Varsey Trek
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A wonderful Himalayan trek adorned with riots of rhododendron, Varsey trek is an offbeat trekking destination of Sikkim. A no-sweat trek with moderate hikes invite trekkers who trek more to get closer to nature than feeling the thrill of adventure. The trek reaches up to a height of 3300 m and ideal for short to medium distance treks. The area is beautified by hanging mosses and a wonderful array of endemic species of flora and fauna. From March to April Rhododendron trees bloom with vibrant colours and the hills ablaze with different shades of red and yellow Rhododendron. After a visit to Gangtok, one of the most fascinating tourist spots of Sikkim and Pemayangtse Monastery, one can plan for a three days trek with night stay in camps to see those bewildering sights of Varsey. The trekking route would go as follows:
Day 01: Bagdogra - Gangtok
Once you reach Bagdogra airport, our representative will take you on a drive to Gangtok, which is around 112 km away. It takes around five and half hour to reach Gangtok. The drive passes through the magnetic river Teesta where you will be allowed to have a glimpse of major sightseeing spots taking pause at each site. Upon arrival transfer to hotel for overnight stay.
Day 02: Gangtok - Rumtek
After breakfast go out for full day sightseeing at Gangtok. Your visit will include Rumtek Monastery, Research Institute of Tibetology, Tibetan Market etc. Overnight stay at Hotel.
Day 03: Gangtok - Themi Tea Estate - Pemayangtse (West Sikkim)
After breakfast head get ready for a 5 hours drive to reach Pemayangtse (2985m). Tea/ coffee/ snacks en-route. Lunch at the tea estate. En-route visit the Swiss cheese factory. Overnight stay in Pemayangtse.
Day 04: Pemayangtse - Varsey
After breakfast, 17 km drive to Damthang and 12 km gradual moderate trek to Varsey. It is around 3060 m in elevation and located near Indo-Nepal border. The trek is dotted with blazing rhododendron and a sanctuary of high altitude birds. December to March is considered to be the prime time of seeing both in flying colours. Overnight stay in tented accommodation.
Day 05: Varsey
Enjoy the sunrise from one of the high altitude peaks, go for birding, and in the mean time have a glimpse of rhododendron sanctuary. Overnight stay in tents.
Day 06: Varsey - Phur Cha Cho
After breakfast trek to Helly. This 4 km trek will take around 1 hour to cover and then a 68 km drive will take you to Phur Cha Cho (Sulphur water spring) on the bank of river Rangreet. On the afternoon, visit the ancient and holy caves at Khandu - Samphu. Overnight stay in tented accommodation.
Day 07: Phur Cha Cho - Mirik
The main attraction of Mirik is its picturesque lake and boating is the soul of Mirik. You will get enough time to enjoy horse riding. Roam across the tea gardens, and savour the fresh tea collected from local tea gardens. Buddhist monastery established by BOKAR RIMPOCHE is a must see sight. Overnight stay in Mirik.
Day 08: Mirik - Bagdogra
After breakfast get ready to reach Bagdogra Airport at a distance of 52 km from Mirik and from here catch a flight for onward destination.