Nested in the northern part of Sikkim, Yumthang Valley is also nicknamed as the 'valley of flowers' (not to be confused with the Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand). It is perched at a dizzying altitude of 3,500 meters, and unmistakably one of the most scenic places to visit in Lachung.
True to its assigned nickname, Yumthang valley fosters countless floral species which criss-cross all across its lush green carpet. The valley also houses the beautiful Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, hosting over 24 different species of rhododendrons! The verdant pasture that is Yumthang valley is lapped by mighty mountains on either side, and the freezing river Teesta forms a crystal ribbon through the forested beauty of the valley.
It is located about 15 km away from Yumthang and sits at a mind-numbing altitude of 4,724 meters. Zero point marks the edge of civilization, and the road comes to a dead end here. The vicuna China border is just beyond Zero points, though no tourists are allowed there. Despite the treacherous roads, Yumesamdong brings you exceptional rewards! Treat your eyes to the confluence of three magnificent rivers, flanked on either side by enormous, snow-clad peaks.
While yaks often graze here, the land is nearly competent devoid of vegetation. The place sits beneath thick, powdery snow, and brings extremely cold weather conditions. But there’s a great respite in the form of Hot Springs by the river Sebu Chhu!
Lachung Monastery is an ancient Buddhist monastery. Crafted with brilliant architecture, the monastery is perched atop 2,750 meters, near the confluence of the rivers Lachen and Lachung, two of the several tributaries of the Teesta river.
The gompa is also the base for the Green Lake trek. The edifice was installed in 1806 by the Nyingmapa sect of Buddhism and harbors a majestic statue of Guru Padmasambhava. A prayer wheel stands guard near the entrance of the monastery, leading visitors to the resident Handloom and Handicraft Centre. The Lachung Monastery is one of the most tranquil places to visit in Lachung.
Chungthang is a beautiful little town that falls en route Yumthang, by the conflux of the rivers Lachen and Lachung. Chungthang is also the birthplace for the river Teesta. The town brims with legends and tales of old, and there is also a stone with the imprinted footprints of Guru Padmasambhava.
The town also houses a little rock here, from where mineral water flows ceaselessly. Chungthang is a place where you’ll have to travel through to reach the higher alpine regions of Lachen and Lachung. Steeped in fascinating mythology, the town offers beautiful 180-degree views of the neighboring snow-capped peaks.
Lachen in North Sikkim is the base of Chopta Valley and Gurudongmar lake. Sitting about 27 km away from Chungthang, Lachen village is cradled by a beautiful mountain valley. ‘Lachen’ literally translates to mean ‘big pass’, and affords unmatched views of the mountain slopes that seem to seat the village in an embracing sprawl.
Lachen is one of the more shaded, unexplored parts of Sikkim, and reward you with unmatched mountain views, serenity, and peace. Housing, not more than 200 houses, the village is ideal for backpackers and adventurers looking to explore offbeat destinations. The village is also home to the Lachenpas, a Sikkimese community. Amongst the most offbeat places to visit in Lachung, Lachen warrants to be on the top of your Sikkim itinerary.