Through Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary
Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary covers about 31 sq km of steep forest and alpine scrub between roughly 3,200 and 4,100 m. In spring it carries several species of rhododendron, and its forests are home to blood pheasants, monal pheasants and red pandas, though mammals are rarely seen from the road.
Most visitors drive straight through, but a stop near the checkpost or at a quiet bend gives a chance to walk a little and listen for birds. Ask your driver before booking, as permit vehicles keep tight schedules, and stay on the road edge; the sanctuary's trails need separate permission.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
Can I trek inside Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary?
Trekking inside needs permission from the Sikkim Forest Department, and the area is close to the border, so permits are restricted. Most visitors only stop beside the road on a Tsomgo trip. Ask a registered trekking agent in Gangtok if you want to walk further. Check current status before you travel.
What birds might I see near Kyongnosla?
Possible species include blood pheasant, which is Sikkim's state bird, Himalayan monal, various rosefinches, redstarts and tits. Early morning in spring is best. Sightings from the road are a matter of luck, and a pair of binoculars makes a big difference.
When do rhododendrons flower near Tsomgo?
At this height most rhododendrons flower from late April to early June, with the timing depending on the winter. Lower down near Gangtok, flowering starts in March. The slopes around Kyongnosla and Tsomgo can be bright red, pink and white in a good year.
Also in Tsomgo Lake
More hours to plan around
