FiltersNestled in the heart of the Himalayas, Yuksom is a quaint village in West Sikkim, India, known for its rich historical and cultural significance. It was the first capital of Sikkim, established in 1642 when three Tibetan Lamas crowned Phuntsog Namgyal as the first Chogyal (king) of Sikkim. Yuksom is a gateway to the revered Kanchenjunga National Park and serves as a starting point for treks to Goechala and other high-altitude destinations. The village is adorned with ancient monasteries, including the Dubdi Monastery, the oldest in Sikkim. Surrounded by lush forests and majestic mountains, Yuksom offers a serene and spiritual atmosphere, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Khangchendzonga National Park Location: Just a short drive from Yuksom. Highlights: Home to the third-highest peak in the world, Mount Khangchendzonga, and a diverse range of flora and fauna. Activities: Trekking, wildlife photography, and exploring the park's unique ecosystem.
Tashiding Monastery Location: About 40 km from Yuksom. Highlights: One of the most sacred monasteries in Sikkim, known for its stunning views and rich cultural heritage. Activities: Pilgrimage, meditation, and enjoying the serene surroundings.
Samdruptse Hill Location: Approximately 50 km from Yuksom. Highlights: Home to the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Activities: Visiting the institute, hiking, and photography.
Kartok Monastery Location: Located near Yuksom. Highlights: An ancient monastery with a peaceful ambiance and intricate murals. Activities: Learning about Buddhist culture, attending prayer sessions, and exploring the monastery’s architecture.
Lake Khecheopalri Location: About 30 km from Yuksom. Highlights: A sacred lake believed to be a wish-fulfilling site, surrounded by lush forests. Activities: Boating, picnicking, and witnessing the local traditions of keeping the lake pristine.
Yuksom Palace Location: In the heart of Yuksom. Highlights: A historic palace that once served as the capital of the Chogyal monarchy. Activities: Exploring the ruins, learning about the town’s royal past, and enjoying the local architecture.
Dzongri Trek Location: Starts from Yuksom. Highlights: A popular trek that offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the surrounding valleys. Activities: Trekking, camping, and experiencing the local culture along the trail.
By Air The nearest airport to Yuksom is Bagdogra Airport, located in West Bengal, approximately 120 kilometers away. From Bagdogra, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to reach Yuksom. The journey takes around 6-7 hours, passing through scenic routes and small towns. Alternatively, you can fly to Siliguri’s Baghdogra Airport and then take a bus to Darjeeling, from where you can catch a shared jeep to Yuksom.
By Train The nearest railway station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) in Siliguri, which is well-connected to major cities across India. From NJP, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Yuksom. The road trip is approximately 120 kilometers and takes about 6-7 hours, offering breathtaking views of the verdant landscape.
By Road Yuksom is accessible by road from major cities in the region. The most common route is via Siliguri, which is connected to cities like Kolkata, Guwahati, and other parts of West Bengal and Sikkim. From Siliguri, you can take a bus or shared jeep to Darjeeling, and from there, continue your journey to Yuksom. The road is well-maintained, and you can enjoy the picturesque views of the Himalayas en route. If you are starting from Gangtok, the capital of Sikkim, you can take a shared jeep or hire a private vehicle. The distance from Gangtok to Yuksom is about 115 kilometers and takes around 4-5 hours. The journey is a delightful mix of winding roads, dense forests, and panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga range.
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