Yumthang Valley Travel Guide

The Yumthang Valley, also popularly known as the Valley of Flowers, is situated in the Northern part of Sikkim in the Mangan district (previously known as North District). The Valley is situated 140 kilometres north of Gangtok. Lachung provides the base for the exploration of Yumthang. Situated at an altitude of 12,100 ft ( 3700 metres), Yumthang is a unique place valley attracting tourists from across the world.

Rhododendron and primula bloom covering the whole area in a surreal shade. It also offers a view of a stunning array of peaks. Several hot springs are scattered in the valley providing an unexpected opportunity to feel the warmth of the water even in freezing temperatures. Rich in sulphur these springs are believed to have miraculous healing power.

The best time to visit

The best time to visit Yumthang Valley in Sikkim is from late February to mid-June and September to November. During these periods, the valley showcases its natural beauty at its peak. Spring (February to April) is particularly stunning as the valley is blanketed with vibrant rhododendron blooms. From May to June, the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Autumn (September to November) offers clear skies and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Avoid the monsoon season (July to August) due to heavy rainfall and landslides. Winter (December to January) is cold but a visit to Yumthang is mostly possible unless there is heavy snowfall which may cause the road to close.

Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang Valley

Gurudongmar Lake is another prominent tourist attraction in North Sikkim. The road from Gangtok to Chungthang is shared for both destinations. At Chungthang, the road bifurcates: the left road leads to Lachen and then to Gurudongmar Lake, while the right road goes to Lachung and then to Yumthang Valley.

For those planning to visit both Gurudongmar Lake and Yumthang Valley, it is advisable to consult our travel experts. Typically, we recommend visiting Gurudongmar Lake first before heading to Yumthang Valley. You can explore our tour packages for detailed information.

In October 2023, a significant lake burst occurred in the high altitudes around Gurudongmar Lake, causing severe damage to the road. Therefore, it's essential to check the latest road conditions with our travel experts before planning your trip to the Gurudongmar Lake area.

Top Attractions around

Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary

The Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, located near the Yumthang Valley area, is a botanical marvel, renowned for its stunning collection of rhododendrons. Spanning over 43 square kilometres, the sanctuary sits at an altitude ranging from 3,048 to 4,575 meters, providing a unique habitat for diverse flora and fauna. The sanctuary is home to over 40 species of rhododendrons, which bloom spectacularly from April to July, painting the landscape in vivid shades of red, pink, and purple.

Apart from rhododendrons, the sanctuary boasts a rich variety of alpine and sub-alpine plants, making it a paradise for botanists and nature lovers. The meandering Lachung River enhances its scenic beauty, creating a serene atmosphere. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot animals such as musk deer, Himalayan tahr, and red pandas. Accessible via the picturesque Lachung village, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary offers an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in nature's splendour

Lachung River

The Lachung River originates from the Tso Lhamo Lake. The river flows through the picturesque Yumthang and Lachung Valley. The river meanders through lush forests, alpine meadows, and quaint villages, creating a serene and picturesque landscape that attracts numerous visitors.

The river converges with the Lachen River at Chungthang, forming the Teesta River, one of the major rivers of the Sikkim Darjeeling region. This is the reason Tso Lhamo Lake is also considered the origin of the Teesta River.

Yumesamdong

Yumesamdong is a stunning destination renowned for its breathtaking landscapes. Situated at an altitude of approximately 12,800 feet (3900 meters), it is one of the highest points accessible to tourists in the region. Located about 5 kilometres from Yumthang Valley, Yumesamdong offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and vast, open valleys, creating a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Hot Springs of Yumthang Valley

The Hot Springs of Yumthang Valley offer a unique and rejuvenating experience amidst the valley's breathtaking natural beauty. Nestled at an altitude of about 3,500 meters (11,500 feet), these natural thermal springs are renowned for their therapeutic properties, thanks to their mineral-rich waters.

The hot springs are situated near the Yumthang River and are surrounded by stunning alpine scenery, including snow-capped peaks and lush rhododendron forests.

Lachung Monastery

Lachung Monastery is situated in the Lachung village where you are most likely to spend your night. Hence if you have a few hours in hand, feel free to walk to the monastery and enjoy the bliss. Founded in the 19th century, the monastery is an important centre for the Nyingma sect of Tibetan Buddhism.

Getting There

NJP Railway Station and Bagdogra Airport are the primary arrivals and departure points for Sikkim. While Pakyong Airport near Gangtok has limited connectivity to major cities, Yumthang Valley is not directly accessible from these locations. Travellers must spend at least one night in Gangtok both when going to and returning from Yumthang, as special area permits for tourists and vehicles are issued only in Gangtok.

