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Also known as the Sikkim Valley of Flowers, this valley is north of Sikkim and is a visual treat for your eyes. You get to witness every type and colour of flower at Yumthang Valley in April. Here, you will see snow capped peaks on both sides of the mountains and the place blooming with rhododendrons during spring. From the river to a hot spring, yaks to grazing pasture, this flower valley is no less than a scene right out of a movie. Yumthang Valley is also home to the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, which is most famous for the presence of more than 24 species of the rhododendron flower.
Quick Details About Yumthang Valley In April
Elevation: 3,564 metres
Where To Eat: Yaksha Restro Bar, Orchard Multi-Cuisine Restaurant, Hill Queen, Thanggu Resort
Where To Stay: Yarlam Resort. Rufina Blue Pine, Yashshree Lachung, The Country House, Delight Royal, Etho Metho, Lachung Pride Hotels and Resort
Location
Photo: Rupesh Jaiswal / Unsplash
Yumthang Valley is 150 kilometres from its state capital, Gangtok. This rare and exotic location is most known for its Valley of the Flowers Sanctuary and is approximately 75 kilometres from its district headquarters, Mangan town. This nature sanctuary is surrounded by the Himalayan mountains.
How To Reach
While there is no direct way to reach Yumthang Valley, the most convenient way is to first reach Gangtok and then begin your travel to the destination.
By Road: The town of Lachung is around 113 kilometres away from Gangtok. You can book a private taxi or join a tour group to reach Yumthang Valley from Lachung by road.
By Air: Book a flight to Badogra. It will take you around 4 hours (124 kilometres) from Badogra Airport to reach Gangtok.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to Gangtok is New Jalpaiguri, West Bengal. Gangtok is 148 kilometres away from New Jalgaipuri and has easy access to buses and taxis to choose from.
Things To Do In And Around The Valley
For both beginners and adventure enthusiasts, you can never run out of things to do in Yumthang Valley all across the year. Here are the top things to do here:
1. Trekking
Photo: Holly Mandarich / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Two of the most popular treks of Yumthang Valley in April are the Khedum trek and the Lhaba-pass trek. The Khedum trek is 5 to 7 days long, depending on your speed to cover the distance, and can be covered either individually or with tour groups. The Lhaba-pass trek begins at Lachung itself and covers a distance of 14 kilometres. Both of these treks offer hidden valleys and gorgeous panoramic views as a backdrop for stunning photos.
2. River Rafting
Photo: Rune Haugseng / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Teesta River offers affordable and safe river rafting options. Its pristine waters are not only suitable for both kids and adults but also guarantee a smooth journey. You can also combine this adventure with camping, making it an overnight experience. You can enjoy the activity between 9 AM and 2 PM costing approximately ₹700 to ₹1200 per person.
3. Camping
Photo: Scott Goodwill / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The nature and climate of Yumthang Valley in Sikkim are such that it makes for an ideal camping experience. You can set up your tent amidst meadows and beside the river, enjoying the tall mountains and the trickling sound of water. Another reason why camping is most popular in Sikkim is because of its clear sky, where you can enjoy stargazing at night and also bonfire with your loved ones.
Places To Visit In And Around Yumthang Valley
Here is a list of 5 places that you can visit in Yumthang Valley to experience natural and scenic beauty like never before:
1. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary
Photo: Zhen H / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Established in 1984, this nature park is spread across 43 square kilometres and is renowned for trees like Aconites, Gentias, Saxifrages, and Potentillas, apart from the rhododendron specie. Highly rich in natural vegetation, the beauty of the sanctuary and its flowers increases significantly during snowfall. Even though the sanctuary is open 24 hours, the best time to visit it is between 8:00 AM and 12:00 PM due to the favourable weather conditions.
Timings: 24*7
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 hours
2. Yumthang Hot Springs
Photo: PerfectlyImperfect / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Commonly referred to as Yumthang Tsachu by locals, Yumthang Valley is 11,800 feet above sea level. With water temperatures at around 50 degrees Celsius, this hot spring is only about 50 minutes away from Lachung. The ideal time to visit Yumthang Hot Springs is early in the morning so that you can embark on your journey to Yumthang Valley after a dip in warm water. Borong, Gangyap, and Shagyong hot springs are other hot springs that can be visited on your way to Yumthang Valley in April.
Timings: 24*7
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
3. Lachung Monastery
Photo: Prof Ranga Sai / Wikimedia Commons
This Buddhist monastery was established in 1806 and is just about 20 kilometres away from the Lachung bus stand. Located across the Lachang Chu River, this place of worship is one of the oldest monasteries in Lachung. Apart from religious reasons, Lachung Monastery is known for its ancient architecture and a prayer wheel at its entrance. There is also a handloom and handicraft centre for its worshippers to take back souvenirs.
Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
4. Yumthang Valley Trek
Photo: Joginder Pathak / Wikimedia Commons
While Yumthang Valley in April is breathtaking, the treks open you up to the beauty and breathtaking views of the valley throughout the year. From streams and waterfalls to forests and meadows, there is nothing you do not get to experience in the Yumthang Valley Trek. While the trek lasts for 5 to 7 days, if you have a streak for adventure and have done treks before, you can complete it in just 48 hours. The trek has both easy and difficult routes; you can take your pick according to your experience.
Timings: 24*7
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 3 days
5. Zero Point
Photo: Saief Al Emon / Unsplash
Also known as Yumesamdong, Zero Point is an exhilarating experience with its stunning views of snow-capped mountains and waterfalls. This is the boundary point between Kashmir and Ladakh, and you can enjoy the snow here even in the summer. It will take you 6 hours to reach Zero Point from Lachung. A tip for you is to not walk too much at this tourist attraction, as the weather is such that it might take you time to adjust to the weather conditions.
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Jan Kahánek / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers
- To fully enjoy the surroundings of the Yumthang Valley, make sure that you plan an overnight stay.
- Most people prefer to stay in hotels, lodges, and resorts.
- There is no tower reception in the valley. Be sure to take all important calls and messages before you leave for the trek.
- Consider hiring a guide for improved insights and safety.
- Carry warm clothes irrespective of which month you visit Yumthang Valley.
- A permit is required to enter the valley, so make sure to secure it in advance.
Yumthang Valley in April is nothing short of a dream come true with rhododendrons blooming in every colour. With winter passing, spring is the best time to visit the valley for an unmatched experience and breathtaking views. If you want to plan a worry-free and safe trip to this heavenly valley in April, plan it with TripXL today. Visit the website to learn more.
Cover Photo: Saief Al Emon / Unsplash
