Yuksom-Dzongri hiking is a short, high-altitude trek among the most spectacular routes in Sikkim. The North-Eastern area of India has numerous exciting and fascinating trails that lure visitors worldwide. Dzongri Trek is the Goechala Trek’s minor trek option. Trekkers on this magnificent journey can explore and experience the hypnotic exquisiteness of stunning vistas while hiking. In reality, Dzongri La and Dzongri are the best places to see the beautiful mountains & towering Himalayan peaks of Sikkim.
The beautiful Kanchenjunga National Park is situated in northern Sikkim, in the lap of the majestic Himalayas. It is a unique high-altitude nature reserve and the country’s first Mixed-Heritage site. It was recently included on UNESCO’s list of world heritage sites. It is located in both Nepal and Sikkim. With a diversified landscape & beautiful vistas, this location is a hiking paradise with unparalleled wildlife diversity. Kanchenjunga National Park borders Nepal’s Kanchenjunga Conservation Area & Qomolangma National Nature Reserve.
4 Days Itinerary to Dzongri Peak
The trek begins in Yuksom in Khangchendzonga National Park. The hike to Dzongri usually takes five days, including one day in Tshoka village. Alternatively, if you ignore the stay day in Tshoka village, you may finish the trek in 4 days.
Here’s a detailed itinerary of what you can expect in four trekking days.
Day 1: Yuksom-Saachen-Bakkhim-Tshokha
The trek to Tshokha takes you through the lush tropical woods of the National Reserve of Khangchendzonga. It has breathtaking panoramas of the mountains and the magical melody of the river running down through the valley.
The first five or six kilometers of the hike are rather pleasant, with scenic waterfalls, a few suspension bridges, and spectacular white and red rhododendron blooms. The last few miles are very difficult; the walk continuously rises with a slope of 45 to 60 degrees to Tshokha. This section of the journey takes around eight hours.
Day 2: Tshokha-Phetang-Dzongri
This stage of the journey might be difficult. Because of the elevation, you may start experiencing acute symptoms of mountain sickness. A leisure day in Tshokha may aid adaptation, so think about it before skipping it. Occasional showers and numerous snowfalls add to the fun of this segment.
Even though the path is quite well with wooden stairs, snow can occasionally cover it, and this route can get stranded in a snowstorm.
Day 3: Dzongri- Dzongri Peak- Tshoka
If the weather cooperates, you will not be disappointed. From Dzongri peak, you’ll have a fantastic glimpse of the Kangchenjunga range of mountains, which includes the highest point in India’s Himalayas. Dzongri is a breathtaking location. The Dzongri peak is around 300 meters above sea level. And the hike will take between forty to sixty minutes.
Reaching the summit is an experience you will remember for the rest of your life. It’s just magnificent. The view of Mount. Pandim, especially, is incredibly captivating and beautiful. You may start your journey back to Tshokha after relaxing & rejuvenating at Dzongri. Make sure you leave Dzongri early enough to go to Tshokha before dark.
Read also: Discover Sikkim’s Top Attractions in October
Day 4: Tshoka to Yuksom
After completing your trekking, you can start your back journey to Yuksom. You will have to follow the same trail to get back to Yuksom.
What is the Best Time to Visit Yuksom to Dzongri Trek?
The ideal season for hiking in this area is from the middle of March until the middle of June. After then, another good season is in the autumn, from mid-September until late November.
If you wish to trek in this Dzongri, you should avoid going during the rainy season, which lasts from the end of June to the middle of September, because the track turns treacherous and muddy. Landslides & loose stones are also uncommon during this season, due to which roads can be blocked for multiple days.
How do I get to Dzongri?
The journey begins at Yuksom. Most of the trekkers generally make their base camps here. Yuksom is well-linked to the closest airport, Bagdogra. Bagdogra is actively connected by air to the rest of the country’s major cities. It is approximately 150 kilometers from Yuksom. The journey from the airport to Yuksom might take up to seven hours.
Siliguri, West Bengal, is the nearest major railway station to Yuksom. Siliguri is about 150 kilometers from Yuksom. Cabs and buses can take you to your campsite in Yuksom.
Which documents to carry with you?
Identification credentials such as Voter ID CARD, Driving Licence, Aadhar Card, and Indian Passport are required for Indian trekkers. Make sure to carry original documents with you and four passport-size photographs.
Foreigners must have a PASSPORT, Indian VISA, and Inner line permit of Sikkim, as well as four passport-sized pictures.
Medical certification is also required, although this may be provided at Yuksam if you cannot bring it.
Dzongri trek budget estimate
The trek to Dzongri will cost you at least ten to fifteen thousand rupees for each person. On the upper end, or depending on the individual’s need, this might range from 20 to 22 thousand rupees per person. This does not include the cost of air travel, rail tickets, or transport to Yuksom.
Accommodation expenses in Yuksom range from Rs. 1000 to Rs. 1500/-, depending on the hotel. Food can cost around Rs. 2500 to Rs. 3500 in total. If you rent tents, they will cost roughly 100 rupees per day.
You should know this Before You Go on the Dzongri Trek.
- Weather conditions in high altitudes differ from those on the plains; give yourself sufficient time to acclimatize to high altitudes.
- Before beginning the journey, consult with your doctor. During the hike, carry basic medicines and a first-aid kit.
- Pay attention to the trek guides to enjoy a secure and pleasant journey.
- Water is extremely valuable; thus, conservation is encouraged.
- Using earbuds throughout the trek may affect your audibility.
- Camping is a fundamental activity in nature. Luxuries should not be expected.
- Electricity will be available for a few reasons only.
- Mobile and laptop charging stations may or may not be accessible at a common spot on campsites.
Tips and Tricks
Med Kit: Acute altitude sickness is the greatest risk factor on this trek. It causes drowsiness, headaches, or stomach discomfort. Since there are no medical services available throughout the walk, it is recommended that you bring appropriate medicine. If the situation persists, you should descend to a lower altitude.
Money: Make sure you have sufficient cash with you. Yuksom is a remote location with unstable ATMs.
Clothing: Dzongri’s height makes it vulnerable to unexpected and harsh weather. Bring excellent walking boots, sleeping bags, a raincoat, and warm woolen clothes.
Food: Bring plenty of food with you on the trek. Carbohydrate-rich diets are recommended since the low oxygen level at high elevations hinders fat digestion.
Environment friendly: Polythene bags are prohibited in Sikkim due to environmental concerns. Carry paper bags packed items only. Cooperate with the officials and properly dispose of any waste.
Conclusion
The Trek to Yuksom-Dzongri is a short high-altitude trek among the fascinating trek routes in Sikkim. It is the Goechala Trek’s minor trek option. This incredible 4-day trip begins in Yuksom & ends in Yuksom. The trek to Dzongri is the best option for hikers who wish to see much in a short time. Trekkers on this magnificent journey can explore and experience the hypnotic exquisiteness of stunning landscapes while trekking.
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