Daphey Trek; Journey to the Hidden Heart of West Sikkim

Tucked away in the green folds of Western Sikkim, Chongri meaning
‘Yak’ in the local language, is the last village on the way to the
Yambong trails. Known as a traditional yak herders’ settlement, the
community here has long depended on Yak and cattle for their
livelihood. Surrounded by rich biodiversity, from rare birds to
blooming alpine flora, it is also the gateway to the high pastures
where herders still live and work. This peaceful hamlet welcomes
trekkers with fresh air, warm smiles and charm of traditional
Sikkimese life. From here, the trek begins into the pristine
wilderness of the Yambong region, where every steps takes you
deeper into nature’s untouched beauty

 After an early cup of tea, we begin the morning with a gentle walk
through the quiet lanes of Chongri village, listening to the soft
chorus of birds greetings the day. The forest edges and fields here
are alive with birds calls, making it a treat for nature lovers. Along
the way, we meet and interact with local yak herders, custodians of
an age-old way of life, sharing stories of their journeys to the high
pastures, their challenges, and the deep bond they share with their
animals.
Post breakfast, our trek begins towards Naya Patal, crossing the
crystal clear Chudzom river. The trail unfolds through lush forests
teeming with birdlife, orchids and the occasional glimpse of wildlife.
After around three hours of steady walk we shall reach our camp for
tonight Naya Patal, an open valley in the oak and bamboo forest
with the magnificent views of valleys and hills below. It is also the
herders first camp.
Overnight: Tent in Naya Patal Campsite

 Today’s journey takes us deep into nature’s wonderland, starting
with a walk through dense bamboo and rhododendron forests, the
secret home of the shy Red Panda. Along the way, keep your eyes
and ears open for the vibrant Satyr Tragopan, the striking Great
Parrotbill, the graceful Blood Pheasant, and the dazzling Himalayan
Monal.
As we climb higher, the air grows cooler and the forest changes, tall
pines appear, and slowly the tree line begins to fade. By afternoon,
we reach an SSB Camp, where the Indo-Nepal border is guarded.
Here, we pause to make a quick entry in the register with your
trekking permit, guided by your trek leader.
From here, an hour up hill through the pine trail opens into the
breathtaking Yambong Valley, a vast alpine meadow beneath an
endless sky. This is the point where the trees give way to wide open
spaces, offering sweeping views in every direction. If the night is
clear, Yambong becomes a magical stage for stargazing, with
countless stars lighting up the silence of the mountains

 We begin the day with a short pre-breakfast walk to Bhaley Dunga, a
sacred towering rock revered as the main deity of Yambong, where
we offer prayers for a safe and blessed journey ahead.
After breakfast, the trail leads us above the tree line, with the
landscape shifting constantly under the vast mountain sky. Along
the way, we pass the haunting ruins of an ancient Yambong
settlement a silent reminder of life that once thrived here. Soon, the
scenery opens into sub-alpine meadows, where in season,
wildflowers paint the land in vivid colors.
Our path first reaches Goyem Lake, believed to be the deepest
alpine lake in the region. We will continue to Lam Pokhari, meaning
“Long Lake”, a serene body of water mirroring the surrounding
peaks. Here, on the border with eastern Nepal, our campsite rests
just below the lake. From this vantage point, we are treated to a rare
view of the Three Sisters of Nepal, Mt. Everest, Mt. Makalu, and Mt.
Lhotse standing tall against the horizon.
Overnight: Tent below Lam Pokhari

Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast of the Semantics, a large language ocean. A small river named Duden flows by their place and supplies it with the necessary regelialia.

 The day begins before dawn, at 3:00 am, as we set out for the
highlight of the trek a steep climb to the Viewpoint Top to witness
an unforgettable sunrise. As the first light spills across the
mountains, the mighty Mt. Kanchenjunga, Mt. Pandim, Mt. Kabru,
Mt. Kokthang, and Mt. Tenzingkhang glow in golden hues. Turning
left, the distant Three Sisters of Nepal, Everest, Lhotse, and Makalu,
rise proudly on the horizon. Below, eight shimmering alpine lakes
sparkle like scattered jewels.
Here, we pause at Laxmi Lake, believed to be wish-fulfilling and a
lake of wealth, to offer prayers and enjoy the moment with a
steaming cup of coffee in hand.
After soaking in the views, we descend to camp for breakfast, then
begin our return through the sweeping Yambong Valley. By
afternoon, we reach Shaile Chowk, a small clearing hidden in the
middle of a bamboo forest, home to the elusive Red Panda, the
vibrant Satyr Tragopan, the Great Parrotbill, and many more bird
species.
Overnight: Tent at Shaile Chowk

 Our final day on the trail takes us gently downhill through the lush
green forests, passing through the same landscapes that welcomed
us on day one, but now with memories etched into every turn of the
path. By afternoon, we arrive back in Chongri, the village where we
our journey began. Tonight is the celebration, an evening of
togetherness with your trekking family. Local beverages flow, songs
fill the air and laughter blends with dances. It’s a night to share
stories, relive the best moments of the trek and feel the bond of the
mountains.

Departure from Chongri