Yumthang Valley

The Yumthang Valley or Sikkim Valley of Flowers sanctuary, is a nature sanctuary with river, hot springs, yaks and grazing pasture on rolling meadows surrounded by the Himalayan mountains in the North Sikkim district of Sikkim state in India. It is at an elevation of 3,564 metres (11,693 ft) above msl at a distance of 150 kilometres (93 mi) from the state capital Gangtok.

It is popularly known as 'Valley of Flowers' and is home to the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, which has over twenty-four species of the rhododendron, the state flower. The flowering season is from late February and to mid June, when countless flowers bloom to carpet the valley in multicolored hues of rainbow. A tributary of the river Teesta flows past the valley and the town of Lachung, the nearest inhabited centre. Yumthang is closed between December and March due to heavy snowfall. There is also a hot spring in the valley.

A forest rest house is the only permanent residence in the valley. During the spring months, the area blooms with rhododendrons, primulas, poppies, iris and other flora. During the summer months, villagers take their cattle to these heights to graze (a practice known as yaylag pastoralism). In view of increasing number of tourists, there is possibility of environmental degradation in near future. Skiing is conducted in the valley.

Places to see at Yumthang Valley, North Sikkim
Yumthang Valley is truly a visual delight. The main tourist attraction of the valley is the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, which boasts over 24 species of Rhododendron flowers, blooming from April up to the end of May. The floral splendor of the valley is truly breathtaking. The rare Himalayan Yellow Poppy is also found in this valley. Shiny yellow buttercups and some species of Clematis vine is also noted. The very sight of pink Geraniums and Webb’s rose will honestly soothe your eyes.

Nearby attractions of Yumthang Valley, North Sikkim
If you travel six kms north from Yumthang, you will find a Shiv Mandir. A trek or drive to this spot is truly exhilarating and refreshing. If you explore further up and cover a distance of 16 km, you will discover Yumesamdong, which rests at a height of about 16,000 feet. This place offers a spectacular scenario, especially in the months of November-December and February-March. Another worth visiting place from the Yumthang Valley is the town of Lachung. This is the nearest inhabited place in the region. A trip to the Gurudongmar Lake from the valley is also rewarding.

Things to do in Yumthang Valley, North Sikkim
A nature stroll is a must during your visit at Yumthung valley. Explore the valley and savor the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape.

How to reach Yumthang Valley, North Sikkim
Yumthang valley is located at a distance of 150 km from the capital city of Gangtok. The nearest rail station from the valley is the Jalpaiguri station, which is excellently connected with Chennai, Howrah, New Delhi, Guwahati and many more. If you are planning to travel by air, the nearest airport from the valley is the Bagdogra Airport, located in the town of Siliguri. Now, the best way to reach Yumthang Valley is to reach the town of Gangtok from airport or rail station and then hire a jeep from Gangtok to reach the valley. Lachung, near the Yumthang Valley is an ideal venue to stay overnight and visit the valley in the next morning.

Best time to visit Yumthang Valley, North Sikkim
Due to heavy snowfall, Yumthang remains close from December to March. The best time to visit the valley is summer, when the climatic condition remains favorable for traveling. During summer (March to May), temperature remains mild, which is ideal for tourist activities.