Yuksom & Khangchendzonga
Sikkim's first capital and the gateway to the Goecha La trek
Yuksom, a quiet village in West Sikkim, is where the story of the kingdom of Sikkim began: here, in 1642, three revered lamas crowned the first Chogyal, and the stone throne of that coronation, the Norbugang, still stands beneath ancient trees. It is a place steeped in history, with the old Dubdi monastery — one of Sikkim's oldest — on the hill above.
Yuksom is also the trailhead for the classic Goecha La trek, the finest high-altitude trek in Sikkim, which climbs through the Khangchendzonga National Park — India's only mixed UNESCO World Heritage Site — to a pass with a staggering close-up view of Kanchenjunga's east face. Even for non-trekkers, Yuksom's serenity, history and the sacred Khecheopalri lake nearby make it a rewarding, peaceful stop.
What to see & do
- The Norbugang coronation throne of the first Chogyal (1642)
- Dubdi monastery, among the oldest in Sikkim
- The trailhead of the Goecha La trek into Khangchendzonga NP
- The sacred Khecheopalri Lake nearby
Getting to Yuksom & Khangchendzonga
| How to reach | About 7 hours from Bagdogra/NJP; roughly 2–3 hours beyond Pelling. |
| Best time | Trekking March to May and October to November; the village itself is pleasant most of the dry season. |
| Permit | No permit to enter Sikkim; the Goecha La trek needs park permits and a registered agency/guide. |
| Good to know | Even if you don't trek, spend a night for the history and calm; the Goecha La trek needs 8–10 days and preparation. |
More to explore
Dzukou Valley
Nagaland–Manipur border, near Kohima
The valley of flowers of the Northeast.
North Sikkim
Lachen, Lachung & Yumthang
High valleys of flowers, alpine lakes and the road to Gurudongmar.
Pelling & West Sikkim
West Sikkim
Kanchenjunga up close, monasteries and a glass skywalk.