Tarum Hot Spring Sikkim

Sikkim is an enchanting land of pure heavenly natural beauty, having snowy and dreamy glacial lakes, picturesque monasteries and bright, lively, refreshing green pastures. Apart from all the other fascinating natural features, Sikkim is also the enticing home to some choicest hot springs. Some of these hot springs are located in the remotest corners of Sikkim and are thus not very frequented. They are perched at high altitudes, sometimes at a height of 15,000 feet or more. The locations are even more inaccessible because of being covered by snow most of the time of the year. The string of these hot springs nurture water that is rich in sulphur content and this attracts a lot of locals and tourists. The best time to do these treks is during the spring and summer months from March to May. Since hot water can retain more dissolved solids compared to cold water, the water that is contained in hot springs usually has a very high mineral content, which comprises all kinds from calcium to lithium and even radium.

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Lhabha Tarum Hot Spring

The remote yet extremely picturesque Lhabha Tarum Hot Spring is quite famous for trekking enthusiasts. This is located near Lachen Khanchendzong, North Sikkim. A six-day trek begins in Gangtok to reach this remote yet beautiful hot spring. The location commands surreal scenic beauty with the majestic Himalayas on all sides and serene landscapes. Lhabha Tarum Hot Spring is lesser-known yet it is a naturally enriching hot spring located in the remote regions of North Sikkim, India. Known for its warm, mineral-rich waters, this geothermal spring is believed to have healing properties, especially beneficial for skin ailments and muscle relaxation. The spring is set amidst stunning Himalayan landscapes, and thus make it a perfect stop for travellers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Unlike more commercialized hot springs, Lhabha Tarum retains its natural charm, offering visitors a peaceful and therapeutic experience. The forests through which the trekking trail takes you are heavenly but there may be some restrictions because of the concentration or abundance of rare and precious herbs and medicinal plants.

Reaching Lhabha Tarum Hot Spring requires a bit of effort, as it is situated in a relatively isolated location. Travelers usually have to trek a short distance from the nearest accessible road, passing through scenic valleys, dense forests, and high-altitude terrains. The best time to visit is from March to May and September to November, when the weather is pleasant and the routes are open. Given its secluded nature, it is recommended to carry essential supplies and travel with a local guide. This hot spring is a must-visit for those who enjoy offbeat destinations and wish to experience the raw beauty of Sikkim’s thermal wonders.

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Lhabha Tarum Trek Route – A Scenic Himalayan Adventure

The trek to Lhabha Tarum Hot Spring in North Sikkim is an offbeat yet rewarding journey, passing through dense forests, river valleys, and high-altitude landscapes. While the exact trail details may vary based on accessibility and local conditions, the general route follows:

Starting Point: Chungthang or Lachung

You can begin their journey from Chungthang or Lachung, two major towns in North Sikkim. From Gangtok, it’s about a 6-7 hour drive to Chungthang (95 km) and another 1.5 hours (25 km) to Lachung.

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Trek Route

Lachung to Lhabha Village: A short drive or trek leads to Lhabha, a small settlement surrounded by lush forests and waterfalls. The trek begins from here, passing through rhododendron-covered trails and wooden bridges over small streams.

Lhabha to Tarum Valley: The trail gradually ascends towards Tarum Valley, where the scenery becomes more alpine, with snow-capped peaks visible in the distance.

Hikers may encounter Buddhist prayer flags, yak herders and occasional wildlife like the Himalayan monal or blue sheep.

Tarum Valley to Lhabha Tarum Hot Spring: A final steep ascent leads to the natural hot spring, which emerges from a rocky crevice near a riverbank. The spring is known for its soothing warm waters, perfect for relaxing after the trek.

Trek Duration and Level of Difficulty: The duration of the trek is about 4-6 hours for one way, depending on weather and fitness levels. The difficulty level is moderate and requires stamina due to high-altitude walking and steep intermediate sections.

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Best Time to Trek:

• Spring (March-May): Ideal for clear skies and blooming rhododendrons.
• Autumn (September-November): Best for stable weather and crisp mountain views.
• Winter (December-February): Heavy snowfall may make the route inaccessible.

