Yumthang
an Alpine valley in North Sikkim known for its superb natural
beauties is a popular tourist destination in Sikkim. The
valley offers a breathtaking landscape combining of meadow,
rhododendron forest and snow peaks of Himalayas with river
Lachung cutting across it |
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Yumthang,
situated at a height of 11,800 feet is popularly known
as “Valley of Flowers.” Located at a distance
of 148 Kms from Gangtok, it is a paradise for nature
lovers with a fascinating blend of flora and fauna
and breathtaking scenic beauty.
Surrounded by eye-catching snow clad peaks and high
mountains Yamthang is located on a flat valley near
the tree line. The journey from Lachung to Yumthang
has a scenic landscape and is lined with Rhododendrons
and other types of Orchids which bloom in variety of
colours from April to May. April and May promises colourful
flowers, where as November end to March usually sees
snows.
Another unusual feature of the valley is that,
the valley totally covered with snow during the winter.
Hence making it a worth place to visit both during
summer and winter.
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In
spring season wild flowers such as primulae and rhododendrons
bathe the landscape in rich colours making it a tourist
hot spot. The Shingba Rhododenron Sanctuary over here has
24 species of Rhododendron flowers which bloom from April
to May end. |
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A hot
spring located on the right side of Yamthang river
is a popular tourist attraction. In addition to a vast
green meadow, lush green forest abounding in Pine and
Silver Fir trees throngs the place. While driving towards
the valley, one can see cascading waterfalls and streams.
Six kms
away, further North is Shiv Mandir. A drive or Trek
to this place can be very refreshing and exhilarating
experience.
Situated further up at a distance of 16 Kms, at an
altitude of about 16,000 feet is Yamesamdong. The rugged
vegetation free mountains especially in the months
of November-December and February-March over here present
a breath taking scenario. |
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It
is also a nice experience to visit Yumthang during
February/March, when the place is full of colorful
flowers in full bloom and during October/November
when the towering snow peaks dazzle against the clear,
blue sky. The approach to Yamthang is from Lachung
Valley, situated at a height of 8000 feet. It is
at a distance of 120 Kms from Gangtok. |
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