Situated in the Geyzing division of West Sikkim district, the Yuksom village surrounded by majestic mountain ranges and heavy forest cover is of great historical importance and cultural significance. Considered to be the first capital of Sikkim, Yuksom is also one of the sacred landscape “Demazong” (meaning a valley of rice) of four religious sites blessed by Guru Padmasambhava, which are considered to be the four plexuses of the human body, and Yuksom symbolically represents the ‘third eye’. It is in close proximity to a number of historical and cultural landmarks like the Dubdi Monastery, Kartok Gompa, the Coronation throne etc. This picturesque village is also the gateway to a number of treks including to Mt. Khangchendzonga. The population comprises primarily of the tribal Bhutia and Nepalese communities in addition to people who have settled here from the plains.
Through this Roots programme, The Western Mountains presents to you an opportunity to experience the daily lifestyle of the Yuksom community, participate in the daily activities in their farms and modest houses, immerse yourself into the rich Buddhist culture, indulge your taste buds in the native cuisine, wander around the dense forests, contribute to preserve their natural heritage and treat yourself to the wonderful hospitality of the host families.
Itinerary
Day 1
- You are expected to assemble at the Yuksom village chowk by 4 pm in the evening. For travelers who are unsure of getting to Yuksom on their own, Sumo cabs can be arranged on request and traveler cost-sharing basis to pick you up from the New Jalpaiguri station at 8 am.
- The Western Mountains personnel will receive you at Yuksom to transfer you to the guesthouse, where you can freshen up and will be served refreshments.
- Spend the evening getting to know your fellow travelers and soaking in the sights and sounds of the neighborhood. Overnight at the guesthouse.
- Meals: (Tea& Snacks, Dinner)
Day 2
- Suvera(Good morning)! Today you will be relocated to one of the quaint houses of a Yuksom villager. You get to bask in the warm-hearted hospitality of your host family and savor native cuisine at the house for the next five days!
- Following a sumptuous breakfast, get a glimpse into the historical and cultural heritage of the Limboo community from our local partner as he accompanies you on a walk through the village.
- Post lunch, it’s time to get those creative juices flowing! Attend a workshop on the local crafts of the village where you not only get to watch and learn but also get hands-on experience.
- Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Tea& Snacks, Dinner)
Day 3
- An exciting morning ahead as you help the host family in tending their livestock. We are talking cleaning sheds, making cattle feed, milking cows et al. You will repeat this activity for the next 2 days.
- If you ever fantasized having a meal on a farm under the cool shade of a tree after a long day of work, you get to fulfill that fantasy today! You will be spending a day at the local farm understanding the nuances of their primary livelihood and participating in the daily farming activities.
- Eating or drinking something that you simply love? Join the lady of the house for a quick cooking class and learn how to make it.
- Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Tea& Snacks, Dinner)
Day 4
- Today is your day to delve deeper into the Limboo culture and well-preserved Buddhist heritage of the community.
- Post breakfast, you will leave for a short hike to one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Sikkim, the Dubdi monastery which was established in 1701 and is central to the founding of the state of Sikkim.
- Visit the Coronation Throne of Norbugang and Kartook Learn about the fascinating history of the throne in the peaceful setting surrounded by giant cedar trees.
- Receive some healing for your soul and mind at the Khecheopalri lake during the evening prayers performed by the lamas. The lake is revered by both Buddhists and Hindus and is attributed to wish full-filling powers.
- Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Tea& Snacks, Dinner)
Day 5
- We explore the natural fauna and flora of Yuksom today on an overnight camping trip to the Yuksom countryside.
- Today, you will participate in all activities surrounding the camping – carrying ration, collecting firewood, setting up tents, cooking of meals.
- At night, gather around the bonfire under the stars to exchange stories, share experiences, listen to local legends and learn folk songs of the region.
- Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Tea& Snacks, Dinner)
Day 6
- On this day, we give back to the beautiful community that has played host to us for the past few days by organizing a mass clean-up of the village neighborhood.
- In the evening, get together around the campfire for a celebration with the local boys and girls. Dance to the local tunes, dress in the local clothes, learn new customs and pamper your taste buds with the local drink Chang and other savories.
- Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Tea& Snacks, Dinner)
Day 7
- The Roots programme organized by The Western Mountains ends today. If you chose to stay back, we can organize accommodation and activities at an additional cost.
- For those who have to leave for their homes, the Sumo cabs to take you to New Jalpaiguri station can be arranged on request and traveler sharing cost to leave Yuksom by 8 am.
Regional Facts
State: Sikkim
District: Geyzing subdivision in West Sikkim
Languages: Limboo, Bengali, English, Hindi, Nepali
Best Season to visit: Throughout the year Weather: 5°C to 29°C
Altitude: 1780m
ATMs: None (Last ATM available at Jorthang) Mobile: Airtel, BSNL, Vodafone
Cost: Send Inquiry for Cost.
Cost Inclusions:
- Accommodation on a twin sharing basis in Homestay/ Guesthouse. On the overnight camping trip, the stay will be in dome tents (2/3 per tent).
- Meals mentioned in the itinerary on a fixed menu/ buffet basis.
- Transfers and sightseeing as per itinerary.
- All charges for guides and other personal expenses.
Cost Exclusions:
- Travel to and fro Yuksom.
- Airfares, airport taxes and anything not mentioned in the inclusions and itinerary.
- Meals, tea, coffee, mineral water, tips, transfers not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Doctor, telephone, laundry and other personal expenses.