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Gangtok to Yumthang Valley

Embark on a mesmerizing drive from Gangtok to the pristine valleys of North Sikkim, witnessing the dramatic change in landscape from lush green forests to snow-capped peaks. This 2-day journey for couples features romantic stops at the towering Seven Sisters Waterfall and the floral paradise of Yumthang Valley. Experience the thrill of high-altitude motoring with a visit to Zero Point. Please note: As of June 11, 2026, there is no connectivity between Mangan and Chungthang due to major damages/blockages, and the road from Lachen to Chungthang is blocked at Munsithang, making the full trip currently impassable. Timing restrictions also apply: all tourist vehicles moving from Gangtok towards Chungthang must cross Sankalang Bridge by 1:00 PM, and from Lachung towards Gangtok via Chungthang must cross Toong Check Post by 2:00 PM. Foreign nationals now require online permits obtained exclusively through the official Sikkim Tourism e-Permit portal (e-FRRO) for visiting Yumthang Valley and Zero Point. As of 2026, foreign nationals are permitted to visit Zero Point (Yumesamdong) with the required online permits, but must travel in groups of at least two and be accompanied by a certified local guide for Protected Area Permit (PAP) areas. The online permit process requires biometric verification at entry points (Rangpo, Melli, Sevoke) and mandatory advance booking at least 72 hours prior, including an integrated eco-tax. Retreat to a cozy mountain stay in Lachung. Heavy rainfall and increased landslide risk are forecast for Sikkim from June 12-17, 2026.

Verified
Route
Verified · 13 Jun 2026 · Active
SSankhadeep Paul
Roads: Rough

📅 Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Gangtok → Lachung

9:00 AMStart from Gangtok

Depart Gangtok early after obtaining permits. Ensure tank is full as fuel stations are scarce ahead. Note: All tourist vehicles moving from Gangtok towards Chungthang must cross Sankalang Bridge by 1:00 PM.

0 km

10:30 AMSeven Sisters Waterfall

Stop at this massive 3-tiered waterfall. Enjoy tea and momos at the tourism cafeteria viewing deck.

32 km

1:00 PMLunch at Mangan

Stop at Mangan, the district HQ. Simple eateries like Hotel Pratap offer rice and curry. Last reliable ATM spot. Note: There is currently no connectivity between Mangan and Chungthang. The onward journey to Chungthang and Lachung is not possible via this route as of June 11, 2026.

65 km

⚠️ Roads from Mangan to Chungthang are currently impassable due to major damages/blockages.

3:00 PMChungthang Confluence

This segment is currently impassable due to road closures between Mangan and Chungthang.

95 km

4:00 PMBhim Nala Falls

This segment is currently impassable due to road closures between Mangan and Chungthang.

110 km

5:00 PMArrive Lachung

Arrival in Lachung is currently not possible due to road closures between Mangan and Chungthang.

118 km

Day 2: Lachung → Yumthang → Gangtok

6:00 AMDrive to Yumthang Valley

Early morning drive to the Valley of Flowers. The landscape changes to alpine vegetation. Note: Timing restrictions may apply for travel to Yumthang Valley.

25 km

7:30 AMZero Point (Optional)

Drive further up to Yumesamdong (15,000 ft) to touch the snow. Requires extra permit fee to driver. Foreign nationals are permitted to visit Zero Point with required online permits, but must travel in groups of at least two and be accompanied by a certified local guide.

50 km

⚠️ High altitude; avoid if feeling breathless. Oxygen levels are low.

11:00 AMReturn to Lachung for Lunch

Head back to hotel in Lachung for a hot lunch and check-out.

100 km

12:30 PMDepart for Gangtok

Begin the return journey. Roads can be foggy in the afternoon, drive carefully. Note: The road from Lachen (near Lachung) to Chungthang is blocked at Munsithang, impacting the return route. All tourist vehicles moving from Lachung towards Gangtok via Chungthang must cross Toong Check Post by 2:00 PM.

100 km

7:30 PMArrive Gangtok

Arrival in Gangtok is impacted by road closures between Lachen/Lachung and Chungthang. End of trip.

218 km

💰 Cost Breakdown

Fuel3103
Accommodation₹2,500 - ₹6,000
Food₹2,000 - ₹4,000
Activities₹3,000 - ₹5,000
Estimated Total₹10,603 - ₹18,103

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