Surrounded by beautiful waterfalls, crystal-clear streams, snow-capped mountains and orchards of peaches, apricots and apples, lies the picturesque town of Lachung, in Sikkim. A mountain hamlet, about 120 km from Gangtok, it is perched at an altitude of 8,858 ft. The quaint town of Lachung invites adventure lovers, who come here for trekking and snow sports. The popular trekking destination of Zero Point is one of the major attractions, where visitors can get sweeping views of the panoramic surroundings. Mt Kato's pristine slopes are popular for skiing, snowboarding and snowtubing. Lachung comes to life during the Saga Dawa festival, celebrated in the month of June. One of the most important Buddhist festivals, it signifies three prominent phases of Lord Buddha's life: birth, enlightenment and death. From sacred ceremonies and folk art to exotic cuisines, there are many attractions for tourists here. Chungthang At the confluence of Rivers Lachen Chu and Lachung Chu lies the small town of Chungthang. About 95 km from Gangtok and lying at an altitude of 1,790 m, this town boasts abundant natural beauty. The valley is said to be blessed by the patron saint of Sikkim, Guru Padmasambhava, who is believed to be one of the founding fathers of Tibetan Buddhism. It is said that the imprints of his palm and foot are still visible on a rock that has an opening from which mineral water flows out continuously. It is considered holy by devotees. Nearby is a patch of land blessed by Guru Padmasambhava. It is said the guru sprinkled a few grains here and defying nature that doesnt aid agriculture, paddy has since sprouted at this place and is now cultivated by villagers. Legend has it the the word 'Demazong' or the hidden valley of rice as Sikkim is known, first originated in Chungthang. Lachung Monastery Lachung Monastery is located amid apple orchards just across the scenic Lachung Chu river. It lies at a height of about 2,750 m and forms the base of the Green Lake trek. A symbol of cultural and religious heritage, Lachung Monastery has an edifice that was installed in 1806 by the Nyingmapa sect of Buddhism. It also houses a statue of Guru Padmasambhava, who is believed to be one of the founding fathers of Tibetan Buddhism. The monastery is a small and colourful structure that has a two-storey prayer hall. On the porch lie two extra-heavy prayer wheels, along with two metal dragons that are carved above it. Visitors also like the exquisite wall murals and a few ancient statues. Religious dance festivities are organised at the monastery on the 28th and 29th day of the 10th Buddhist month, which falls in December. Yumthang A white wonderland in winter and home to a burst of colours in summer, there are very few spots in the country that can beat Yumthang's all-year-round natural splendour. Also known as the valley of flowers, Yumthang valley is a magnificent mix of flora and fauna set amidst picturesque beauty. During spring, when the flowers bloom, the valley comes alive with varied hues of rhododendrons and primulas that lend it different colours, making it look like an artist's canvas. An unmissable site is Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary that boasts more than 20 species of rhododendron flowers. In spring, when these flowers bloom, bright shades of red, purple and pink paint the valley floor, the a riot of shades. Framed against the towering snow-capped mountains, the landscape looks surreal. The best time to visit the sanctuary is from April to May end when the flowers are in full bloom. To the right of River Yumthang is a hot spring, equally popular among tourists. The views of the flat valley surrounded by lush green mountains and the Yumthang river flowing through grassy alpine meadows are mesmeric. You can walk to the river, sit on its banks and enjoy the beauty. Situated at a height of 3,597 m, Yumthang lies to the north of Sikkim, about 25 km from Lachung. A good time for a visit is between February and March when the popular Buddhist festival of Losar is organised. Zero Point Also known as Yume Samdong, Zero Point stands at an altitude of 15,300 ft above mean sea level. It happens to be the last outpost of civilisation and the place where three rivers meet amid a panoramic view of snow-clad mountains and picturesque surroundings. Since it is located very close to the International border between India and China, visitors need permission to come here. It takes tourists about 1.5 hours to reach here from Yumthang Valley, which is 25 km away, and about 3 to 3.5 hours from Lachung. After reaching here, there are no civilian roads beyond and that is why it is called Zero Point. Though the roads can be treacherous, driving here is worth the reward of beautiful and pristine mountain sights. If you're lucky, you can also spot a yak in the snow. Zero Point hardly has any green stretches of land, except those that become visible when the snow melts.
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