Yuksom was the first capital of Sikkim, and it played an important role in the history and culture of the region. It is home to many historic sites, including the Dubdi Monastery, which is the oldest monastery in Sikkim and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Yuksom is also a great place for trekking and hiking, with many trails that offer stunning views of the Himalayas and the surrounding landscapes. The most popular trek in Yuksom is the Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek, which takes visitors on a 10-day journey through beautiful mountain terrain and offers breathtaking views of the Kanchenjunga peak. There are many best things to do in Yuksom that can be added to your Sikkim travel visit.

Activities you should include whenever you visit Yuksom, Sikkim

Yuksom is a beautiful and culturally rich destination in the western part of Sikkim, India. It offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the local culture and experience the natural beauty of the Himalayas. With its stunning landscapes, historic monasteries, vibrant bazaars, and warm and welcoming locals, Yuksom is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Sikkim.

1. Trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp

Trekking to the Kanchenjunga Base Camp is a challenging but rewarding experience for trekkers who are seeking an adventure in the Himalayas. Kanchenjunga is the third-highest mountain in the world, with an elevation of 8,586 meters, located on the border of Nepal and India. The trek to Kanchenjunga Base Camp usually takes around 20-25 days and requires a good level of fitness and endurance. The trek starts in the village of Taplejung in Nepal and passes through stunning landscapes, remote villages, and high mountain passes. 

2. Visit Dubdi Monastery

This Monastery, also known as Yuksom Monastery, is a Buddhist monastery located in the small town of Yuksom in the western part of Sikkim, India. It is one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim and is a must-visit for anyone interested in Buddhism or Sikkimese history. Visitors to the monastery can participate in daily prayers and ceremonies, as well as receive blessings from the resident monks. The monks are friendly and welcoming and are happy to share their knowledge of Buddhism and the history of the monastery.

3. Visit Norbugang Park

This is a beautiful and peaceful park, surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful mountain views. The park is home to the Norbugang Chorten, which was built in 1642 to commemorate the coronation of the first Chogyal (king) of Sikkim, Phuntsog Namgyal. The Chorten is a three-tiered structure, with each tier representing a different aspect of Buddhism. The park is also home to several prayer flags and prayer wheels, which add to the spiritual atmosphere of the site. Visitors can take a stroll around the park, soak in the beautiful scenery, and observe the daily life of the local people.

4. Explore the Yuksom Bazaar

The Yuksom Bazaar is a colourful and vibrant market, offering a wide variety of goods such as fresh fruits and vegetables, handmade clothing, handicrafts, and souvenirs. The market is busiest on Sundays when locals from nearby villages come to buy and sell their goods. Visitors to the bazaar can enjoy the sights and sounds of the market, sample local foods such as momos (steamed dumplings) and thukpa (noodle soup), and interact with the friendly and welcoming locals. The bazaar is also a great place to buy unique Sikkimese souvenirs, such as handwoven carpets, traditional Sikkimese dresses, and handicrafts made by local artisans.

5. Visit Tashiding Monastery

This Monastery is located on a hilltop surrounded by beautiful mountain views and lush green forests. The monastery was founded in the 17th century by the revered Buddhist saint, Guru Padmasambhava, and is known for its ancient murals, statues, and other artefacts. Visitors to the monastery can participate in daily prayers and ceremonies, as well as receive blessings from the resident monks. The monks are friendly and welcoming and are happy to share their knowledge of Buddhism and the history of the monastery.

Conclusion

If you’re planning a trip to Yuksom, there are many travel packages available that can help you make the most of your visit. These packages may include accommodation, transportation, meals, guided tours of local attractions such as Dubdi Monastery and Norbugang Park, as well as trekking expeditions to nearby destinations like Kanchenjunga Base Camp and Tashiding Monastery. There are many other travel packages available for Sikkim, depending on your interests and budget. Whether you’re looking for a luxury getaway or a budget-friendly adventure, there’s a package that can help you make the most of your visit to Yuksom.