North Sikkim



My dream was to go to Gurudongmar lake. Finally got into F5escapes.com which had the trip. Immediately booked it. The trip was for 10 days (19th oct 2018 to 28th Oct, 2018) 

This was my First trip with F5escapes.com and from then, I have been travelling only with them. The best ladies travel company. 

About the Trip...
We reached Bagdogra Airport and proceeded to Gangtok. This was our base for the trip the next day. On the way we saw the Changu lake. Checked– in the homestay and relaxed. It was very cozy and friendly homestay. Went to a nearby Monastary Do Chorten. 

Later went on the ropeway and had a spectacular view of Gangtok. Spent the evening shopping at the bustling MG Road area and trying out some famous cafes. Never miss to have the local momos with spicyy red chilly chutney. Its Yumm!! Overnight at homestay. 

Next day, after breakfast, we proceeded to the picturesque town of Lachen which is very close to the Indo-Tibetan border. Enroute we will visit the Phodong Monastery which was built in 18th Century.

We started very early to visit the Gurudongmar Lake. At 17,000 ft, this lake is considered sacred and is one of the highest lakes in the world and in India. The snow-clad mountains surrounding the lake and the scenic beauty of this area will take your breath away. The way was very beautiful. When we reached the Lake, we could feel the oxygen was less and few of them felt uncomfortable. So we decided to leave early. Just took a small walk around the place. Clicked the pics with riders and the lake. Then we drove back to Lachen and after lunch on the way, started our journey to Lachung.

Yumthang Valley and Zero point:
The picturesque beauty of the North Sikkim is what compels tourist from all over the world visit here again and again. If you are looking for an escape from the city life and want to spend few days on the mesmerizing landscape in the vicinity of the Himalayan mountain range, then a tour to Lachung, Yumthang Valley and Zero point in Sikkim is a Must.

The road journey from Gangtok to Zero Point is very beautiful. Pollution!! Ohh this terminology does not exist in the dictionary of North Sikkim. I am out of words for the magical landscape you witness during this entire road trip. The weather in the whole journey is almost unpredictable. You never know when snow can welcome you and we were lucky to enjoy the snow. Numerous waterfalls add on to the charm of the trip.

Also known as Yumesamdong, Zero point Sikkim stands at an altitude of 15,855 feet above mean sea level (23 km’s from Yumthang Valley) and is the last outpost of civilization. The road ends here!!! The drive from Yumthang Valley to Zero Point is through the curving mountainous amidst the rugged piece of land of geographic region and could be a lifetime experience.

Zero Point Sikkim is the place where three rivers meet with snow-clad mountains in the vicinity offering some thrilling views. There is hardly any vegetation in Zero Point as it remains snow covered for the most of the year but still, you can see yaks grazing in the snow in search of vegetation. Due to the high altitude of Zero Point, oxygen in the air is low and there can be breathing problems for few.

Yumthang Valley:
Popularly known as “Valley of Flowers,” some towering Himalayan peaks surround Yumthang Valley standing at an elevation of 3564 meters. It takes 2 hours to reach Yumthang Valley, which is at a distance of 24 km from Lachung. With over 24 species of Rhododendron, it is home to Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary. The valley has a thermal spring, although the water can get quite dirty. A direct journey from Gangtok until Yumthang is not feasible as it becomes dark very early around 5:00 pm and roads are very foggy with almost zero visibility.

Dzongu:
Dzongu lies in the North district of Sikkim sitting cosily in between the steep mountains and the beautiful valleys just at the last piece of land before the mighty Himalayas start their reigning territory. The place is almost virgin yet untouched by commercialization and materialism inhabited by the original native population of Sikkim – the Lepchas. The territory very lovingly nurtures both the human and the natural habitation amidst the forest groves, cascading waterfalls and the demure villagers. The territory was designated as a special reserve for the Lepcha community since 1960 when Sikkim was still a kingdom ruled by Chogyal Palden Thondup Namgyal. The place perhaps remains the last place where Lepcha traditions and culture are still followed and the ancient animistic rituals are followed.

Tholung Monastery Trek is an easy trek in North Sikkim, but the beauty that you encounter in the trek is quite rewarding. You will pass through stunning sceneries and beautiful agriculture lands and the sparsely populated Lepcha villages. The trail is easy, but is surrounded by precipitous cliffs and immensely beautiful views. As you walk towards the monastery, the mountains keep you company. You will hear the mellifluous chirping of the birds as well as the gushing sound of the waterfalls. Butterflies on the flowers, the swayings of flowers and plants in the wind. Its a complete Natures gift to you, if you observe them.

Tholung Monastery itself is an amazing place. This quaint and small monastery has a mystical charm to it. Standing at an altitude of 8000 ft, the monastery was founded in the 18th century by Lhatsun Chenpo Lama who was deployed to preserve spiritual relics and ancient manuscripts and keep them safe from the Gorkha invaders. The monastery is thus a treasure trove of ancient Buddhists relics and manuscripts, religious scriptures belonging to the earlier Lamas and Chogyals as well as many holy artifacts. These treasures are put on display for the public once every three years in Kamsil Ceremony under the supervision of the government of Sikkim.

Bhema falls or Amitabh Bachchan water Falls:
A waterfall whose real name is Bhim Nala Falls or Bhema Falls lies on the road connecting Chungthang to Yumthang Valley in Lachung, North Sikkim. Now, you must be wondering why is it called Amitabh Bachchan waterfall. Well, because of the height.

Later, we had to pass through Nepal border and darjeeling. The way was just awesome. We stayed in a homestay that was really beautiful and peaceful. Next day we took our flights back home. It was a wonderful trip with lovely friends.

Not last, but Thanks to our drivers who drove us through all sorts of landscapes and difficult roads. They had lots of patience to tolerate the girls hahaha. Must say, they were good entertainers too as it was a long road trip. Company matters in such cases.

Wish to go back again, if I get another chance!!!

Thanks for your time. Be happy, keep smiling and DO TRAVEL!!!

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