Melli

Melli is a small border town located on the banks of the Teesta River at the Sikkim-West Bengal border in Namchi District, Sikkim. It serves as the main entry point into Sikkim from West Bengal via National Highway 10. Known for the Melli Bridge over the Teesta, river rafting, and scenic valley views, it functions as a transit hub and stopover for travelers between Siliguri, Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Gangtok.

Visitors can expect a small riverside bazaar town set in a low valley along the Teesta River, with the Melli Bridge connecting Sikkim and West Bengal. The area offers views of the river, surrounding forested hills, and the checkpoint at the state border. Visitors can explore local shops and eateries, view the river from the bridge, and arrange Teesta river rafting in season. It is primarily a transit and short-stop destination rather than a large sightseeing complex.

Melli developed as a border settlement and checkpoint at the historic crossing of the Teesta River between Sikkim and West Bengal. The Melli Bridge has long served as the principal road link connecting Sikkim with the rest of India via NH10, establishing the town as the gateway to Sikkim.

Melli reflects a mixed cultural character of Sikkimese, Nepali and Bengali communities typical of a border bazaar town. It serves as a commercial and transit hub for local residents and travelers entering Sikkim.