Tucked away in the northern part of Sikkim, Lachen is a quaint Himalayan village that welcomes travellers with its untouched landscapes, spiritual charm, and rich culture. Whether you are a nature lover, spiritual seeker, adventure enthusiast, or a traveller looking for peace, the popular tourist attractions in Lachen have something to offer for everyone. Here is a complete guide to exploring Lachen for every kind of traveller.
Why Visit Lachen?
Lachen, meaning “big pass,” sits at an altitude of 2,750 metres and is the gateway to some of North Sikkim’s most mesmerising destinations like Gurudongmar Lake and Chopta Valley. Unlike crowded hill stations, Lachen retains its peaceful Himalayan village vibe with wooden houses, monasteries, and breathtaking scenery, making it perfect for travellers seeking authenticity.
Popular Tourist Attractions in Lachen for Nature Lovers
1. Gurudongmar Lake
For nature lovers, Gurudongmar Lake is an unmissable attraction. Located at 17,800 ft near the Indo-Tibet border, this high-altitude lake is one of the highest in the world. Surrounded by snow-covered mountains, the turquoise waters of the lake remain partially frozen even in extreme winters. The surreal beauty and sacred aura of Gurudongmar leave every visitor mesmerised.
2. Chopta Valley
Chopta Valley is a paradise for those who love untouched landscapes. Located at an altitude of 13,200 ft, it is known for its alpine vegetation, meandering rivers, and colourful rhododendrons that bloom during spring. In winter, it transforms into a pristine snow-covered valley, ideal for photography and quiet walks amidst nature.
For Spiritual Seekers
3. Lachen Monastery
Lachen Monastery, also known as Ngodub Choling Monastery, is one of the most peaceful places to visit in Lachen. Built in 1858, it showcases beautiful Tibetan architecture with colourful murals, prayer wheels, and fluttering prayer flags. The monastery offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a perfect spot for meditation and spiritual reflection.
For Adventure Enthusiasts
4. Green Lake Trek
If you are an adventure lover, the Green Lake Trek is an experience you shouldn’t miss. Starting from Lachen, this trek takes you to the pristine Green Lake located at the base of Mt. Kanchenjunga. The trail passes through dense forests, rhododendron-covered paths, and glacial streams, offering stunning views of Kanchenjunga, Simvo, and Siniolchu peaks. The trek is moderate to difficult and requires prior preparation but promises an unforgettable adventure.
5. Thangu Valley
Another beautiful destination for adventure seekers is Thangu Valley, located around 30 km from Lachen at 13,000 ft. It is a popular stopover for those heading to Gurudongmar Lake. The valley is dotted with wooden houses, grazing yaks, and glacial rivers, offering opportunities for short hikes and photography amidst raw Himalayan landscapes.
For Offbeat and Cultural Travellers
6. Kalapatthar
Kalapatthar, meaning ‘Black Rock’, is a relatively unexplored gem near Thangu Valley. It offers panoramic views of the Himalayas with stark black rocky cliffs contrasting against white snowfields. The scenic drive to Kalapatthar, passing frozen streams and untouched landscapes, is ideal for travellers seeking offbeat experiences away from crowds.
7. Local Markets and Handicrafts
To explore the culture of Lachen, visit its small local markets and handicraft centres. Here, you can buy traditional woollen clothes, Tibetan carpets, and handmade artefacts. Interacting with locals gives insights into their simple, sustainable lifestyle, making your journey more enriching.
For Wildlife and Botanical Enthusiasts
8. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary
Located near Lachen, Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary is a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers. It is home to over 40 species of rhododendrons that bloom from April to July, creating vibrant landscapes. The sanctuary is also rich in Himalayan flora and fauna, making it ideal for eco-tourism, photography, and bird watching.
For Photography and Scenic Stopovers
9. Seven Sisters Waterfall
On the way to Lachen from Gangtok, Seven Sisters Waterfall is a popular scenic spot. The waterfall cascades down in seven stages, especially mesmerising during the monsoons. It is a great place to take a break during your mountain journey, enjoy the refreshing breeze, and click beautiful photos.
For Combined Travel Experiences
10. Lachung and Yumthang Valley
Though Lachung is a separate village around 47 km from Lachen, travellers often combine both in their North Sikkim itinerary. Lachung offers beautiful monasteries, apple orchards, and is the base to visit Yumthang Valley and Zero Point. Combining Lachen and Lachung gives travellers a complete experience of North Sikkim’s natural and cultural beauty.
Best Time to Visit Lachen
The best time to visit Lachen is March to June for blooming rhododendrons and pleasant weather, and September to December for clear skies and snow views. Avoid the monsoon months (July-August) due to frequent landslides.
Travel Tips
- Permits: Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required to visit Lachen, issued in Gangtok.
- Acclimatisation: Spend a night in Lachen before visiting Gurudongmar Lake due to extreme altitude.
- Packing: Carry heavy woollens even in summer as temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes.
- Respect Culture: Dress modestly, avoid littering, and respect local traditions.
Conclusion
Lachen is a destination that caters to every kind of traveller, whether you seek peace, adventure, culture, or nature. The popular tourist attractions in Lachen offer an authentic Himalayan experience that stays etched in your heart forever. Include Lachen in your Sikkim itinerary to explore its timeless beauty and soulful tranquillity.
