Yuksom, a hidden gem in West Sikkim, is one of the best spots in India for a laid-back getaway. Blessed with stunning natural beauty, this enchanting town is known as the Gateway to Mt. Kangchendzongha. It boasts mesmerizing trails worth exploring, along with captivating sights and popular tourist attractions. Its ancient monasteries, historical monuments, serene waterfalls, and tranquil lakes will leave you spellbound.
Yuksom was the principal capital of Sikkim set up in 1642 AD by Phuntsog Namgyal. Yuksom was supplanted by Rabdentse as capital in 1670 when Phuntsok Namgyal’s child Tensung Namgyal, moved the capital. The town is an authentic town and a legacy town in the Geyzing subdivision of West Sikkim locale in the Northeast Indian territory of Sikkim.
Yuksom has a consecrated, religious and social hugeness. The scene of Demazong Valley is otherwise called the place where there are shrouded fortunes favoured by Guru Padmasambhava. The lake Khecheopalri which is a basic piece of the Demazong valley is accepted to speak to one of the four frameworks of the human body, specifically the thorax, the other three frameworks are said to be spoken to by Yuksom which speaks to the ‘third eye’. Other than these, there are various Buddhist religious communities and recorded landmarks in the town.
Yuksom is the beginning stage of the trekking trail to Mt. Khanchendzonga, which is additionally most loved among trekkers. It is arranged at the head of Kanchenjunga National Park, which is the biggest ensured zone in Sikkim. The slopes of Yuksom were named Ney-Pemathang in the past for their excellent scene. The timberland spread over these slopes comprises wide-leafed Oak, Birch, Maple, Chestnut, Magnolia, Rhododendron, Silver, Fir, Ash, and Alder. Sikkim owes quite a bit of its title of “biodiversity problem area” to the regular setting of Yuksom. The well-known trek to Goechala (through Dzongri) additionally starts from Yuksom.
The occupants of Yuksom have advanced eco-travel industry in this just as different locales of Sikkim. It is likewise considered a model town for the eco-travel industry. Consistently the meeting populace of sightseers surpasses the inhabitant populace inferable from its area on the trekking course and its significance as a religious place for Buddhists. The Lepchas, Bhutias, and Nepalese comprise the significant networks in Yuksom.
What to see
Khecheopalri Lake
Tashiding Monastery
Khangchendzonga National Park
Khangchendzonga Waterfall
When to reach
Between October To February
Winter is when Yuksom moves toward becoming chilled and cold. In this season the temperature dips under below zero dimension. The temperature during this time scarcely achieves 15°C. Energetic explorers visit Yuksom, even in the winter, as seeing the snow-clad mountains is simply not worth passing up a major opportunity. Guests are encouraged to convey substantial woollen garments during this time.
Between March To June
Summers in Yuksom begin in March and last until May, offering pleasant weather with temperatures around 10°C. This season is perfect for witnessing the breathtaking beauty of the lush green mountains and gushing waterfalls. Summer is also the ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the natural wonders of Yuksom.
Between July To September
Rainstorms in Yuksom range from the period of June to the long stretch of September. During this time lion’s share of open-air exercises is put off because of the downpour. The stones and pathways become tricky, making voyaging somewhat troublesome. After October and November, the temperature winds up lovely once more.
How to reach
By Air
The closest Airport is Pakyong Airport, near Gangtok and around 127 km from Yuksom.
By Train
The closest railroad station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) which is 150 km from Yuksom. The way to Yuksom is dreary and it isn’t prudent to go during the evening.
By Road
Reach here in 5 hours from Geyzing utilizing shared or private jeeps. There are no transports to Yuksom, there are taxicabs to Yuksom from Tashiding, Geyzing, Pelling, and Gangtok. It may be hard to discover shared jeeps after 1 pm.