Nestled in North Sikkim, Yumthang Valley emerges as a heavenly paradise, adorned with natural wonders and picturesque beauty. This enchanting destination boasts a myriad of blooming flowers, majestic mountains, and a tranquil river, earning it the nickname "Yumthang Valley of flowers," akin to its counterpart in Uttarakhand. The breathtaking and magical ambiance of Yumthang Valley makes it an irresistible must-visit place for every traveler. Situated at an elevation of 2,750 meters in North Sikkim, Lachen emerges as a stunning town and stands among the top things to experience during your Yumthang Valley tour. Not only will you be treated to breathtaking views in every direction, but Lachen also serves as a source of inspiration to test your boundaries. It forms the base for exploring Chopta Valley and Gurudongmar Lake, offering a chance to delve into even more awe-inspiring natural wonders.
Apart from the scenic beauty and natural wonders, Yumthang Valley offers several other attractions for visitors to explore:
1. Yumthang Hot Springs: These natural hot springs are one of the main highlights of the valley. The hot springs are believed to have therapeutic properties and are a popular spot for relaxation.
2. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary: Yumthang Valley is also home to the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, which is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. During spring, the sanctuary is ablaze with vibrant rhododendron blooms.
3. Yumesamdong (Zero Point): Located about 23 km from Yumthang Valley, Yumesamdong, also known as Zero Point, offers stunning panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and is the last civilian outpost before the Indo-China border.
4. Lachung: A picturesque village located near Yumthang Valley, Lachung is known for its scenic beauty, apple orchards, and ancient monasteries.
5. Chopta Valley: Situated at a short distance from Lachen, Chopta Valley is another picturesque valley known for its pristine beauty and tranquil surroundings.
6. Gurudongmar Lake: Although not in Yumthang Valley itself, Gurudongmar Lake is a sacred and breathtaking lake situated at a high altitude in North Sikkim. It can be visited as a part of a day trip from Yumthang Valley.
7. Thangu Valley: Another beautiful valley close to Yumthang, Thangu is known for its vast meadows, grazing yaks, and mesmerizing views of the surrounding mountains.
8. Lachen Monastery: The Lachen Monastery is a serene place of worship that offers insight into the local culture and religious practices.
These attractions, combined with the unparalleled beauty of Yumthang Valley, make it a captivating destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
1. By Road: The most common way to reach Yumthang Valley is by road. You can start by reaching Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. From Gangtok, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to reach Lachung, which is the nearest town to Yumthang Valley. The journey from Gangtok to Lachung takes around 6-7 hours. Once you reach Lachung, you can hire a local vehicle to visit Yumthang Valley, which is about 25 km away and takes approximately 1-2 hours depending on road conditions.
2. By Air: The nearest airport to Yumthang Valley is Bagdogra Airport near Siliguri, West Bengal. From Bagdogra, you can take a taxi or shared vehicle to reach Gangtok, and then follow the road route mentioned above to reach Yumthang Valley.
3. By Train: The nearest major railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) in West Bengal. From NJP, you can travel to Gangtok and then proceed to Yumthang Valley as described above.
Permit: It's essential to obtain the necessary permits to visit Yumthang Valley, as it falls under a restricted area. Foreign tourists also require a Protected Area Permit (PAP) to visit North Sikkim.
Sikkim
Bagdogra Airport
Please note that due to weather conditions and road conditions, the route to Yumthang Valley may not always be accessible, especially during the winter months when heavy snowfall can block the roads. It's advisable to check with local authorities and plan your trip accordingly. Also, keep in mind that the terrain can be challenging, so it's better to be prepared for the journey with appropriate clothing, food, and other essentials. The best months to visit Yumthang Valley are generally from March to June and from September to November.
