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Overview
Yumthang Valley is located around 140 kilometres north of Gangtok in North Sikkim. The “Valley of Flowers” is an unusual and unique place with hot springs, rivers, yaks, and gorgeous green meadows. The Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, which blooms over 24 species of Rhododendron flowers (the state flower) from late February to mid-June, is a paradise for nature aficionados, since it is located at a height of 3564 metres.
Because of the high snowfall in the region, Yumthang Valley is inaccessible to visitors from December to March. Yumthang Valley has a few hot springs that are popular with visitors due to its amazing therapeutic properties. Aside from a fantastic green meadow, the region is surrounded by a lush green forest of pine and silver fir trees. You may observe flowing waterfalls and streams along the road to Yumthang Valley, as well as a magnificent view of the peaks with Pauhunri and Shundu Tsenpa.
Yumthang Valley Weather and Best Time to Visit
If you want to see the colourful flowers that the valley is famous for, the ideal time to visit is from late February until June. If you want to see a clear sky and a spectacular vista of snow-capped mountains, though, the months of September through December are excellent.
Yumthang Valley is also worth visiting during the Losar festival, which takes place between February and March. This is the opportunity to see the natives dressed in their traditional garb, eating and drinking while being entertained by spectacular cultural performances.
Permits
Yumthang Valley is under army supervision since it is so near to the Chinese border. Yumthang may only be visited with a Protected Area Permit obtained from the Gangtok Tourism Office, the Mangan District Administrative Center, or the Chungthang Sub-Divisional Magistrate’s Office. The permission is handled by the trip operators as well.
Tips For Visiting Yumthang
How to Reach Yumthang Valley
Yumthang is best reached by taking a shared or private car from Gangtok to Lachung, which is around 125 kilometers away, and staying overnight. It is not possible to go directly from Gangtok to Yumthang in a day since the region is prone to fog and darkens early. The trip from Lachung to Yumthang takes around 50 minutes, and the route is dotted with vibrant flowering flowers, providing for a relaxing and breathtaking ride.
Overview
Yumesamdong, which is located at a height of 15,300 feet, is worth visiting only for the beauty of its terrain. Because it is here that the road grinds to a halt, it has acquired the moniker Zero Point. Yumesamdong is only a short distance from the Indo-Chinese border, and tourists are not permitted to travel any further.
Most tourists skip Yumesamdong to avoid the difficult road that leads to this site, unaware of its abundant natural beauty. If you’re a snow junkie, though, you’ve come to the right place. Yumsesamdong is perpetually covered with snow due to its high height.
Best time to visit
Take a cab from Lachung to Zero Point early in the morning, when vision is better at such high heights. The ideal months to visit are April and May, when the rhododendrons are in full bloom and the entire path up to Zero Point like a Money painting in motion. The months of December and January should be avoided because the region receives a lot of snow during that time of year.
How to reach
Yumsesamdong is frequently covered as part of a three-point trip that includes Lachung, Yumthang Valley, and Yumesamdong/Zero Point in North Sikkim. In this section of Sikkim, only government-registered automobiles are permitted. The best option is to stay overnight in Lachung and go to Yumsesamdong the next morning.
Travel tips
The trek to Zero Point is not recommended for persons who have respiratory problems since it may cause altitude sickness.
Valid permissions are necessary to visit Zero Point because it is located in a protected area. They are available at the Gangtok Tourism Office, the Mangan District Administrative Center, and the Chungthang Sub-Divisional Magistrate’s Office. Wear enough clothes to keep you warm. You will, however, require the rental of snow boots, gloves, and overcoats. All of these items may be rented at Yumthang Market, which is located on the road to Zero Point. Because there are no ATMs in this region, bring plenty of cash. Make sure you have medications on hand in case you get altitude sickness.
Overview
At a height of around 1790 meters and roughly 95 kilometers from Gangtok, the quiet tiny hamlet of Chungthang sits at the junction of the Lachen and Lachung rivers. Chungthang is the Indian army’s main forward base, and there is also a medical facility there. The Chungthang Valley is famed for being the area where Guru Padmasambhava bestowed his blessings.
Padmasambhava’s handprints and footprints may be seen on a rock near Chungthang. A little area of ground where paddy sprouts every year is said to have been blessed by Guru Padmasambhava himself, who sprinkled the grain on the place. Guru Nanak Dev ji is also said to have visited Chungthang during his voyage to China and Tibet. In this town, there is a tree that is said to have sprouted where Guru Nanak Dev laid his stick. Before heading to the alpine areas of Lachen, Lachung, and Yumthang Valley, a stop at the gorgeous Chungthang Valley is an excellent, tranquil, and quirky option. The town is not only holy and sacred, but it also has a diverse variety of intriguing flora and fauna that attracts a large number of wildlife and nature photographers.
