Yuksom: A model village for ECOTOURISM, rich in biodiversity
In my previous blog post on Yuksom (Part 1), I covered the cultural significance and historical importance of Sikkim’s first capital. In this blog post on Yuksom (Part 2), I have tried to bring into focus the biodiversity of Yuksom and importance of ecotourism.
The locals have made significant contributions to making Yuksom as an ideal ecotourism model village. Locals have been able to find an alternative source of livelihood through ecotourism, which is more sustainable. As a result, Yuksom developed more quickly.
Ecotourism has played an important role in the conservation of natural resources here.
The gateway to Mt. Khangchendzonga (Kanchenjunga) and the biodiversity-rich Khangchendzonga National Park (KNP) make Yuksom a popular destination all around the world. Yuksom’s sacred and religious sites also attract a significant number of tourists.
KCC has been playing a significant role in Yuksom’s success story
The Yuksom-based NGO is known as the Khangchendzonga Conservation Committee (KCC), which is considered a pioneer of ecotourism in India. This NGO has played an immense role in the development of Yuksom as an ecotourism model village.
This conservation committee was established by local youth, and the committee was officially registered as a community-based NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) in 1997 and coordinated by the Forest Department of the Government of Sikkim, although its operations began as early as 1996.
The KCC is an active community-based organization dedicated to conservation of natural resources and cultural heritage, conservation education, sustainable livelihoods and tourism, and overall rural development.
This NGO works closely with the Khangchendzonga National Park (KNP) and the United Nations (UN) Development Program to develop sustainable ecotourism without harming the region’s environment.
Key activities performed by KCC
- Environmental and conservation education is provided to locals as well as tourists.
- Regular training sessions and meetings are organized for local guides, porters, support staff, and homestay owners.
- Eco friendly Waste management system that ensures zero waste trekking routes.
- KCC recommends all concerned departments of the Sikkim government formulate appropriate policies for the conservation of natural resources and cultural heritage of the region.
- Promotion of homestays and community-based ecotourism is one of the activities of this NGO.
To know more about KCC, please visit at https://www.kccsikkim.org/
Yuksom, the Gateway to the Khangchendzonga National Park (KNP) – a UNESCO “MIXED” World Heritage Site
KNP is a living illustration of how people and nature can coexist and exchange between different religious traditions and ethnicities.
On July 17th, 2016, UNESCO recognized KNP as India’s first ‘MIXED’ World Heritage Site. India has a single mixed-world heritage site as of now. The park’s natural and cultural significance is acknowledged with the title.
This national park in Sikkim is a popular destination for both domestic and foreign tourists. After obtaining a permit, visitors usually enter KNP through Yuksom.
Important information of KNP
| Area: | 1784 sq kms/ and occupies nearly 25% area of Sikkim |
| Location: | Eastern Part of Himalayan range in the Indian State Sikkim |
| Elevation: (above the sea Level) |
1,200 meters to over 8,586 meters |
| Established: | August 1977 By the Indian state government |
| District(s): | spread along the West and North districts of Sikkim |
| Range: |
West: Yuksom |
| The best time to visit: | March to May and September to December |
| Salient features: | Θ Has both Natural and Cultural heritage. Θ Diversity exists in both the flora and fauna. Θ Comprises 18 glaciers including the massive Zemu Glacier, and 17 alpine lakes. Θ Contains approximately 50% of India’s total diversity of birds, wild trees, rhododendrons, and orchids, as well as about 30% of the country’s total flowering plant species. Θ Home to species such as Red Panda, Snow Leopard, Great Tibetan Sheep and Musk Deer. Θ From here, visitors can get panoramic views of several high-altitude peak. 6,000 – 7,000 Meters: 11 peaks 7,000 and 8,000 Meters: 8 peaks More than 8000 Meters: Mt. Khangchendzonga (Kanchenjunga) is the third highest peak in the world with a height of 8,586 meters. Θ Tholung Monastery, one of the most sacred monasteries in Sikkim is located in the buffer zone of KNP. |
Why is Yuksom considered one of the cleanest villages in Sikkim?
