Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is located in North Sikkim in the famous Lachung Valley at a distance of 137 km from Gangtok. The sanctuary is bounded on its southern periphery by the Yakchey La and on the northern periphery by the Yumthang Valley known for its alpine meadow and hot springs. It is hemmed in on the east by the high rugged Chuba-Sagochen mountain ranges and on the west by part of Chomzomei Tso extending upto Lava pass. The picturesque Yumthang Chhu (river) flows through the sanctuary, which is known for its unique abundance of Rhododendron trees and shrubs, 40 species/varieties of which are recorded from Sikkim alone.

Rhododendron nevium the State Tree occurs only in this sanctuary which is also rich in ground flora such as primulas, potentillas, gentians, saxifrages, poppies and aconites.  Brown Trout were introduced into Yumthang Chhu at Phunyi in 1978 and have been flourishing since. Lachung is the last frontier village before reaching the sanctuary. There is a Forest Rest House here, as well as one at Yumthang.

Best Season to Visit March - May, October - December.