Backpacking India 76/129: Chicken Manchurian Enjoying Hearty Mongolian Chicken Pelling SIKKIM Good View Food

Backpacking India 76/129: Chicken Manchurian Enjoying Hearty Mongolian Chicken in Pelling, Sikkim

Hello, I am mr.hotsia, taking friends backpacking further in Sikkim, a small state in northern India where nature remains pure and local culture is strong. Today, I will take you to Pelling, a small town located 2,150 meters above sea level in western Sikkim. Here, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Himalayas and Kanchenjunga peak. Of course, this trip wouldn't be complete without trying the local cuisine that perfectly blends Indian and Chinese flavors, especially the Chicken Manchurian or Mongolian chicken.

I arrived in Pelling after leaving Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, which connects to West Bengal via Highway 31A, about 115 kilometers away. The winding mountain road gave me a chance to see local life and beautiful scenery along the way. The weather was cool and refreshing, unlike the big cities in India.

Pelling is growing as a destination for travelers seeking to escape the hustle and bustle. Here, you can experience the harmonious lifestyle of Buddhists and Nepali people living together. I stayed at a small homestay in town where the kind owner welcomed me with fragrant tea and a warm smile.

Chicken Manchurian, the hearty Mongolian chicken dish in Pelling

After enjoying the views and taking photos of the Himalayas, I headed to find dinner in Pelling's small market. There aren't many restaurants here, but each has interesting signature dishes. I found a place selling Chicken Manchurian, a dish that perfectly blends Chinese and Indian flavors. Crispy fried chicken coated in a rich, sweet and spicy sauce, every bite was satisfying. As a Thai, I really enjoyed it.

What’s more interesting is that the Mongolian chicken here isn’t just ordinary fried chicken. It uses fresh local ingredients mixed with Sikkim’s intense spices, creating a deep and unique flavor. I asked the owner if locals like Chicken Manchurian a lot, and he smiled saying, “This is a favorite dish for many people in Sikkim.”

Lifestyle and atmosphere of Pelling town

After a full meal, I strolled through Pelling’s small market. The market isn’t bustling like big cities but is full of warmth. Locals shop for fresh produce, vegetables, fruits, and spices grown in the mountains. I tried local snacks and listened to beautiful Nepali songs sung by a street singer, creating an atmosphere that made me feel like I traveled back to a time before advanced technology.

Pelling is also a starting point for travelers and adventurers exploring the forests around the Himalayas and admiring the nearby Kanchenjunga peak. Especially in winter, the snow cover adds beauty and romance to this town.

Traveling in Sikkim with mr.hotsia

For anyone planning to visit Pelling, traveling from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, is very convenient. You can take regular jeep buses connecting various towns in Sikkim easily, including Pelling, Namchi, and other towns I have recommended in my articles.Travel to Gangtok city, Sikkim, IndiaandDahlap Homestay, Pelling town, West Sikkim, IndiaIt is also convenient for connecting flights at Bagdogra Airport in Siliguri city.

I chose to travel from Gangtok to Pelling by jeep, which is quite frequently available, and stayed at a small, warm homestay before going out to enjoy Mongolian chicken and fully explore the local lifestyle. Traveling in Sikkim may seem less convenient than big cities, but that charm made me feel like I truly experienced nature and culture.

Summary of impressions from Pelling with mr.hotsia

Pelling is a small town I think is perfect for travelers wanting to escape the chaos and busy development, to experience nature that remains pure, the interesting blend of Buddhist and Nepali lifestyles, and local food with unique flavors like Chicken Manchurian, which I found very satisfying.

If anyone wants to experience a small town full of Himalayan mountain views and try Mongolian chicken in the Pelling style, I, mr.hotsia, recommend coming here. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.

For more information about Pelling and traveling in Sikkim, you can read my articles.Pelling town, West Sikkim, IndiaandBackpacking in Sikkim, IndiaThank you.

Finally, if you want to see the real atmosphere, travel, and Chicken Manchurian dish I described, you can watch the video inBackpacking India 76/129: Chicken Manchurian Enjoying Hearty Mongolian Chicken Pelling SIKKIM Good View Foodthat I recorded.