Kabi Lungchok, sometimes called Kabi Lungtshok, is one of the most important historic and cultural sites in North Sikkim, located about 17 km from Gangtok on the way to Mangan.  It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Set amid forests of pine and oak with the Himalayan backdrop, this small village holds deep importance in the history of Sikkim.

The place is most famous as the site where a blood-brotherhood treaty was signed in the 13th century between the Lepcha King Thekong Tek and the Tibetan prince Khey Bhumsa. This agreement, sealed by mixing drops of blood, marked a bond of friendship and unity between the Lepchas, considered the original inhabitants of Sikkim, and the Bhutias, who migrated from Tibet. A stone pillar still stands at Kabi Lungchok as a symbol of this ancient pact. This event is remembered as the foundation of Sikkim’s cultural harmony, where different ethnic groups coexisted in peace.

The culture of Kabi Lungchok is deeply rooted in Lepcha and Bhutia traditions. Local festivals are marked by prayers, dances, and rituals honoring both nature and ancestors. Monasteries nearby also display the Buddhist traditions that has built much of Sikkim’s identity. Locals are warm, welcoming, and still live closely connected to nature, engaging mainly in farming, cattle rearing, and small-scale tourism.

Besides its historic pillar, main attractions include the surrounding forests, walking trails, and panoramic views of the Teesta River valley. The peaceful environment makes it a refreshing stop for travelers on the way to North Sikkim’s higher mountains. Nearby villages also give a feel of traditional houses, terraced fields, and local lifestyle.

Kabi Lungchok’s population is small, consisting largely of Lepcha and Bhutia families. Their oral stories, folk songs, and customs keep the memory of the ancient treaty alive. The area’s natural beauty—with high hills, tall trees, and clean mountain air—adds to its charm.

Today, Kabi Lungchok is not just a historic site but also a reminder of unity and brotherhood between the Lepchas and Bhutias. It teaches how two different communities came together centuries ago to live in peace, shaping the Sikkim we see today. For visitors, it offers both cultural depth and natural beauty, making it an important stop to understand the roots of Sikkim’s heritage.