Yambong in Singalila presents the amazing Trekking experiences in Sikkim with the most spectacular sights of the Everest range and Khangchendzonga. The region and tracks are full of beautiful flora and fauna which covers the South West of the Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary of Sikkim. This route is the perhaps one of the least frequently done trails in the region and it is rare to encounter other trekkers during the trek.
The trek begins from Sang Khola and ends at Yuksom passing through the most well-known ranges that cover the holy countryside of Singalila. The Yambung range and the trail in its shadow are considered as one of the hidden treasures of Sikkim. A person who loves adventure, interacting with different cultures and nature, can take advantage of the most pleasurable and enriching trekking experience on this trek. It also offers the most panoramic views of Khangchendzonga, Mt. Pandim, Mt. Everest, Makalu, Nuptse, Lhotse, Kumbakarna and many others, which are a staple of any trek on the Singalila Ridge. There are several high altitude treks to savor as well.
The trek trails cross through the ranges of Singalila which is on the border of Sikkim and Nepal. The region surrounding the trail offers the most amazing views of wilderness, of high mountain peaks and the trail itself often goes through pristine forests.
Yambung is also known for its cultural fusion which is visible clearly. This valley offers everything fulfilling for every tourist desire as it is the land of festivals and fairs, holy peaks and rivers, living local cultures and caves, pilgrim spots and snow-covered mountains and also present the most beautiful flora and fauna of the valley.
Short Itinerary
Day 1: Pickup from NJP/Bagdogra Airport to Pelling
Day 2: Pelling (2,110mts) to Naya Patal(2,536mts)Via Chongri village (2,220mts)
Day 3: Naya Patal(2,536mts to Yambong(3,790mts and 4 to 5 hrs)
Day 4: Yambong (3,709.mtrs) to Lampokhari (4,340mtrs)
Day 05: Lampokhari (4,340mtrs) to Gomathang (3,796.mtrs). 10km appx.
Day 06: Gomathang (3,796mtrs) to Pangding (4,317mtrs) 15km appx.
Day 07: Pangding (4,317.mtrs) to Dzongri (3950.metrs).10km appx.
Day 08: Dzongri (3970m) to Thangsing (3800m). 10km appx.
Day 09: Thangsing (3800m) to Lamuney (3950m). 3.5km appx.
Day10: Lamuney (3950m) to View Point 1 (4600m) and back to Kokchurang (3600m). 15km appx.
Day 11: Lamuney (3950m) to View Point 1 (4600m) and back to Kokchurang (3600m). 15km appx.
Day 12: Kokchurang (3600m) to Tsokha (2950m). 15km appx.
Day 13: Tsokha (2950m) to Yuksom (1750m). 16km appx.
Day 14: Leave Yuksom for NJP/Bagdogra as planned.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Pickup from NJP/Bagdogra Airport to Pelling
Drive from NJP/Bagdogra Airport which is a 6-7 hour ride through the hills. Upon arrival in Pelling, prepare for the trek that starts the next day. If time permits, one could also see around Pelling. The Pemayangtse Monastery, Rabdantse Ruins (2nd Capital of Sikkim in 1670AD) are a couple of the local attractions. If weather permits, Pelling gives excellent views of Mount Khangchandzonga, Mount Pandim, Mount Tenzingkhang, Mount Jupuno, Mount South Kabru and Mount North Kabru, Mt. Kokthang, Mt. Kabru Dome, Mt. Black Kabur. Overnight at Hotel in Pelling.
Day 2: Pelling (2,110mts) to Naya Patal (2,536mts) Via Chongri village (2,220mts)
After having breakfast, we would drive 2-2.5 hrs from Pelling to Sang Khola (1810mts) and finally start our trek to Chongri village which takes 2 hrs. From Sang-Khola. The trail is steep and water availability on the trail is good. In Chongri Village people livelihood mainly depends upon agriculture and herding Yaks and cows for trekking and domestic use. Chongri remains as the highest inhabited himalayan village in Sikkim and in winter months of January and February this village regularly receives snowfall. Chongri Village majorly has people from Sherpa, Bhutia, Limboo and Rai communities.
From Chongri village walkabout maximum 50 minutes till Chenzom Khola (2145mts) where rivers Chenzom and Doben meet. We remain towards the true right of the Doben river and make our ascent towards Doben SSB Camp(2327mts) where trek permits and personal identity cards needs to be shown. Finally, we make our ascent of 45 minutes to Naya Patal (2,536mts) by crossing the river. Overnight at tented camps in Naya Patal.
Day 3: Naya Patal(2,536mts to Yambong(3,790mts and 4 to 5 hrs)
Today we start our trek from Naya Patal to Yambong Campsite. By remaining always on the true left of the river, we first make our ascent to Caile Chok and then to Dungdang SSB Camp where permits need to be shown and then make our final ascent to Yambong Camp. Yambong Camp gives majestic views of Singalila Range and Pelling from above and it’s close to Yak’s Hut Area. Overnight at tented camp in Yambong.
