Very near to Gangtok city in East Sikkim and surrounded by tall green pine forests, lies Yakten, a small Himalayan hamlet and the new eco-tourism destination of Sikkim. Yakten remains shrouded by mist almost most of the time of the day as well as it offers spectacular view of the Kanchenjunga ranges. Yakten stands at an altitude of 5000 ft with stretches orchid and cardamom gardens and surrounded by tall pine trees. It is a perfect place for all those who want to explore the nature and the traditional hospitality of Sikkim. Yakten is in fact actually a perfect blend of nature and the ethnic culture of Sikkim.
Yakten is also known for rare Himalayan orchid cultivation and a large number of birds and butterfly species thrive in this region. Yakten is thus a perfect place for spending a weekend amidst the nature while viewing the breathtaking views of Mt. Kanchenjunga.
Things to do at Yakten
Explore the forest trails of Yakten
You can go for a nature walk along the forest trails of the village. Proceed for a nature walk exploring the jungles while watching the rare species of Himalayan birds and butterflies. Yakten is a paradise for birds and butterfly watchers.
You can also explore the village and get to know about the people and their lifestyle. Yakten follows the unique step cultivation pattern and you can experience the local lifestyle by interacting with them.
Go for Bird Watching
If you are fond of bird watching, then Yakten will not disappoint you. There are a few bird watching trails along the village that can get you sight of some very beautiful and colourful Himalayan birds.
Trek to Jhandi Dara View point
A 3 km trek will take you to the Jhandi Dara View Point. From here you will get a panoramic view of the mountain ranges. And if you come here before sunrise, you will be amazed to see the amazing sunrise from the Jhandi Dara view point.
Visit the orchid gardens
Yakten is known for its rare Himalayan orchids. Visit the orchid gardens and get to know about the orchids and the other rare medicinal plants.
Visit the local Monastery
Visit the beautiful and serene Kartok Monastery. It is a beautiful monastery set amidst the forests. This is a perfect place to distress and meditate.
Visit the nearby villages
You can visit the nearby villages of Parakha, Barapathing and Rolep. There is a waterfall near the Parakha village that you can visit. Also the handicraft centre will show you the local arts and crafts of Sikkim. Also visit the Machong monastery that is almost 150 years old.
Stay At:
There are a number of homestays at Yakten. All the homestays provide basic amenities and the equipped with electricity and attached bathrooms. At the homestays, you will definitely experience the warm hospitality of the villagers as well as sumptuous local cuisines. All the food prepared are locally sourced and are organic.
How to Reach:
Yakten is only 35 km from Gangtok, the capital city of Sikkim.
Nearest Airport: Bagdogra is the nearest airport and is 145 km away.
Nearest Railhead: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is the nearest Railway head.
From NJP or Bagdogra, you will get shared as well as private vehicles to Gangtok. From Gangtok, you have to book a car to Yatken.
Best Time to Visit:
You can visit Yakten at any time of the year. The summers are mild and thus attract a lot of tourists because of the climate. So it is a perfect place to beat the summer heat of the plains.
The winters experience quite low temperatures, though the winters are one of the best seasons to visit, as you will get the best and clear views of the mountain ranges. Monsoons are best to be avoided.
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