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Yumthang Valley is a picturesque location that abounds in alpine flora and fauna and is also referred to as the Sikkim Valley of Flowers. At a distance of 150 km from Gangtok, Yumthang Valley is known for its unique burst of bloom during spring, when rhododendrons, poppies and iris flowers adorn the valley. Yet the Autumn charm of the Yumthang valley in October makes it an enchanting oasis of diverse vegetation. The valley is connected by road to most other towns in Sikkim and every year, more and more tourists look forward to visiting.
Yumthang Valley Location
Photo: PRATAP CHAKMA / Wikimedia Commons
It is located in the Mangan district of Sikkim, at a distance of 75 km from the Mangan town. This district is in Northern Sikkim. It is an ecosystem full of green pastures, hot springs, verdant trails and a number of creatures unique to the Himalayan habitat.
Suggested Read: The Best Adventure Sports In Sikkim To Try On Your Next Vacation
How To Reach Yumthang Valley
Photo: Ajay kumar / Wikimedia Commons
The nearest railway station to the valley is New Jalpaiguri Station. Both personal and shared cabs, jeeps and cars can be booked from there. Same is easily available from the Bagdogra Airport. Tourists can also take a bus from the Tenzing Norgay Bus Terminus in Siliguri.
Places To Visit Near Yumthang Valley
1. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary
Photo: Dibyendu Ash / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This sanctuary houses plants in the range of around forty different rhododendron species. During Monsoon, the plants are in full bloom and visitors can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The attractive colours of the plants attract birds across several species and it is a delight to hear them singing during sunrise. The rhododendrons grow on very tall shrubs and present you with a colourful landscape of flora and fauna unique to Yumthang.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: ₹ 300 per person
Suggested Read: Cascading Waterfalls In Sikkim That Are Not To Be Missed
2. Zero Point
Photo: Indrajit Das / Wikimedia Commons
This place is at a distance of 23 km from Yumthang and is perfect for snow lovers during winter. At an altitude of 15,000m, you can only expect a view that you have never experienced before. This place is locally referred to as Yume Samdong and is at the confluence of three rivers. Zero point does not have any greenery, and is mostly snow-clad, with the exception of a few patches when the snow recedes.
Timings: 7 AM to 1 PM
Entry Fee: ₹3500
3. Gurudongmar Lake
Photo: Vickeylepcha / Wikimedia Commons
At an altitude of 5430m, this lake is one of the highest in the world. It is located in the district of Mangan in Sikkim and is revered as sacred by Sikhs and Buddhists. It is believed to have been founded by Guru Padmasambhava who was also the founder of Tibetan Buddhism. The Sikhs believe that the lake has been blessed by Guru Nanak. The Sarv Dharm Sthal near the lake presents the confluence of varied religious faiths. The source of this lake is the Gurudongmar glacier.
Timings: Open 24 hours.
Entry Fee: None
Suggested Read: Go Trekking In Sikkim For A Soulful And Exhilarating Scenic Journey
4. Yumthang Hot Springs
Photo: emosaidis / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The varied geographical tapestry of the Yumthang Valley also includes hot springs. The Ralong Hot Spring, Gangyap Hot Spring and the Reshi Hot Spring are some of the popular hot springs in the Yumthang Valley. It is believed that these hot springs have high medicinal value. It is also widely believed that the waters of these springs heal sicknesses. The water temperature in hot springs is no less than 50°C.
Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM
Entry Fee: None
5. Lachung Monastery
Photo: Prof Ranga Sai / Wikimedia Commons
It is located in the Mangan district, and is a gompa of Nyingma Buddhists. The word ‘Lachung’ directly translates to ‘small mountain.’ It is the base of the Green Lake trek and is symbolic of both agricultural and religious significance. The monastery has a prayer wheel to welcome tourists at the entrance and is home to a large idol of Guru Padmasambhava. There is a handicraft centre within the monastery complex, which encourages tourists to buy crafts made by local artisans of Sikkim.
Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM.
Entry Fee: None
Suggested Read: Go Camping In Sikkim At These Places To Witness The Alluring Beauty of Sikkim
Where To Stay
Photo: bottlein / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Some of the most beautiful properties where tourists can put up in the Yumthang Valley are Apple Valley Inn, which has its private orchard, located atop a cliff and the Summit Alpine Resort. Forest rest houses are also popular places to stay. The government rest houses are another good place to stay – these are rest houses that have been provided for tourists by the State government for resting on their way trekking in Yumthang valley.
Where To Eat
Photo: sendtokaustav / Pixabay
Taste of Tibet in Lachung is widely known for serving authentic Himalayan momos and Thukpa. You will find many dhabas along the trekking route in Yumthang where they serve delicious local cuisines of the mountain regions. Some options are Yumthang Cafe and Restro, Orchid Multi- cuisine restaurant, and Cafe Lachung. If you want to try Sikkimese cuisine, The Rolling Jhopri is the best option.
Suggested Read: Top Offbeat Places In Sikkim For Your Next Surreal Trip
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: soumyajit pramanick / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
The average cost of a trip to Yumthang Valley can cost around ₹36,000. This may vary according to the preferences of accommodation and transport.
Tips For travellers:
- You might have to obtain a special permit to visit certain protected areas. This can be requested at the Gangtok Tourism Office.
- Pack warm woollen clothes because Yumthang experiences quite low temperatures throughout the year.
- Start travelling to Yumthang by road earlier in the day, because the fog may not provide a clear view for the driver after or during sunset.
- Wear comfortable shoes for treks on higher altitudes.
Yumthang Valley is nestled amidst the mystical Himalayas. The flora and fauna it houses, attracts tourists from all over the country. If you are looking for an adventure on the mountains, or looking forward to devouring Tibetan cuisine with a view of snow-capped peaks in front, then Yumthang Valley in October is the perfect place for you. To efficiently plan your trip to Yumthang Valley, make your bookings through TripXL.
Cover Photo: Ajay kumar / Wikimedia Commons
