Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary

Situated around the area adjoining the Tsomgo (Changu) lake, is the Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary. This sanctuary covers an area of about 31 km2 (12 sq miles) and extends from the "15th Mile" police check point up to and along the ridges bordering the Rong Chu Valley and Lake Tsomgo. Variedly rich in flora and fauna, rare and endangered ground orchids and rhododendrons combined with tall junipers and tall silver firs are among the important plants present. Rhododendron niveum (the State Tree of Sikkim) and Cypripedium Tiberium (the ground slipper orchid), which is on the verge of extinction, have also been introduced here. Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary is part of the Sacred Himalayan Landscape. The time during May, June, and October are best suited to visit Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary as it is pleasantly warm and dry during these times.