Varsey – Rhododendron Sanctuary

Varsey – Rhododendron Sanctuary Varsey – a small valley on the Singalila Range in West Sikkim amidst variety of colourful Rhododendron trees which are in all shapes & shades, situated in the extreme point of  West Sikkim and at an altitude of 10,500 ft  - is a nature’s gift. Colour riot in the forest which spreads over 104 sq. kms is ablaze with bright rhododendron flowers with hues ranging from bright red to pure white against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains during the months of April-May is simply mesmerizing. Varsey can be approached from three points – Hiley, Dentam & Uttarey. But maximum tourists prefer Hiley entry point as transport communication is good to this point. Varsey – A 4 km. easy trek route from Hiley through Singalila covered with Rhododendron forest  and it takes around 1 ½ hrs to 2 hrs to cover this short distance. As road approaches to Varsey the magnificent view of Kanchenjunga Massif  emerges to greet. Spending a night or two  in this remote Himalayan valley where awesome presence of Kanchenjunga Massif is always felt with lush green forest, named and unnamed birds and wild animals is always  worth. Varsey Rhododendron Sanctuary is also related to Sir Joseph Dalton Hooker who made a study on Flora & Fauna in Singalila Range and published a book in 1849 named "Rhododendrons of Sikkim", which is still considered an authentic txt on this subject.   From Varsey some short & long treks can be arranged to Uttarey, He-Bermiok, Dentam, Phalut  etc.