A Day Hike To Kanchenjunga National Park, Yuksam, West Sikkim

Flora and Fauna:  Animals: Snow leopard, red panda, Himalayan black bear, blue sheep, musk deer, and Himalayan tahr. Birds: Blood pheasant, Himalayan monal, Tibetan snowcock, and black-necked crane. Plants: Rhododendrons, fir, oaks, and medicinal herbs

Hikinhg Routes: Khangchendzonga National Park can be accessed by several trekking routes. One popular route starts from Yuksam (Yuksom is known as the “Gateway to Kanchenjunga” and holds historical importance as the first capital of Sikkim) and leads to the sanctuary. The trail takes you through thick forests, alpine meadows, and small villages, offering picturesque views of Kanchenjunga and other Himalayan peaks.

Difficulty Level: The hike is moderate in difficulty, suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers, although the high-altitude regions may make it more challenging for those not accustomed to trekking in such conditions.

Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Kanchenjunga National Park is from March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn), when the weather is pleasant and the skies are clear.

Cultural & Historical Experience: Yuksom is known as the “Gateway to Kanchenjunga” and holds historical importance as the first capital of Sikkim. Yuksom is the starting point for the famous Dzongri and Goecha La treks, which offer spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga range. The treks take you through lush forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude lakes. Yuksom is the starting point for the famous Dzongri and Goecha La treks, which offer spectacular views of the Kanchenjunga range. The treks take you through lush forests, alpine meadows, and high-altitude lakes.

Early morning begin your hike from Yuksam to Kanchenjunga National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it covers an area of 1784 sq km., which is approximately a 3–4-hour hike covering around 10 kilometers. Walk through beautiful forests of oak, pine, and rhododendron trees. Reach Kanchenjunga National Park, and witness the breathtaking views, rich biodiversity, and cultural experiences will make your hike unforgettable. After the hike walk back to Yuksam.. (n.b. a qualified local guide will be provided for the hike)

• Nearest Airport: Pakyong Airport (~90 km) or Bagdogra Airport (~160 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri (NJP), West Bengal (~150 km)
• By Road: Well-connected via Gangtok, Pelling, and Siliguri