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Yuksom

Yuksom

village · Sikkim

State
Sikkim
Type
Village
Best season
Summer
Things to do
2+

Yuksom is a historical village in West Sikkim, the first capital of the old Sikkimese kingdom and the trailhead for the famed Goecha La and Dzongri treks toward Kanchenjunga. An emerging eco-conscious, slow-travel destination, it draws trekkers and offbeat travellers with its forests, monasteries and calm. Surrounded by the Kanchenjunga National Park (an UNESCO World Heritage Site), Yuksom has old monasteries, sacred lakes, homestays and forest on every side. Its blend of Buddhist heritage, Himalayan trekking and unspoiled nature makes it a favourite for conscious, adventurous young travellers.

When to go

March to May and October to November are best for trekking and clear views. Winters are cold; monsoon is wet and slippery.

Why visit

Yuksom was Sikkim's first capital — the 1642 coronation stone is still standing in the grove — and Dubdi above it is the oldest monastery in the state. It is also where the Goecha La trek starts, so half the village is a trekking outfit.

Cultural notes

Yuksom was the first capital of Sikkim, where the first Chogyal was consecrated in 1642. It holds important monasteries like Dubdi and the sacred Kathok Lake, central to Sikkimese Buddhist heritage.

How to reach

Nearest airport: Pakyong/Bagdogra. Nearest rail: New Jalpaiguri. Shared jeeps run from Gangtok and Pelling to Yuksom; an Inner Line Permit may be needed for some areas.

3 days in Yuksom

Take the whole plan, or add any single stop.

Day 1

Day 1

Norbugang coronation throne

Norbugang coronation throne

Day 1

Dubdi — Sikkim's oldest monastery hike

Dubdi — Sikkim's oldest monastery hike

Day 1

Kathok lake & prayer wheels

Kathok lake & prayer wheels

Day 2

Day 2

Khecheopalri wishing lake walk

Khecheopalri wishing lake walk

Day 2

Forest birdlife

Forest birdlife

Day 2

Village homestay dinner

Village homestay dinner

Day 3

Day 3

Tashiding monastery ridge

Tashiding monastery ridge

Day 3

Chortens & mani walls

Chortens & mani walls

Day 3

Rathong river valley views

Rathong river valley views

Yuksom guide & itineraries

Yuksom is perfect for

heritagenatureoffbeat

Popular attractions

The places in Yuksom most people come for.

Dubdi Monastery

Dubdi Monastery

Attraction

Goecha La Trailhead

Goecha La Trailhead

Experience

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