Yumthang

Lachung is nearly 120 kilometers from Gangtok. One has to stay overnight at Lachung to visit Yumthang otherwise the valley can also be visited staying at Mangan. The distance is nearly 144 kilometers from Gangtok and is situated at an altitude of nearly 12000 feet. It is restricted area and special permits are required to visit the region. It is nearly 25 kilometers from Lachung is Yumthang. It is rightfully called the Valley of Flowers as in Flowering season there blossoms vivid colors of variety of Rhododendrons, chimals and blue poppies. It is situated in a valley and is near the tree line, the surrounding mountain seems to touch the heavens. The journey from Lachung to Yumthang has a very picturesque landscape and is lined with Rhododendrons. There are nearly over 25 varieties of Rhododendrons and various Orchids which bloom in different colours during spring and autumn. February to April is nice after which the Ice start melting. May last week till October first week is monsoon and tourist are advised not to visit due to frequent landslides. One can find the flower bed in spring and autumn and snow bed in the winter. Yumthang valley offer mesmerizing scene with yaks grazing on valley / meadows against a backdrop of ice peaks. The breathtaking views of Lachen Chhu flowing through the valley are a part of a beauty one can enjoy. There is a hot water spring as usual with the medicinal properties due to its high sulphur content. North Sikkim has immense potential of nature that includes approx 500 waterfalls, beautiful valleys, glaciers, hot spring, snowcapped Himalayan peaks & various types of rhododendrons & orchids. Some of the places of interest in North Sikkim are Yumthang Valley, Lachung Monastery, Lachen Monastery, Gurudongmar Lake, Chopta Valley, Thangu, Zero Point, Green Lake, Katao, Yumesamdong, etc.

To See

• Lachen Monastery
• Lachung Monastery
• Yumthang
• Yumesamdong or Zero Point
• Hot Water Spring
• Katao
• Gurudongmar Lake
• Thangu (Trekkers)
• Chopta Valley
• Phodong Monastery / Seven sister’s falls
• Mangan /Singhik

To Reach

By Air – The nearest airport is Bagdogra Airport (IXB). Chopper service is available for Gangtok from Bagdogra otherwise one has to drive to Gangtok nearly 130 kilometers via national highway 31 A. From Gangtok one has to drive to Lachen to visit this destination. Gangtok to Lachung or Lachen is 5 - 6 hours drive and requires Inner Line Permit (ILP).

By Rail – The nearest major railway Station is New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP). From New Jalpaiguri Railway Station one has to drive to Gangtok nearly 130 kilometers. Gangtok to Lachung or Lachen is 5 - 6 hours drive and requires Inner Line Permit (ILP).

By Road – Roads till Gangtok is national highway 31 A. Guest has to drive to Gangtok nearly 130 kilometers from Siliguri. From Gangtok vehicle with army permit has to be booked for visiting Lachen or Lachung. From Lachung one can visit Yumthang nearly 25 kilometers. Roads are rough from Gangtok.