Lachen

🏔️ Lachen – The Gateway to Gurudongmar Lake, North Sikkim

Overview:
Lachen, meaning “Big Pass” in the local language, is a high-altitude mountain village located at around 9,000 ft in North Sikkim. Surrounded by towering Himalayan peaks, alpine forests, and snow-fed rivers, Lachen serves as the base for excursions to Gurudongmar Lake — one of the world’s highest and most sacred lakes.
Peaceful, scenic, and full of charm, Lachen offers travelers a mix of spirituality, nature, and adventure.

📍 Top Attractions in and around Lachen

1. Gurudongmar Lake (17,800 ft) – A breathtaking glacial lake considered sacred by Buddhists and Sikhs. The turquoise waters remain partially frozen even in winter.
   
   

2. Lachen Monastery – A tranquil monastery that showcases traditional Tibetan architecture and local culture.
   
   

3. Chopta Valley – A high-altitude valley covered in snow during winter, ideal for photography and nature walks.
   
   

4. Thangu Village – A remote settlement offering serene Himalayan views and meadows full of wildflowers (in summer).
   
   

5. Shinghba Rhododendron Sanctuary – Home to colorful rhododendrons and alpine flora during spring.
   
   

6. Green Lake Trek – A challenging trekking route starting from Lachen that leads to the base of Mt. Kanchenjunga (for adventure lovers).
   
   

🗓️ Suggested Itinerary

2 Nights / 3 Days – Lachen & Gurudongmar Lake Tour

Day 1: Arrival at Gangtok → Drive to Lachen (approx. 6–7 hrs) via scenic waterfalls and mountain rivers → Evening leisure.
Day 2: Early morning excursion to Gurudongmar Lake via Thangu Village → Return to Lachen → Overnight stay.
Day 3: Breakfast and drive back to Gangtok → En route sightseeing.

(Optional extension: Combine with Lachung & Yumthang Valley for a complete North Sikkim experience.)

🏨 Best Time to Visit

• March – June: Pleasant weather, snow melting, perfect for sightseeing.
  
  

• September – November: Best time for clear skies and stunning mountain views.
  
  

• December – February: Snow season (ideal for snow lovers, though very cold).
  
  

🚗 How to Reach Lachen

• By Air: Nearest airport – Bagdogra (IXB), approx. 200 km away.
  
  

• By Train: Nearest railway station – NJP (New Jalpaiguri).
  
  

• By Road: Drive to Gangtok first, then continue to Lachen (6–7 hours journey).
  
  

📜 Travel Information

• Lachen is a restricted zone — Inner Line Permits (ILP) are mandatory for Indian tourists.
  
  

• We arrange all permits and travel formalities for North Sikkim.
  
  

• Carry valid ID proof (Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License).
  
  

• Foreign nationals require Protected Area Permits (PAP).
  
  

• Due to high altitude, carry warm clothes, gloves, and medicines for altitude sickness.
  
  

🧭 Why Choose Us

• 🏞️ Trusted North Sikkim travel experts
  
  

• 🚘 Private cab with experienced mountain drivers
  
  

• 🏡 Clean hotels and cozy homestays with local hospitality
  
  

• 📋 Hassle-free permit arrangement & meals included
  
  

• 💬 24×7 customer assistance and on-trip support