Top Things to Do in Yuksom: Complete Sightseeing Guide

Located in West Sikkim, Yuksom is a destination that often flies under the radar—but for those who visit, it leaves a lasting impression. This small town is where Sikkim’s monarchy began, and it is now a peaceful haven for trekkers, history lovers, and travellers looking to reconnect with nature and spirituality.

Whether you are visiting for one day or planning an extended stay, this post offers a well-structured Yuksom tour plan that balances major attractions, offbeat adventures, and cultural immersion—using insights you will not find on generic travel websites.

Yuksom at a Glance

• Altitude: 1,780 m

• Best Time to Visit: March–May, October–early December

• Known For: Starting point of the Goechala Trek, Dzongri Trek, first capital of Sikkim, monasteries, lakes, and nature-based tourism

Top Places to Visit in Yuksom (One-Day Tour)

If you are short on time, you can still explore some of Yuksom's most culturally and historically rich spots in a single day.

1. Norbugang Coronation Throne

This is where Sikkim’s first king, Phuntsog Namgyal, was crowned in 1642 by three lamas. The throne, stupa, and surrounding pine trees offer a serene space rooted in deep spiritual significance.

• Category: Historical Site

• Time Required: 30–45 minutes

• Distance: 10-minute walk from central Yuksom

  
  

2. Kathok Lake

Just a short walk from the Coronation Throne, Kathok Lake is considered sacred by locals. Surrounded by greenery and prayer flags, it is ideal for a quiet morning visit.

• Tip: Visit early in the day to enjoy the reflections on the lake’s surface.

3. Dubdi Monastery

Founded in 1701, Dubdi Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim. “Dubdi” means “retreat,” and the location lives up to the name. The 30–40 minute uphill hike rewards you with views of Yuksom valley and access to a peaceful temple set in dense forest.

• Recommended Gear: Walking shoes, water bottle, camera

• Insight: You can get a partial view of Yuksom halfway up the trail.

4. Tashi Tenka Viewpoint:

This is a scenic spot for panoramic views of the Kabru peaks and the surrounding forest. Ideal for sunrise photography or a short afternoon walk.

• Best Time: October to November

• Photographers’ Tip: Bring a zoom lens for Himalayan peak shots.

5. Phamrong Falls

Phamrong Falls is one of the another highest waterfalls in West Sikkim, located approximately 7 kilometers from Yuksom on the route towards Tashiding.

Surrounded by dense forest and steep cliffs, the waterfall is at its most powerful during and just after the monsoon season, when the cascading water crashes down into a rocky basin with thunderous force.

The path to the falls includes a short uphill trail with stone steps, benches, and viewpoints for travelers to pause and enjoy the scenery. The entire area is peaceful, making it a great spot to spend a quiet morning or afternoon immersed in nature.

• Distance from Yuksom: ~7 km (approx. 20–25 min drive)

• Accessibility: Walkable path from parking area; moderate climb

• Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon (Sept–Nov) or spring (Mar–Apr)

• Recommended for: Nature lovers, photographers, and peaceful half-day outings

• Local Tip: Combine with a short visit to nearby villages or continue towards Tashiding for a longer circuit

Extended and Offbeat Yuksom Sightseeing

If you are spending more than a day, explore these lesser-known yet rewarding attractions that highlight Yuksom’s raw beauty and spiritual depth.

6. Hung Hri (Hongri) Monastery Hike

A full-day trek to one of Sikkim’s oldest monasteries, this route takes you through Tshong village and beautiful cardamom fields. The trail is not clearly marked, so hiring a local guide is essential.

• Time Required: 6–7 hours (round-trip)

• Experience Level: Moderate

• Cultural Value: Home to the Lepcha community

• Pro Tip: Ask your guide about the monastery’s origin legends—locals share fascinating stories not found online.

7. Khechoperi Lake and Kanchenjunga Waterfalls

This makes for one of the most scenic day trips from Yuksom. Start early and visit the wish-fulfilling Khechoperi Lake, followed by a refreshing stop at the Kanchenjunga Waterfalls, where you can also enjoy a short zipline ride.

• Route Options: Guided hike or taxi from Yuksom

• Local Eats: Grab local snacks at stalls near both locations

  
  
  
  

8. Rock Climbing at Yeba Rock

Named after a legendary Limboo shaman, this rock offers a real adrenaline rush for beginner and experienced climbers alike.

• Location: Above Yuksom town

• Views: Panoramic valley scenes

• Guide Required: Yes

• Management & Planning required : Yes

• Tip: Go early morning for cooler temperatures and better grip.

  
  

9. Village Walks from Limboo Homestay

Take a slow walk through Yuksom’s surrounding villages. This is an authentic way to experience rural life in Sikkim, complete with traditional houses, flower gardens, and friendly locals from diverse ethnic backgrounds.

Insight: Expect to see Limboo, Bhutia, Nepali and Lepcha cultures coexisting in harmony.

10. Bird Watching in and Around Yuksom

Yuksom, located at the edge of Kanchenjunga National Park, is a natural haven for birdwatchers.

The surrounding forests, farmlands, and high-altitude trails are home to a rich diversity of Himalayan bird species.

Whether you are an avid birder or a curious traveler, a morning spent bird watching in Yuksom can be incredibly rewarding.

Common sightings include Grey Treepies, Himalayan Bulbuls, Rufous Sibias, Green-tailed Sunbirds, and occasionally the Fire-tailed Sunbird or Satyr Tragopan in deeper forested zones.

Early mornings around Kathok Lake, the path to Dubdi Monastery, and trails beyond Tshoka are especially active with bird calls and movement.

