Yuksom, the coronation throne and Dubdi
Yuksom lies about 35 km north of Pelling, a drive of about 1.5 hours. In 1642, three lamas from Tibet met here and crowned Phuntsog Namgyal as the first Chogyal of Sikkim, founding the dynasty that ruled until 1975. The coronation site, Norbugang, has a simple stone throne, a large chorten and a sacred tree, set in a quiet garden.
From the village, a steep forest path of about 45 minutes climbs to Dubdi Monastery, founded in 1701 and considered one of the oldest in Sikkim. Its small, stone-walled hall stands in a clearing among tall trees, and its caretaker may open it for visitors. The walk is steady rather than difficult and passes through good birding forest.
Yuksom is also the starting point for treks towards Dzongri and the Goecha La, popular with walkers from March to May and October to November. We stop at the Kathok lake in the village and have lunch at a local guesthouse before the drive back, perhaps via Khecheopalri.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
Why is Yuksom important?
Yuksom was the first capital of Sikkim. In 1642 the first Chogyal, Phuntsog Namgyal, was crowned there by three Tibetan lamas, founding the Namgyal dynasty that ruled until 1975. The stone coronation throne at Norbugang still stands.
How old is Dubdi Monastery?
Dubdi Monastery was founded in 1701 and is considered one of the oldest monasteries in Sikkim. It is reached by a forest walk of about 45 minutes from Yuksom. The walk is steady uphill, and the monastery sits in a peaceful forest clearing.
How far is Yuksom from Pelling?
About 35 km, or around 1.5 hours by road. A full-day outing allows time for Norbugang, the Dubdi walk and lunch, with a stop at Khecheopalri Lake or the Kanchenjunga falls on the way.
Also in Pelling
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