The cleanliness of Yuksom not only signifies a picture-perfect village, but it also shows the respect of locals towards the environment. The people of Yuksom are quite aware of the environment.
Yuksom attracts thousands of tourists and trekkers every year.
Locals, an NGO (Khangchendzonga Conservation Committee – KCC)), and the governments (Central and State) are continuing the cleanup campaign together. Under the Swachh Bharat Mission program, a Resource Recovery Center (RRC) was set up in Yuksom to keep Khanchendzonga National Park (KNP) and Yuksom free from garbage and plastic waste and this center is doing outstanding work.
The main objective of KCC’s cleanliness drive is to keep the surroundings of KNP’s trekking trails and camp sites clean by regularly collecting garbage.
Besides, Yuksom Gram Panchayat organizes cleanliness drives along with villagers from time to time. Due to all these efforts, the waste management system in this offbeat destination is truly praiseworthy. Definitely, cleanliness plays a significant role in promoting sustainable tourism.
Education
The education system of this ideal village is modern and well established. There is a Higher Secondary Government School, established in 1952. The environment and cleanliness of this school is commendable. Also, there are primary and junior schools that are managed by both government and private organizations. But there is no government college here.
Medical Facility
Yuksom has a Primary Health Center (PHC) that is well-equipped, and the nearest District Hospital is located in Geyzing.
Local People & Their Livelihood
Yuksom is mainly home to the Bhutia, Lepcha, Limboo, and Sherpa communities, along with various groups of Nepali communities such as Gurung, Magar, and Chhetri. The natives lead a tranquil lifestyle. The majority of the people here are Buddhists, as Yuksom is one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in Sikkim.
The local people of Yuksom mainly speak Bhutia and Nepali languages.
The Sikkim government’s successful eco-tourism policy and modern education system have resulted in many locals being directly or indirectly associated with eco-tourism today. They can speak Hindi and English. So, visitors never have language problems here.
Ecotourism is the primary source of income for Yuksom’s economy.
Yuksom is regarded as the Base camp and Gateway of Mt. Khanchendzonga due to the Dzongri-Goechala high-altitude trek that passes through Khanchendzonga National Park. Every year, a large number of foreign tourists arrive here, which results in foreign exchange earnings that boost the local economy.
The locals of Yuksom are engaged in occupations such as homestay owners, hill guardians, naturalists, guides, food stall owners, porters, trekking supporting staff, pack animal operators, and other similar jobs.
Apart from tourism, agriculture also plays a significant role in the local economy. Here, the cash crop is big cardamom. As kiwi cultivation is gaining popularity in this eco-tourism model village, there are various types of vegetable cultivation, animal husbandry and fish farming.
Where to Stay
KCC started homestay in Yuksom in 2002 to promote eco-village tourism initially comprising of seven houses and provided basic training for the same.
If you want to explore local customs and taste cuisines, then you should definitely stay at any homestay, although there are many star or budget hotels and guest houses in Yuksom to accommodate local and foreign tourists. You can book all these accommodations in Yuksom through both online and offline.
Homestay/Farmstay
- Limboo Homestay
Opposite of Yuksom Primary Health Center
Owner(s): Mr. D.S. Limboo and Mrs. Buddha Rani Limboo
Phone:
Website: https://yuksomhomestay.com/
This is a cozy and traditional Sikkimese Homestay which is run by a ethnic Sikkimese Limboo Family with homely environment in Sikkimese village lifestyle.
The Indian hospitality concept of Atithi Devo Bhava (Guest is God) is a basic principle of this homestay when they host tourists or guests. This homestay is best for Workation.
One of my memorable homestay experiences was at Yuksom
Get to know the hosts of the Limboo Homestay
I had the opportunity to speak with Mr. DS Limboo, the owner of the Limboo Homestay. In our short conversation, I was impressed and inspired by his in-depth knowledge of sustainable ecotourism and his future plans for the development of Yuksom.
