Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary

Prime Day & Hours: Weekends, morning

Suggested Duration: 2 hours

Tickets: Free Entry

Nearest Railway Station: New Jalpaiguri Railway Station, about 195 km away

Nearest Airport: Bagdogra Airport, about 200 km away 

Nearest Bus Stop: Lachen Bus Stop, about 18 km away

The Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is a hidden treasure of Sikkim's biodiversity within the Yumthang Valley flower-filled region. The Singalila Range contains this sanctuary at 3,048 meters elevation, which covers 43 sq. km and draws visitors mainly because of its stunning rhododendron blooming during spring and early summer. The sanctuary displays more than 40 rhododendron species, including the uncommon Rhododendron Niveum, throughout the April to July period.

The sanctuary hosts several Himalayan wildlife species, which include blood pheasant, spotted linsang, and Himalayan monal. The sanctuary gains additional natural beauty through the Yumthang River, which winds its way across the area. The sanctuary exists as a tranquil retreat set against snowy mountain scenery, thus avoiding the commercialized tourist spots.

This botanical sanctuary receives frequent visits from people traveling between Lachung and Zero Point or Yumthang Valley and serves as an ideal destination for photographers together with birders and botanists, and those who desire peaceful natural surroundings.

• Explore Shingba Sanctuary, Sikkim’s colorful spring bloom with over 40 varieties of native rhododendron species.
• Walk along forest trails lined with alpine flowers like poppies, primulas, and gentians.
• Enjoy serene riverside views as the Lachung Chu flows peacefully through the sanctuary grounds.
• Spot rare Himalayan birds like the blood pheasant and colorful butterflies during the warmer months.
• Learn about endemic species that make the Eastern Himalayas one of the world’s richest floral zones.
• Experience a pollution-free, crowd-free atmosphere, unlike most commercial flower parks.