Situated in North Sikkim, Yumthang Valley is a paradise on earth, which is full of natural wonders and picturesque beauty. It is home to a zillion flowers, spectacular mountains & a serene river, and is often also called as the ‘Yumthang Valley of flowers’ like the one located in Uttarakhand. Needless to say, its breathtaking and magical surroundings make it a must-visit place for every traveler. But since when to go, how to reach, and where to stay are some concerns that you might have while thinking about your Yumthang Valley tour, we thought of helping you plan it. Here’s a handy guide, which will let you know everything from when to visit Yumthang to the things to do there. So, take a look, pick your dates, and then start packing!
Table Of Content
- Best Things to do in Yumthang Valley
- Food in Yumthang Valley
- Where to Stay in Yumthang Valley
- Best Time to Visit Yumthang Valley
- How to Reach Yumthang Valley
- Tips for Visiting Yumthang Valley
- Frequently Asked Questions about Yumthang Valley
Best Things to do in Yumthang Valley
Wish to know the best experiences of this gorgeous valley? From refreshing getaways to escape amid nature, there are numerous interesting things to do in Yumthang Valley. Here are the famous experiences you must not miss out on while staying at this region:
1. Visit the Beautiful Town of Lachen
Located at a height of 2,750 metres in North Sikkim, Lachen is a gorgeous town and visiting it is certainly one of the top things to do during your Yumthang Valley tour. You wouldn’t just get to witness the breathtaking views all around, but also an inspiration to push your limits as this place also forms the base for Chopta Valley and Gurudongmar Lake.
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2. Explore the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary
The famous Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is located in the Yumthang valley of flowers and is an incredible tourist attraction to visit in May. You can witness around forty species of rhododendron trees and plants here, and treat the nature admirer within. Just one thing, do not forget to take your camera along!
3. Spend Time near the Yumthang Chu
Being a popular sight and a famous attraction, Yumthang Chu is a river you would come across on your way in the valley. The crystal clear water and the surreal sound of its flow would soothe your mind and soul so much that you wouldn’t feel like leaving this place. Be it just relaxing for a while or capturing some beautiful pictures, visiting this place is a top thing to do in Yumthang valley Sikkim.
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4. Visit the Zero Point
While not situated in Yumthang, but 23 km away from it at an altitude of 15,000 feet is a place called Zero Point. Since this is where the road ends and the views of three rivers meeting and snow-clad mountains can be witnessed, driving till this point is one of the best things to do in Sikkim. All you would get to see here is snow and enjoy a bowl of Maggi, but believe it wouldn’t be disappointing at all. The Zero point in Yumthang Valley Sikkim is a must visit and should not be missed.
Food in Yumthang Valley
Situated at an altitude of 3,564 metres, this place doesn’t offer a great variety of food, so don’t be too disappointed. But, the traditional Himalayan cuisines like rice and momos is something that is an everyday delicacy and you may find very prominent all across Sikkim. Some of the limited food options that the places in Yumthang valley, Sikkim or around have are dal, fish, and rice.
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Where to Stay in Yumthang Valley
Experiencing cold weather throughout the year and facing government restrictions for movement of tourists since the area borders the Chinese Tibet, there aren’t any proper Yumthang Valley hotels where you could stay. However, there is a permanent forest rest house in the valley where you can stay overnight only if permitted and accessible. So, the only viable option of accommodation is the hotels or resorts in Lachung, which is only an hour’s drive away from the valley.
1. Yarlam Resort
While not as popular as the Yumthang Valley Resort (which is now closed), this place is equally a luxury worth experiencing in the mountains. Situated amidst the beauty of nature, it offers a cozy stay and a homelike ambience.
Price: INR 6,500 and above
TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5
Location: Near Army Camp, Lachung, Sikkim
Reviews
2. Apple Valley Inn
Nestled in Lachung, this place is surrounded with apple in the orchards and mesmerizing views. It offers secluded and serene accommodation, and the utmost convenience with all the popular attractions in its proximity.
