Yumthang
In the northern part of the state of Sikkim, the renowned Yumthang Valley is located. The valley is set at a distance of 140 Kms from the northern direction of Gangtok. One can visit the Yumthang Valley from Lachung. The valley is covered with blankets of vibrant and beautiful flowers. The altitude of the place is 11800 feet. This is the place, which witnesses the finishing of the tree line.
A dreamlike and unreal aura is created by the presence of the thickets of rhododendron and primula, which envelops the entire valley. The peaks named Pauhunri and Shundu Tsenpa can be observed from this place. Also present in the valley are numerous hot springs, a warm change in the otherwise chilling weather. Extraordinary remedial characteristics are supposed to be contained in these sulphur rich hot springs.
The time period between the end of February and the middle of June, is the best time to make a trip to this place. During this time phase, the valley gets enveloped in thick blankets of beautiful and vibrant flowers. Nevertheless, if one wants to take pleasure in the clear and magnificent sight of the mountains with the tops covered in snow, then the time between the months of September and December is the perfect time.
If one wishes to stay the night in Yumthang Valley, then that is not possible. One can get comfortable and nice accomodatino facilities in Lachung. During the last couple of years, this location has been exposed to tourism; however hiking activities are not permitted.
During ones road journey to Gangtok from Yumthang, a magnificent view of the Teesta River can be obtained. The road also goes over the fabulous Rang Rang, which is a suspension bridge. Chungthang is the last of the main towns of the region. From Chungthang, it takes an hour to drive to Lachung.
Thickets of rhododendrons dot the entire route that goes from Lachung and Yumthang. The journey by the road is breathtakingly beautiful. The vibrant blooming flowers impart the name ‘valley of flowers’ to this place. Since, the Indo-China border is located quite close-by, the common tourists were not permitted to this region. However, people visit Yumthang as an inclusion in a big tourist party.
HOW TO REACH YAMTHANG VALLEY
By road: Numerous taxis and jeeps are available for the people, who want to come via road.
By rail: If one wants to go via rail, then the New Jalpaiguri Station in Siliguri is the best option.
By air: The air terminal located in the town of Siliguri is again the best option.