Essential Tips for a Smooth Tarum Hot Spring Trek:

• Permit Required: As it’s in a protected region, you’ll need an Inner Line Permit (ILP). It is very close to the India-Tibet border making it all the necessary for a permit.
• Local Guide Recommended: Trails may not be well-marked, so a local guide helps ensure a smooth trek. The local guide are very well versed with the routes all around and also sensitive to the weather changes around. They might also be equipped with certain life skills that can act extremely helpful in sudden inclement weather conditions. The local guides will take you through the smoothest and easiest of paths to make your trekking expedition least difficult. They can also be a good source of local history and information.
• Carry Essentials: Warm clothing, trekking shoes, snacks, water and a first-aid kit are necessary for the trekking expedition. Since the location is remote hence you need to be all the more mindful to carry the essentials.
• Clothing essentials: Layered thermal wear needed as temperatures can drop below freezing. Waterproof jacket and windproof gear are also essential. Gloves, beanie and woollen socks for warmth are a must. High-ankle waterproof trekking boots for rocky and snowy terrain.
• Backpack: A sturdy backpack of capacity 30 to 40 litres with rain cover, trekking poles for steep ascents, sunglasses and sunscreen that are used for protection from UV rays that are strong at high altitudes.
• First-aid: Kit such as bandages, antiseptic and altitude sickness pills are to be kept handy.
• Power bank and flashlight need to be carried as electricity may not be available.
• Physical preparation is required for such high-altitude rigorous treks. Cardio and endurance should be stressed upon and preparation should be done with regular hikes, stair climbing or cycling.
• Acclimatization of the body is required and for that it is advised that you spend a night at Lachung or Chungthang before trekking to adjust to high altitude.
• Carrying Food and Water: Carry dry snacks like nuts, energy bars, and chocolates for quick energy is useful and needed. Water purification tablets or a filter bottle for drinking from mountain streams.
• Beware of Altitude Sickness: If you feel nausea, dizziness or headaches, descend immediately and rest.

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Some Other Well-Known Hot Springs of Sikkim

Yumthang Hot Spring, Lachen, Sikkim

This hot spring in Sikkim is close to the Yumthang village. You can reach this hot spring by crossing a pedestrian bridge on the river Lachung. The temperature of the spring hovers at around 50 degrees Celsius, and so even in winters, it has a perfect temperature to relax your strained nerves and tired bodies. The mineral content, of course, has great curative properties that can act like a balm to a lot of skin ailments, joints aches and pains, etc. It is a popular stop for travellers visiting Yumthang Valley. Surrounded by the snow-capped Himalayas and near the Teesta River, the hot spring offers a breathtaking experience.

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Reshi Hot Spring, Pelling, Sikkim

Reshi hot spring is located approximately 25 kms from Gyalshing on the banks of river Rangeet. It is an important religious place for the local people. There is a trekkers hut that facilitates the comfort and convenience and visitors stay back for more than 2 days to soak themselves in this remarkable hot spring and imbibe its benefits. While you are at an adventure spree to this beautiful hot spring, do not miss out on another very mysterious and fascinating destination the Lho Kah-do Sang Phu Cave. Lho Kah-do Sang Phu is a sacred cave of Sikkim that is interestingly known as the cave of the occult fairies. It is located close to the Reshi Hot Spring, where hundreds of people flock every year for a relaxing, medicated, healing hot spring bath. Reshi Hot Springs offers a complete experience as it holds a special stature on account of its location and religious significance apart from natural medicinal properties that its waters contain. Cure skin diseases and restore your vitality through a peaceful dip into its warm waters. The spring is located adjacent to a small monastery.

Yume Samdong Hot Spring

This elusive hot spring is located at the base of Donkia Pass, which is about 25 kms from Yum Thang. It can be reached after a 7 kms trek across the Lhabha valley. Yume Samdong Hot Spring, located near Zero Point in North Sikkim, India, is a remote yet rejuvenating destination known for its geothermal mineral waters. Nestled at a high altitude of approximately 4,500 meters or 14,764 feet, the hot spring remains warm even in freezing temperatures. The sulphur-rich water is believed to have therapeutic properties, offering relief from skin ailments and joint pain. Visitors often take a dip in the spring to experience its natural healing benefits while enjoying the breathtaking Himalayan scenery.

The journey to Yume Samdong Hot Spring is an adventure in itself, passing through snow-covered landscapes, rugged mountain roads, and pristine valleys. The surrounding area remains mostly untouched, providing a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Due to its proximity to the Indo-China border, special permits are required for access. The best time to visit is from March to May when the roads are navigable and the weather is pleasant. If you’re seeking an offbeat experience in Sikkim, this hot spring is a hidden gem worth exploring.