Day 3 - Mar 2, 2025 : From Ravangla to the Former Capital, Yuksom – A Journey Through Time and Tranquility

As the sun rose over Ravangla, we were treated to a mesmerizing sight—the majestic Buddha statue standing tall with the mighty Kanchenjunga forming a breathtaking backdrop. 

The contrast between the man-made marvel and nature’s grandeur made me pause for a moment, lost in admiration.

For breakfast, we returned to a familiar spot—the local eatery at Buddha Park Complex, where we had dined the previous night. This time, we indulged in Paneer Paratha (stuffed with cottage cheese) and a creamy cheese pasta, a combination that was as delicious as it was comforting. The flavors lingered long after the meal, making it one of those unforgettable culinary moments. Wanting to take a piece of this memory with us, we clicked a photo with the chef and the shop owner, capturing their warm smiles alongside our satisfied faces. Before leaving, we also browsed a few souvenir shops, picking up gifts for friends and family—small tokens of Sikkim’s charm.

A Detour Through the Bamboo Forest

Our next stop was Yuksom, the historic former capital of Sikkim. However, our usual route was closed for maintenance, forcing us to take an off-road detour through the dense bamboo forests. What could have been a setback turned into an adventure—the rugged path, the untouched greenery, and the complete absence of crowds made it feel like a hidden paradise. The lush, green woods, untouched by tourists, were a sight to behold, and despite the bumpy ride, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for this unexpected experience.

Tashiding Monastery – A Sacred Encounter

Before reaching Yuksom, we made a stop at Tashiding Monastery, a spiritual haven perched atop a hill. The only way up was by a short but steep hike, as the monastery isn’t connected by motorable roads. But every step was worth it. When we arrived, it was around 2 PM, and the local monks and villagers were gathering for their daily prayers. Witnessing their chanting, accompanied by traditional instruments and rhythmic drum beats, was truly a soul-stirring experience—one that immersed us in the heart of Buddhist culture.

A Waterfall and a Warm Welcome

A short drive later, we arrived at Phamrong Waterfalls. Being the off-season, there wasn’t much water flowing, but the peaceful surroundings still made it a pleasant stop.

By evening, we finally reached our home for the night—Chungda Homestay, a cozy retreat in a quiet village nestled at the foothills of Mt. Kanchenjunga, at 6,000 feet above sea level. The chirping of birds, the crisp mountain air, and the absence of city noise made it a haven of tranquility. As the day wound down, our gracious hosts, Mr. and Mrs. Chungda, served us a simple yet heartwarming meal of hot dal and rice, the perfect ending to a day filled with adventure and serenity.

With a full heart and a belly warmed by home-cooked food, I drifted into deep slumber, eager to see what Yuksom had in store for us next. A day to cherish, indeed.