Viewpoints · Yumesamdong (Zero Point)
Glacial streams and the valley head
At Zero Point the Lachung Chu is just a set of streams running off snow and moraine. Walk 100–200 m from the parking area on level ground to photograph the channels, the moraine and the peaks around the valley head in morning light.
The Lachung Chu, which you followed all the way up from Chungthang, begins here as small streams from snowfields and glaciers on the slopes around the valley head. In October and November, when the air is dry and clear, the water runs blue-grey between grey moraine and white snow, and the peaks stand sharp against the sky.
Walk only a short way, 100–200 m, from the parking area on level ground. Do not climb the slopes for a better angle: at about 4,700 m, a short scramble can bring on a fierce headache. Keep away from snow bridges over running water, which can collapse under your weight.
Morning is best; clouds often build after 10 am. Use a polarising filter or simply underexpose a little to hold the snow. Do not photograph army posts, vehicles or soldiers; this is a border area, and cameras pointed at installations can lead to trouble. Drones are not allowed.
Cost: Part of the Zero Point add-on
Questions people ask
Good to know
Can I fly a drone at Zero Point?
No. Zero Point is in a sensitive border area with army installations, and drones are not allowed. Carrying one can lead to it being seized at a checkpost. Leave drones in Gangtok and photograph from the ground.
Can I photograph army posts at Zero Point?
No. Do not photograph army camps, vehicles, soldiers or installations anywhere in North Sikkim. Point your camera at the landscape and people who agree. If a soldier asks you to delete a photo, do it without argument.
What is the best light for photography at Zero Point?
Early morning, from about 7 to 10 am, especially in October and November, when the air is clear and dry. Clouds often build by late morning. In April and May mornings are good too, with more snow on the ground.
Also in Yumesamdong (Zero Point)
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Adventure · 4–5 hours return from LachungA snow morning at Zero PointYumesamdong (Zero Point) · ₹3,000–4,500 per vehicle
Viewpoints · 1.5 hours each wayAbove the treeline from YumthangYumesamdong (Zero Point) · Part of the Zero Point add-on
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