About Chenrezig Statue
The Chenrezig (Avalokiteshvara) statue above Pelling stands 32 metres high — a white stone Bodhisattva of Compassion on a hilltop facing the Kanchenjunga range. Completed in 2017, the statue is the newest major religious monument in Pelling and draws a significant number of Sikkimese pilgrims and Indian tourists. The base of the statue houses three floors of prayer halls and murals depicting the life of the Buddha, which are genuinely well-executed. The statue itself is striking rather than subtle — white against the mountain sky, visible from most of Pelling — but the view from the statue platform over the Rangit valley and toward Kanchenjunga is the practical reason to make the climb. The complex is usually less crowded in the early morning.
Why go to Chenrezig Statue
Wide valley view from the statue terrace
The platform at the base of the statue sits on a ridge above Pelling with a wide view of the Rangit valley and the Kanchenjunga foothills. The mountain view is the practical reason to visit.
Three floors of Buddhist murals in the statue base
The prayer halls inside the pedestal have quality murals depicting the Buddha's life cycle — better executed than many older monasteries and well worth 30 minutes inside.
How to reach Chenrezig Statue from Pelling
15-minute walk uphill from Upper Pelling, or short taxi ride (₹100–150).
Best time to visit Chenrezig Statue
Year-round. October–May for clear Kanchenjunga views. Morning (7–9am) before the day-trippers arrive.
Time of dayMorning (7–9am) for the clearest mountain backdrop and fewest visitors.
Things we always tell our guests about Chenrezig Statue
- The interior murals are illuminated by small lights — worth entering for 20–30 minutes.
- Combine with the nearby Pelling Skywalk and Pemayangtse Monastery in a morning circuit.
- Remove shoes at the prayer hall entrance (the statue pedestal interior).
Chenrezig Statue — your questions answered
Other places in Pelling
- MonasterySacred LakeViewpointHeritageGarden