Legend of Chungthang valley
The town of Chungthang has a fascinating past and is shrouded in tales and stories. The town, which is supposed to be blessed by Guru Padmasambhava, has a legend that the Guru himself visited Chungthang and sat on a rock that still has his imprints and handprints today. This rock also has a tiny aperture through which water flows regularly. He also strewn grains around the ground, which produces rice all year. It’s a miracle, because paddy doesn’t generally grow in climatic circumstances like those in Chungthang.
Another tradition from Chungthang is Guru Nanak Dev’s visit to the town.
How To Reach Chungthang
Because the town is located in a remote area around 100 kilometres from Gangtok, hiring a private cab is a sensible decision. If travelling from Gangtok, one must first go to Mangan, North Sikkim’s district capital, which is around 64 kilometres from Gangtok. After reaching Mangan, continue on the Teesta River Road to Chungthang, crossing the river at Tong, 11 kilometres from Chungthang. For further travel, one must submit his or her authorization in Mangan and Tong. Even though Chungthang is only 100 kilometres from Gangtok, the steep terrain may make the journey take up to 5 hours.
Overview
Thangu, located at an elevation of roughly 3900 metres, is a lovely town about two hours’ drive from Lachen. It is a pleasant village where visitors may unwind before embarking on a trip to Gurugongmar Lake, Muguthang Lake, or Cho Lhamu Lake. One can see rows of trees in Thangu Valley, and when one climbs higher, the breathtaking Tibetan Plateau panorama opens out. This charming village is ideal for nature enthusiasts.
The best time to visit the mesmerising Thangu Valley is between May and June, when the entire valley is decked out in vivid alpine flowers, and thick snow covers these lovely flower beds between October and March. The village’s charm is enhanced by the beautiful hiking paths that connect Thangu to destinations like Chopta Valley and Muguthang. Thangu has a large military base since it is close to the Indian-Chinese border.
Thangu Weather and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Thangu is between November and June, when the temperature is mild. Summers are pleasant, and an annual yak race known as Thangu is held here every year. Thangu may get pretty chilly in the winter. During the winter months, the famed Gurdongmar Lake nearby freezes completely and looks stunning.
Accommodation in Thangu Valley
In the modest and cosy lovely town of Thangu, several inexpensive lodgings are accessible for travellers. However, before staying the night, you must obtain a permit from the army, which is not simple to obtain.
Sightseeing around Thangu
Apart from Thangu, there are many other wonderful attractions to view in Lachen. Gurudongmar Lake is a must-see attraction in this town. Apart from that, you can go trekking, as Thangu Valley is the starting point for a number of treks.
How to reach Thangu Valley
Bagdogra Airport is the closest airport to Sikkim. Thangu can be reached via shared jeeps or buses from here.
New Jalpaiguri railway station is the closest station, and from there you can take a bus or a private automobile. Thangu and New Jalpaiguri are separated by 147 kilometres.
You can drive from Lachen to Thangu along the highway. Thangu is 27 kilometres from Lachen.
Overview
Gurudongmar Lake in Sikkim is one of the world’s fifteen highest lakes, standing 17,100 feet above sea level. After Cholamu Lake, which is 18,000 feet high, it is Sikkim’s second highest lake. Tourists travel from all over the world to see the area’s stunning and scenic beauty. From Gurudongmar Lake, the stunning vista of Mount Siniolchu and Kanchenjunga is something to behold and treasure. Many guests take the water from Gurudongmar Lake home with them since it is considered to have curative benefits.
Gurudongmar is a sacred lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains and ice-cold crystal clear water.The Teesta River originates here and flows through Sikkim, West Bengal, and Bangladesh before merging with the Bay of Bengal. A ‘Sarva Dharma Sthal,’ a popular place of devotion for people of all religions, is located nearby. The Gurudongmar Lake is located in Lachen, a small and charming village in North Sikkim. It is strongly recommended that you spend the night in this town before visiting the gorgeous lake. The mesmerising Gurudongmar Lake’s strategic location and proximity to other notable sights draw even more tourists, making it one of Sikkim’s most famous attractions.