Day 4: Yambong (3,709.mtrs) to Lampokhari (4,340mtrs)
Today we make our ascend towards Lam-Pokhari by walking mostly on the ridge which gives excellent views of Mount Khangchendzonga, Mount Pandim, Mount Tenzinkhang, Mount Jupuno, Mount OkhlaThang Range while ascending to it. Lam-Pokhari serves as the confluence point for many treks starting from Uttarey and Yuksom. If time permits, trekkers can make day excursions to different lakes which surround Lam-Pokhari such as Dhungey Pokhari, Hash Pokhari, Majur Pokhari, Lakhshmi Pokhari and Timbunj Pokhari. Overnight in tented camps in Lam-Pokhari.
Day 5: Lampokhari (4,340mtrs) to Gomathang (3,796.mtrs). 10km appx.
Sparse vegetation can be seen as we mount up higher. A little snow underfoot can be expected as we climb to our first pass, the Daphey Bhir La at 4,530m, the Pass of the Pheasant. From here it is possible to see the whole of Sikkim with the view stretching out well into Tibet and Bhutan. A further hours contouring and a small ascent reveal the Kag Bhir La, (the Pass of the Crow) where we may be lucky enough to get the closest view of the panorama of the Himalayan peaks including Majestic Khangchendzonga. Reluctantly, we then must head downhill making a steep descent to our riverside camp Gomathang. The camp is located in a beautiful meadow and is a great place to rest for the night.
Day 6: Gomathang (3,796mtrs) to Pangding (4,317mtrs) 15km appx.
This day we have to climb through forests of sweet-smelling silver fir and rhododendrons. Soon we are in high mountains terrain again. The route goes up and down over the hills culminating with a stiff ascent as we near Pangding. Pangding offers the view of almost all the important peaks and ranges of this trek.
Day 7: Pangding (4,317.mtrs) to Dzongri (3950.metrs).10km appx.
First trekkers have to descend down to Tigap Chu (3,700m) and then ascend up to Dzongri crossing Rathong Chu River. As Tigap chu is lower in altitude big pine trees and rhododendron bushes become visible and large rocks dominate the area. It offers a nice area to rest. After refreshment climb begins to Dzongri, a campsite at the junction of several trekking trails in the region.
Day 8 : 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 riverside 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 splendor. 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 9: 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 at 10 am and you will still reach Lamuney by 11:30 am. Relax at camp. The following morning you will be up early and leave for ViewPoint 1 around 2:30 am.
Day 10: Lamuney (3950m) to View Point 1 (4600m) and back to Kokchurang (3600m). 15km appx
The day starts early at 2:30 am. It will be biting cold at this hour and one must be prepared for it. Typically the temperature will be below zero at the start. Start slowly and cross the Samiti Lake in the dark on your way up to the viewpoint. The start is timed to take you the viewpoint 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 viewpoint 1 now as the zone beyond it has been identified as having a 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 8 am 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 Kokchurang campsite next to the river for the night. It is warmer here and of course very beautiful.
Day 11: Lamuney (3950m) to View Point 1 (4600m) and back to Kokchurang (3600m). 15km appx.
The walk from Kokchurang to Phedang is through a very dense forest and no pack animals can do this trail due to the narrow nature and dense vegetation on the trail. For several hours you will walk through forests that might remind some of the forests in the Indian Western Ghats during monsoons. This part of the trail takes about 4-5 hours typically. Have the packed lunch provided to you, here. From Phedang turn left and down towards Tsokha. It is a continuous descent up to Tsokha and takes up 2 hours.
Day 12: Kokchurang (3600m) to Tsokha (2950m). 15km appx.
The walk from Kokchurang to Phedang is through a very dense forest and no pack animals can do this trail due to the narrow nature and dense vegetation on the trail. For several hours you will walk through forests that might remind some of the forests in the Indian Western Ghats during monsoons. This part of the trail takes about 4-5 hours typically. Have the packed lunch provided to you, here. From Phedang turn left and down towards Tsokha. It is a continuous descent up to Tsokha and takes up 2 hours.
Day 13: Tsokha (2950m) to Yuksom (1750m). 16km appx.
Descend all the way to the suspension bridge over Prek Chu below Bakhim. It can take anywhere between 1.5 to 2.5 hours. From the bridge, there is a climb for about 20mins after which the trail takes you over gentle ups and downs while constantly losing altitude towards Yuksom. Require yourself to reach Yuksom in between 5-7 hours. You will have packed lunch on this day as well and Sachen is a good point to take a break. As you near Yuksom mobile networks will become active again. Reach the road head and you are standing at the end point of the trek. A cosy bed and hot water will be waiting for you at your hotel/homestay.
Day 14 : Leave Yuksom for NJP/Bagdogra as planned.
After having breakfast, we depart to NJP or Bagdogra Airport depending upon the trekker’s mode of transportation to their respective homes. It is advisable to start early since it is a long drive. We suggest packing the luggage in advance before starting to your journey. The distance from NJP/ Bagdogra airport is 155 kilometers 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 am (on your own)
Black Yak Expeditions will arrange pick-up vehicles from NJP railway station and Bagdogra airport to Pelling hills where you can see the the Mt. Kanchrnjunga 3rd heights peak of the world. 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 Expeditionswill 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.