KASTURI ROUND TREK

Short Itinerary

Day 1: Travel from NJP/Bagdogra to Yuksom by jeep.

Day 2: Yuksom (1750m) to Sachen (2250m). 8km appx.

Day 3: Sachen (2250m) to Tsokha (2950m). 8km appx.

Day 4: Tsokha (2950m) to Dzongri (3950m). 10km appx.

Day 5: Dzongri Rest Day/ Acclimatization

Day 6: Dzongri (3970m) to Thangsing (3800m). 10km appx.

Day 7: Thangsing (3800m) to Lamuney (3950m). 3.5km appx.

Day 8: Lamuney (3950m) to View Point 1 (4600m) and back to Thangsing (3948m). 15km appx.

Day 9: Thangsing (3948m) to chambray (4181) 8 km. via Lampokhri Lake. (4243m).10km appx.

Day 10: Chamray (4181) to Kasturi (3607m).10km appx.

Day 11: Kasturi (3607m) to Labdang (1906m) 12km.appx.

Day 12: Leave from Labdgang to Yuksom/ (N J P)/ Bagdogra Airport as planned

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Travel from NJP/Bagdogra to Yuksom by jeep.

It is a 6-7 hour ride through the hills. Upon arrival in Yuksom, prepare for the trek that starts the next day. If time permits, one could also see around Yuksom. The Dubdi monastery, the Coronation throne are a couple of the local attractions. Additionally, Yuksom is a historically important place for Sikkim as it was anointed the first capital of Sikkim in 1643 AD.

Day 2 : Yuksom (1750m) to Sachen (2250m). 8km appx.

This is a fairly easy walk and helps trekkers to find their rhythm and gradually get used to the demands of the trail. The distance is about 8km and it takes between 3.5-4.5 hours for most trekkers to reach Sachen. Trekkers tend to skip this campsite at times, however, this is not recommended unless one is a regular and experienced trekker who has done multiple 800m single day altitude gains before.

Day 3 : Sachen (2250m) to Tsokha (2950m). 8km appx.

The walk begins an easy fashion from Sachen and takes about an hour to the bridge over Prek chu (chu meaning river). From the bridge to Tsokha is a straight ascent of about 5 km and is a good introduction to the climb the next day. Bakhim (meaning Bamboo Hut) breaks the climb. There is a tea stall at Bakhim and one can sit here and enjoy the views of the valley below. Trekkers are often astonished at how much they have climbed in the previous hour a half. Rhododendron trees abound around Bakhim and here onwards till you are above the tree line they will remain a constant companion. It is a further hour and half to Tsokha.

Day 4 : Tsokha (2950m) to Dzongri (3950m). 10km appx.

This day is often referred to as the ‘test day’ since it is a relentless and fairly steep climb from Tsokha to Dzongri. You will gain altitude fast and it is important to not rush up the slope. Time the ascent to reach Dzongri is about 5-6 hours and you will still reach comfortably by 2 pm, assuming you start at around 8 am. The trail passes via Phedang (3690m appx.) which almost slices the walk into half. It looks like a possible campsite but teams do not prefer to camp here because of lack of water near the campsite. The water here must be brought from far (20 min walk one way). Thus, teams rest here for a while, have their packed lunch/rations provided to them in the morning, and proceed to Dzongri. In an hour, you will come across Deorali top, the highest point on this day at over 4100m. Here on the trail eases out and descends slightly to Dzongri. Many people, upon arrival in Dzongri, will experience a mild headache due to the 1000m effective gain. Make sure you stay warm and hydrated. Let the guide/team leader know about any headache or health difficulty. Usually, the headache should subside in a couple of hours. NOTE: There is no water source on the trail on this day and trekkers must fill up at Tsokha and ration the water wisely.

Day 5: Rest Day at Dzongri.

This day you stay on at Dzongri and take rest. You may choose to wake up early and walk up to Dzongri top to see a full panoramic view of all the snow-capped mountains around at sunrise. One can see at least 10 peaks here from left to right, including Kokthang, Rathong, Frey’s peak, Black Kabur, Kabru dome, Kabru north and south, Kanchenjunga, Pandim, Tenzingkhang, Japnoo, Narsing and a few others. Return from Dzongri top to the campsite and rest here for the day.

Day 6 : Dzongri (3970m) to Thangsing (3800m). 10km appx.

This day you ascend a little from the Dzongri campsite and then walk through meadows with gentle up and down slopes till you arrive at the steep descent to the Kokchurang campsite by the Prek chu. The descent is challenging for almost everyone and can take around an hour. Kokchurang campsite is nestled in a dense forest by the river side and is a perfect spot to rest for a while. We do not set up camp here on our way up. After some rest, we proceed to Thangsing, our camp for the night, through some more beautiful forest. On a clear day, the Thangsing campsite gives you a welcome gift of outstanding views of Mt. Pandim right upon arrival. Soak in the beauty of the sights before you and surrender to nature’s splendour. Thangsing is a wide open field and you will often find trekkers or local staff playing cricket, football or volleyball here. Join in for some fun and to test your lungs!

