Yumthang Valley

Yumthang lies at about 3,575 metres in north Sikkim, a broad flat-floored valley with the Teesta running through it and snow peaks on both sides, and it is called the valley of flowers for the reason that the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary here holds around two dozen species of rhododendron which flower together from late February into May, turning the slopes red, pink and white. A hot spring on the far bank of the river, reached by a footbridge, is used for bathing in a small shed. In winter the valley is under snow. Yumesamdong, higher up at around 4,700 metres, is sometimes accessible.

What you actually see

• The rhododendron bloom - around two dozen species flowering in spring.
• The flat valley floor - the Teesta running between snow peaks.
• The hot spring - a bathing shed across the river footbridge.
• Yumesamdong - the higher valley beyond, when open.

When to go

March to May for the bloom, which is the entire point; the valley closes with snow in winter and the monsoon brings landslides. Permits and a registered vehicle with a group are compulsory.

Honest expectations

Protected area permits are required and foreign nationals face extra conditions and sometimes refusal. The road is rough and the drive from Gangtok takes two days with an overnight at Lachung. Altitude is felt.

Nearby

Lachung lies south; Gurudongmar is northwest in the same district.