About Uttarey
Uttarey is a small Himalayan village in Gyalshing District of West Sikkim near the India-Nepal border at about 2,000 metres elevation. Surrounded by forests and mountains, it serves as a base for Singalila Ridge treks and as the western entry to Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary. Notable for Chitre Monastery, Mainbus Waterfall and views of the Kanchenjunga range, it offers a tranquil rural setting with homestays and biodiversity.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a quiet mountain village surrounded by dense forests, terraced fields and views of the Kanchenjunga and Singalila ranges. The settlement has scattered homestays, small shops and a monastery. Areas to explore include Chitre Monastery, Mainbus Waterfall, forest trails of Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary and trek routes towards Phoktey Dara and Chewabhanjang. The environment is cool, rural and suited to nature walks, photography and short treks.
Key highlights
- 01
Gateway village for Singalila Ridge treks to Phoktey Dara and Chewabhanjang on the India-Nepal border
- 02
Western entry point to Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary known for seasonal rhododendron blooms
- 03
Chitre Monastery located on a hilltop near the village
- 04
Mainbus Waterfall near Uttarey
- 05
Panoramic views of Kanchenjunga and surrounding Himalayan ranges
Culture & Context
Village reflects mixed Himalayan communities including Lepcha, Limbu and Sherpa cultures; Chitre Monastery is a local Buddhist religious centre and cultural landmark for the area
Route
| By air | Nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB) near Siliguri, then continue by road via Jorethang and Dentam |
|---|---|
| By train | Nearest major railhead is New Jalpaiguri Junction (NJP) in West Bengal, then continue by road to Jorethang/Pelling and onward to Uttarey |