Yumthang Valley

Yumthang Valley, surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks covered with snow and picturesque views of lush green valleys all around is alluring and awe-inspiring. Known as 'Switzerland Of The East', thousands of tourists come across to this valley every year.

The Valley is a grazing pasture with Lachung river cutting across it is situated in the North Sikkim district of Sikkim State. Situated at an elevation of 3,564 metres (11,800) it is 150 km away from the state capital Gangtok.

Widely known as 'Valley of Flowers 'it is home to the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary. The main attraction of Yumthang Vallery is the flower Rhododendron. The State Flower of Sikkim, it is a red fire ball type of flower bunches which covering the plant and the whole valley. It is said that there are 23 different types of Rhododendrons in various shades and hues that bloom in the spring season. May to July period is when the rhododendrons and primulas are in full floom. Besides this, one can see the carpet of pink to purple little flowers.

Visit Yumthang only in the morning when the sun falls on the snowy western range.

Eventhough, March-April is great for snow views, the entire place will be snow bound and the roads get blocked due to snow blockades.

Avoid the mid-June-to-September rainy season. The Road from gangtok to lachung will dangerous and any time it may blocked by landslide.

Travel tips : Staying at Yumtang is not a good option. Better stay at the nearest village Lachung (Bhutia village) which offers snacks, tea & coffee and light food. Taste the Chinese momo and basic food dal, rice sabji which are very tasty. Another great option is to stay in Gangtok and arrange for a 2 day trip to Yumthang.

Carry heavy woolen clothes and cap. Since the vallery located at high altitude in North Sikkim altitude sickness may rise anytime. People with heart problems should carry supplementary oxygen. There is places where tourists can hire oxygen cylinder and emergency medical treatment.

Near Yumthang

Zero Point or Yumesamdong

A serene and solitary spot - Zero Point or Yumesamdong which is just 3 kms from yumthang is a worth visit. The place is well known for its hot springs. There are about 14 sulpher hot springs around Yumesamdong. It is very close to the Chinese border. It is a beautiful place to visit during winter or spring.

Katao

Situated at 14,000 ft above sea level it is just 2kms journey from Lachung village . It is a frozen glacier. Since it is a restricted territory because of its boarder with Tibet. The mesmerizing beauty of the place lure a number of tourist to Katao.