Khangchendzonga National Park, Sikkim

Located in North Sikkim bordering Nepal, the Khangchendzonga National Park spans over an area of 850 sq. km. Established in August 26, 1977, the national park is named as a Biosphere reserve. The National park is a paradise for prized Musk Deer, elusive Snow Leopard and the shy Himalayan Tahr, the Shapi of Sikkim. The National Park has gained an apex place amongst the high altitude National Parks in the country and is endowed with one of the most enchanting high altitude ecosystems in the world.

This park which also came into existence through the generosity of heart and purse of idealists who having realized the beauties and ecstasy of the region, is probably the largest biologically intact continuous tract of mountainous land with valleys of lush green forests, meadows, alpine lands reserved primarily for the conservation of its native wildlife.

Wildlife of Khangchendzonga :
The park boost an exotic fauna that includes snow leopard, wild dog, thar, sloth bear, civet, Himalayan black bear, red panda, Tibetan wild ass, blue sheep, serow, goral, takin, musk deer and reptiles like rat snake and Russels viper etc. A

Chirpy Birds! :
There are about 550 species of birds found in the park like Blood Pheasants, Satyr Tragopan, Osprey, Himalayn griffon, Lammergeier, tragopan pheasant, green pigeon, Tibetan snow cock, Snow pigeon, Impeyan phesants, Asian emerald cookoo, Sunbirds & eagles. There are a few Lepcha tribal settlements inside the park.

Entry into the National Park :
In order to gain entry into the National Park and Sanctuaries, a vistor have to taje permission from permission of the State Chief Wildlife is required and this can be obtained on payment of entry fees.

Trekking :
For those who love trekking, the national park endorse many routes that are worth exploring! Yuksom in West Sikkim forms the starting point for trekkers and mountaineers. But before that they have to get a permit from the Wildlife Education and Interpretation centre at Yuksom or from the checkpost.

The State Tourism Department and other travel agents organize treks to Dzongri (4050 m), a two day trek from Yuksom. The trek routes are (a) Yuksom - Tshoka - Dzongri (b) Bakim - Dzongri - Thangshing - Samuteng - Goechala (c) Dzongri Base Camp - Rathong - Khangerteng (d) Thangshing - Lam Pokhari - Kasturi Orar - Lapdong - Tashiding (Road Head).

Lachen in North Sikkim is another place that forms the starting point for a trekkers. Significantly the foreign nationals would require a restricted area permit from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, Delhi to visit areas in this part of the region. As far as Indian nationals are concerned they are required to obtain an Inner-Line Permit from the State Home Department. Permission of the State Chief Wildlife Warden is also mandatory.

Best Seasons :
The best seasons to encounter the wildlife of the national park is between April to May and August to October. Snowfall is heavy in winter and monsoon showers exist from May to mid October.