SIKKIM - North destinations

Kabi Lungchuk: This historical place is 17 km from Gangtok on the North Sikkim Highway. This is where the historic treaty of blood brotherhood between the Lepcha chief To-King-Tek and the Bhutia chief Khy-Bum-Sar was signd ritually. The spot where the ceremony took place is marked by a memorial stone pillar amidst the cover of dense forest.

Phensong monastery: The place is situated on the gentle slope stretching from Kabi to Phodong with perhaps one of the best landscapes in the region. The Phensong monastery, under the Nyingmapa Buddhist Order, was built in 1721 during the time of Jigme Pawo. It was destroyed in fire in 1947 and rebuilt in 1948 through the efforts of the lamas. The annual festival of Chamm is performed on the 28th and 29th of the tenth month of lunar calendar (Tibetan).

Phodong monastery: One of the six major monasteries in Sikkim, Phodong monastery is located in the North, approximately 38 km from Gangtok. Four km beyond Phodong is the recently-renovated Labrang monastery, unique in its architectural design.

Singhik: The place offers one of the most spectacular views of Mt Khangchendzonga and its ranges. A well-located tourist lodge provides accommodation for visitors. The area also has a number of interesting short nature trails for 1 to 3 days along the higher ridges of the surrounding hills.

Chungthang: Chungthang, on the confluence of Lachen and Lachung Chu and the starting point of river Teesta, has emergd as a major subdivision settlement in North Sikkim. It is the nodal junction for the two passes, Lachen and Lachung. The valley is believed to have been bleassed by Guru Rimpoche and one can visit the holy Guru Lhedo to see the foot and palm prints left behind by the patron saint. The place, rich in biodiversity with a large variety of orchids, plants and wildlife, is 95 km from Gangtok, 23 km from Lachung, 29 km from Lachen, and is predominantly a Lepcha region. Lachung A Bhutia village with a unique local self-governing body called the Zumsa which substitutes the panchayat, Lachung has emerged as a tourist destination with the soaring popularity of yumthang valley which is just 25 km away frm Lachung. The village, spread out on either side of Lachung Chu, has managed to retain its unique culture and tradition. The Lachung monastery on the slope opposite the highway is a focal point of all religious functions of the local inhabitants. To get a glimpse of the religious functions performed on auspicious occasions a visit to the monastery should form part of the tour itinerary.

Yumthang: Yumthang, at an elevation of 11,800 ft, and 140 km from Gangtok, is a paradise for nature lovers with a fascinating blend of flora and fauna and breathtaking scenic grandeur. The valley is also the home for Shingbha Rhododendron sanctuary with 24 species of Rhododendrons. Yumthang 'Tsa-Chu' or the hot spring on the left bank of Lachung Chu is immensely popular for its curative properties.

Guru Dongmar Lake: At a height of 17,800 ft, this is considered as a sacred lake by Buddhists and Hindus. Blessed by Guru Padmasambhava, it remains milky throughout the year. A part of the lake does not freeze in winter.