Yumthang river, Sikkim

The Yumthang River, also known as Yumthang Chu, is a popular tourist attraction in the Yumthang Valley. This river flows through the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary that is surrounded by Rhododendron trees and shrubs. Towards the right of this river lies a hot spring, which is frequented by tourists year-round. Yumthang "Tsa-Chu" or the hot spring on the left bank is immensely popular for its curative and healing power. Covered with rhododendron shrubs and trees, the entire valley erupts into a riot of colors in May.

Yumthang Valley is a grazing pasture surrounded by the Himalayas in the North Sikkim district of Sikkim, India. It is at an elevation of 3,575 metres (14,000) above msl at a distance of 150 km from the state capital Gangtok. It is also home to the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary, and has over twenty-four species of the rhododendron, the state flower. A tributary of the river Teesta flows past the valley and the town of Lachung, the nearest inhabited centre. Yumthang is closed between December and March due to heavy snowfall. On the way to Lachung is Singhik where one can see the magnificent Kanchendzonga range in its splendour.

A forest rest house is the only permanent residence in the valley. During the spring months, the area blooms with rhododendrons, primulas, poppies, iris and other flora. During the summer months, villagers take their cattle to these heights to graze (a practice known as yaylag pastoralism). In view of increasing number of tourists, there is possibility of environmental degradation in near future. Skiing is conducted in the valley.

Source: Wikipedia

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