Want to experience Bollywood romantic feels surrounded by Rhododendrons and the fragrance of it hit your dopamine receptors?
Shingba Rhododendron Trek / Sanctuary is located in the Yumthang valley of Northern Sikkim. Yumthang valley is also popularly known as the ‘Valley of Flowers. The Yumthang valley is a grazing pasture that is supplied by the tributary of the River Teesta.
It is at a height of approx 11,000 ft blessed with 40+ species of Rhododendrons and trekkers get a glance of Mt. Kanchenjunga. West and East of the sanctuary are shadowed by Chomzomei and Tso Chuba-Sagochen ranges. Glittering Chu river and mountain ranges on both sides make it a destination for photographers.
History of Shingba Rhododendron Trek
The sanctuary is spread across 43 sq. km and is at an altitude of 11,000 ft. Shingba Sanctuary is home to many varieties of angiosperms, the star being Rhododendrons. The abundance of rhododendrons is what makes this sanctuary quite attractive. Though there are attractions such as the alpine meadows, the Yumthang River that flows through the reserve, and the existence of a variety of birds.
Experience of Paradise in a trip is provided in Shingba Trek. Birds like Wood Snipe, Hoary-Throated Barwin, shrubs, plants, and trees like Saxifrages, Aconites, Gentians, Poppies, and Primulas.
Key Points of Shingba Rhododendron Trek
| AREA | Lachung, North Sikkim |
| DURATION | 5 days |
| BEST SEASON | March to June and October to December. |
| GRADE | Moderate to Easy |
| ALTITUDE | 11,800 ft |
| APPROXIMATE KM | 42km |
Gallery of Shingba Rhododendron Trek
Highlights of Shingba Rhododendron Trek
- Mesmeric view of Mt Kanchenjunga and other snow-capped peaks.
- Opportunity to witness rare fauna and flora species.
- Walk through beautiful villages like Lachung and Yumthang valley.
- Witness natural hot springs.
Location of Shingba Rhododendron Trek
West and East of the sanctuary are shadowed by Chomzomei and Tso Chuba-Sagochen ranges. Closer to the Tibetian plateau weather is normally harshly cold in Shingba. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is located in the Yumthang valley of Northern Sikkim.
Villages at the glance: Lachung, Thangu, Lachen, Darjeeling.
Peaks at the glance: Chomzomei and Tso Chuba-Sagochen ranges, Mt. Kanchenjunga, and other peaks too.
Best Time to Visit Shingba Rhododendron Trek
Summer (March to May): Rhododendrons and other fauna are in full bloom from March to May.
Min Temperature: 5°c | Max Temperature: 20°c
Winter (October to December): Clearer view and snow-covered peaks look more prominent. Birds are easily spottable at this time. The snowfall occurs during this period.
Min Temperature: -10°c | Max Temperature: 5°c
How to Reach Shingba Rhododendron Trek
By Air:-
The nearest Airport is Bagdogra, then reach Gangtok.
By Train:-
The Railway station is New Jalpaiguri, then reach Gangtok.
By Bus:-
Drive 117 km from NJP to Gangtok. Bus services are available from Siliguri at the SNTD bus stand.
Itinerary of Shingba Rhododendron Trek
Day 01: Drive from Gangtok to Lachung
124 km / 6 Hours
Drive from Gangtok to Lachung will come across cardamom plantations, forests, and waterfalls. Lahung is a small village. Kabi Lungstok, Naga Waterfalls, Bhim Nala, Twin Waterfalls, Waterfalls, and Tashi viewpoint are a few points in this way.
Day 02: Lachung to Shingba Sanctuary
124 km / 6 Hours
Rhododendron Arboruem that blooms in pink, white, and red color are the beauty of essence. Lilacs are found here in the color purple and pink too. At Yumthang hot sulphur infused hot springs are present.
Day 03: Rest Day to explore Shingba Sanctuary
Rest and capture stills of beauty around and interact with local people, acquiring knowledge of their culture.
Day 04: Shingba Sanctuary to Lachung
26 km / 2 Hours
Today we trek back to our base village. Visit Lachung monastery and pay your deeds and you can extend your stay at Lahung to visit 0 points.
Day 05: Lachung to Gangtok
124 km / 6 Hours
Packing all the yaadein along with you, get yourself seated for 6 hrs journey to Gangtok.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Shingba Sanctuary Trek
Nearby places to visit nearby Shingba Sanctuary?
Thangu Chu via Lachen is almost 35 km away, a mysterious place to visit.
Shingba Sanctuary is a hard trek?
No, it is not all a difficult trek to other treks in Sikkim.
What part of Sikkim is Shingba Sanctuary located?
Shingba is located in the North of Sikkim and in the district Lachung.
What species of animals are found in Shingba Sanctuary?
Red Panda Ailurus fulgens, Musk Deer Moschus chrysogaster, Yellow-throated Marten Martes flavigula, Himalayan Weasel and others are found.
What species of birds are found in Shingba Sanctuary?
Wood Snipe and Hoary-throated Barwing are commonly found in Shingba Sanctuary.
What is Shingba Sanctuary famous for?
Shingba Sanctuay is famous for its Rhododendron trail and rare species of animals and birds in the Eastern Himalayas.
What foods to try in Yamthang valley?
Classical eastern cuisine, such as dumplings and tea, is famous here.
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