Yambong Singalila Trek
Yambong - Singalila is an offbeat trek in West Sikkim , exploring the unknow sections of the Singalila range
Snapshot
- Dates: 11 Nov -20 Nov 2021
- Region: Sikkim
- Duration: 10 days
- Activity: Adventure
- Grade: Moderate
- Price: Rs.38,000/- + 5% GST
The ever green Singalila range spans across the borders of West Bengal, Sikkim and Nepal. Verdant valleys, gushing rivers, dazzling lakes, thick forests teaming with wildlife and birds characterize this stupendous mountain range. Yambong valley is one such treasure trove, tucked in a remote part of West Sikkim. From its upper reaches emanates the Rimbi river which gushes through the valley. The mountain slopes house dense temperate forests with birds and flowers.
The Yambong Singalila trek starts from the picturesque village of Sangkhola, situated on the banks of the Rimbi. Over the next four days your path ascends up the Yambong valley, criss-crossing the Rimbi river and meandering through the densely forested slopes. Stupendous views of the Khangchendzonga and Everest range beckon you on reaching the high point of Daphe Bhir. This area is surrounded with many glacial lakes some of which we will explore.
From here the path now moves in a westerly direction connecting the Singalila ridge. For three days you will traverse the ridge walking through dense rhododendron thickets, in the constant company of the Khangchendzonga range. In spring time the entire landscape is converted into a riot of colour as the rhododendrons come in full bloom.
- • Trek an offbeat trail in Sikkim
- • Visit some high altitude glacial lakes
- • Grand views of Khangchendzonga range
| Day | Description | Time | Altitude |
|---|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Bagdogra to Darap (1706 m) Pickup from Bagdogra airport and drive to Darap, the base village for the Yambong Singalila trek. In the evening walk around this quiet and quaint village . Night halt at a homestay in the village accompanied by local cuisine . O/n at Daragaon homestay | 6 hrs | 5200 ft |
| Day 2 | Trek: Sangkhola to Chongri (1953 m) After breakfast drive to the village of Sangkhola peacefully located on the banks of the Rimbi river. The trek starts with a steep hour and a half climb to Chongri , the last inhabited village in the Yambong valley. Remainder of the day will be spent in acclimatizing, bird watching and absorbing the splendors of nature . O/n in tents | 2 hrs | 6407 ft |
| Day 3 | Trek: Sangkhola to Naya Patal (2493 m) The route today meanders through thick temperate forests teaming with life. On traversing through the forest a final climb would get you to the grassy meadows of Naya Patal. Breadth taking views of the entire valley below can be enjoyed from here. O/n in tents | 4 hrs | 8179 ft |
| Day 4 | Trek: Naya Patal to Lower Yambong (3693 m) Today is a challenging uphill climb as the ascent continues with the gradient becoming steeper. The endless climb alternates between conifer forests and exposed boulders, with the views becoming more fantabulous. The forest areas towards the end are prime habitat for the Monal pheasant, with good chances of sighting one. A large open field marks our campsite for the night. O/n in tents | 7 hrs | 12116 ft |
| Day 5 | Trek: Lower Yambong to Lam Pokhari (4325 m) Your route today crosses over the tree line, continuing with a short and gentle climb in the sub-alpine zone. The landscape drastically changes with juniper shrubs and pretty wild flowers dominating the landscape. Set camp on the banks of the serenely beautiful Lam Pokhari lake. O/n in tents | 3 hrs | 14189 ft |
| Day 6 | Trek: Lam Pokhari to Pare Megu (3909 m) Wake up before sunrise to climb up to Daphe Bhir, the view point from where you admire the first rays of the sun bathe Mt.Khangchendzonga in its golden light. Post breakfast take the route due West , which connects you to the Singalila ridge. Throughout the day you descend and climb, maintaining a steady height, spiraling from one side of the Singalila ridge to another. The initial descent through the woods brings one to pastures where you may find Blue Sheep. Beyond, the trail winds its way steadily through rhododendron thickets. O/n in tents | 6 hrs | 12824 ft |
| Day 7 | Trek: Pare Megu to Dhor (3772 m) The trail continues to wind over the Singalila ridge with omnipresent views of Mt. Khangchendzonga. Verdant valleys, open meadows colored with wild flowers and imposing snow clad mountains create a most scenic backdrop for your walk. Set camp in one of the soft green meadows. O/n in tents | 6 hrs | 12375 ft |
| Day 8 | Trek: Dhor to : Chewabhangyang (3148 m) Brace yourself for a long march today . After a 2 to 3 hour traverse , a series of short but steep ascents and descents characterize the route , till you find yourself on the traverse once again. The road finally gets you down to Chewabhanjyang on the Indo- Nepal border. O/n in tents | 8 hrs | 10446 ft |
| Day 9 | Trek: Chewabhangyang to Uttarey (1985 m) The first part of your descent today is over steep stone steps, passing through rhododendron forests. On reaching Chitrey , the rhododendron forests gives way to Oaks and other temperate trees, with the gradient tapering off a bit. Cardamom fields mark your entry into Uttarey, from where you drive back to Darap. O/n at Daragaon homestay | 4 hrs | 6512 ft |
| Day 10 | Darap to Bagdogra After breakfast drop to Bagdogra airport | 6 hrs |
Cost per person(for Indian nationals): Rs.39,000 (+ 5% GST)
Included
- Accommodation on a twin sharing basis
- Entire logistics for the trek , including cooks , guides and porters
- All meals from dinner on day 1 to breakfast on day 10
- All transfers using an Innova or Xylo
Not Included
- Flights
- GST
- Rescue / medical charges in case needed due to any ailment and/or accidents
- Excess stay & meals due to bad weather conditions or strikes, resulting in delay of flights or any other form of transport
- Soft drink charges, table drinks, bottled water, laundry, cigarettes, telephone expenses, and liquor charges
- Any other item not mentioned in “Included” section above
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