: A hilltop shrine of the Rai community offering panoramic views of Kangchenjunga and Lampokhari Lake.
• Aritar Gumpa: A serene Buddhist monastery belonging to the Karma Kagyu lineage, known for its traditional architecture and murals.
• Zuluk: A historic village famous for its winding 'Silk Route' road with 32 hairpin bends, about 40 km away.
• Nathang Valley: A high-altitude plateau often called the 'Ladakh of the East', accessible from Zuluk.
• Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary: A protected area bordering Bhutan, home to red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and diverse birdlife. The entry point is near Aritar.
• Dak Bungalow: The historic British-era bungalow built in 1895, offering a glimpse into Sikkim's colonial past.

Traveller Tips

1. Stay in a Homestay: Opt for a local homestay to experience the hospitality and culture of the Rai community.
2. Carry Cash: ATMs are not available in Aritar. The nearest reliable ATM is in Rhenock or Rangpo. Carry sufficient cash for your stay.
3. Connectivity: Mobile networks can be weak and intermittent. Jio and Airtel have the best coverage, but do not rely on it for constant connectivity.
4. Book in Advance: Especially during peak season (October-November, March-April), it's wise to book your accommodation and vehicle in advance.
5. Sunrise at Mankhim: Make the early morning effort to reach Mankhim Top for a chance to witness a spectacular sunrise over the Himalayas.
6. Pack Layers: The weather can change quickly. Carry light woolens, a warm jacket, and a rain-proof outer layer, regardless of the season.
7. Road Conditions: The roads are mountainous and winding. If you are prone to motion sickness, carry appropriate medication.
8. Respect Local Culture: When visiting Mankhim Temple or Aritar Gumpa, dress modestly and always ask for permission before photographing people or rituals.