These roads are maintained by the omni-present BRO in the border

regions and the above photograph is typical of a jeep safari to

North Sikkim in the winter months

SIKKIM MAIN PAGE

(Yuksom Valley-Gangtok-North Sikkim-NJP)

Highlights: Our 8-day jeep safari through Sikkim is designed for those who are short of time and yet would like to cover the best of what SIKKIM has to offer. It highlights the stunning aspects of this tiny state in comfort and style. Starting in West Sikkim, a bio diversity hotspot, the tour covers the famous Pemayangtse Monastery, the tranquil Khechoperi Lake and the cardamom-growing village of Yuksom. The journey moves east to its capital Gangtok where we visit a high altitude holy lake at 12,400ft. near the Chinese border. Finally, we head for the high altitude alpine region of Lachung Valley in North Sikkim, one of the most beautiful places in the Himalayas - untouched by the vicious reach of modern day tourism.

Tour code: 7NSk20A

Best Season: October-May (Nov to Feb is peak winter with chances of snow at a few places in the itinerary)

Day 01: New Jalpaiguri stn (NJP) or Bagdogra airport (IXB) to Pelling/Yangtey (West Sikkim)

Approx 4 hrs drive. On arrival at NJP/IXB, we depart for Yangtey by surface. This place stands majestically on a hill top and is the best place to see close up views of Mt. Khangchendzonga, the 3rd highest mountain in the world. Overnight at hotel.

Day 02: Yangtey: Yuksam, Khechoperi Lake & Pemayangtse Monastery
Full day excursion to Khechoperi Lake, Yuksom Valley & Pemayangtse Monastery.
Khechoperi lies surrounded by luxuriant forest cover and according to legend tiny birds pick up leaves that accidentally fall into the lake, thus keeping it clean. Yuksom is the starting point of the famous Dzongri-Goechala trail. Overnight at hotel.

Day 03: Yangtey to Gangtok by surface approx.

Approx 5 hrs drive. Morning after breakfast you depart for Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim. Lunch will be enroute. A majestic mountain vista, quaint Sikkimese hamlets, encounters with the locals form great memories and make for fantastic photo opportunities. Overnight at hotel.

Day 04: Excursion to Tsangu Lake at 12,400ft
Excursion to Tsangu Lake at 12,400ft. Through the Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary. This holy lake is near the Chinese border and is frozen for 4 months in winter. Yak ride is a thrilling experience here and if you are lucky you”ll also see the Brahminy duck! An optional excursion to Nathula Pass on the Indo-China border can also be arranged at extra cost. Packed lunch will be served on this excursion (payable directly).Overnight at hotel.

Day 05: Gangtok to Lachung.

Approx 6 hrs drive. Lachung (8610ft) is a Bhutia village with a unique self governing body called the Zumsa which substitutes the Panchayat, it is situated along the Lachung Chu river on both sides. It forms the base to explore the valleys up North. The Lachung Monastery was built in 1880 and follows the Nyingma sect of Buddhism. Overnight at hotel/mountain lodge.

Day 06: Yumthang Valley: 12,000ft - your tryst with destiny.
Photographs of the natural scenes of Switzerland & Yumthang valley look so similar that it is difficult to distinguish between them. Located on a flat valley it is near the tree line and the surrounding mountains seem to touch the heavens. Overnight at hotel/mountain lodge.

Day 07: Lachung to Gangtok.
After breakfast, depart for Gangtok. See Lachung Monastery. Lunch enroute. On the way, clean weather permitting, you get to see the mighty Khangchendzonga range from Singhik. Arrival at Gangtok late in the afternoon. Overnight at hotel.

Day 08: Gangtok to IXB/NJP.

Approx 5hrs drive. A memorable tour draws to a close as we head towards the airport for the onward flight.

Package Price:

INR 28000 per person (min 02 people)
INR 19000 per person (min 04 people)
INR 17000 per person (min 06 people)

Rates valid upto 31 March 2011
Rates valid for Indian Nationals only
Rates not valid during festivals and high seasons.

NOTE:
One or 2 nights at Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Martam, Jaldapara, Mirik, camping with river rafting can be added after the tour. Lachen or Ravangla can be added in between. The Wanderers or its associates reserve the right to cancel, alter or postpone the tour without assigning any reason whatsoever and our liability is limited to the amount paid by you. Travelling in Sikkim is a fascinating experience for those fond of a hard living adventure in comfort and style. The roads are often rough in patches and landslide/rockfall areas are common. The journey to North Sikkim in particular is through wilderness terrain, where crossing and recrossing landslide areas and wading through streams is part of the fun and adventure. One must be ready to face any type of climatic and road conditions as well as other hardships faced on a high altitude jeep safari. Lodging in Lachung is basic and simple. It also does not have telephone connection, newspapers or television. Medical facilities are limited to Army camps.  The highest point in this tour will be Yumthang Valley & Tsangu Lake (12,000ft). Those with breathing problems or lung problems and heart problems are advised to consult their family physician before undertaking this tour. Meals on the tour (as applicable) is both veg/non-veg and stress is on warm, wholesome food. Medical facilities are basic in the interiors outside of Gangtok.

CHILD RATES: Please note that vehicles are provided as per the number of adults. A NAC Sumo/equivalent for eg 06 can seat Driver + 1 (in front)+3 (middle seat) + 2 (back seat) i.e total 6 adults. In case there are 6 adults and 6 children, the above rates are valid for 1 vehicle with 6 adults and for the children additional vehicle will have to be taken at an extra cost. Foreign Nationals require special permits to enter Sikkim. Kindly advise the number of travellers in the group and we will send you the costs accordingly.

What to Carry: One sturdy rucksack or duffel bag, pullover, jacket, hiking/ walking shoes with rubber sole, cap, gloves, woollen balaclava (monkey-cap), torch, general clothing (emphasis on travelling light), sun-glasses, sun screen lotion.