Day 7 : Thangsing (3800m) to Lamuney (3950m). 3.5km appx.

It is the simplest day of the trek. A very gradual gain from Thangsing will take you to Lamuney in 1.5 hours. Start late by 10 am and you will still reach Lamuney by 11:30am. Relax at camp. The following morning you will be up early and leave for View Point 1 around 2:30am.

Day 8 : Lamuney (3950m) to View Point 1 (4600m) and back to Thangsing (3948m). 15km appx.

The day starts early at 2:30am. It will be biting cold at this hour and one must be prepared for it. Typically the temperature will be below zero at start. Start slowly and cross the Samiti Lake in the dark on your way up to the view point. The start is timed to take you the view point around first light and before sunrise for, as beautiful as first light looks on the peaks, the sunrise is pure magic. Peaks light up in the descending order of altitude with Kanchenjunga first to be lit followed by kabru north and then the lower peaks in order. The route used to be open right up to the Goecha la earlier. However, the National park authorities have closed the route beyond view point 1 now as the zone beyond it has been identified as having significant concentration of blue sheep and the snow leopard. This area is a breeding zone for these species as well and has been demarcated as a conservation zone to reduce human interference. Carry a pair of binoculars with you to give yourself a chance of spotting a rare leopard or a flock of blue sheep. Leopard sightings are very rare as they are extremely shy and if you see one, count yourself very very lucky! Descend to Samiti Lake on your way back to the camp. Around 8am, when you are likely to be back at Samiti, the water is very still usually and a full reflection of the peaks around it is visible in the water. Several birds will be out by now and the area around the lake is a great place for photography aficionados. Come back to camp at Lamuney, have an early lunch and move down to thangsing campsite.

Day 9 : Thangsing (3948m) to chambray (4181) 8 km. via Lampokhri Lake. (4243m).10km appx.

Route to Chamray proceeds from Thangsing. The trail to chamray begins amidst Rhododendrons Bushes and vegetation becomes sparser because of very low temperature. There one encounters Lampohkri Lake on the route to chamray. The trail to chambray goes under the shadow of Mount Lama Lamani . The view of Singalila Range is amazing from the route. Further one hour walk from the lake will take you to the Camping Site.

Day 10 : Chamray (4181) to Kasturi (3607m).10km appx.

Route to Kasturi is a bit difficult and proves worth an experience for adventure lovers. It takes about 5 to 6 hours from Kasturi camp Site. The walk will be in slopes of hills and rocky from Kasturi is located on hill top and the view from here would surely take your breath away.

Day 11 : Kasturi (3607m) to Labdang (1906m) 12km appx.

The walk from Kasturi to Labdang is rapid descend and can take 5 to 6 hours. It is a complete walk with dense forest is a home for variety of birds. You can hear the greeting of birds as you walk the path down. Labdang itself is a small Village and is well connected by roadways. From Labdang daily local Jeep Services are available for Geyzing, Jorethang, and Gangtok etc. also Reserved vehicle can be arranged for Yuksom or Bagdogra Airport and NJP (Rail Station),

Day 12 : Leave from Labdgang to Yuksom/ (N J P)/ Bagdogra Airport as planned.

After having breakfast, we depart to Yuksom/ NJP or Bagdogra Airport depending upon the trekkers mode of transportation to their respective homes. It is advisable to start early since it is a long drive. We suggest to pack the luggage in advance before starting to your journey. The distance from NJP/ Bagdogra airport is 155 kilometres which ideally should not take more than 7 to 8 hours. Lunch can be enjoyed at Jorethang or Malli Checkpost. After having lunch, continue your drive to your destination at the N J P/Bagdogra Airport.

Please contact us directly through phone or email us through filling up the enquiry form for the Best Rates and Availability. The rates depend on Number of people and the minimum required number of the person for the trek. The more the number of trekkers the better the Price. The given rates will be based on per head per day basis which will include all the necessary facilities required during the trek from the point of start to the end. We arrange up to the maximum number of 60 people and minimum should not be less than 2 people.

We provide considerable rates for the bigger group, Student Group, Religious Group and Senior Citizens. The rate is based on quality service requested by groups. Do email us info@blackyakexpeditionsgmail.comto know the special prices and services provided.

PRICE INCLUDE AND EXCLUDE

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN PRICE

1: 2 nights in the standard hotel at Yuksom (MAP plan).

2: Accommodation during the trek (camping/guest house).

3: All meals – vegetarian (starting from dinner at Yuksom and ending with breakfast at Yuksom.

4: Meals while on trek (Veg& Egg).

5: Trekking permits and forest camping charges.