There is no tourist accommodation in Yumthang Valley, so visitors typically travel from Gangtok to Lachung and then visit Yumthang and nearby attractions as part of a day trip from Lachung. The route from Gangtok to Yumthang follows the Teesta River and crosses the scenic Rang Rang bridge, with Chungthang being the last major town, located 94 km from Gangtok. From Chungthang, Lachung is 21 km away, making the total distance from Gangtok to Lachung approximately 115 km, a 5 to 6-hour drive depending on road conditions.

The picturesque road between Lachung and Yumthang is lined with blooming rhododendrons in April and May, earning it the name "Valley of Flowers." Due to its proximity to the Chinese border, travel to Lachung and Yumthang requires an Inner Line Permit, and public transport to North Sikkim is limited. Self-planned tours to North Sikkim can be challenging due to these constraints and regulations.

HUMRO TOURS arranges travel packages to the region, including transport, accommodation, sightseeing, and meals. Package tours typically last one or two nights, starting and ending in Gangtok. For more information, contact our support team at the number provided at the top of this page.

Where to Stay

There is no accommodation available in the valley. Visitors stay at Lachung from where the valley is about an hour’s drive. Several hotels and resorts have come up in Lachung. There is a shortage of restaurants at Lachung so most hotels provide service on a full board basis, including both accommodation and food in their package. For more information about your accommodation options, visit our Lachung page.

Permits Required

To visit Yumthang Valley, several permits are required due to its proximity to the China border.

Inner Line Permit (ILP): Indian nationals need an ILP to visit Yumthang Valley. This permit can be obtained from the Home Department in Gangtok or the Sikkim Tourist Office.

Protected Area Permit (PAP): Foreign nationals require a PAP to visit Yumthang Valley. This permit is issued by the Sikkim Tourism Office in Gangtok.

Travel Permit for Vehicles: Vehicles travelling to Yumthang Valley also need a special permit. Under normal circumstances, only Sikkim-registered vehicles are allowed this permit, though exceptions are made as per need. 

At HUMRO TOURS, we take the responsibility of getting all your permits done in advance so that you can have a hassle-free tour. Contact our team for further details.

Packing Essentials

When preparing for a trip to Yumthang Valley, it's essential to pack thoughtfully due to the region's high altitude and variable weather conditions. Do not forget to pack warm clothing, even if it is very hot in the plains where you might be packing your luggage, Yumthang can be very cold. It is not unusual to have snowfall in Yumthang Valley even during the summer months of April and May. Hence prepare yourself accordingly. Remember also to carry an umbrella and rain protection as rain is common here irrespective of the time of year. Among other things sun protection especially UV protection is highly recommended as at this high altitude impact of UV rays is much stronger.

Local Customs and Etiquette

When visiting North Sikkim, it’s important to be mindful of local customs and etiquette to show respect for the region’s cultural and spiritual traditions.

The local people of Lachung are known as Lachungpa and their village head is known as Pipan. They are friendly people who would often go out of their way to help tourists. But they are also fiercely independent. Even the control of normal government machinery is limited on the local people. So we recommend avoiding getting into conflict or arguments with the locals. The region’s natural beauty is cherished, so avoid littering and follow designated paths to protect the environment. Sikkim is ahead of many other places about their concern for nature. Smoking in public is not welcome, and littering of garbage is often punished.

Map of Yumthang Valley

FAQs

When is the best time to visit Yumthang?

Mid-February to mid-June is the summer season when the largest number of tourists visit Yumthang. September to November is the post-monsoon festival season in India attracting many tourists here. February to April is when the flowers bloom in the valley. Monsoon months are best avoided as landslides and road closures are common. Winter months of January and February are freezing but a visit is possible provided there is no major snowfall and road blockage due to the same.

Can I go directly to Yumthang Valley?

No, Yumthang Valley cannot be accessed directly upon arrival at Bagdogra Airport or NJP Railway Station. Travelers and their vehicles require special permits, which can only be obtained in Gangtok. Therefore, a one-night stay in Gangtok is necessary.

Direct travel is also impractical, as the journey from Bagdogra or NJP to Yumthang via Gangtok exceeds 10 10-hour drive. Additionally, heading straight to high-altitude destinations from the plains can lead to altitude sickness. It is advisable to spend a couple of nights at lower altitudes to acclimatize your body before venturing into high-altitude areas like Yumthang Valley.