A Panoptic Travel Guide to the Floral Paradise of Sikkim: Valley of Flowers
The "Valley of Flowers" is located in the Yumthang district and is the heart of North Sikkim. It is at an elevation of 11,800 feet and thus provides cold and chill weather throughout the year. Each season in the valley offers a unique and glorious view for every nature lover, as it contains an amazing blend of flora and fauna and astonishing scenic beauty. If you want to be in the bliss of pure nature, you can visit this Valley of Flowers of Sikkim anytime.
You can read this article to the end to gain inclusive knowledge of the Valley of Flowers of Sikkim while traveling there.
How to reach to the Valley of Flowers in Sikkim
Though even at a height of 3564 meters, the place provides full connectivity from the rest of the world. You can reach the place through:
- By Flight—There are two major airports in Sikkim. One is Pakyong Airport, which is the closest airbase to Yumthang Valley, at approximately 156 km, and the other is Bagdogra International Airport which is located approximately 220 km away from the valley.
- By Train—You can easily reach the Valley of Flowers in Sikkim by train through Lachung Railway Station, the closest railway station at a distance of 25 km from your destination. You can always take a private taxi from the railway station, which can be hired easily.
- By Road—If you are interested in a road trip, it is better for you to first reach Gangtok and then take a road trip from there. The distance between Gangtok and the Valley of Flowers is 127 km, where you can enjoy the iconic scenery of other places in Sikkim.
Best time to Visit the Valley of Flowers in Sikkim
There is no specific time for you to visit the Valley of Flowers, as it is a destination which can be visited throughout the year. However, you can choose your time to be here as per the weather you like or the things that you want to explore or feel at a particular time, as it provides unique experiences in different months, which can be seen as:
- February and March - It is a blooming period in the valley when the view becomes more iconic with the blossom flowers. It is also the time when the local people enjoy and celebrate the local festivals of Lahore, where they wear their traditional dresses and organize many cultural programs, and where you can become part of their astonishing event
- April to June - It is a flowering season before the atmosphere becomes too cold. Though you cannot explore the snowfall, the snow is still covered all over the floor, making you feel like you are in paradise.
- September to December - This is the ideal time to experience clear skies and view snow-capped peaks.
- December and January - Because of the valley's high elevation, the weather can be a bit chillier at this time, with temperatures ranging from 6 degrees to -11 degrees Celsius. However, you can still enjoy being there if you love the snow and want to see the snowfall.
What Things You Must Bring While Visiting Valley of Flowers of Sikkim-
- Take a Permit Before Entery - This Indian Valley of Flowers lies near the border of China and thus falls under army control. So, if you are going to visit there, you are required to have a prior official permit so that you won't have any issues with your enjoyment.
- Woollen Clothes - The weather is cool throughout the year, so you are advised to bring at least a light woollen jacket if you are making your trip in summer and heavy woollen clothes during the winter season.
- First-Aid Kit - The Valley of Flowers is located in a small town where medical facilities are not widely available. You can bring your essential first-aid box and any prescribed medicines there.
- Moisturizers- Don't forget to bring moisturisers to keep your skin moisturized in the cold atmosphere.
Where to Stay During a Visit in Valley of Flowers
The Valley of Flowers doesn't provide any accommodation options. So you have to stay either at Lachen or Gangtok, where you can find a good number of options to stay. You can make your trip from Lachen or Gangtok to the Valley, which is around 72 km away from each other.
What to Eat in the Valley of Flowers
Though, the options provided at the Valley are very limited because of its different techniques for cooking food at elevated locations. However, you can always taste their traditional Himalayan cuisine of maggie, noodles, rice, and momos, which are served hot and a bit different from your regular acquired taste.
What are the Best Places to Visit in the Valley of Flowers of Sikkim
There are many things to expect and amazing activities to do in the Valley of Flowers, which will help you to spend your entire day satisfied. In this peaceful and calm environment, you can always have fun:
- There is a vast Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, which provides habitat to more than 24 species of Rhododendron flowers and helps you to start your day with an ambrosial-scented display.
- You can even plan your picnic in the green meadows for an aesthetic day, where you can enjoy the special variety of apples, known as Sikkim Crabaapla, and strawberries that grow along the slopes.
- If you are an adventure seeker, the Valley of Flowers always welcomes you for forest walks and splendid treks.
- You can have a relaxing bath in its Milky White Waterfalls and healing hot springs.
- Those who love snow can definitively visit the place in winter, glance at its adorable snowy peaks, and enjoy skiing.
Conclusion
This floral paradise of Sikkim is an amazing destination to spend with your loved ones, where you can have a full combination of fun, entertainment, and relaxation. If you want to be away from the hustle-bustle of cities, then it is the ideal destination for you. Here, you can be as romantic as you can and can be adventurous at the same time. So, don't even think of missing out on this wholesome place while planning a trip.
