In this guide
This is Sikkim for travellers who want history, culture and quiet over checklists. Yuksom is where the kingdom of Sikkim began; Dzongu is a protected homeland of the indigenous Lepcha people. Both are gentle, deeply local, and refreshingly off the standard circuit.
Yuksom — the first capital
Yuksom was the first capital of Sikkim: in 1642, Phuntsog Namgyal was consecrated here as the first Chogyal (king), an event still marked by the Norbugang coronation throne and chorten. Above the village sits Dubdi Monastery (established 1701) — the oldest monastery in Sikkim — reached by a short uphill forest walk. Add Kathok Lake and a slow village pace, and it's a lovely place to linger.
Gateway to the Goecha La trek
Yuksom is also the trailhead for the Goecha La (Goechala) trek, one of India's great Himalayan treks, which climbs via Dzongri toward a spectacular close-up viewpoint of Kanchenjunga. It's a serious multi-day trek (permits, guides and fitness required) — go with a registered operator.
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Plan My Trip →Dzongu — the Lepcha reserve
Dzongu, across the Teesta in North Sikkim, is a protected reserve of the Lepcha people (Sikkim's indigenous community) — a green world of terraced cardamom, waterfalls, hot springs, orange orchards and traditional homestays. It's one of the most rewarding cultural-and-nature stays in the state.
Dzongu permit
Dzongu needs a special permit (in addition to the usual Sikkim permit): Indian visitors obtain it from the District Collector's office in Mangan (a small fee), and the easiest route is to let your homestay arrange it from your ID in advance. Foreign nationals are generally not permitted to enter Dzongu.
Best time to visit
March to May and October to early December for clear weather; the Goecha La trek season aligns with these windows. Avoid the monsoon for treks and mountain roads.
How to reach
Both are reached by road from Gangtok / Bagdogra airport / NJP railhead. Yuksom is in West Sikkim; Dzongu is in North Sikkim (via Mangan). Shared and private jeeps run the routes.
Where to stay
Yuksom has guesthouses and trek lodges; Dzongu is all about community homestays — simple, warm and the whole point of visiting.
Costs (indicative)
Very affordable; homestays offer great value and directly support Lepcha families. The Goecha La trek (guides, permits, porters, camping) is a larger, separate cost.
Responsible travel
Dzongu is a living indigenous reserve — visit with genuine respect, follow the community's rules, ask before photographing people, buy local produce, and keep the waterfalls and forests pristine. On the Goecha La trek, follow strict leave-no-trace.
FAQ
Do you need a special permit for Dzongu?
Yes — beyond the normal Sikkim permit, Dzongu needs a special permit (via the Mangan DC office), which homestays usually arrange for Indian guests. Foreigners are generally not allowed.
Where does the Goecha La trek start?
At Yuksom — the classic route climbs via Dzongri to the Goecha La viewpoint of Kanchenjunga and returns to Yuksom.
Written by PlanMyOffbeat Team
Independent, verification-first travel guides for offbeat trips.
