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Yumthang Valley

Yumthang Valley

hill station · Sikkim

Yumthang Valley, often called the Valley of Flowers of Sikkim, is an alpine meadow at around 3,500 metres in North Sikkim.

State
Sikkim
Type
Hill Station

Yumthang Valley, often called the Valley of Flowers of Sikkim, is an alpine meadow at around 3,500 metres in North Sikkim. In spring its slopes blaze with rhododendrons and primulas, and there are hot springs, the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, and Zero Point higher up.

When to go

Late February to June is prime, with rhododendron blooms peaking in spring; the valley can be snowbound in deep winter.

Why visit

The rhododendrons flower from late February into April and that is the season — outside it, the meadow is only a meadow. There is a hot spring across a footbridge. Zero Point beyond needs a further permit and puts you above four and a half thousand metres. Base yourself at Lachung.

Cultural notes

The valley lies within the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, protecting dozens of rhododendron species that colour the hills each spring.

How to reach

By Road: Yumthang is about 25 km beyond Lachung, the usual base, on a permit-based North Sikkim tour. By Air and Train: Bagdogra airport and New Jalpaiguri railway station near Siliguri are the nearest major gateways.

2 days in Yumthang Valley

Take the whole plan, or add any single stop.

Day 1

Day 1

Yumthang meadows along the Teesta headwaters

Yumthang meadows along the Teesta headwaters

Day 1

Hot spring across the bridge

Hot spring across the bridge

Day 1

Shingba rhododendrons (Mar–May)

Shingba rhododendrons (Mar–May)

Day 2

Day 2

Yume Samdong drive

Yume Samdong drive

Day 2

Snow play & high pastures

Snow play & high pastures

Day 2

Lachung monastery on return

Lachung monastery on return

Yumthang Valley guide & itineraries

Yumthang Valley is perfect for

natureadventurecouples

Shopping

Buy local produce and handicrafts in Lachung on the way; there are few shops in the valley itself.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Yumthang called the Valley of Flowers?
Its alpine meadows burst with rhododendrons and other blooms in spring, within the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary.
How do I reach Yumthang Valley?
On a permit-based North Sikkim tour, usually as a day trip about 25 km from Lachung.

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