Yak Rides in Sikkim
To say Sikkim is a stunning state would be to make an understatement. The most generously gifted place by nature, Sikkim has many fascinating experiences for its visitors but one experience which is interesting is the Yak ride. Yak rides are available at Tsomgo Lake and trekking points such as Chopta Valley and Dzongri.
A safari with a difference adventure which is colorfully decorated Yaks with woolen knitwear over the horns and forehead and strings of bells around the necks are ready to take you for a ride around the Tsomgo Lake or go up the mountain. And no one seems to miss a photo session atop the Yak, a perfect memento to take back home of your visit to Sikkim with a unique experience.
Yaks are usually found above the altitude of 2743 m, (9000ft). They are brought down up to the altitude of 2,124 m, (7000ft) during the winter season. Yaks depend basically on grazing in the pasture land for their food. A little salt is given once or twice a month. Yaks and Naks (the female ones) are very useful animals. There are no other animals more ideal transportation in the Himalayan region. During the cold and severe winter season, when the hilly tracks and pasture lands are covered with snow, yaks can go carrying heavy loads for days without food. That is also the reason why they are called the Himalayan Camels. In some villages, yaks are also used for ploughing fields. Ghee, Cheese and many varieties of milk products are produced out of the milk of Naks. High quality mattresses of various kinds such as Chera, ropes and tents are also used weaved with the hairs of yaks and naks. The beautiful hairy tail of Yaks and Naks fetch good price in the market, meat of Yaks, Naks and other mountain cows is also eaten. Out of the hide of the Jead Yaks, Docha (a kind of Tibetawa mountain shoes), and mattress are made.