• Best Locations: Around Kathok Lake, Limboo Homestay gardens, Dubdi trail, Tshoka trail

• Best Time: Early morning (6:00–8:00 AM), especially in spring (March–May) and autumn (Oct–Nov)

• Recommended for: Nature lovers, photographers, solo travelers, and family-friendly exploration

• Local Tip: Bring binoculars and wear muted clothing. Some homestays, like Limboo Homestay, can help arrange guided bird walks with locals familiar with the region’s avifauna.

11. Day Trip to Pelling from Yuksom

If you are staying for a few days, consider a day trip to Pelling. It takes about 2–2.5 hours by taxi.

Highlights in Pelling:

• Chenrezig Statue & Skywalk – India’s first glass skywalk offering valley and peak views

• Pemayangtse Monastery – Important 17th-century Buddhist site

• Rabdentse Palace Ruins – Former capital ruins with a forest trail

• Sidkeong Tulku Bird Park – Home to 200+ bird species; visit early morning

  
  

Itinerary Tip: Start early and return by late afternoon. Bird Park closes by 4 PM.

Trekking from Yuksom: Dzongri and Goechala

Yuksom is more than a cultural gem; it is the starting point of two of India’s most iconic high-altitude treks—the Dzongri Trek and the Goechala Trek.

Both routes lead deep into the Kanchenjunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site proudly hosting pristine alpine wilderness, Himalayan biodiversity, and proximity to Mt. Kanchenjunga, the world’s third-highest peak.

These treks are not casual hikes. They require physical preparedness, acclimatization, and support from licensed local guides and agencies, as mandated by the Sikkim government.

12. Dzongri Trek: 5–6 Days

The Dzongri Trek is ideal for trekkers who want to experience the grandeur of the Himalayas without committing to the full Goechala route. The trail ascends through dense forests, alpine meadows, and rhododendron valleys before reaching Dzongri Top (4,179 meters)—arguably the best vantage point in Sikkim to witness Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Pandim, Kabru peaks, and more.

Trek Route (Common Stops): Yuksom → Tshoka → Dzongri → Dzongri Sightseeing→ Tshoka → Yuksom

Trek Duration: 5 to 6 days

Trek Grade: Moderate to challenging

Max Altitude: ~4,179 m (Dzongri Top)

Best Time to Visit:

• Spring (March to May): Clear skies, vibrant rhododendrons

• Autumn (October to December): Crisp views, colder nights

  
  

• Permit: Required. Obtainable only via registered trekking operators in Sikkim

• Tip: Tshoka, a forest village en route, is a scenic acclimatization stop and a great place for birdwatching.

  
  

13. Goechala Trek

The Goechala Trek is among the most rewarding treks in the Eastern Himalayas, taking you to Goechala Viewpoint 1 (4,600 m)—the closest permitted point to Kanchenjunga's towering presence. Along the way, you encounter alpine lakes, glacial moraines, rhododendron forests, and dramatic mountain backdrops that rival Nepal’s Annapurna or Everest routes.

Trek Route (Common Stops): Yuksom → Sachen → Tshoka → Dzongri → Dzongri Rest - Thansing → Lamuney → Goechala Viewpoint 1 → Kokchurung → Tshoka → Yuksom

Trek Duration: 8 to 10 days

Trek Grade: Difficult

Max Altitude: ~4,600 m (Goechala Viewpoint 1)

Permit & Support:

• You must trek with a licensed local guide, cook, porters, and pre-arranged logistics (permits, tented accommodation, meals, etc.)

• Solo treks are not allowed due to forest and wildlife regulations

Best Time to Visit:

• October to early December: Sharp visibility and golden light for photography

• March to May: Snowfields near the summit and blooming rhododendrons

• Avoid: Monsoon (June to September)—slippery trails, leeches, cloud cover, landslides,

Highlights:

• Sunrise at Dzongri Top and Viewpoint 1

• Close-up views of Mt. Pandim, Kabru, and the Kanchenjunga massif

• Silence and solitude in high Himalayan valleys

  
  

Important Note:The final approach to Goechala Pass is restricted for safety and environmental reasons. Most treks now conclude at Viewpoint 1, which still offers magnificent, uninterrupted views of Kanchenjunga’s southeast face.

Practical Trekking Advice:

• Physical Fitness: Cardiovascular endurance, altitude acclimatization, and leg strength are key

• Gear: Waterproof boots, thermal layers, trekking poles, sleeping bag (sub-zero rating)

• Eco Guidelines: Carry all non-biodegradable waste back. Use only biodegradable soap and avoid plastic.

• Booking: Book at least 1–2 months in advance during peak seasons. Choose a government-recognized local operator.

Places to Stay in Yuksom:

If you are looking for a reliable, well-located, and welcoming place to stay, Limboo Homestay is one of the best options. It offers both:

• A traditional wooden cottage with garden views

• A modern building for added comfort

  
  

Why stay here?

• Walking distance to key attractions

• Guided tours and trek arrangements

• Warm, home-cooked meals with Sikkimese flavors

• Beautiful and peaceful garden with gazebo and swings

• Luxurious rooms with attached washrooms, with hot shower

• Local cultural immersion through conversations and shared stories

Suggested 4-Day Yuksom Tour Plan

or begin Dzongri Trek / Goechala Trek

Final Thoughts: Why Yuksom Deserves a Spot on Your Travel Map?

Unlike crowded tourist hubs, Yuksom offers quiet dignity, spiritual depth, and rugged nature. It is a place where every step uncovers centuries-old stories, and every trail leads to peace—whether through mountain views or monastery chants. If you are seeking authenticity, Yuksom tourism delivers without noise, but with impact.