Peak Climbing in Sikkim: Expeditions Beyond Imagination!
The Sikkim Himalayas, the personification of the beautiful mountains, constitute a land of marvel, which for pure beauty and sheer brilliance remains triumphant elsewhere in the world. Located in the major Himalayan region, to the southwest part of Sikkim, lies the royal and imposing Kanchenjunga or Khangchendzonga, elevated to the staggering height of about 8585 meters above the sea level. Kanchenjunga, world's 3rd highest mountain peak is the guardian deity of the Sikkim's people. Besides this 3rd largest Kanchenjunga peak, other renowned mountaineering peaks in the beautiful Sikkim are- Kabru, Siniolchu and Tent Peak etc. But any type of peak climbing expedition in Sikkim requires more clearance requirements and conditions, more planning as well as cumbersome paper work from the Indian Mountaineering Foundation in New Delhi. Besides, the local government of Sikkim follows the tradition of imposing royalties on some peaks. Not only Kanchenjunga, but there are many other mountain peaks in Sikkim which offer some great mountaineering opportunities. Sikkim proudly boasts its rich cultural life and bio- diversity along with its lofty mountain ranges.
Sikkim is cradled amidst the white pristine snow clad mountain peaks and is one of the perfect trekking destinations for the adventure enthusiasts as well as trekkers. Sikkim, the exotic land of serenity and tranquillity, is a perfect paradoxical trekking destination. Trailing and peak climbing in Sikkim has its own unique charm. With such a great opportunity of trekking, the people of Sikkim who are living a cumbersome city life, or people having mental or financial stress can rejuvenate and refresh themselves while climbing. Higher in the majestic mountains, silence prevails along with the chirping birds. The night sky in the mountains is crystal clear with scintillating constellations. Silent ambience sways away all the sorrow and grief. Sikkim trekking expeditions are spread around strenuous, semi- strenuous and moderate category of toughness. The most demanding treks in Sikkim for the climbers is Singalila Trek.
Further, around forty species of Rhodendrons, four thousand of the flowering plants, five hundred and sixty Orchid species, and six hundred exotic bird species and countless other animals are properly sheltered in this small state with a decorated trail. Numerous alpine lakes, swirling clouds and pristine white soft snow mountain peaks beautify the tiny state area for any adventure seeker as well as the nature lover.
Sikkim has a range of various trails, which can lead to the high mountain areas that are close to Mount Kanchenjunga. The Green Lake trek, Village trek, Monastic trek, Rhodendron trek, Phoktey Dara trek, Yambong-Singalila Trek, Singalila Trek, Goechala Trek, and Dzongri Trek and many more are some of the examples. Below are listed some of the most famous Sikkim mountain peaks that should be climbed by all the adventurous peak climbers-
1. Frey Peak (5830 meters)
Frey Peak has got its name after a famous mountaineer George Frey who fell from the peak and died while attempting to climb the peak. This virgin peak was first climbed by George Frey and his friend Tenzing Norgay, but they miserably failed in their attempt. This gigantic peak is best approached by navigating the Frey Glacier. Due to its prominent resemblance with the famous peak of Europe- Matthorn peak, it offers the trekkers with an opportunity to test their persistence and explore many gripping regions like Chaurikhang, Yuksom, Tshoka and many more.
The Frey expedition to the west of Sikkim, takes the travelers to a trek in a gratifying and comprehensive manner. The trail is usually rocky and includes many snow gaps in between. The Frey trekking expedition offers a beautiful panorama and allows the climbers to take delight in the undulating beauty of the nature. This peak can be relished to the best during the months of March- May and October - November.
2. Mt. Tenchenkhang (6010 meters)
Mt. Tenchenkhang is a famous peak of West Sikkim which has been recently opened by the government for trekking purposes. It has been assigned a D grade. For this alpine peak, it is easier to obtain permission to trek here. To the West of Sikkim, as in the other Sikkim areas, Indian mountaineers or climbers have remained very active. Mount Tenchenkhang is a unique window to natural and charming beauties, sacred lakes, snow capped mountains and exotic bio- diversity. From the top of this peak one can relish an overwhelming view of some of the most striking Sikkim Himalayan Mountains.
3. Mount Jopuno (5603 meters)
Mount Jopuno is situated in the western Sikkim at a soaring elevation of 5603 meters. This imposing peak lies under the Kanchenjunga National Park. While trekking towards the Goecha La Pass, this spectacular peak is clearly visible from the Okhlathang valley. It is the primary attraction for the mountaineers or peak climbers from all over the planet. Here, the trekkers and adventure lovers can enjoy the most captivating scenes of some highly mesmerizing peaks of the Sikkim Himalayas. Hiking to Mount Jopuno permits the climbers to take extreme pleasure of the most stunning sites such as, Goecha La, Thangsing and Yuksom. These integral places are famous for their supreme serenity as well as paramount exquisiteness. The exotic trip takes the trekkers to the hair- rousing and a comprehensive trek to the great Mount Jopuno. The exotic tour is absolutely ideal for the trekkers who have an inclination towards the nature's magnificence along with those trekkers who want to satiate their need for contentment in the midst of the virgin ambiance of this peak. The best time to visit this peak is from the mid of March, May and October to the mid of November.
4. Lama Wangden (5868 meters)
This peak is situated in the Lachen, North of Sikkim. The government has imposed royalty on this peak. It is of the moderate rate of about US$ 350 for a team of four or five people. The government is attempting to market this beautiful peak around the world so that all the people living here are employed. The perfect time to climb this peak is during the months of April to November as well as December to March. Some of the most essential climbing equipments that are required to climb this peak are Plastic boots, crampons, ice- axe, mountaineering harness, climbing slings, climbing helmets, prussic loops, telescopic ski- sticks etc. These mountaineering equipments can be purchased or hired from a club or so.
5. Brumkhangse (5635 meters)
Mount Brumkhangse, near Yumthang valley located at a lofty elevation of 5635 meters, is one of the non- technical and easiest peaks to climb if compared to the famous Tinchenkhang peak of West Sikkim. The peak climbing of Brumkhangse does not require ferrying too much of the equipment. It is also graded D. Also, for this peak, the local government of Sikkim has put a certain amount as royalty for the climbers. The best season to climb this peak is in the months of April end and October end. The exotic trek runs through the dense and extensive lush green forests with an exclusive requirement of treading through the soft snow. The peak offers ample opportunities to gain the beautiful view of the snow- covered mountain peaks.
Our immense experience and expertise in trekking will help you to enjoy amazing trekking in amidst the daunting Himalayan Range!