Pelling Skywalk & Chenrezig Statue: Tickets, Timings & Tips (2026)

Updated 17 Oct 2026 · 3 min read · By the PellingHotels team

The Pelling Skywalk is the town’s newest icon: a glass-floored walkway that leads to a towering statue of Chenrezig, the Bodhisattva of compassion, on the hilltop above Sanga Choeling Monastery. On a clear morning you get Kanchenjunga on one side and the green valley falling away beneath your feet on the other.

Skywalk essentials

  • Where: Sanga Choeling Road, above Upper Pelling.
  • Ticket: about ₹50 per person (listed by the Gyalshing district administration) — some visitors report higher rates for foreign nationals; check at the counter.
  • Hours: roughly 9 am–5 pm (last entry earlier).
  • Statue height: 137 ft.
  • Best time: 9–11 am on a clear day, October to February.

What is the Pelling Skywalk?

Opened in 2018, the Skywalk is often described as India’s first glass skywalk. A glass-floored section juts out from the hillside towards the statue platform, giving a dramatic view down the slope. Beyond it, a long staircase climbs to the base of the Chenrezig statue, which stands 137 ft tall and looks out over the valley and the Kanchenjunga range.

How to get there

  • By taxi: a few minutes from Upper Pelling; it’s usually included in the half-day heritage loop.
  • By ropeway: when operating, the ropeway near the Upper Pelling helipad area runs up towards the Skywalk complex.
  • On foot: fit walkers can go from Upper Pelling along Sanga Choeling Road; it’s uphill most of the way.

Tickets, timings and rules

ItemDetails
Entry feeAbout ₹50 per person; rates can be revised — check on arrival.
Opening hoursRoughly 9 am to 5 pm; may close during heavy monsoon or maintenance.
ShoesShoe covers or socks may be required on the glass section.
ChildrenHold young children’s hands on the glass and stairs.
Time needed45 minutes to 1.5 hours including the statue climb.

Is the Skywalk scary?

The glass section is short, and most people cross it comfortably. If you’re uneasy with heights, walk along the edge with the railing. The bigger effort is the long flight of steps to the statue — take it slowly at this altitude and stop to catch your breath.

Snow-covered Kanchenjunga massif under a clear blue sky
Clear mornings from October to February give the best view from the statue platform.

Best time to visit

Arrive soon after opening on a clear day. Clouds often roll in by late morning, especially from March to September. Weekday mornings are also less crowded than weekends and holidays.

Combine it with

  • Sanga Choeling Monastery (founded 1697) — a short, steep walk from the Skywalk area.
  • Pemayangtse Monastery and Rabdentse Ruins — the other half of the heritage loop. See our guide.
  • Helipad sunset back in Upper Pelling.

Where to stay nearby

Upper Pelling is closest. Wooden Nest Homestay is on Skywalk Road, and Retreat Crassula Ovata sits opposite the ropeway.

ResortLuxuryFeatured
Norbu Ghang Retreat & Spa – Upper Pelling

Upper Pelling

Norbu Ghang Retreat & Spa

Panoramic Kanchenjunga view

One of the largest properties in Pelling, on the Upper Pelling ridge with wide, unobstructed Kanchenjunga views and a spa.

HotelMid-rangeFeatured
Retreat Crassula Ovata – Upper Pelling

Upper Pelling

Retreat Crassula Ovata

Kanchenjunga-view rooms

Upper Pelling hotel opposite the Skywalk ropeway, with mountain-facing balcony rooms in its higher categories.

HotelMid-range
Pemaling Residency – Upper Pelling

Upper Pelling

Pemaling Residency

Kanchenjunga-view rooms

Small, family-run hotel near the old helipad in Upper Pelling, known for warm hosting and home-style food.

Frequently asked questions

What is the ticket price for Pelling Skywalk?

The Gyalshing district administration lists entry at about ₹50 per person. Rates can be revised and may differ for foreign nationals, so check at the ticket counter.

What are the Pelling Skywalk timings?

The Skywalk is generally open from about 9 am to 5 pm. It may close temporarily during heavy monsoon rain or maintenance.

How tall is the Chenrezig statue in Pelling?

The Chenrezig (Avalokiteshvara) statue at the Pelling Skywalk is 137 feet tall.

Is the Pelling Skywalk safe for children and senior citizens?

The glass section is safe and guarded with railings. The main challenge is the long staircase to the statue — seniors should take it slowly and rest often.

Have another question? See our Pelling FAQ with 65 answers on permits, fees, weather, taxis and more.