Simon and Hongri – Yuksom is one of the most remote settlement in North West of Sikkim nearly an hour and half drive from Pelling. Yuksom has many options for tourist. Goechala Trek, Dzongri Trek, few home stay, visit to Kanchendzonga National Park and few short trek. These two monasteries are situated away from the main civilization. The scenic beauty is worth enjoying. The monastery can be reached by two short treks from Yuksom to Hongri village and Simon Monastery. The trek or hike is one day and can be covered from Yuksom. Hongri Monastery was built in the early 17th century and follows the Nyingmapa sect. It was built by Gyalwa Nadak Semchenpo during the reign of Chogyal Phuntsog Namgyal. It is in a Lepcha village of Hongri and is one of the oldest in Sikkim built in early 17th century. Simon monastery is nearly ten kilometres from Tashiding it was built in 1716 located on a hill top. Sinon literally means the suppressor of intense fear is situated in a Lepcha Village. It was built by Gyalwa Ngadak Semchenpo during the reign of Chogyal Phuntsog Namgyal. Simon Gompa is situated very high above Tashiding the trek from Yuksom via Tsong. From Tsong the trail divides and the upper route leads up to lonely Hongri Gompa. Next descending from Hongri again the trail divides, passing near Pokhari Dara the steep and difficult road goes up to Simon monastery near Tashiding. One can also enjoy the stay Home Stay in Tingvong.
Tags: Simon, Hongri, Pelling, Yuksom, Hongri Village