Yuksom, at the trailhead of the high-altitude treks is a beautiful town to spend a few days relaxing. It was previously the capital of Sikkim, and is considered a holy town. The 300 year-old Dubdi Gompa Buddhist temple, perched on a hill, is well worth visiting.
Pelling, located on a hillside is another beautiful town with character. Many guesthouses offer breathtaking views towards Kanchenjunga from their balconies. Within walking distance 4-5km of Pelling is the Pemayangtse Gompa one of the holiest gompas in Sikkim, and Rabdentse an old archeological site from when this was previously the capital.
itineraries
Many people spend 5-7 days on a trek, then a further 2-3 days exploring Yuksom and Pelling.