Price: INR 5,000 and above
TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5
Location: Faka, Lachung, Sikkim
Reviews
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Best Time to Visit Yumthang Valley
Located 140 km north of Gangtok, this place is a gorgeous attraction, which demands a complete tour of its own. And since it is surrounded by mountains and flowing rivers, any time during the year is perfect for visiting it. However, if you are looking for the best time to visit Yumthang for witnessing the blooming beauties, then make sure you plan your trip between late February to mid June. But, if you wish to capture a clear sky and snow-capped mountains, then the months from September to December would be ideal. Though, if you are a culture vulture and love exploring places, then the best time to visit Yumthang Valley for you would be between February to March when the Losar Festival takes place. From witnessing the locals in their traditional attires to watching cultural shows, there’s a lot you of unique things that you can do there.
How to Reach Yumthang Valley
There isn’t any direct way of reaching Yumthang, and you will have to first reach Gangtok, and take the permission for visiting the valley before you head out for a surreal tour.
By Air: If you wish to travel by air, Gangtok Airport is the nearest airport to Lachung. From there you can take a taxi or bus to reach Lachung, and then further use the other modes of transport to get to the Yumthang Valley.
By Rail: Lachung railway station is near to the city in case you’re planning to have a train journey. Upon reaching the station, you can take any of the public transports and make your way to Lachung before leaving for Yumthang.
By Road: If you love road trips, then this one is a moment to rejoice since Lachung can be easily reached from Gangtok via road. You can hire a taxi, take a bus, or drive a jeep and make your way through.
Tips for Visiting Yumthang Valley
- Make sure you plan your trip during the best time to visit Yumthang so that you have the most impeccable experience possible.
- Since the valley is situated close to the China border, the whole area is under the control of the army, and a Protected Area Permit is required for visiting it as a tourist. So, don’t forget to get it from the Gangtok Tourism Office, District Administrative Center at Mangan or at Chungthang Sub-Divisional Magistrate’s Office while planning your tour. Or you can also ask your tour planner to arrange it for you.
- Irrespective of the season in which you are visiting Yumthang, make sure you carry warm clothes as the weather can get really cold up there.
- Don’t forget to carry your essential toiletries and medicines, especially the one for high altitude sickness.
- Carry enough cash with you as there are no ATMs in Yumthang.
- Prefer staying for a night at Lachung and begin your journey to Yumthang only early in the morning, as the evening gets darker and foggier quite early around 5:30 PM there.
- Make sure your shoes are sturdy enough.
- If you’re not too comfortable with the food in the hills, you can carry your own munchies or find a decent restaurant in Sikkim.
Sikkim is a gorgeous holiday destination and the Yumthang Valley proves that well. With so much to see and do, we are sure you don’t want to miss out this magical experience from your bucket list. So, just pick a date and plan your Sikkim holiday with TravelTriangle for having a hassle-free and an impeccable trip experience.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Yumthang Valley
Can we stop over in Lachung for the night?
If you plan to stop over at Lachung for the night before traveling to Yumthang, you can find yourself a number of stunning resorts in Lachung such as Yarlam Resort, Fortuna Resort, Summit Alpine Resort and many others which will provide you cozy and comfortable rooms.
What are the things to do in Lachung?
Lachung is a great place to stay where you can find a number of fun things to do in Lachung such as trekking to Yumthang Valley, visit to Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, visit to Lachung Monastery, excursion to Zero Point, trip to Gurudongmar Lake, and s much more.
What is the altitude of Yumthang?
Yumthang is located at an altitude of 3,564 meters above sea level and is popular as the ‘Valley of Flowers’.
Why is Yumesamdong called zero point?
Yumesamdong, Sikkim is the last motorable point that you can reach and hence is called the zero-point. Visitors beyond this point are not permitted t due to its proximity to the Chinese border.
Can we travel to Yumthang valley at night?
Yes, you can travel from Lachung to Yumthang even at night. But make sure you are extra cautious at the curves.
What makes the Yumthang Valley special?
Yumthang is called the ‘Valley of Flowers’ because of the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary which is home to more than 250 species of beautiful flowers which usually blooms during February and June.
Which is the best time to visit Yumthang Valley?
The best time to visit Yumthang Valley is February to mid-June, as the weather remains the best during this time. Kindly note that the Yumthang valley is quite close to the Indo-Chinese border, you may need a permit to reach the place. You can ask your agent to arrange for the permit before leaving for the place.
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A writer at heart with the soul of a traveler is pretty much who she is. Besides, she also loves treating her taste buds to different cuisines, binge-watching almost all sorts of series and movies, and indulging in new experiences every now and then. Also, languages and cultures fascinate her to a great extent, which is why currently she is brushing up her Spanish.
