Trekking
Nestled in the Himalayas, Sikkim is a land locked state. Despite its smallsize , the state is geographically diverse and has become one of most visited states in India. Sikkim is known for its cleanliness and natural beauty. The place blessed with diversity of flora of fauna, provides are juvenating treat to the trekkers. Sikkim trekking offers everything from simple and short excursions to the tough challenges of the snowy peaks. The trekkers can enjoy trekking along with the spectacular view of Himalayas,lush meadows, green woodlands and beautiful orchards. Over all Sikkim is the ultimate destination for trekking.
Famous Treks in Sikkim
Sikkim has a number of fascinating trekking routes, that attract trek enthusiasts. Among the famous treks in Sikkim are :
» Yuksam-Dzongri-Goencha La Trek - The trekking route of Yuksam- Dzongri-Gochha La is most popular in Sikkim. Yuksam is the best place to start trekking. It offer fantastic views of Kanchenjunga peak,the woodlands of the Rathong Valley and rhododendron forests. Dzongri situated at an altitude of 3,962 meter offers the breath taking view of Khangchendzonga range. The place also provides the superb views of sunrise and sunset. Goencha La, located at a height of 4,940 meters offers the excellent view of the Kangchendzonga hills. From Goencha La, the trekker shave to come down to Thangshing, then back to Tsokha and finally to Yuksom.
» Tandong Hill Trek -
Surrounded by lush green forest, Tendong hill is situated at an altitude of 8,530 feet. From Tandong one can reach to district headquarters town Namchi.In Tandong the trekking is possible throughout the year.
» Menam Hill Trek - Menam hill trek located abovethe Tandong hill, at a height of 10,300 feet. The trek overlooking the Ravangla Bazaar settlement offers the trekking to Ravangla. From Menam hilltop trekkers can chose the gentle trek to Borong village or take the more challenging trail, down to Yangang village.
»Namchi Or Damthang To Tendong-Ravangla-Menam-Borong Trek - The trekking route is one of the most interesting scaling along the hilltops. The trekkers can take the route to Tashiding or terminate at Borong and drive back to Ravangli.
» Versery Trek - Situated at an altitude of 10,000feet, the place offer trekking up to Hilley. From there a trekker can moveup to the Versey Rhododendron Sanctaury.
Trekking Permits
The foreigners have to obtain permits for trekking in Sikkim. They can obtain permits from places namely Delhi, Kolkatta and Siliguri. The permit means that trekkers can only follow well-beaten trails within a limited duration. If one is coming from Darjeeling and have arranged permits and itineraries in advance, he could enter Sikkim at Jorethang and go directlyto Pelling or Yoksum saving precious permit time.
Climbing Experience
The technical experience of climbing is not necessary, as most of the trekroutes lies between 6000 and 14,000 feet. Camping & trekking equipments are available on hire from the tourism department and from reputed travelagents.
Best Season
In Sikkim each season is distinct, so one must know about the best season for trekking. The best time to trek is between mid- February to late May and between October to mid December.
