Yumthang Valley is located in the Sikkim district of the North part of India and is also referred to as the Valley of flowers. However, once the winter comes, this colorful valley turns into a dream world of white. With snow-covered mountains, iced rivers and fresh meadows covered with deep snow, Yumthang turns into one of the most enjoyable Indian winters of all times. Coupled with more well-known hill resorts such as Manali or Gulmarg, Yumthang Valley is an unspoken secret that seems to be a blend of raw himalayan beauty and the pure heavenly serenity.
Yumthang Valley in winter should have the first place in your travel list in case you are planning a winter getaway that is not so crowded, magical, and full of adventure.
The Place to Visit: Yumthang Valley in Winter
Although Yumthang is mostly visited during spring due to the colorful rhododendron there, it is during winter when the valley shows its snowier side. The seasons between December and February cover the valley with the blizzard snow, and it becomes a recreation center of the snow-omaniacs. This is the reason why winter is the best time to visit:
Snow Wonderland: The valley along with the mountains around remain under the cover of snow, forming a postcard-perfect view.
Less Traffic: Yumthang being a relatively smaller commercialized hill station compared to mainstream ones is a romantic getaway.
Adventure Activities: Snowball fights, yak rides and many more, the valley provides local experiences which can not be found elsewhere in the winter season.
Hot Springs in Cold: Visualizing that you are taking a swim in a natural hot spring when the snow is going on all around you is unforgettable indeed.
How to Reach: Your Guide to Yumthang
It takes some prior planning to get to Yumthang Valley and that is part of the attraction.
Via Air: The closest airport is Bagdogra (West Bengal) which is approximately 220 km near Yumthang. It is possible to take a cab or a shared car down there to Gangtok and proceed to Lachung and then eventually to the valley. The best solution is to book a flight ticket to Bagdogra so that one can be near the valley.
Via Rail: The closest railroad station is New Jalpaiguri (NJP) railroad station. Once you are done with your train ride, you may use a cab or a bus to get to Gangtok and later to North Sikkim.
Through Road: Yumthang is located 150km away, at Gangtok. You will go over beautiful mountain passes and reach Lachung where the majority of tourists spend their night before they go to the valley.
In order to make your travelling cost effective, never forget to Compare Flights or find an inexpensive flight to Bagdogra. At HappyEasyGo, you will be able to do your flight bookings with ease and save more to venture out the adventures awaiting you in Sikkim.
Yumthang Valley Winter Experiences
Snow Adventures
Winter in Yumthang translates to unlimited snow-doll playing. You are either creating snowmen, having a snowball fight, or just waling in the snow and the valley makes you feel as though you have ventured into a fairy tale.
Frozen Teesta River
The clear waters of the Teesta river partially frozen on your way to Yumthang give amazing shots. The river in the background that is icy-blue, with snow-capped mountains, almost appears like a painting.
Yumthang Hot Springs
These natural hot springs are popularly located close to the valley and are said to be medically effective. Then taking a dip into the warm waters in the midst of the snow-covered meadows is an experience that you will have the rest of your life to enjoy.
Lachung Village Stay
A visit to Yumthang Valley will be passing by Lachung a small Himalayan village. It is not only convenient to remain here (Yumthang lacks options of accommodation), but also a culturally rich experience. Rustic homestays, Sikkimese cuisine and hospitality will also make your trip very memorable.
The Drive to Zero Point
Just in front of Yumthang is Zero Point (Yumesamdong), the place where the roads literally end, and Himalayan landscape, covered with the snow, extends indefinitely. The trip to Zero Point is exciting during winter, as the snow is high on both sides of a road. The effort is justified by the panoramic views of the grandiose peaks.
The optimum Snowy Yumthang trip
Late in December to February are the ideal months when Yumthang should be visited to enjoy winter. This is the period at which there is maximum snow cover and the valley indeed turns out to be a snow paradise. But bring plenty of woolens because the weather is usually far beneath zero.
Yumthang Valley Winter Travel tips
Book in Advance: Winter is the high season among snow lovers and therefore, ensure that you book your plane tickets early in Bagdogra.
Pack Wisely: Comforter thermal clothes, gloves, snow boots and woolen hats. It is cold, particularly at night.
Health Check: The valley is found on an elevation of 11,800 feet meaning that some of the travelers would experience mild altitude sickness. Bring along simple drugs and drink a lot of water.
Purchases to be obtained: Yumthang Valley is a restricted region of North Sikkim. A permit is also required and this has to be made through your travel agent or hotel in Gangtok.
Cash Is Handy: There are limited ATM machines in the higher areas and thus bring enough cash to cover local costs.
The Reason Yumthang Valley Needs to be on Your Winter Bucket List
Compared to the known winter resorts which are usually congested and even commercialized, the Yumthang Valley has a raw and pure Himalayan experience. The idea of waking up in Lachung with snow falling gently outside, taking a drive through the twisting roads through the mountains covered with fresh snow, and entering a valley where all around you is white, is enough to make you breathe in and out. It is a relaxing vacation where time slows up, and you can enjoy the beauty of nature.
Depending on what you are looking at, a couple in search of a romantic escape, a family seeking an adventure in the snow, or an individual traveler seeking relaxation, Yumthang Valley would have something in store.
Booking Your Winter Escape
You should begin with a proper flight booking in order to make your trip stress-free. The nearest flight ticket to Bagdogra then the road trip becomes another part of the adventure to this snow paradise. HappyEasyGo has the best offers on Flights and you will always get the most convenient and cheap flight options in your trip.
Final Thoughts
Yumthang Valley has the Winter Charm that has remained untouched coupled with the peaceful atmosphere and the unique experiences that ensure that you fall in love with Sikkim once again. In case you want to go somewhere where snow meets the calmness, Yumthang is the solution. This paradise has to be uncovered before the masses discover.
So, why wait? Book today and get your flight ticket, pack those woolens and allow the winter magic at Yumthang Valley to create a magic that you will never forget.
