Yangsum Farm is tucked away far from crowds, in idyllic countryside with a backdrop of the Khangchendzonga group of peaks and the skyline of the Singelila Range. It is located in West Sikkim, NE India, two kms from the small bazaar village of Rinchenpong at an altitude of 1500 metres (four hours drive from Bagdogra airport).  Sikkim is just slightly bigger than the area of Delhi, but its size belies its richness of culture, customs, heritage, flora and fauna. 

The heritage farmhouse was built in 1833 and remodeled in 1966. It is run by Thendup Tashi, Dorjee Laden, and Pema Chiki, of the Tsechu Tharpa family. They manage the 44 acre mountain farm which consists of open mixed forest of pine, Himalayan alder, schima, chestnut, magnolia, rhododendrons, cherry and others.

They also grow cardamom, avocados, oranges, bananas, pears, apricots, and mangoes. Cultivated agriculture yields maize, paddy, millet, potatoes, ginger, turmeric, and sweet potatoes. In addition to these, seasonal vegetables such as cauliflower, cabbage, tomatoes and peas are also grown. The farm is fully organic.

Trekking

Rabongla to Maenam, 10km

A three hour trek uphill from Rabongla through the Maenam Wildlife Sanctuary teeming with Magnolia, Rhododendron and small bamboo to reach the hilltop which is at an altitude of 3235m (10612ft). The view from Maenam summit is picturesque and breathtaking. In the west an amazing vista of the sparkling peaks of the Kanchendzonga range spreads before you.

Hilley to Varsay, (8km return)

From Hilley, one has to trek for four kilometres that takes approximately one hour to reach Varsey which is at an altitude of 3049m (10000ft).  At Varsay the rhododendrons reign supreme and during the month of March they are a riot of red and white.

Many other treks can be arranged in the immediate area of Rinchenpong and further afield at Yoksum.

White Water Rafting

The white waters of the Tista and the Rangit offer some good stretches of thrilling rapids. Swirling rides can be organised from Melli. The rapids, rated according to the Colorado River standards, are grade 2 and 3.

Cooking

An excellent opportunity to be taught traditional recipes and cooking methods of Sikkim on a wood burning hearth.

Monastery Tour

From Rinchenpong the tour starts with a visit to Pemayangtse, the Perfect Sublime Lotus, a magnificant monastery in western Sikkim commanding one of the finest views of the Kangchendzonga range.  From here you travel to Sangacholing an even older monastery than Pemayangtse. Next you visit the sacred lake of Khechopalri and the monastery closeby.

After an overnight halt at Yuksam a morning visit to Dubdi gompa with stunning views of the Kangchendzonga range, is followed by a visit to Tashiding, a picturesque gompa situated in a peaceful location between the Ratong and Rangit rivers on a hill top. Tashiding is second only to Pemayangtse in sacredness for the Nyingma sect.

Room View