About Mankhim Viewpoint & Temple
Mankhim is a ridge-top viewpoint and temple 2 km above Aritar at 1,700 m, reached by a forest path through oak, magnolia and bamboo. The Mankhim shrine is unusual: it is sacred to both Hindu Shiva worship and indigenous Lepcha animist traditions — one of the few places in Sikkim where these two traditions share the same hilltop. From the ridge the view opens across the Rangpo Valley toward the Nepal foothills, with Kanchenjunga visible on clear winter mornings. The forest walk itself — 40 minutes from Aritar market — is rewarding in any season for the birds and the magnolia trees.
Why go to Mankhim Viewpoint & Temple
Kanchenjunga and valley panorama
The ridge gives views across the Rangpo Valley toward the Nepal foothills — and on clear October to February mornings — the Kanchenjunga massif on the north-western horizon.
Dual-tradition Mankhim shrine
The hilltop shrine honours both Shiva and local Lepcha sacred figures — an unusual example of religious syncretism found at several East Sikkim ridge tops.
Forest walk through oak and magnolia
The 2 km path passes through temperate forest with large-leafed magnolia, wild orchids on the trunks and occasional Red Panda habitat. Birdlife is rich.
How to reach Mankhim Viewpoint & Temple from Aritar
The trailhead starts from the upper part of Aritar market, just above the main road. Any local resident can point you to the start. The path is a 40-minute walk uphill — no vehicle access to the ridge. From Aritar, the round-trip takes around 2 hours.
Best time to visit Mankhim Viewpoint & Temple
October to April for the Kanchenjunga views. November and December are statistically the clearest. Year-round for the forest walk — the magnolia blooms in February and early March.
Time of dayStart at 6:30 am from Aritar to arrive at sunrise. The view from the ridge in the first light, with the valley in shadow below, is the payoff.
Things we always tell our guests about Mankhim Viewpoint & Temple
- Start early — the Kanchenjunga view is best before 9 am when cloud builds.
- Combine with the lake circuit (early morning) and head to Mankhim from 8:30 am for the view.
- The path has some steep sections — wear shoes with grip.
- The temple may be locked on some days. The view is the main draw regardless.
Mankhim Viewpoint & Temple — your questions answered
Other places in Aritar
- Sacred LakeMonasteryHeritage