Yumesamdong / Zero Point, Lachung - Timings, Entry Fee, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 25 km from Yumthung Valley and 51 km from Lachung, Zero point is a valley on Lachung River near Lachung in North Sikkim. Situated above Yumthang Valley, it is one of the picturesque places to visit in Lachung and among the best places to experience Sikkim Tourism.

Situated at an altitude of 15,300 feet, Zero point is the land of perennial snow and also the starting point of Teesta river. The place is also known as Yumesamdong and it will take around 1.5 hour drive to reach here from Yumthang. The name of this place is Zero Point because this is the last motorable road and civilians are not allowed to drive any further from this point. The landscape completely covered with snow offering a majestic view contrasting with the patchy blue sky in between the fresh icy breeze.

The place Zero Point remains under the cover of snow most of the year so it is a delight for snow lovers. One can spot Yak and Blue Sheep which is extremely rare grazing on the pasture. Apart from the snowy landscape, Yumesamdong is also known for Hot Springs. There is about 14 sulphur hot springs near Zero Point. Also, there are few temporary stalls are there at the Zero Point. Local residents of the nearby places run these stalls where you can get snacks like noodles, eggs, Chana Masala, etc. along with the tea, coffee and alcohols.

One has to stay at Lachung overnight and then visit Zero Point early in the morning because of its varying weather condition the visibility in the morning will be better than in the afternoon. One can also visit Yumthang Valley and Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary while returning from the Zero Point. The road from Yumthang to Zero Point is quite bad and the journey is tiresome but it is worth traveling. As the Zero Point is located at the very high altitude, so there is less oxygen in the air and it may cause some trouble in breathing. However, it is not a problem for a healthy person, but the tourists with infants or people with breathing problem should avoid visiting the Zero Point.

Since the spot is in close vicinity to the border standing between India and China, a special permit is required to visit Zero Point. The permits can be obtained from the Gangtok Tourism Office, District Administrative Center at Mangan, or at Chungthang Sub-Divisional Magistrate's Office. Only vehicles from tour operators who are registered with Sikkim tourism are allowed. Furthermore, there is an additional charge for visiting Zero Point. This place can be visited by Indian tourists only and the best time to visit is from March-April in which the area will be mostly covered by snow but accessible through clear roads.