Lachen, a tranquil mountain village in North Sikkim, is a gateway to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Eastern Himalayas. A comprehensive guide to the popular tourist attractions in Lachen, perfect for planning a serene and scenic escape. Perched at an altitude of 2,750 meters, Lachen is known for its alpine pastures, traditional wooden homes, and warm hospitality. It serves as the base for excursions to Gurudongmar Lake, Chopta Valley, and the Green Lake Trek, making it a must-visit for nature lovers, spiritual seekers, and adventure enthusiasts.
🌊 1. Gurudongmar Lake
- Altitude: 17,800 feet
- Highlights: One of the highest lakes in the world, sacred to Buddhists and Sikhs
- Best time to visit: April to June and October to December
Gurudongmar Lake is the crown jewel of Lachen tourism. Surrounded by snow-covered peaks and fed by glacial waters, the lake remains partially frozen even in summer. Its spiritual significance and surreal beauty make it a bucket-list destination.
🛕 2. Lachen Monastery (Ngodub Choling Monastery)
- Founded: 1858 by Lama Karchen Dorje Drak
- Highlights: Traditional Tibetan architecture, murals, and prayer flags
- Location: 4 km from Lachen Market
Lachen Monastery is a peaceful spiritual site nestled amidst pine forests. It offers panoramic views of the valley and insight into Buddhist traditions. The monastery is also a center for community gatherings and festivals.
🌄 3. Chopta Valley
- Altitude: 13,200 feet
- Highlights: Alpine meadows, wildflowers, and snow trails
- Activities: Trekking, photography, birdwatching
Chopta Valley is a pristine destination near Lachen, known for its untouched beauty and seasonal blooms. In spring, the valley bursts into color with rhododendrons and primulas, while winter transforms it into a snowy wonderland.
🥾 4. Green Lake Trek
- Duration: 10–12 days
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Highlights: Views of Kanchenjunga, Zemu Glacier, and alpine forests
The Green Lake Trek is one of Sikkim’s most rewarding high-altitude treks. Starting from Lachen, it leads through dense forests, river valleys, and remote campsites to the base of Kanchenjunga. It’s ideal for seasoned trekkers seeking solitude and grandeur.
🌺 5. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary
- Location: Near Yumthang Valley, accessible via Lachen
- Flora: Over 40 species of rhododendrons
- Best time: April to May
Though technically closer to Lachung, the sanctuary is often visited from Lachen as part of extended itineraries. It’s a paradise for botany enthusiasts and nature photographers.
🧘 6. Thangu Valley
- Altitude: 13,000 feet
- Highlights: Grazing yaks, river streams, and alpine vegetation
- Activities: Acclimatization stop for Gurudongmar Lake visitors
Thangu Valley is a scenic stopover en route to Gurudongmar Lake. It’s known for its peaceful ambiance and traditional lifestyle. The valley is also a great place to spot migratory birds and Himalayan wildlife.
🏞️ 7. Tso Lhamo Lake (for seasoned explorers)
- Altitude: 18,000 feet
- Access: Restricted, requires special permits
- Highlights: Remote glacial lake near the Indo-China border
Tso Lhamo Lake is one of the highest lakes in India and lies beyond Gurudongmar. It’s rarely visited due to its remote location and permit restrictions but offers unmatched solitude and beauty.
🛍️ 8. Lachen Village Exploration
- Highlights: Traditional wooden homes, local cuisine, cultural immersion
- Activities: Village walks, homestays, interaction with Lachenpas
Lachen itself is a charming village with a strong sense of community. Exploring its lanes, trying local dishes like thukpa and churpi, and staying in homestays offer a deeper connection to the region.
📅 Best Time to Visit Lachen
- Spring (April–June): Rhododendron blooms, pleasant weather
- Autumn (October–December): Clear skies, ideal for trekking and lake visits
- Winter (January–March): Snow-covered landscapes, limited access to high-altitude areas
- Monsoon (July–September): Not recommended due to landslides and road closures
🧭 Travel Tips
- Permits: Required for Gurudongmar Lake and border areas (available via tour operators)
- Packing: Layered clothing, gloves, sunscreen, altitude medication
- Connectivity: Limited mobile network; carry offline maps and emergency contacts
- Transport: Shared jeeps and private taxis from Gangtok or Mangan