6: Accommodation on trek Trekking equipment (sleeping tents 2 Or 3 man Dom, Dining tent, Kitchen Tent, Toilet Tent, sleeping bags walking stick etc.

7: Safety equipment (first aid, medical kit, oxygen cylinders, stretcher, etc.

8: Services of an expert trek leader (qualified in basic/advanced mountaineering courses).

9: Services of an expert trek team (guides, cooks, helpers, porters/mules.

10: Transport from N J P / Bagdogra airport to Yuksam and return.

Note: Normally other company charges extra for uploading Bag Pack, but black yak expeditions allow up to 10 kg free. More than 10 kg you have to pay ₹. 250/- per day per bag pack.

If you have bag packs weighing more than 10 kg than you can give it to the yaks or horses prior to the trek before leaving arranged exclusively for the trek. The back pack cannot weigh more than 10 kgs. No suitcases/trolleys’/duffel bags will be allowed.

Withdrawing cash: If you are intended to visit places like Yuksam for Goechala Trek or Dzongri Trek or sightseeing then don’t expect for withdrawing cash in Yuksam because Yuksam does not have ATM services till updated the year 2021.

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

1: We do not provide travel insurance except for any Expeditions.

2: Food during transport is not included (pick up point to and from the base camp to drop point)

3: Alcohol, Soft Drinks, bottled water

4: Anything Not Specifically Mentioned Under the Head.

5: Any costs arising out of unforeseen Circumstances like Landslides, Road Blocks, Bad weather, etc.

6: External purchase you make during your travel or on trek routes like food, local crafts or drinks.

7: Itinerary includes transport for pick up and drops yet if you do not want then you can exclude this option) Transport to and from the base camp (N J P/Bagdogra airport to Yuksom and return)

8: Any charges for carrying still/video cameras etc.

9: Personal expenses of any kind.

10: Anything apart from the inclusions.

11: Tips for guides, cooks or trekking staffs and telephone calls, laundry, etc.

If you are trekking with Black yak expeditions

Arrive at (NJP) Railway Station, Siliguri or Bagdogra airport by 9 to 11: am is very good (on your own)

Black Yak Expeditions will arrange pick-up vehicles from NJP railway station and Bagdogra airport to Yuksom the base camp of your trek. We provide luxury vehicles like INNOVA, ZXILO or normal vehicles like TATA SUMO GOULD, BOLERO, etc. And mini cab suitable for 2 or three family with light travel bags like, Wagoner, Alto etc. We cannot arrange shared jeeps because it is not reliable. Above all there are no direct shared jeeps to certain parts of Sikkim from pick up points. You have to break down your points while taking shared jeeps. For example if you are traveling to Yuksom for Goechala Trek or Dzongri Trek there are no direct shared jeeps from New Jalpaiguri Railway station NJP or Bagdogra Airport. First you have to reach silliguri junction from there you have to take a vehicle to Jorethang. (Jorethang is a small business town or main point that connects to most part of Sikkim.) Even though if you reach Jorethang than here comes another challenging part that is all the regular shared jeeps that comes to Jorethang from Yuksom Leave within 2:00 pm. So you have to be there within 1:00 or 2:00 an. Even after that there is no 100% guaranteed that you will get the shared jeeps because it is pre booked by locals by call and you should also keep one thing in mind that in tourist season most of the vehicles are pre-booked. So thinking about shared jeeps is not good at first place.

Transport is arranged in a Tata Sumo (or similar vehicle). Each cab costs Rs. 5500/-

If you request pre booking for pick up and drop along with trek or tour package than this statement is not applicable to you since Black Yak Expeditions will pay for the charges but in case if you have not asked for pick up and drop facilities than you should know that the transportation cost is additional, to be shared among the trekkers and paid directly to the drivers.

On the day of pickup at least do your best to be present at New Jalpaiguri Railway Station (NJP) or Bagdogra Airport within 9:00 Am or 10:00 Am. Incuse if we start late from this two points than we will reach certain trekking basecamps like Yuksom very Late at night and that can cause great inconvenience to you as we have to begin the trek early next morning. It takes around 6-7 hours from New Jalpaiguri Railway station NJP or Bagdogra airport to Yuksom. Expected arrival time at Yuksom is 5 pm. Due to ongoing constructions on the route and sometimes heavy traffic jams it can delay our travel on the route.

GETTING BACK:

Depart from Yuksom early morning.

Black yak expeditions we will arrange reserved vehicle to drop trekkers to NJP railway station or Bagdogra airport.

The transportation cost from Yuksom to NJP/Bagdogra is additional, to be shared among trekkers and paid directly to the driver.

The approximately cost for reserved vehicle is Rs. 5,500/-

Expected arrival time at NJP/Bagdogra is 5 pm. It is wise for you to book your train/flight tickets late in the evening to give you enough buffer time. Or Plan extra days in your itinerary to avoid busy schedule.