At the moment, Mr. DS Limboo is in charge of an important administrative role in the district. He is a true nature lover. He was once very active with trekker groups in the region as a tour operator in Yuksom. He shared some great photos with me for this blog post, I am very grateful to him.
His wife Mrs. Buddha Rani Limboo has made a significant contribution by managing the homestay beautifully and teaching the next generation about ecotourism etiquette. On the other hand, she is a senior nurse at Yuksom Primary Health Center, which demonstrates her other social responsibility.
A home away from home
Local handicrafts are used to decorate eco-friendly cottages made of bamboo, wood, and partially concrete. Offers both modern as well as traditional amenities.
Taste authentic organic food
Fresh vegetables from the homestay’s kitchen garden and locally grown organic crops are used to make all the delicious dishes, the taste of which is unmatched!
The homestay has a small shop showcasing local traditional handicrafts, various pickles, and organic food items, which guests can purchase as souvenirs.
Note: Usually, vegetarian food is served here for breakfast and dinner, but eggs are available if needed. You can also order lunch and snacks, but you have to inform the homestay in advance and pay extra.
Eco-friendly Practices
The wonderful hospitality of the homestay made me feel at home,
thank you all
- Yuksom Village Farmstay
Owner(s): Sujal Limboo
Phone: +91 97330 85280 - Budha Homestay
(The Budha Organic Kiwi Garden)
Near Yuksom Helipad Ground
Owner(s): Mr. Budha Hang Subba
Kiwi Seasonal Time: September to December - Norgay’s Homestay
Phone: +91 95643 24388 - Chungda Hidden Family Homestay
Yuksom Colony,
Phone: +91 97331 94846 - Lanam Cottage Homestay
Yuksom Colony, Behind KNP Checkpost
Phone: +91 97330 54772/97333 28447
Hotel/Guesthouse
- The Yuksum Residency
Phone: +91 99331 33330/80160 99977
Website: https://yuksumresidency.in/ - Hotel Demazong
Phone: +91 97754 73687 - Dragon Hotel
Phone: +91 97359 34578 - Hotel Pemathang
Phone: +91 98323 21159 - Hotel Yangrigang
Phone: +91 94341 64408/97350 87508 - Dechenphu Retreat
- Hotel Dzongrila
Where to Taste Local Delicacy
The influence of Tibet on Yuksom over the years has been on religion, cultures, and food, as evidenced by the history of Yuksom. Apart from homestays, standard hotels also provide food from their own restaurants. The lively market area of Yuksom has a variety of small eateries that are highly popular.
- Gupta Restaurent, Yuksom Main Market Area
Yuksom has several eateries that are highly popular among tourists and trekkers, including the family-run Gupta Restaurant. At reasonable prices, this restaurant offers local Sikkimese, North Indian, Chinese, and continental food. The Gupta restaurant remains in Yuksom’s central area after moving from its old location, so anyone can easily locate it.You can shop here for unique handicrafts, souvenirs, and travel books. It is a perfect meeting point where you can spend time with locals, tourists, and trekkers while enjoying delicious food. I tasted several dishes at this restaurant, but the omelet with local cheese was the best. The restaurant owners are very welcoming.
Gupta Restaurant, Yuksom
- Mama’s Kitchen and Homestay
Phone: +91 75489 37012 - Yuksam Laphing Corner, Near Kathok Lake
Phone: +91 84367 07743,96477 83860 - Traditional Inn Restaurant, Yuksom Bazar
- Bamboo Restaurant, near the Yuksum Residency
Trek enthusiasts are familiar with the name Yuksom. The famous Dzongri and Goecha La treks are based at this offbeat destination. The Khanchendzonga National Park (KNP) was opened for trekking tourism here in 1982.
Yuksom is a starting point for trekkers and climbers. The Wildlife Education and Interpretation Center in Yuksom is where permits for all treks can be obtained.
