Himalaya Rhododendron Trek

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Rhododendron trek is a simple one and it runs along the high Himalayas. There are good views all the way. You can camp by Devariya tal and some striking deciduous forests. This trail involves walking over Goecha la (5000 m). Pass though abundant tropical and alpine woods. The forests offer a great variety of orchids and rhododendrons and primuleas with the alpine terrain. Rhododendron is renowned as “Guras”. Guras are the charm of the Eastern Himalayan Mountains. You will be brought to a land of flowers and ever cheerful people. Experience the tranquil Himalayan Treks with all its beauties, cuddled in the lap of the howling Himalayan Kingdom. Barsay and Maenam in the south and west of the region are there for explorations. Move towards Yumthnag Valley, which is one of the finest places, where the pastures are wrapped with enchanting blooms of alpine flora. In early spring the rhododendron forests turn crimson. The views from the Chandrashilla top will remain in your memory for a very long time. The vales and mountain sides are the home of the unusual blue sheep and the elusive snow leopard. There are extraordinary view of many snowy peaks including Karpo-la, Dongkhya peak, Lhako peak and Sengkamo. Trek Grade is Moderate.

Major attractions:

Yumthang valley: Around 150 km from Gangtok, Yumthang valley is located at an altitude of about 11,800 ft. It is famous for its hot springs and draped with rhododendron shrubs and trees of varied species. Bounded by mountains, this heavenly valley offers exciting and scenic views from the mountain top.

Sherpa villages: When you pass through high mountain villages, there will be villages of Sherpa, populated by the Sherpa people. These villages adhere to the sides of steep mountain slopes.

How to get there:

By Air: Sikkim doesn’t have any airport, but the nearest Airport is Bagdogra (near Siliguri) in West Bengal, which lays only 125kms away from Gangtok the capital of Sikkim. Bagdogra linked with cities like Delhi and Kolkata.

By Road: Sikkim can be reached through northern areas of West Bengal. Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Siliguri are directly connected to Gangtok and other cities of the state. Avoid traveling during the monsoon seasons. Temporary problems may occur.

By Rail: The closest railways station is New Jalpaiguri (near Siliguri), which is linked with Gangtok. Gangtok has an extensive rail network with major railway stations in India, such as Kolkata, Delhi. It is also linked with the cities of Northeastern India like, Guwahati.

Places to visit nearby:

Lachung:

The village of Lachung reveals its unique culture and tradition. You get a chance to explore the monastery of Lachung and the local inhabitants. Take a glance of the religious functions and occasions. Lachung is hardly 25 km away from Yumthang.

Tsomgo Lake: The Lake in Sikkim, Tsomgo is a holy lake, worshipped by the Sikkimese. Temple of Shiva is built on the lake side. Alpine plantation and the flowers of Primula grow around this lake.

Lachen:

Located at an altitude of 2750 m, Lachen monastery is set on a top of the village. It dominates a broad view of the surrounding hills and country side.

Prerequisites/Facts/Suggestion:

• Carry boosters like juices, snacks and water bottle in your bag.

• Do not spoil camping sites and the places around while trekking.

• All the waste should be disposed off away from the camping site.

• Normal or average physical fitness is needed to climb.

• You can climb up to 4940 meters-the highest point.

Best time to visit: March to June & September to November

Things to carry:

• Walking stick
• Binoculars and camera
• Sleeping bag
• Hiking shoes
• Woolen clothes
• Electric torch
• Medical kit
• A good compass
• An extra pair of clothes