Yumthang

Tucked well inside north Sikkim, this little known Himalayan valley breaks into a profusion of alpine flowers like rhododendrons, primulas etc. during April and May. You will need special permission from Gangtok and have to make travel arrangements through an approved agency.

For the greater part of the year, the valley lies hidden by snow. It is also a nice experience to visit Yumthang during February/March, when the place is full of snow and during October/November when the towering snowpeaks dazzle against the clear, blue sky. Approached through the village of Lachung, scenic beauty is the only attraction.

BASICS

Airport: Bagdogra; from here you have to travel by road till Gangtok, from where you'll have to hire a jeep to reach Lachung.
Rail: New Jalpaiguri; it has onward connections to Calcutta, Guwahati etc. From New Jalpaiguri, one has to travel by road.
Road: Major distances:
Gangtok-- 121 kilometre from Lachung
Yumthang-- 24 kilometres from Lachung
From Gangtok, one can travel by bus till Singhik (73 kilometres) without any permission. There are budget hotels at Phodang and Mangan, on the way.

Best time: There are three distinct seasons and it depends on your choice.
April/May: spring: the flowering seasons
October/November: autumn: a clear view of snow peaks
February/March: winter-end: snowfall.

Accommodation: There are about five to six hotels. All provisions including fuel have to be carried from Gangtok. Since the place can be quite cold, check with your travel agent if there are room heating arrangements at their lodge.

Local transport: not available; have to make your own arrangements from Gangtok.

Contact: Sikkim Tourism
M G Road, Gangtok
Tel: (03592) 22064
Note: Foreigners require special permits from India government to enter Sikkim. For Yumthang, they have to go in groups of four and through an authorised agent only.