Culture · Yuksom

Norbugang and Kathok Lake heritage walk

Walk from Yuksom bazaar to Kathok Lake and up to the Norbugang throne and chorten, where Sikkim's first Chogyal was consecrated in 1642, with a guide who tells the founding story.

Yuksom1,780M

Photo: Kailas98 · CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Start at the bazaar and walk a few minutes to Kathok Lake, a still pond ringed by prayer flags. Its water is associated with the sacred water used to anoint Phuntsog Namgyal. Locals walk around it clockwise in the evening, and the reflection of the flags is good for photographs.

From the lake, a short lane climbs to Norbugang. Under a large tree stands the stone throne with four seats in steps, one each for the three lamas and the king. In front, under a metal cover, is a stone that devotees believe carries Lhatsun Chempo's footprint. The Norbugang Chorten nearby is said to contain earth and water from across Sikkim.

A local guide brings the place to life: the lamas' journeys from the north, west and south, the search for the king, and how the kingdom grew from this hill. Walk back through the village fields as the evening light falls on the hills.

Good for

familiesfirst-timersseniorssolo

Questions travellers ask

Before you book

How far is Norbugang from Yuksom bazaar?

About 1–1.5 km, a 15–20 minute walk on a lane off the main road near Kathok Lake. Cars can get close. The site is open ground with a throne, chorten, small temple and prayer wheel. Allow 30–45 minutes there.

Is there an entry fee at Norbugang?

Norbugang has generally been free or charged a small fee for maintenance. Check current status before you travel. Donations at the small temple are welcome. Walk clockwise around the chorten and do not sit on the throne.

Why is Kathok Lake important?

Kathok Lake, near Norbugang, is associated with the sacred water used to anoint Phuntsog Namgyal at his consecration in 1642. It is a small, still lake with prayer flags around it, and local people still walk around it in prayer.

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