High-altitude and low-altitude treks from Yuksom are organized by the State Tourism Department, travel companies, and local trekking agencies.
Every year during the peak trekking season (March – June and September – November), apart from domestic trekkers and mountaineers, many come to Yuksom from different countries of the world, including the USA, UK, France, Germany, Netherlands, Australia, Israel, and Singapore.
Yuksom is known for its Adventure Tourism, which includes trekking, mountaineering, day hikes, rock climbing, and camping, all organized by local Travel & Trek agencies.
Yuksom offers trekking facilities that include experienced trekking guides, porters, cooks, baggage carriers like yaks, and mules
Popular Treks from Yuksom
- Dzongri – Goecha La Trek (Moderate to Difficult type): This famous trek is one of the most popular in Sikkim and a major attraction for local and foreign mountaineers. The starting point of this trekking route is Yuksom, and the entire trail is breathtaking and enchanting. The majestic Kanchenjunga, Pandim, Rathong, Kabru, and other peaks can be seen from various points on this trek route.
Also, Samiti Lake is another major attraction of this famous Goecha La trek. The reflection of Mount Pandim in the still water of the lake presents a mesmerizing view. - Kasturi Orar Round Trek: Yuksom is the starting point for this popular trek which ends at Labdang/Tashiding village.
- Yuksom – Khecheopalri Lake: You can reach the sacred lake via the famous Dubdi Monastery, which is a popular route for bird watching, hiking, and walking.
- Yuksom – Tsong Village Trek: You can trek from Yuksom to Tsong village, where Nepali ethnic groups reside, in a day.
Local entrepreneurs are involved in the trekking and adventure tourism industries:
- Black Yak Expeditions, Yuksom
Website: https://blackyakexpeditions.com
Phone: +91 97341 90190,82867 67676 - Heavenly Traveller Tour And Treks
Contact: Mr. Ram Limboo
Phone: +91 97331 13179 - Glacier Treks and Adventure
Yuksom Bazar Main Road
Website – https://trekinsikkim.in/
Phone: +91 7407248200,6005061560 - Smile Sikkim Treks and Adventures
Yuksom Bazar
Phone: +91 77193 04010 - Mountain Tours and Travels, Yuksom
Phone: +91 96413 52656,96792 25707 - Sikkim Treks & Travel, Yuksom
Phone: +91 8001240166,8001638402
I have only shared with you my memorable experiences with homestay or Hotel owners, drivers, or tour guides while traveling, but your experience may not be the same as mine. Hence, I have no responsibility in that case. I am just sharing information only. Additionally, there is no purpose for promotion here.
Attractions
- Khangchendzonga National Park Interpretation Center: One of the main attractions of Yuksom is this center which is the main office of the Khangchendzonga National Park (KNP) which is managed by the Forest Department.
This center encourages visitors to learn about the biodiversity and ecosystems of KNP, as well as the local people’s cultural and traditional values of the national park.
This interpretation center provides visitors with important information about the flora and fauna.
Yuksom is known as the gateway to Mt. Kanchenjunga, and several popular trekking routes pass through the national park. Hence, all trek permits are available from the Interpretation Center, and most treks start from here.
In this center, the forest department frequently organizes meetings with local guides, porters, forest guards (Himal Rakshak), NGOs (Khanchendzonga Conservation Committees), and local administrative representatives to ensure the conservation and resolution of various problems in the national park.
Don’t rush to explore this center, as there is a lot to see and learn about ecotourism and KNP. Tourists can visit the souvenir shop at this interpretation center to buy various memento items, such as fridge magnets, bags, caps, hats, eco-friendly Sikkimese handicrafts, and more.
- Village Walk, Monastery Walk, Jungle Walk, or Heritage Walk: These are ways to explore Yuksom Village and mingle with locals.
- Birding (Birdwatching) Tourism: Yuksom is an ideal spot for bird lovers or bird watchers. The popularity of this type of tourism is gradually increasing.
