Dhood Phokhari and Vhalay Phokhari or Lake Trek it is one of the most wonderland, picturesque and enthralling treks spot in the west region in Sikkim. The trail with is combine natural beauty majestic Such as the popular lake of local people in Sikkim. As well as In spite of that, number of trekkers here is much less than the number of trekkers visiting other popular routes like Goecha la due to the only local people know this lake. It is a challenging trek and one must be physically prepared to take the strains and meet the demands of the route. If prepared, one can enjoy this trek like few others.
Doodh Phokhari and Vhalay Pokhari or lake is one of most the lake is sacred for both Buddhists and Hindus, and is believed to be a wish fulfilling lake. The Doodh phokhari and Vhalay Phokhari in the Kangchenjunga National Park are conserved from the biodiversity perspective with ecotourism and pilgrimage as essential offshoots. As a result, their recreational and sacredness values are enhanced. The Dhood phokhari and Vhalay Phokhari or Lake is also part of Buddhist religious pilgrimage circuit involving the Yuksom, the Dubdi Monastery in Yuksom,
The Doodh Phokhari and Vhalay Pokhari Lake in Sikkim Himalaya are at an elevation of 4,770.mtrs from the sea level. Doodh Phokhari and Vhalay Pokhari are historically associated with people from Nepal and Bhutan. Doodh pokhari is the milk lake and Vhalay pokhari is the male lake. They are wish granting lakes and according to belief those who make a wish with pure heart are granted their wish. The lakes are at the base of lofty mountains and afford you incredible views.
The route falls completely within the boundaries of the Kangchenjunga national park. The forest you will experience here is denser and greener than what you will get to see on most other routes. There is a lot of scope to see different species of flora and fauna. The region is known for the Himalayan Black Bear, the Blue sheep, Thar, Snow Leopard, Foxes, Red Panda apart from several bird species including a few critically endangered ones like the Blood Pheasant. The region has a very high density of rhododendrons and pink, white, red and yellow rhododendrons abound in the region. The route offers spectacular views of several high peaks in the region including Frey Peak 5850 meters, Kokthang peak 6,150 meters, Kumbakarna 7,710 meters, Ratong 6,679 mts, Kabru N 7,338 meters, Karbu S 7,317 meters, Kabru Dome 6,660meters, Talong 7,350 meters, kanchadzonga 8,585 meters, Pandim 6,691 Meters, Tenzing Khang 6,010 Meters, Jopuno 5,930 Meters, Narsing 5,825 Meters, Sinoulchu 6,880 Meters,
Short Itinerary
Day 01: Travel from NJP/Bagdogra to Yuksom by jeep.
Day0 2: Yuksom (1750m) to Sachen (2250m). 8km appx.
Day 03: Sachen (2250m) to Tsokha (2950m). 8km appx.
Day 04: Tsokha (2950m) to Dzongri (3950m). 10km appx.
Day 05: Rest Day. Acclimatization.
Day 06: Dzongri (3950m) to Ghattay Camp (4, 257.mtrs) 9.km appx
Day 07 : Ghattay Rest Day execution for Doodh Pokhari and Vhalay Pokhari (4,770.mtrs)
Day 08: Ghattay to Dzongri
Day 09: Dzongri to Tshoka Back.
Day 10: Tsokha (2950m) to Yuksom (1750m). 16km appx.
Day 11: Leave Yuksom for NJP/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 2Yuksom (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 3Sachen (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 4Tsokha (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 (3,950.mtrs) to Ghattay Camp (4, 257.mtrs) 9.km appx.
This day after breakfast trek to Ghattay Camp. The trail begins with a gradual ascent towards Dzongri la pass which is at 4,400.mtrs with majestic views of snow-capped mountains, green meadows, rhododendron and junipers. The trail goes to Ghattay camp through Dzongri la pass and past Mt. Black Kabur. The Dongri la pass gives great views of unique diversity of plains, valleys, glaciers and majestic spectacular, snow-capped mountains. Then trek continues with a gradual descent towards bridge. Once over the bridge, the trail gradually ascends through a picturesque and enthralling area and with beautiful impressive views of higher Himalaya to reach Ghattay camp. Overnighting camp.
Day 7 : Ghattay Camp (4, 257.mtrs) to Doodh Pokhari and Vhalay Pokhari (4,770.mtrs) 5 ½ .km one way.
After breakfast go to Dhood Pokhari and Vhalay Pokhari, the trail gradually ascends towards HMI base camp. After HMI Base, 30 minutes steep ascent. Continue on the right side, cross the small stream which is the main feeder tributary of Rangeet river. From here the trail gradually slopes towards Vhalay Pokhari and Dhood Phokhari. Here you will get majestic views of higher Himalayas above 6,500 to above 7,317 metres.
Lake Highlight: The locals believe that this is a wish granting lake. It is mostly known for its supposed powers in granting married couples children, especially if they have none after many years of being married. Couples worship here and take a stone back from here which they must place back at the lake after having a child. It also feeds the Rangeet river.
Day 8 : Ghattay Camp (4, 257.mtrs) to Dzongri (3,950.mtrs)
This day the walk from Ghattay to Dzongri the trail will be ascend from Tigap Chu river side. Tigap Chu is the confluence place for many trek route. From here the route will be gradual ascent for an hour. After that you will get nice trail towards Dzongri. The trail is through a very dense forest and sometime there will be no pack animals 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 trail takes about 4 to 5 hours to reach from Dzongri camp side.
Day 9: Dzongri to Tshoka Back.
Retrace the same path you took to go up to Dzongri.It will take you close to 6 hours to reach Tshoka.Camp overnight at Tshoka.
Day 10 : Tsokha (2950m) to Yuksom (1750m). 16km appx.
Last day of the trek takes you back over the same route you took to come up. 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. Expect 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 cozy bed and hot water will be waiting for you at your hotel/homestay.
Day11: Leave Yuksom for NJP/Bagdogra airport 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 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.