Nestled in the pristine lap of North Sikkim, Lachen is a Himalayan village that offers raw natural beauty, spiritual serenity, and adventurous landscapes. Located at an altitude of 2,750 metres, it is not just a stopover for Gurudongmar Lake but a destination rich in lakes, valleys, monasteries, and hidden trails. Here’s why these are the Top Tourist Places in Lachen for both nature lovers and adventurers seeking a soulful yet thrilling Sikkim experience.
1. Gurudongmar Lake: A Sacred High-Altitude Wonder
At an altitude of 17,800 feet, Gurudongmar Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world and undoubtedly among the Top Tourist Places in Lachen. Surrounded by barren snow-clad mountains and deep blue skies, the lake remains partially frozen even in harsh winters. Nature lovers are mesmerised by its surreal beauty and stillness, while adventurers feel the thrill of travelling through rugged terrain with minimal oxygen levels to reach this sacred site revered by Buddhists, Hindus, and Sikhs alike.
2. Chopta Valley: Paradise for Photographers and Hikers
Known for its alpine vegetation and panoramic views, Chopta Valley lies on the way to Gurudongmar Lake. Spring transforms it into a riot of colours with blooming rhododendrons, making it perfect for nature walks and photography. For adventurers, hiking through its undulating meadows with snow-capped peaks in the backdrop is a rewarding experience that adds to Lachen’s charm.
3. Lachen Monastery: Spiritual Retreat Amidst Mountains
Also called Ngodrub Choling Monastery, this 19th-century Nyingma monastery sits peacefully overlooking Lachen village. Its colourful prayer flags flutter against the blue sky, and the serene environment makes it ideal for meditation, quiet contemplation, and understanding the local Buddhist culture. It is one of the Top Tourist Places in Lachen for travellers seeking cultural immersion and peace.
4. Thangu Valley: Snow, Streams, and Himalayan Vistas
Thangu Valley, situated at 13,000 feet, is often covered in snow, offering mesmerising views of glacial streams, meadows, and Himalayan peaks. Nature lovers can witness blooming alpine flowers during summer, while adventurers heading towards Gurudongmar Lake use it as an acclimatisation point. Exploring this valley feels like stepping into a Himalayan fairytale.
5. Green Lake Trek: The Ultimate Adventure
For true adventurers, the Green Lake trek is an offbeat and challenging trail starting from Lachen. The trek passes through dense forests, rhododendron-covered slopes, and alpine meadows leading to the base of Mount Kanchenjunga. Though it requires prior permission and excellent fitness, it rewards trekkers with unmatched views of Kanchenjunga and its neighbouring peaks, making it one of the Top Tourist Places in Lachen for trekkers.
6. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary: Nature’s Colour Palette
Located en route from Lachen to Yumthang Valley, the Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary houses over 40 species of rhododendrons. Between April and May, the entire forest turns into a colourful paradise, making it a must-visit for nature lovers, photographers, and botanists exploring North Sikkim.
7. Chopta Chu: A Hidden Himalayan River
Flowing through Chopta Valley, Chopta Chu is a crystal-clear river that adds to the valley’s ethereal beauty. Sitting by its banks, listening to the gushing water amidst snow-peaked backdrops, is an experience that rejuvenates the mind and soul. For nature lovers, it’s the perfect picnic spot, while adventurers can explore its surroundings on short hikes.
8. Lama Angden Peak: For Thrill Seekers
Lama Angden Peak offers an expedition route for experienced mountaineers. The trek to its base camp starts from Lachen and involves navigating rocky terrains, dense forests, and remote villages. The panoramic views of Sikkim’s mountains from the base camp make it worth every effort, earning it a place among the Top Tourist Places in Lachen for adventure enthusiasts.
9. Gurudongmar Viewpoint: The First Glimpse of Himalayan Grandeur
Before reaching Gurudongmar Lake, the Gurudongmar Viewpoint offers sweeping views of the barren high-altitude landscape. It is the perfect stop for travellers to acclimatise, click photographs, and soak in the stark beauty of North Sikkim’s rugged terrain.
10. Exploring Lachen Village: Culture and Simplicity
Beyond its valleys and lakes, simply walking through Lachen village offers an authentic glimpse into the mountain lifestyle. Wooden Bhutia homes, elderly locals spinning prayer wheels, yaks grazing in meadows, and traditional food like thukpa and momos provide cultural immersion that makes your visit to the Top Tourist Places in Lachen complete.
Best Time to Visit Lachen
The ideal time to explore these Top Tourist Places in Lachen is from March to June and October to December. Spring brings blooming flowers and pleasant weather, while autumn and early winter offer clear skies and majestic views of snow-capped peaks. January and February receive heavy snowfall, making some areas inaccessible but turning Lachen into a pristine white wonderland.
How to Reach Lachen
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bagdogra (200 km). From there, hire a taxi to Gangtok, then travel to Lachen.
- By Train: New Jalpaiguri (NJP) is the closest railway station.
- By Road: Lachen is about 120 km from Gangtok, taking approximately 5-6 hours via private taxis or Sikkim Tourism-approved vehicles.
Travel Tips
- Acclimatise in Lachen before visiting high-altitude places like Gurudongmar Lake to avoid AMS.
- Carry woollen clothes, gloves, caps, and sunglasses as temperatures drop drastically.
- Always travel with a registered North Sikkim travel operator for permits and safe transport.
- Photography at army camps en route is prohibited; follow your guide’s instructions.
Final Thoughts
From sacred lakes and alpine valleys to spiritual monasteries and hidden rivers, the Top Tourist Places in Lachen cater to both nature lovers seeking peace and adventurers yearning for thrill. This beautiful Himalayan village offers experiences that rejuvenate the mind, challenge the body, and soothe the soul. So, on your next Sikkim trip, ensure Lachen is on your itinerary to explore nature in its most serene and adventurous form.
