About the Aritar
Aritar, also known as Ari Thang, is a serene and picturesque village nestled in the East Sikkim district of Sikkim, India. It's a hidden gem offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas, lush green landscapes, and the iconic Lampokhari Lake (also known as Aritar Lake). Aritar is a perfect escape for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty away from the bustling tourist crowds. It's renowned for its serene environment, rich biodiversity, and historical significance. The area also boasts a rich cultural heritage with several monasteries and temples dotting the landscape.
Best Time to Visit
March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn) are the best months to visit Aritar. The weather is pleasant and the skies are clear, offering stunning views of the Himalayas. Avoid the monsoon season (June to August) due to heavy rainfall and potential landslides.
Trip Duration
3 days
2-3 days is ideal to explore Aritar and its surroundings.
Popular For
Best Tourist Places to Visit in Aritar
Aritar Lake
Rhenock Gumpa, Monastery
Aritar Dak Bunglow
Evergreen Corner - Nursery
Aritar Shivalaya Mandir
Activities / Things To Do in Aritar
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Boating in Lampokhari Lake Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the serene Lampokhari Lake. Rowboats are available for hire, allowing you to soak in the stunning scenery.
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Trekking and Hiking Aritar offers several trekking and hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. Explore the surrounding hills and forests, discovering hidden waterfalls and viewpoints.
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Visit Aritar Monastery Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of the Aritar Monastery. Learn about Buddhist culture and admire the intricate architecture and religious artifacts.
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Explore Mankhim View Point Wake up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise from Mankhim View Point. Capture stunning panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range and the surrounding landscape.
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Visit the Dak Bungalow Explore the historic Dak Bungalow, a colonial-era bungalow that offers a glimpse into the past. Enjoy panoramic views from its hilltop location. Consider staying if you appreciate heritage accommodations.
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Birdwatching Aritar is a birdwatcher's paradise, with a diverse range of avian species inhabiting the surrounding forests. Bring your binoculars and camera to capture these feathered friends.
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Explore Traditional Sikkimese Culture Interact with the local people to learn about their customs, traditions, and way of life.
Aritar Travel Shorts
Aritar Best Restaurant | Your Ultimate Dining Guide
Eco Log Hut Resort
Lampokhari Village Resort
Hotel Yak and Yeti
RITA'S RESTAURANT
Khan Uncle's Biryani House
Accommodation
The Aritar Retreat
The Aritar Retreat
Atithi Griha Homestay - Silk Route, Aritar, Sikkim
The Aritar Retreat
Lampokhari Village Resort
How to Reach Aritar
Air
The nearest airport is Pakyong Airport (PYG) in Sikkim, about 3-4 hours drive away. However, it has limited connectivity. The most common and reliable option is to fly into Bagdogra Airport (IXB) in West Bengal, which is about a 4-5 hour drive to Aritar. From Bagdogra, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to reach Aritar.;
Bus
Direct taxis and shared jeeps are available from Gangtok, Kalimpong, and other nearby towns.
Train
The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) in West Bengal, which is also about a 4-5 hour drive. Shared jeeps and taxis are readily available from NJP to Aritar.