Gurudongmar Lake’s Inner Line Permit
An Inner Line Permit is required to enter this section of Sikkim due to its proximity to the China-Tibet border.Only foreigners are allowed to travel up to Yumthang and Chopta Valley, although Indians are allowed to visit Gurudongmar Lake. Permission can be obtained in Gangtok a day before your lake excursion. To enter the tourism office, you must bring two copies of your photo ID and two photographs. You could also ask your travel agent to obtain approval on your behalf.
At Gurudongmar Lake, there are a variety of things to do.
The Gurudongmar Lake is a beautiful sight to behold, and it manages to please everyone who visits. Many people love strolling from the lake, which is the beginning point for several climbs.The Sarva Dharma Sthala, often known as the “temple of all religions,” is a popular spiritual destination for peace seekers and is located near the lake.
The Teesta River’s source of water, Tso Lhamu Lake, is about 9 kilometres away and can be visited in addition to the major attraction. Lachen village and Thangu village, both around 3-4 hours drive from Gurudongmar Lake, are two other places to see on the way to Gurudongmar Lake. The thrilling annual Yak Race, known as the Thangu, takes place in the summer near the Lachen and attracts a significant number of spectators.
When is the best time to go to Gurudongmar Lake?
The best time to visit Gurudongmar Lake is between November and June, when the weather is pleasant. Summers at Lachen are cool and pleasant. A yak race known as Thangu is held here every year in the summer. In the winter, Lachen can be rather frigid. Gurdongmar Lake freezes over completely in the winter, creating a stunning sight.
Gurudongmar Lake’s Legend
Gurudongmar Lake is named after Guru Rinpoche, also known as Guru Padmasambhava. This saint, the founder of Tibetan Buddhism, came to the lake in the eighth century. The saint is also associated with the lake’s frozen state, which he is supposed to have realised was worthy of devotion upon his return from Tibet since it symbolised peace.
The lake, however, was unable to provide the people’s drinking water needs for much of the year since it was frozen. The peasants sought the guru after that, and he promised to help them.
When Guru Nanak passed through the area in the 15th century, he sanctified Gurudongmar Lake. According to one account of the story, the locals asked him to melt the ice so they could use the water. Guru Nanak touched a portion of the lake with his walking staff, and it has remained snow-free ever since. He also declared the lake to be holy, believing that anyone who drank from it would gain strength and virility.
When Visiting Gurudongmar Lake, Here Are Some Tips
1. Use sunglasses with UV protection to protect yourself from damaging UV radiation and white blindness.
2. Because the trip from Gangtok may be taxing, it is recommended that you halt at Lachen. It is recommended that you stay the night in Lachen and proceed to Gurudongmar the next day.
3. Dress warmly because it is quite chilly outside.
4. While Indian tourists are allowed to visit the lake, international visitors must acquire special permission from Delhi’s Ministry of Home Affairs.
5. Bring drugs to help you deal with the difficulties of high-altitude breathing. Spending half an hour at the lake will make you feel light-headed due to the lack of oxygen.
What is the best way to get to Gurudongmar? Lake
The nearest domestic airport is Bagdogra Airport, which is roughly a four-and-a-half-hour drive from Lachen. You’ll need to get a cab from the airport to get to the lake. In Lachen, taxis and jeeps are available.
The closest railway station to Gurudongmar Lake is Darjeeling Railway Station, which is connected to most of Sikkim’s towns and is located 171 kilometres from Lachen. Siliguri, Sukna, Tindharia, Mahanadi, Dilaram, Sonada, Jorebungalow, and Ghum are among the cities with which it is well connected.
The Sikkim State Road Transport Corporation (SSRTC) and private transport services connect Lachen to all of Sikkim’s major cities. From Lachen, these states are reachable by bus. From Lachen, you can travel.
Overview
A large portion of the Himalayas in Sikkim is yet undiscovered in great detail. Only a few people are aware of this hideaway, thus the expedition to this portion of the Himalayas has been undertaken by them. The green lake walk in Sikkim brings you to the foot of Kanchenjunga, via a lush green terrain sprinkled with a few alpine trees and a tranquil lake.
The location allows you to keep the lovely horizon firmly in place, part with the useful beneficial, useful resource of manner of the Kanchenjunga at 8,586 meters, Kanchenjunga west, also known as Yalung Kang at 8,505 meters, Kanchenjunga primary at 8,482 meters, Kanchenjunga south at 8,494 meters, and Kanchenjunga south at 7,903 meters.