- Phamrong Waterfalls: Approximately seven kilometers from Yuksom, you’ll find the highest waterfall in West Sikkim. The perfect place for nature photography. Especially during the rainy season, the waterfall presents an exquisite view and is a perfect place for nature photography.
- Yuksom Bazar: This vibrant market area is home to a variety of handicraft shops and delicious local ethnic food stalls. This area is located in the heart of Yuksom. If you fail to visit this market, you will miss out on a lot.
Yuksom Bazar: This bustling market area offers a variety of handicraft shops and delicious local ethnic food.
- Rock Climbing Viewpoint: It’s a wonderful experience to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Yuksom while participating in rock climbing activities. Definitely, this type of activity is boosting local adventure tourism.
- Yuksom Helipad and Cherry Park: This helipad is one of the attractions in Yuksom. From this viewpoint, you can enjoy the beauty of the surrounding valley and the unique cottage-style houses nearby. Also, you can enjoy the peaceful environment here. There are several cherry blossom trees near the helipad. During the blooming season, the colorful cherry flowers create a charming and stunning environment that is ideal for photography.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
March to June and then mid-September to November are the best times to visit Yuksom, an ecotourism model village. Travelers can visit here anytime except during the monsoon season.
Θ Spring/Summer Season (March to May): Yuksom experiences pleasant weather during this season, with temperatures that range from 10 to 30 degrees Celsius. At this time, the valley becomes completely green and full of colorful Rhododendron flowers, so it is the absolute best time to visit and enjoy all the outdoor activities.
Θ Monsoon Season (June to Mid-September): The risk of landslides makes it unsafe for tourists to travel during this season, which is relatively risky. Additionally, heavy rains make it impossible to do all travel-related outdoor activities.
Θ Winter Season (December to February): Yuksom becomes bitterly cold in winter as the temperature drops below zero. But during this time, clear and sunny skies make outdoor activities more enjoyable, and the sight of snow-capped mountains attracts travelers. During this season, it is necessary to wear heavy wool clothing.
Θ Autumn Season (October to November): During this season, the Cherry Blossom trees in full bloom near the helipad field in Yuksom attract tourists.
You can see some selected stunning photos & videos by clicking on the blog’s Instagram, Facebook and X(Twitter). Also, click the Gallery Section of this blog for only photos. I hope you will like those.
Earlier I didn’t know much about the birth history of Sikkim, but after this trip to Yuksom I have learned a lot. The incredible beauty of Yuksom’s nature captivated me. I must travel to Yuksom once again.
Additionally, during this trip, I had the opportunity to meet some exceptional locals in Yuksom. I extend my gratitude to them. I say goodbye to Yuksom for now. See you again.
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We the family members of Limboo homestay extend our warm gratitude to you for writing such a wonderful and thoughtful blog. Do visit Yuksom again. Wishing you the best for your upcoming journey.
Hello Madam,I am grateful for your recognition of my efforts. Next time, I will extend my stay at your picturesque eco-friendly homestay(or farmstay) and explore Yuksom more.
Mrinal, your detailed description of any place is exceptional. Your blogs are very informative with pictures of all the details. It can help any tourist to plan very effectively for visiting those places. Extraordinary work! I will take your guidance before planning my next trip.
Prabirda, thank you so much! Your encouragement means a lot to me!
We the community of yuksom whole heartedly offer a huge gratitude to you for writing this article, it really inspires us to promote our area in tourism destination across the world. Wish you good health and happiness in your future journey of travelling.
Sir, I am grateful for your encouragement, and it will definitely help me realize my potential. Your belief in my abilities is a source of inspiration. We will meet again.
IN OUR BUSY & HECTIC SCHEDULE, WHEN I GET TIME I OFTENLY READ YOUR BLOGS AND REALLY ENJOYED A LOT & GETTING LOTS OF INFORMATION ABOUT THE PLACES YOU MENTIONED . REALLY APPRECIATE .... WAITING FOR YOUR NEXT ONE .,
Hi Subhashis, thank you for your support and encouragement!