These elements combine to form a silver line that runs parallel to the bright blue sky and cuts through Nepal, Tibet, and Sikkim, India. The green lake trip in Sikkim is one of numerous difficult and undiscovered treks in Sikkim’s Himalayan zone, passing through several isolated tribal towns on a high mountain ridge. Many explorers identify this alpine adventure with the way of life, which includes a big forest zone with rhododendrons and high-quality floral plants, alpine timber, plants and fauna, and alpine timber. Hikers can get a nice view of the lush foliage that surrounds the lake at a height of 5,000 metres.
Overview The Mangan Ridge’s northern slope is traversed throughout the hike. Majestic Himalayan, one of the leading adventure tour operators in Siliguri, Darjeeling, and Sikkim, will handle all of your trek arrangements. Goechala Trek, Sandakphu-Phalut Trek, Rachela (Neora Valley) Trek, Phoktey Dara Trek, Uttarey Dzongri Round Singalila Trek, Varsey Phalut Trek, Green Lake Trek, and others are among our other trek itineraries.
Tosar Lake is situated between the Mangan Ridge and the Chola Range at an elevation of 13,120 feet. A massive cliff or mountain overlooking the lake may be found to the south east of the lake. The residents of the area see it as sacred and revere it. This area offers some of the greatest views of the Khanchendzongha East Face. This trip begins in Naksuk, Naga Reserved Forest, which is about an hour’s drive from Mangan and is located above Naga village. In the Reserve forest, it follows the old traditional yak and cattle pathways. It travels through a wet temperate forest with bamboos and broad-leaved plants.
This walk is particularly well-known for its mountain views, summer flower displays, lovely birds, and views of virgin woodland. Tosar Lake is found in the crossroads of the Mangan and Chola mountain ranges. At Maram Chu, the ridge reaches a maximum height of 14,239 feet. Phyakchung (12,270 ft.), Anden peak (12,139 ft.), and Pandot peak are the other major peaks in the Mangan ridge (7,792 ft.). The Phodong spur, which runs south from the main ridge, is the most important spur. The Mangan ridge’s southern face is fairly steep, whereas the north facing slope is softer.
Overview
Singhik is a small village on a hill roughly 1560 metres above sea level that is regarded to be the most popular viewpoint for viewing Mt. Khangchendzonga and Mt. Siniolchu. The surrounding lush green hills with higher slopes give a rewarding bird’s eye view of the convergence point of the River Teesta and River Kanaka at the foothills, attracting many adventurous visitors to Singhik. It’s also popular with other travellers travelling to North Sikkim’s other attractions, who see it as a great spot to stop for the night amidst the lush vegetation and ice-capped mountains, with the gorgeous Teesta River gurgling below.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Singhik is in the summer, between March and May, and in the winter, between September and October. The months of July and August are when the area experiences severe rains and is considered dangerous to visit.
Things to do & see
Many short day hikes and isolated treks, such as Jhandi viewpoint and Tosha Lake trip, are available in Singhik, making it a haven for adventure seekers. Traditional Lepcha dwellings and the old Singhik Monastery may also be accessible by lovely natural routes. Travel 15 kilometres to the Dzongu and Tingchim villages to learn about Sikkim’s traditional way of life. Then there’s Phodong Monastery, one of Sikkim’s oldest monasteries, which is only 30 kilometres away from this lovely civilisation. Visit the ancient village Kabi, which is about an hour’s drive from Singhik, to see where Lepchas signed the Treaty of Blood Brotherhood in the 14th century. On the route back to Gangtok, stop at the Naga Waterfalls, which are about 15 kilometres from Singhik, and then stop at the Seven Sister Waterfalls, which are about 40 kilometres away.
How to reach
Mangan town is close by, as is Singhik, a beautiful village. To go to Mangan, which is around 70 kilometres distant, one may use shared vehicle services from Gangtok. You may either rent a car or walk the 4 km trek to Singhik from there.
Overview
The Lachung Monastery, located in north Sikkim’s Lachung Valley, is a Nyingma Buddhist gompa that was founded in 1880 A.D. At the confluence of the Lachen River and tributaries of the Teesta River, it is 9600 feet above sea level. Lachung Gompa is another name for it. Every year, the monastery holds the ‘Chaam,’ a famous mask dance. The Lachung Monastery is a place of spiritual and cultural significance. It’s the ideal spot for meditation and relaxation. This monastery is located near Lachung town and is surrounded by woodland.
How to reach
Hire a vehicle or cab, then walk the rest of the way.
Tips
Pets are not permitted.
Keep the peace.
Permission to photograph is required.
Before 4 p.m., pay a visit.
